Give your kids these books that will teach them all sorts of old tricks and get them off the couch. Boys can dive into Dangerous Book For Boys ($15) and girls can bury themselves in the Daring Book For Girls ($15).
The Dangerous Book For Boys by Conn and Hal Igguiden teaches young rascals how to tie knots, make paper airplanes, fish, craft bows and arrows out of front-yard tools, build a tree house, act out coin tricks, and assemble go-carts.
Your lil boy is quickly outgrowing the "lil" moniker. He is likely looking to spend some more time on his own, playing and learning independently. Take a cue from him and consider some gifts that will encourage him to explore on his own.