It happens every year. We vow to start holiday shopping in September. Next thing we know, we’re knee deep in turkey leftovers.

So we asked the pros at Gift Hero for a wish list any kid would love. And wouldn’t you know it? They saved the day.

Apple Park Organic Soft Blocks, $30
We’ve got a soft spot for the ecofriendly blocks you can mush, smash, and stack. Plus, when you jiggle, shake, or squeeze it, each block makes a different sound.

Green Toys Fire Truck, $25
This fire engine may look red, but it’s as green as they come: It’s made entirely of recycled milk containers.

Butterfly Alphabet Puzzle, $37
Your hungry caterpillar will fly across the room to interlock the colorful puzzle pieces, some with letters.

Zoob Jr. Express, $35
Building planes, trains, and automobiles is a snap with the easy-to-use construction set. Instructions for 28 vehicles are included or just let his imagination soar.

Recycled Cardboard Dollhouse, $30
Little designers (and bossy types) can decorate their dream houses with markers, stickers, and punch out furniture.

Zolo Blanko, $24
With this toy that is part construction set, part art project, kids can paint, draw on, and otherwise decorate plastic pieces and use them to build anything they want. It’s a blanko slate.

Find more gifts online at gifthero.com.

PIROUETTE
The Nutcracker
What: Leaping candy canes, feisty mice, and a visit to the Land of Sweets.
Why: Swirling flakes that fall on the audience are probably the closest you’ll know of snow.
When: Thru Dec. 24.
Where: Bass Performance Hall, 525 Commerce St., Fort Worth; Winspear Opera House, 2403 Flora St. Tickets at 877-828-9200 or online at texasballettheater.org. Adults and children, $19-$99.

CHIRP
Birds’ Christmas Tree
What: Take edible ornaments to hang from the trees and visit with Mr. and Mrs. Claus.
Why: It’s a feast for feathered friends.
When: Sat., 11 a.m.
Where: Fort Worth Botanic Garden, 3220 Botanic Garden Blvd., Fort Worth (817-871-7686). Admission is free.

EXPLORE
Children’s Aquarium at Fair Park
What: The once-pitiful aquarium has been revamped and is now a neat home to jellyfish, sharks, and turtles.
Why: Feel slithery sea creatures at the touch pools (eww!).
When: Fri.-Sun., 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Where: 1462 First Ave. (469-554-7340). Admission is free.

Photos: Courtesy of Gifthero