Several engineering-project kits are available that can engage kids over their summer break from school. Computer Science Lab offers an inexpensive CD-ROM that enables users to teach themselves C++ programming by running experiments on simulated hardware. At about four feet tall, Parallax's new Penguin Robot can execute language commands in the Basic programming language, and is perfect for introducing non-engineers and kids to software and hardware. Snap Circuits offers inexpensive 100-in-1 and 300-in-1 electronics kits that use preformed conductors to complete circuits. This might be a good one for kids who are interested in gadgets. For middle-school kids who like electronics, there are several very inexpensive kits on the Tech8 site, including LED-flasher circuits and a sound generator, to be used as starters for other projects. Revolution Education offers PICAXE chips and kits for learning about microcontrollers, but they are not easy to find in the U.S. Jameco Electronics is a good source for a variety of robot kits, and the robotics-themed magazines 'Servo' and 'Nuts and Volts' will be very interesting to enthusiasts. The Carnegie Mellon University-sponsored Robotics Academy supports Lego and Vex robots and is a resource for education materials and curricula. Engineering-course materials are available from Project Lead The Way, whose mission is to help prepare students for the demands of college engineering programs. Those with information about other materials, products and companies along these lines should contact the author.