Learn how to be a detective. Create composite IDs, take fingerprints and learn codes. Flashlight, rearview spy glasses, magnifying glass, secret marker pen and more.SUITABLE FOR AGES: 8+ .

For the sleuth in every kid. The Under Cover Detective Activity Kit is a great choice for curious youngsters. Watch as your kids build academic skills through observation, creative reasoning, and imaginative play. Amateur sleuths can use items such as rearview glasses, code wheels, and composite drawing materials in a variety of imaginary detective scenarios. A colorful Spy Guide provides easy-to-follow instructions for activities such as taking fingerprints, documenting "suspects'" moves, and deciphering coded messages. The kit also includes a magnifying glass, a small flashlight, an ink pad, fingerprint powder, secret marker pens, a red message filter, file cards, and a special agent I.D. card. "Don't forget," the Spy Guide urges, "observe everything, look for clues, put pieces together, go undercover, take a lot of notes, and have fun!" (Parents with low tolerance for black powdery messes may want to remove the fingerprint powder.) Flashlight requires two AAA batteries, not included. --Joan DeClaire