Origami is the art of folding paper intricately into decorative shapes, with origins in China and Japan. Not only is it often beautiful, but it can double as way to teach children geometry, sequencing (you have to fold the paper in certain steps) and fractions (they’ll need to know how to figure out a third or half of the paper to follow origami directions). Best of all for parents, origami can be done inside and quietly. A good place to start is with the Origami Fun Kit for Beginners, which includes three books with instructions, 55 different origami projects and 96 sheets of origami paper ($12). If your child is more motivated by specific themes, Origami Corner is worth a visit. The Dinosaur Deluxe Box Kit contains sheets of patterned paper resembling the skin of various dinosaurs, along with practice paper, instructions with diagrams and background scenery for displaying the finished dinosaurs ($7). Other sets focus on insects, sea life, birds and farm animals, along with the classic 1,000 Cranes (according to origami tradition, if you fold 1,000 cranes, like the one pictured, your wish will come true). Children who like playing with dolls will love making as many as 12 dolls with the Kimono Doll Making Kit ($14). Adults who enjoy origami can make their own children’s furniture out of pieces of cardboard, thanks to an innovative website called Foldschool. Here, you’ll find free downloadable instructions on how to make kid-size origami furniture, such as a stool, a chair or a rocker. A lesser-known branch of origami is “towel origami” (no, really, I’m serious.) At Folding Magic, you can order a DVD to show you how to make funny animals out of towels. Some cruise ships leave these cute critters in staterooms as a perk to guests – now you can make your own.