There’s a gift for every dad or father figure out there and it doesn’t have to be sports related, the cliché tie or even a new grill. However, if you do choose to stick with those humdrum ideas for dad this year, at least try a new twist on those old, classic favorites. Scooter researched some new potential gifts that won’t break the bank and he won’t be expecting. Check out our last-minute ideas!

Babesta's eco-friendly dollhouse

To take Al Gore’s word for it, the world is coming to an end and humans are chiefly responsible. Perhaps the next generation of tykes can stop the damage if supplied with the right tools. So how do we teach them that using excessive amounts of hairspray, taking 45 minute-long showers and driving gas-guzzling cars are not in their best interest?

Scooter recently discovered babesta.com’s eco-friendly dollhouse ($240). The innovative dollhouse mimics the design of “green homes,” featuring a miniature wind turbine, solar cell panel, rain barrel, recycling bins and other renewable energy resources. It’s a fantastic way to stimulate kids with an interest in design, architecture, technology and/or house-play.

According to Babesta’s website, the dollhouse “is designed to help children learn how to live in harmony with nature.” It also comes with furniture, so if your little one still wants to play house with his or her dolls and figurines— he or she can.

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When Ricky Lauren releases a Hamptons-themed cookbook, you better believe billionaires and celebs show up. Mayor Michael Bloomberg, Martha Stewart, Joe Scarborough, David Lauren and wife Lauren Bush Lauren and Charlie Rose invaded the palatial and lavish Ralph Lauren flagship boutique on Madison Avenue on Tuesday, May 22 for the launch. Co-hosting hubby Ralph Lauren was there to show his support, while Ms. Lauren signed copies of the hardback, The Hamptons: Food, Family and History.

Ms. Lauren based the book on her love of fine food and the memories of raising her family out East in The Hamptons. It’s a glossy brimming with family fun recipes ideal for summer meals, both intricate and low-key. There are dozens of dishes targeted towards kids, but that won’t leave grownups disappointed either. The coffee table book is available officially at the Ralph Lauren boutique or online ($40).

When asked of her summer plans, Ms. Lauren said, “To be with my family is the greatest thing I could do. To be with my husband, my children, I am so excited to spend time with them.” Naturally she’ll be doing it in style, between family homes in New York City, Telluride and The Hamptons, as well as in London where the 2012 Olympic team will wear - who else? - Polo Ralph Lauren!

Ricky Lauren (Photo by Thos Robinson/Getty Images for Ralph Lauren)

Images courtesy of American Museum of Natural History.

It’s nearly summer! Flowers have bloomed and baby birds have hatched. But it’s also the time of year when many butterflies lay their eggs or caterpillars begin to hatch from winter.

Hazel Davies, Manager of Living Exhibits at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City, has published a stunning tome, The Exquisite Butterfly Companion ($14.95) that focuses on all things Lepidoptera. The special box set includes a thorough field guide featuring scientific and informative details about nearly 100 species of butterfly and moth. For the artistic bug in your young learner, there is an envelope with 100 rich images of the each genus specified in the book.

The craft ideas are limitless! Take The Exquisite Butterfly Companion to your nearby park to explore what species flutter in your neighborhood or pack it for excursions outside of the city. It makes for a perfect summertime gift for any Lepidoptera fan—young or old.