You never considered the straw a candidate for a redesign.

But since your little sipper started slurping (and slopping) you realize the old-fashioned straw, in a word, sucks.

Keep spills and splatters to a minimum with Straw-lution, the mom-invented straw that goes in and doesn’t come out (really, we tried). Simply push it through the top of any cup and little hooks grab the underside, making it impossible to remove.

It also works with yogurt and applesauce (anything with a foil top), turning them into sippable, mess-free, portable snacks.

Best part: They’re reusable and dishwasher safe — so your money doesn’t go down the tubes.

Available online at strawlution.com, $5 per dozen.

MAKE
Squawking Turkeys
What: Create noisy gobblers out of a simple cup and string.
Why: So much for Grandpa’s peace and quiet.
When: Fri., 10 a.m.-noon.
Where: The Discovery Museums, Children’s Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton (978-264-4200). Adults and children, $10.50; under 1, free.

EXPLORE
Algonkian Life
What: Make a craft and learn about Native American traditions.
Why: Open-hearth cooking demos give a peek into a time before the microwave.
When: Fri., 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Where: Historic Deerfield, 80 Old Main St., Deerfield (413-775-7214). Adults, $12; children, $5; under 6, free.

HELP
Borders and Build-a-Bear Workshop Charity Drive
What: Buy books and toys from the store to be donated to local children in need.
Why: Pick up the cuddly Hal Moose for your own munchkin, too.
When: Thru Dec. 24.
Where: Locations online at borders.com.

Photo: Courtesy of Straw-lution