Quiet Hours Toys, music to the jangled ears of busy parents everywhere, deliver on the promise of creative toys that don't require batteries and encourage imaginative and quiet play.  As far as my kids are concerned, our toys are all "out of batteries." Translation: batteries have been removed to save sanity and delay childhood onset of "if it isn't loud and busy, I'm bored."

Low-tech toys are generally under-appreciated after a certain age, but you have to train your kids to require all the bells and whistles (and make sure they watch tons of television).  Young kids seem drawn to the boxes and wrapping paper and sticks and simple play at first.

And while the Quiet Hours Toys are artisan and a bit pricey, they are so sweet you might not mind.  Take a look at the finger puppets, dolls, pet birdies (pictured right), and  little rabbit house.  If you're looking for alternatives to an Easter basket full of sugary treats, this is it.