It's one part imagination, one part invention and one part competition.

In fall 2005, By Kids For Kids Co. and Xerox Corporation called out to all kids who are dreaming up new games, taking apart and re-building toys, or inventing neat things for sports to think about turning their basement ideas into real products.

The nationwide invention initiative is designed to help stimulate kids into learning and practicing critical life skills through inventing. Consisting of a national competition, an "Inventive Thinking" toolkit and kick-off events, BKFK and Xerox are encouraging kids to start the wheel of invention turning.

The "Invent-A-Toy World Games" national competition invites kids to submit their big ideas for a chance to see those inventions come to life on store shelves across America.

In addition, BKFK has launched a nationwide Inventive Thinking educational program to be deployed through schools.

"The Inventive Thinking program engages young minds, inspires dreaming, and ignites the confidence and self-esteem to manifest those dreams," said Norman Goldstein, CEO and founder of By Kids For Kids Co.

The kickoff event, held in New York City, unveiled an "Inventive Thinking" toolkit to help teachers to assist children in developing new inventions in the classroom.

The Inventive Thinking toolkit is designed to support existing curriculum achieving the national education standards. Each Inventive Thinking toolkit contains a teacher guide, a DVD, 30 student guides, a poster, and an example of a successful kid invention.

Scholastic Corporation, the global children's publishing, education and media company, served as educational advisor in the development of "Inventive Thinking" toolkits. They distributed more than 10,000 kits free to classrooms nationwide, with an emphasis on reaching out to traditionally underserved communities to help youth get excited about a future in science.

The initiative was also launched throughout the state of Maryland to inspire students to think creatively. The toolkit was distributed free of charge to public schools across the state.

"I was proud to represent Xerox in this very special initiative," said Herb Jenkins, a Xerox account general manger in Maryland. "Xerox received accolades from the governor's wife, the State Secretary of Education, and the staff of BKFK about this wonderful partnership."