Cincinnati, Ohio - Shoppers who walk into a big box retailer or a giant toy store chain will find just about everything is made in China. About the only exceptions are plants and food.

But retail experts say shoppers can break the cycle and find gifts made in the U.S.A. to hand out at Christmas.

Melinda Gardner owns a small toy store in Ohio called "Ted's Toys," named after her husband.

She's proud to feature a number of independent toy makers from around the United States.

Her top pick is the Spooner Grass Surf Board . Several magazines chose it as a top toy this year. It’s made in California.

Another American-made toy Gardner likes is the Wall Coaster that children can stick on their bedroom walls.

Another red white and blue toy is the old-fashioned metal Slinky . And from Vermont: the wooden Name Train .

“These name trains are wonderful quality,” said Gardner.

Vermont also has the Vermont Teddy Bear Company , while Pennsylvania brings shoppers the Fun Slides Carpet Skates .

If your child is now an adult, craft fairs are a great place to find American-made jewelry and knickknacks.

So is your local hardware store. Ace Hardware store manager Jon Doucleff says there’s nothing more American than Craftsman tools.

“The Craftsman hand tools, forged steel hand tools are all made in the U.S.,” said Doucleff.

Other red, white and blue products include Maglight flashlights, Igloo coolers and Weber grills, although the grills do contain some imported parts.

One caution: Doucleff says most power tools, including Craftsman, are made in China.

Retail experts say shoppers looking for American-made toys need to look to see if the toy’s label says, ‘Made in the U.S.A.,’ and don’t just go by a name. American Girl dolls are made in China.

Gardner says buying American usually means quality and supports American workers.

"Why not? We all live and work here, why not keep your money as close to home as possible," said Gardner.

Your best bet for finding American-made products is to shop small, independent stores like The Learning Tree with two Kansas City area locations. The store also has a " Made in the U.S.A ." section on its website if shopping online.

It may take more time to find American-made products, but in the end retail experts say you’ll end up with creative, locally-made gifts that will be appreciated.