Your Guide to Nontoxic Toys

How about giving a gift to the environment from your whole family to start the new year off right? Consider "adopting" an endangered animal! Several organizations dedicated to saving endangered species have animal adoption programs. Donate money to one of these organizations, and your family will receive an adoption kit, which typically includes a certificate and either a photo of the animal or a stuffed toy. It's a great way to make a difference for the environment and a fun opportunity for kids to learn about wild animals.

Defenders of Wildlife: For $25 per species, you can choose to "adopt" one or more of a selection of 10 wild animals: wolf, dolphin, polar bear, panther, whale, sea otter, snowy owl, black bear, tiger or elephant. For $40 to $75, your family can adopt a whole animal family! You'll receive a kit with a plush animal toy and a certificate of adoption. When ordering from www.defenders.org (800-385-9712), allow four to six weeks for standard shipping and five to seven days for express shipping.

The Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International^®: You can adopt an infant gorilla for $50, a mother-infant pair for $100, or a majestic silverback for $300. In exchange for your donation, you'll receive a photo of "your" gorilla and adoption papers. Allow four to six weeks for delivery when ordering from www.gorillafund.org (800-851-0203).