A felt set from Storyteller. The Monsters set is cool (goes with the book "Where the Wild Things Are"...which is a classic childrens lit book)
There are other very boyish sets there. The pirate set would be cool to use in the bathtub.
Here is a link to a party that I have open until Monday and the prices are at 20% off.
http://www.amitymama.com/vb/showthre...hreadid=192570
You could also ask Karen what felt set would be good as she knows the company better than I do. Karen is a WAHM Amity mama and I think felt is a exceptional natural, open-ended, educational gift.
This 20% off is on top of sale prices....so check out the sale section too. (they are also offering pre-cut sets if you don't want to cut them out or if you think the mom would not take the time to cut them out, KWIM?)
It seems like most parents don't ever think of educational toys...unless they are battery operated.
I decided to give Storyteller Felt sets this year as gifts to family/friends. We need more simple play that is educational.
Michelle