Have you ever thought about how many problems a kids craft book can solve? No? Then it's time you did because I guarantee you that a good kids craft book will make your life a lot easier.

OK, so maybe you're thinking "get real". Well I've never been more so. Follow along with me a bit and see if you don't agree.

First of all you've got a way to entertain your children. Now I know you love them dearly, but just occasionally you'd like a bit of peace and quiet. Just occasionally you'd like them out from under your feet but of course you need to know that they're safely occupied. A few bits and pieces that you probably already have around the house and a few ideas from a good kids craft book and hey presto - problem solved.

But much more than that of course, when you do have time it gives you something you can do together. Something to share.

Don't forget it can be very educational too. Crafts not only help your children develop creativity, they also help with dexterity, co-ordination, even teamwork if you have some friends and their kids round.

How about this one. How do you handle birthdays and Christmas presents?

Do you tire yourself out wandering round the stores trying to find something appropriate for your youngsters to give to their relatives? Time to reach for the kids craft book again.

What do you think their grand parents would prefer, a store bought trinket or something actually made by their grand kids? For me that's a no-brainer. Same for aunties and uncles too. Any close relative is going to be so much more pleased with that kind of gift than anything you could buy - it's just human nature.

And I don't want to be mercenary but my guess is you're going to be making savings at a time when you could do with a little extra to spend on gifts yourself.

Unless of course you're going to get your own craft book and have a go yourself. Why not!

There are even times when a kids craft book can make your little ones feel better. You know when they're just listless and slightly under the weather but there's nothing you can really put your finger on? Something they love to do can often take their mind of it. A couple of pleasant hours later you have a different child.

Now I know that a kids craft book isn't going to solve all the little challenges that come along. I'm not silly. But it will keep them occupied on gray rainy days when perhaps they can't get outside. It will entertain and educate. It might even lead on to other creative or artistic pursuits. Who knows what you might be starting.

Did you know that the average professional craftsperson earns twenty percent more than the average office worker? It might all begin with an inexpensive kids craft book.