Upon repacking I was able to add a pencil case and a pair of underwear!😊 UPDATE: I received a response from OCC regarding these tool kits. I sent a picture. They said they are having issues with tool kits and they may or may not be allowed through customs which is why they removed them from the recommended item list. They did however say they thought this kit might be ok. No guarantee though. So it sounds like they would not be pulled at the PC but could be pulled by customs. Hope this is helpful in your packing choices. If you have already packed them, you might be ok. I would just recommend that you include other fun items to compliment the tool kit.
Keep pill bottles and make sewing kits and fishing kits. If you send tools they will remove them in the processing of shipping. Read the list of things in the video Operation Christmas Child
Thanks Christie! Individual tools are permitted. Tool kits are discouraged due to issues with customs. These are kits with multiple tools and makes the gift look like aid. Hope that helps!
Great example of how to still add tools without it being too much, Denise! That little singing dog is so cute and I'm sure he will get a kick out of it! Oh, I have that same musical instrument for a shoebox next year! I bought mine from Amazon for a shoebox next year. I love those little instruments. I have a music book to go with it too! I love that tote bag as well as the tank top and tools for him! Such a fun but also practical shoebox for these young men. Thanks for sharing, Denise.💙🙂
Thanks Diana! That little singing dog...likes to sing and sing...LOLOL. I love that musical instrument. It can be a nice wow for a boy or a girl! I wonder if the one from Amazon is the same or different than the one I got from Temu. The only thing I didn't like was the visual on the packaging which was easily remedied. Putting a music book with it is a great idea! Did it come with it or did you have to buy one? That's a great way to increase the WOW! Thanks for watching and sharing friend!
@@drogers mine did not come with a music book. I bought it separately and am planning a Christmas theme with it as my book has Christmas songs to go with. The one I got is not wooden. And yes, I'm sure it will be a fun thing and it's unique!
Hi Denise, Thank-you for this update. I have yet to hear of any new tool guidelines from OCC-AU. But, I will be sending a few small hand-tools and bags - like a pencil bag this - this year. Last week, I packed a tool /truck themed box for Mr. 5-9. It was inspired by a wooden craft kit where Mr. 5-9 gets to build his own construction vehicle. The kit comes complete but the child is expected to have a hammer, screwdriver and safety googles/glasses. So, I have packed these items and a measuring tape. Last week, I also spoke to a friend who has a young teen son. She bought him an age appropriate tool kit for his birthday, which he loves. So, it seems unfortunate that customs regulations may be curbing some teen fun and the opportunity to learn some valuable life skills. 😥
I totally agree Fiona! I have heard back from kids who have shared with me that the "Hammer" was their favorite item in the box! And other who said the tool kit was the best! Soooo it is a shame. I should have mentioned this new directive is for US....and to check in your sending country. Your tool/truck themed box sounds fantastic! And yes, what a great life skill to learn to build! We can still send tools....just a few and as long as it is not a full box of tools/tool kit. That's my interpretation at least. Thanks for watching friend and hope all is well in your neck of the world!
@@drogers Thanks Denise. Yes. All this are good in my neck of the world. I see in recent Vids. you are going to be busy with your daughter's wedding in the next few months. I hope and pray all goes to plan. P.S. OCC-AU states under their What Pack Craft and Activities suggestions for Boys 10-14 a tool kit with work gloves. And garden kit and gloves (no seeds).
Great 10-14 boxes! You got lots of stuff in the pouch. Good idea! I usually just send a stubby hammer and nails. I like those little music makers...I have a couple to send too...I just have to find them lol. Thanks for sharing! 😊🙏
Oh I love those stubby hammers! I’ve sent those before too. Perfect size! Lol… yes, I sometimes can’t find things either… it’s like I know I have it but where it is … is another story😂
Interesting. I did not know that about tool kits. I haven’t packed a kit in a couple years thankfully and don’t have any in my stash. But I am glad you posted. The art kit is so awesome.
Thanks Val! Yes, it's an interesting turn in their directive. I have definitely packed tool kits in the past and probably would have this year but ran out of time. Thanks for watching!
Oh wow, interesting about the new guidance by OCC on tool kits. I know I have 2 tool kits left over from a few years ago. It's a shame of the $4 tool kits a lot of people found from Walmart because they are perfect. But you did a great job redoing the kit. Great art kit. I still have lots of those water bottles too. Very cool musical instrument. Hammer pen is super fun. Great shoebox with lots of variety. Good to know about the tool kits. Thanks for the heads up, Denise!
Yes, I have 4 tool kits left and some nice tool bags I got from Harbor Freight! They are great kits so it is kind of a shame to be worried about this so late into the packing season. But I guess since boxes are being given out all year, perhaps the issues just increased for them this year. IDK. But now that I know going forward, I will just break up my kits and still include a lot of fun items along with 1 or 2 tools. Thanks for watching friend!
What an amazing Shoebox for an older boy. I find it a little hard for me to pack for boys. So I always try to go out of my comfort zone 😜 The art kits are a clever idea. Thanks for sharing the information about the tool kits
Hmm, I was kind of looking at that “not recommended” wording as just that, not recommended, not a “do not send” warning. I was going to go ahead and send the tool kits, as planned this year, in the two “Nailed It” shoeboxes that I packed 6 months ago, but not send tool kits going forward. From what you’re saying, though, it sounds like I should go ahead and remove the them and replace with just a few tools. Bummer! ☹️ Great way to repurpose the case. Thanks for the video, Denise. 😊
I was careful in my video to say this is how I interpret this new directive. And based on what I am seeing on facebook and how I read it, it sounds like the tool kits could be removed since they are causing an issue with customs. Although it is not on the DO NOT SEND LIST, it sounds like they are saying PLEASE do not send...if that makes sense. BUT with that being said, I always encourage people to contact OCC directly if they have specific questions. I myself would not want to risk my box being taken apart, so I would repack it with just the tools and if you have a lot of other fun items I think it will be just fine. It is such a shame because those tool kits are so awesome and the case itself is the best part! Perhaps just having a balance not only follows this new directive but also follows Franklin Graham's request to include more toys this year. Thanks for watching friend!
@drogers Yes. The toys are important part of a shoebox. And I guess some people can get a little over enthused with a theme and only pack tools. My question is if you dismantle the tool kits that have been purchased and pack them the tools loose in the box (like pencils) for the kid to pack when they receive their box - Is that okay? Will that get us through the 2023 season?
Who knew? Very informative video. I’ve never sent a whole toolkit but this is great info to have. Love the way you used the case for another purpose! And ohhhh the little piano!! What a great idea. That will be hours of fun! TFS Friend ❤️
Thanks Jeannie! Love that little finger piano! So unique right? Yes, the tool issue is a bit confusing right now. I think we are best if we just stay away from a whole kit. TFW!🛠️❤️🛠️
Thanks for the new info. I have a couple of those kits. I'll just add the tools to boxes here and there. The needle nose pliers would be good to send with fishing kits too.
Great information! And your art set was a perfect use of space and becomes a really nice pencil box. I haven’t sent tools but I might consider a hammer and screwdriver for next year. Kalimba piano is really nice. I got mine off Temu also and was able to find a kalimba songbook for beginners. I played with it before packing 🤣 What you fit in the water bottle, Wow! Wonderful box.
Thanks Mel! Where did you find your songbook? Diana Ruth told me she included one too. I think that’s a wonderful idea! Oh I was playing with mine too😂 oh I loaded that bottle up! He should have fun discovering all the fun inside! Thank you so much for watching! 🛠️❤️🛠️
Thank you for the information. I didnt know anything about no tool "kits" rule. I like to send tools for the 10-14 boys. I have some that Im sending this year, but they are individual tools.
That's a good reuse of the tool kit pouch. I bought 28 of those sets, really was feeling like I wasted my money since it's a problem at customs. Now I need 28 new wow items and I'm gonna have to trust God for the funds since it's way to late to return my 28 kits. Thanks for this video and the idea how to repack the tools and carry case. It gives me hope.
Oh Tracy, I’m so sorry. I just wish they would have told us sooner. I have 4 more kits… I just didn’t get to them this year. I will still use the tools. The case is such great quality that I can’t just throw it away, right? I’m glad this helped if only a tiny bit.
If you have the receipt they may take them back, honestly. But I think what God did here is turn your 28 kits into 56+ amazing wow gifts! If you split them up, following the new guidelines, you actually end up with MORE wow then before! Right?
hmmmm I think that tool kit is ok, as long as their is no blades in them, I would take them out. We are not allowed to send multi tools because of the blade in them, but that's the only reason, and only no tool item in Canada. The hammer pen is so cool, and I love the mini Slinky!
Thanks Tray! See my update pinnned in the comments. They can be sent but they may get pulled by customs and therefore are no longer on the recommended list in the US. Not sure about Canada though.
What happens if the shoebox is considered aid. I have already packed and turned in to the church a box with several tools in it. I did put some games and toys also.
If the tools are loose, I think it will be fine. And if you have games and toys, that will help. I think they just don’t want tool kits or boxes JUST full of tools. That’s where the issues arise.
Upon repacking I was able to add a pencil case and a pair of underwear!😊
UPDATE: I received a response from OCC regarding these tool kits. I sent a picture. They said they are having issues with tool kits and they may or may not be allowed through customs which is why they removed them from the recommended item list. They did however say they thought this kit might be ok. No guarantee though. So it sounds like they would not be pulled at the PC but could be pulled by customs. Hope this is helpful in your packing choices. If you have already packed them, you might be ok. I would just recommend that you include other fun items to compliment the tool kit.
Keep pill bottles and make sewing kits and fishing kits. If you send tools they will remove them in the processing of shipping. Read the list of things in the video Operation Christmas Child
Thanks Christie! Individual tools are permitted. Tool kits are discouraged due to issues with customs. These are kits with multiple tools and makes the gift look like aid. Hope that helps!
How wonderful! For the $4 price you got two or more gifts. The art cases are a wonderful idea. Great way to make use of everything. ❤
Yes… and such a great way to look at it! So now I have tools AND an art kit! I was really happy that it turned out so nice too. Thanks Stephanie!
Great example of how to still add tools without it being too much, Denise!
That little singing dog is so cute and I'm sure he will get a kick out of it!
Oh, I have that same musical instrument for a shoebox next year!
I bought mine from Amazon for a shoebox next year. I love those little instruments. I have a music book to go with it too!
I love that tote bag as well as the tank top and tools for him! Such a fun but also practical shoebox for these young men.
Thanks for sharing, Denise.💙🙂
Thanks Diana! That little singing dog...likes to sing and sing...LOLOL. I love that musical instrument. It can be a nice wow for a boy or a girl! I wonder if the one from Amazon is the same or different than the one I got from Temu. The only thing I didn't like was the visual on the packaging which was easily remedied. Putting a music book with it is a great idea! Did it come with it or did you have to buy one? That's a great way to increase the WOW! Thanks for watching and sharing friend!
@@drogers mine did not come with a music book. I bought it separately and am planning a Christmas theme with it as my book has Christmas songs to go with.
The one I got is not wooden. And yes, I'm sure it will be a fun thing and it's unique!
@dianaruthshoeboxes that’s sounds so wonderful! Love it!
Very clever how you made the awesome art kit! Fabulous boxes as always!
Thanks Marie! I hope it helps someone in the same position with these tool kits.
I love the repurposed art kit and the thumb piano!
Thank you!🥰
Hi Denise, Thank-you for this update. I have yet to hear of any new tool guidelines from OCC-AU. But, I will be sending a few small hand-tools and bags - like a pencil bag this - this year. Last week, I packed a tool /truck themed box for Mr. 5-9. It was inspired by a wooden craft kit where Mr. 5-9 gets to build his own construction vehicle. The kit comes complete but the child is expected to have a hammer, screwdriver and safety googles/glasses. So, I have packed these items and a measuring tape.
Last week, I also spoke to a friend who has a young teen son. She bought him an age appropriate tool kit for his birthday, which he loves. So, it seems unfortunate that customs regulations may be curbing some teen fun and the opportunity to learn some valuable life skills. 😥
I totally agree Fiona! I have heard back from kids who have shared with me that the "Hammer" was their favorite item in the box! And other who said the tool kit was the best! Soooo it is a shame. I should have mentioned this new directive is for US....and to check in your sending country. Your tool/truck themed box sounds fantastic! And yes, what a great life skill to learn to build! We can still send tools....just a few and as long as it is not a full box of tools/tool kit. That's my interpretation at least. Thanks for watching friend and hope all is well in your neck of the world!
@@drogers Thanks Denise. Yes. All this are good in my neck of the world. I see in recent Vids. you are going to be busy with your daughter's wedding in the next few months. I hope and pray all goes to plan.
P.S. OCC-AU states under their What Pack Craft and Activities suggestions for Boys 10-14 a tool kit with work gloves. And garden kit and gloves (no seeds).
Great 10-14 boxes! You got lots of stuff in the pouch. Good idea! I usually just send a stubby hammer and nails. I like those little music makers...I have a couple to send too...I just have to find them lol. Thanks for sharing! 😊🙏
Oh I love those stubby hammers! I’ve sent those before too. Perfect size! Lol… yes, I sometimes can’t find things either… it’s like I know I have it but where it is … is another story😂
Interesting. I did not know that about tool kits. I haven’t packed a kit in a couple years thankfully and don’t have any in my stash. But I am glad you posted. The art kit is so awesome.
Thanks Val! Yes, it's an interesting turn in their directive. I have definitely packed tool kits in the past and probably would have this year but ran out of time. Thanks for watching!
Great video! I love what you did with the tool kit❤️
Thanks Em’!😘
Oh wow, interesting about the new guidance by OCC on tool kits. I know I have 2 tool kits left over from a few years ago. It's a shame of the $4 tool kits a lot of people found from Walmart because they are perfect. But you did a great job redoing the kit. Great art kit. I still have lots of those water bottles too. Very cool musical instrument. Hammer pen is super fun. Great shoebox with lots of variety. Good to know about the tool kits. Thanks for the heads up, Denise!
Yes, I have 4 tool kits left and some nice tool bags I got from Harbor Freight! They are great kits so it is kind of a shame to be worried about this so late into the packing season. But I guess since boxes are being given out all year, perhaps the issues just increased for them this year. IDK. But now that I know going forward, I will just break up my kits and still include a lot of fun items along with 1 or 2 tools. Thanks for watching friend!
You have the best ideas. I like Temu too.
Thank you! 😊 I just got a new Temu order… so cute!
What an amazing Shoebox for an older boy. I find it a little hard for me to pack for boys. So I always try to go out of my comfort zone 😜 The art kits are a clever idea. Thanks for sharing the information about the tool kits
You are so welcome! I think many have difficulty packing for this age group but it is so needed! Thanks for watching! 🛠️
Great boy box!! Thanks for sharing. I especially love all that you put into that water bottle.
Thank you Lois! I’m glad you enjoyed it! I love stuffing the water bottles full!
Hmm, I was kind of looking at that “not recommended” wording as just that, not recommended, not a “do not send” warning. I was going to go ahead and send the tool kits, as planned this year, in the two “Nailed It” shoeboxes that I packed 6 months ago, but not send tool kits going forward. From what you’re saying, though, it sounds like I should go ahead and remove the them and replace with just a few tools. Bummer! ☹️
Great way to repurpose the case. Thanks for the video, Denise. 😊
I was careful in my video to say this is how I interpret this new directive. And based on what I am seeing on facebook and how I read it, it sounds like the tool kits could be removed since they are causing an issue with customs. Although it is not on the DO NOT SEND LIST, it sounds like they are saying PLEASE do not send...if that makes sense. BUT with that being said, I always encourage people to contact OCC directly if they have specific questions. I myself would not want to risk my box being taken apart, so I would repack it with just the tools and if you have a lot of other fun items I think it will be just fine. It is such a shame because those tool kits are so awesome and the case itself is the best part! Perhaps just having a balance not only follows this new directive but also follows Franklin Graham's request to include more toys this year. Thanks for watching friend!
@drogers Yes. The toys are important part of a shoebox. And I guess some people can get a little over enthused with a theme and only pack tools. My question is if you dismantle the tool kits that have been purchased and pack them the tools loose in the box (like pencils) for the kid to pack when they receive their box - Is that okay? Will that get us through the 2023 season?
I think that is the way to go, Fiona. As long as it doesn’t look like a full box of just tools. My interpretation of course. ❤️
Who knew? Very informative video. I’ve never sent a whole toolkit but this is great info to have. Love the way you used the case for another purpose! And ohhhh the little piano!! What a great idea. That will be hours of fun! TFS Friend ❤️
Thanks Jeannie! Love that little finger piano! So unique right? Yes, the tool issue is a bit confusing right now. I think we are best if we just stay away from a whole kit. TFW!🛠️❤️🛠️
Thanks for the new info. I have a couple of those kits. I'll just add the tools to boxes here and there. The needle nose pliers would be good to send with fishing kits too.
Ahhh yes… needle nose pliers and you are right! Great for fishing kits!!!! Thanks Denise!!!
Great information! And your art set was a perfect use of space and becomes a really nice pencil box. I haven’t sent tools but I might consider a hammer and screwdriver for next year. Kalimba piano is really nice. I got mine off Temu also and was able to find a kalimba songbook for beginners. I played with it before packing 🤣 What you fit in the water bottle, Wow! Wonderful box.
Thanks Mel! Where did you find your songbook? Diana Ruth told me she included one too. I think that’s a wonderful idea! Oh I was playing with mine too😂 oh I loaded that bottle up! He should have fun discovering all the fun inside! Thank you so much for watching! 🛠️❤️🛠️
Thank you for the information. I didnt know anything about no tool "kits" rule. I like to send tools for the 10-14 boys. I have some that Im sending this year, but they are individual tools.
You are welcome! I’m glad it was helpful. I like sending tools for that age group also. 🛠️
Great video thanks for the info love the art kit
Thanks Melinda! I think the kit turned out nice. I even have a few more ideas for it since I filmed this! Thanks for watching!
That's a good reuse of the tool kit pouch. I bought 28 of those sets, really was feeling like I wasted my money since it's a problem at customs. Now I need 28 new wow items and I'm gonna have to trust God for the funds since it's way to late to return my 28 kits. Thanks for this video and the idea how to repack the tools and carry case. It gives me hope.
Oh Tracy, I’m so sorry. I just wish they would have told us sooner. I have 4 more kits… I just didn’t get to them this year. I will still use the tools. The case is such great quality that I can’t just throw it away, right? I’m glad this helped if only a tiny bit.
If you have the receipt they may take them back, honestly. But I think what God did here is turn your 28 kits into 56+ amazing wow gifts! If you split them up, following the new guidelines, you actually end up with MORE wow then before! Right?
@christinebarber8311 well that’s a great way to look at it! 🫶🏻
@@christinebarber8311 thank you for your uplifting comment. That encourages me. It's past the time frame to return them according to store policies.
hmmmm I think that tool kit is ok, as long as their is no blades in them, I would take them out. We are not allowed to send multi tools because of the blade in them, but that's the only reason, and only no tool item in Canada. The hammer pen is so cool, and I love the mini Slinky!
Thanks Tray! See my update pinnned in the comments. They can be sent but they may get pulled by customs and therefore are no longer on the recommended list in the US. Not sure about Canada though.
Super awesome box :) even without customs, I feel like entire tool kits are just too big loll 🔨 so there is not much room for toys
Thanks Math! Yes, I agree but I’ve had kids tell me it was their favorite!🤷🏻♀️Either way, now more toys will fit!
What happens if the shoebox is considered aid. I have already packed and turned in to the church a box with several tools in it. I did put some games and toys also.
If the tools are loose, I think it will be fine. And if you have games and toys, that will help. I think they just don’t want tool kits or boxes JUST full of tools. That’s where the issues arise.
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