Mr Toy

Hasbro Playskool Dream Town Rose Petal Cottage

2008-12-03T23:49:00.000-08:00

Review

Little girls who love to play house can have their very own place with the Hasbro Playskool Dream Town Rose Petal Cottage. And with its economical price and lightweight, compact build, parents are sure to be happy. Designed for children ages 3 and up, the Rose Petal Cottage lets kids take imaginative play to a whole new level.

Charming Playhouse Features Delightfully Pretty Touches

The Cottage consists of two open halves, each measuring approximately 37-by-18-by-42 inches (LxDxH), with the collapsible chimney adding about eight inches to the height. It's constructed with two lightweight plastic and metal frames, snugly fitted with a nylon exterior that meets the flammability requirements of CPAI-84. The included toy stove has plastic and fiberboard construction.

All of the components require adult assembly. It took us about 1-1/2 hours to complete the job, and although no tools are required, you'll need a little bit of muscle to push the metal posts into the plastic connector pieces to construct the frames. After completing the frames, you next slide the nylon exterior on, which, as we discovered, requires a extra dose of patience. Since it's a tight fit, be careful! The fabric can snag and tear on the metal frame if you pull too hard or too quickly.

Yes, it takes some time and effort to assemble -- but it's well worth it. The Rose Petal Cottage is completely charming. Its cheerily printed exterior sports pretty pastel colors and old-fashioned roses, shutters and shingled-roof details, and a pink, vented chimney. Lace edges the roof and real curtains adorn the mesh-covered windows. The blue, Dutch-style door has a working mail slot, and it secures with two magnetic clasps.

We were delighted with the Cottage's many configuration possibilities: set the two sides apart from each other in any position that's convenient for your home, and your child can play in an "open" space. Push them together in a closed, "one-room" configuration, and your child can enter and exit through the door. Vents in the chimney and the mesh-covered windows ensure good air circulation. She will love having a private place to play and imagine. Two small children can fit easily inside, with room for other toys. And when your child is finished playing, you can slide one side into the other for space-saving storage.

Powered by Imagination

These days it's not easy to find toys that don't blink and beep, which is why we find the Rose Petal Cottage so refreshing. It simply provides beautiful props to fuel your child's creativity without limiting her, leaving play completely up to her imagination -- no batteries required.

The Cottage benefits parents, too: it's less expensive than other child-size houses on the market, plus it stores compactly and, with its lightweight build, is a cinch to move around. However, because of its tent-like build, leaning against the back from the inside will cause it to wobble and even tip completely over if your child is not careful. We suggest making sure the house is set against a wall or sturdy backing during play.

The Cottage comes with a stove, and additional toy appliances, furniture, and other accessories are available separate purchase should your child desire to furnish her cottage further.

What's in the Box

Components for assembling the Rose Petal Cottage: 2 fabric cottage covers, 30 connectors, and 38 frame tubes; unassembled toy stove

Product Description

Give your little girl a place of her own. This fabric-covered playhouse is the perfect place to let little imaginations roam free. Standing just over four feet tall, this cottage has cozy, double-sided fabric walls, complete with windows, a Dutch door and a chimney. When It's time to prepare pretend meals, the durable fiberboard stove has knobs that really turn and an oven door that opens. Playing "house" in the Rose Petal Cottage lets your little girl build and create unforgettable memories in her very own home. Appliances and Nursery Playset sold separately. Measures 38.25"L x 38.5"W x 52"H. Adult assembly required. Available November 28, 2007.

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Vtech Kidizoom Digital Camera

2008-12-03T23:01:00.000-08:00

Review

Rugged and easy to use, the Vtech Kidizoom Digital Camera is ready to document all your child's adventures. With two-eye viewing, grips designed to fit in little hands, and a built-in flash, this real digital camera can also shoot video. It also includes simple-to-use photo editing software so kids aged three and up can add creative touches to their images.

Get Ready to Show off Your Child's Photos

It's clear right out of the packaging that this camera was designed to stand up to tough play and rough handling. Bright blue rubber grips on each side make it easy for children to grasp the camera with both hands, and two-eye viewing make it easy to conceptualize a photo or a cool video. The camera even comes with two interchangeable faceplates, so your child can pick her favorite look.

Before your child starts taking photos, you'll need to use a Phillips screwdriver to insert four "AA" batteries in the grips of the camera. While the first few photos are being taken, you may want to set up the VTech Photo Editor on your computer. An intuitive installation wizard makes this process quick and easy. You'll need Windows 2000 SP3+/XP or newer to use this software. And don't despair if you're a Mac user. As long as you have Mac OS X 10.0 or above, you can still use the camera in mass storage mode.

Inspire Creative Development

Six buttons and a navigational joystick on the back of the camera let your child pick a mode and scroll through old photos. Between taking photos, shooting videos, and playing simple games on the 1.8-inch color screen, there's lots to do.

A built-in flash makes it easier to get well-lit pictures, especially if the subject of the photo is indoors. The flash does, however, often fire if you are trying to take a close-up shot, resulting in very bright, blown-out pictures. Inexperienced photographers may need to be reminded that the camera is not designed to focus on objects that are less than 1.5-feet from the camera. For super-sized fun, you can also link the camera to your television using the included A/V cable and view creative work on the big screen.

With 16MB of internal memory and an SD card slot so that you can add capacity if you need it, this camera lets kids collect lots of images. The included USB cable lets you upload the images to your computer. The VTech photo editor lets you or your child add cool frames to photos, stamp funny hats on people, and distort images. You can even run fun animations that makes the photo look like it is rotating or underwater.

The photo editor interface is easy to use, with big round buttons for kids to click on and drag-and-drop stamps. More advanced artists may be disappointed that there aren't more ways to creatively control output, but files from the Kidizoom can easily be edited in more advanced programs, too.

What's in the Box

Camera with 16MB internal memory, wrist strap, A/V cable, USB cable, two faceplates, and photo editing software on CD-ROM.

Product Description

Little ones will have a blast taking candid pics with their Kidizoom Camera. Kidizoom includes a connector cable to plug in and watch a picture slideshow or view the 5-minute movies they've created on any TV or PC. Fun photo-editing features allow kids to distort pictures or add silly frames. The camera also comes with three preschool games to keep the fun going. Requires 4 "AA" batteries, not included. Measures 11"L x 3"W x 8"H.

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Fisher Price Preschool Toys

2008-11-25T07:35:00.000-08:00

You can see hot deal & cheap preschool toys, baby toys, toddler toys to learning for your kids & baby at Buy Cheap Fisher Price Preschool Toys Store today.

Geotrax Rail and Road System

2008-11-24T09:12:00.000-08:00

Complete with a fast, remote-controlled train, an exciting main terminal building, train tracks, and passengers, the Fisher Price GeoTrax Rail and Road System Grand Central Station provides hours of creative fun for children ages 2-1/2 and up. It is a part of Fisher Price's line of GeoTrax toys.

A Train Powered by Imagination!

By using the remote control, your child can make Aero the Engine speed along the track and pull into Central Station, with his driver, Eric, right inside! Send the passengers up and down the station's elevator, or put them on the train for an exciting ride. Load up the train with cargo using the crane. Thanks to the power of your child's imagination, the possibilities are endless.

Durable and Easy to Use

The toy is constructed from durable plastic and features large pieces perfect for little hands. The big, easy-to-use remote control makes the train go backward or forward and has a range of about 12 feet. It includes an automatic shut-off feature to preserve battery life. The sturdy train track snaps together easily in a variety of configurations, and the whole set can be used with other GeoTrax accessories. Adult assembly is required; you will need a Phillips screwdriver. The remote control and train engine require three AAA batteries apiece.

What's in the BoxGrand Central Station, Aero the engine, and 2 train cars, an articulated Eric figure, and 2 articulated passenger figures, cargo piece, remote control, and 14 pieces of Snap-Lock Track.

Product Description

The Grand Central Terminal offers the same classic GeoTrax play that kids love, now with the addition of articulated figures. There's so much to explore in the main terminal building, which is the central hub of all the action. There is an information area with a destination board, food and vending stations and an elevator with mechanical action. Drop cargo through to the lower level, or make your way to the train yard. Two platform areas -- one for passengers and one for cargo -- connect to the upper level by an escalator and conveyer belt. On the cargo platform, kids can lift and load cargo with the crane.

Playset comes with a sleek, fast-moving R/C passenger train named Sonic, featuring two attached passenger cars, fun sounds and forward/reverse action. Also includes three figures: Sam, the conductor, and two passengers. All figures fit into the vehicles for a complete play experience. Comes with play cargo pieces and 14 pieces of Snap-Lock track for multiple configurations. Requires 6 "AAA" batteries, not included. Measures 43"L x 36"W x 11"H.

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Hasbro Playskool Honeybee Hop

2008-11-24T08:51:00.000-08:00

Review

Treat your preschooler to some very silly buzzy-work with this little honey of a bee. Getting the fun going is easy: just place the Honeybee Hop hive on a level spot and press the big button in the center. A kooky rendition of "The Flight of the Bumblebee" plays as the bumblebee circles round and round on a flexible green arm, inviting your preschooler to chase, dodge and hippity-hop over it. For a slower game, press the button once, or press it again to pick up the action. Like skipping rope, the Honeybee Hop challenges timing and balance while giving kids a giggle-packed workout — and it’s awful cute to boot!

Product Description

Kids will "bee" happy as they try to dodge the dizzy bee with a hop, skip or a jump. The motorized beehive spins the whimsical bee to the familiar song "Flight of the Bumblebee" and silly sounds, encouraging kids to get active as they play this creative game of keep-away. Kids can flee the bee - or chase after him. The 26" motorized arm spins at two different speeds to help kids develop coordination as they hop, skip and jump their way through this game of laugh-out-loud play. And while kids are focused on having fun, they'll also get to practice taking turns with their playmates. Includes beehive, two connector rods, honeybee and instructions. Requires 3 "C" batteries, not included.

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Hasbro Electronic Hyper Slide

2008-11-24T08:31:00.000-08:00

Review

Be quick, pick the right colored hyper disc, and flick it under the arch before time runs out. The Hyper Slide from Hasbro packs three fast-paced electronic table-top games into one compact unit. Recommended for ages eight and up, these fast-sliding games for one or two players are fun and exciting for kids and adults.

Fun, Futuristic Table Top Game

With its sleek, arched design, Hyper Slide looks like a futuristic game. Resembling a hockey game for a table top, the object is to flip the pucks through the goal. However, in these games the goal can be scored from both sides of the arch, and there are four different-colored pucks, called hyper discs. The game's electronic unit calls out a color, and you must pick that color and sent it through the arc. It automatically detects whether you've passed the right disc or not. When not in operation, the hyper discs can be conveniently stored in a compartment on the side of the arch.

Three Games for Solo Play or Two-Person Play

The Haspro Electronic Hyper Slide offers a few variations of play for your enjoyment. Two lighted buttons on the top of the Hyper Slide make it easy to choose which of the three games you want to play.

While the objects of the games are simple, playing them can be a fun challenge. The first game, "Fast Pass," is all about speed. The game commands a color and you've got to pass it through the goal quickly before the buzzer blasts. With "Add One," you've got to remember the order of colors. You start with a color and add one to the sequence each time you complete a round. "Code Buster" gives you 90 seconds to decipher the secret series of colors.

Best of all, you can play all these games with a friend or by yourself. With both "Fast Pass" and "Add One," you can even play head-to-head with another player or team. For solo play, the rubber "hyper band" is attached under the arch, bouncing the discs back to your side.

Put to the Test

Playing on any smooth, nonmetal surface, you'll be surprised how much fun the Hyper Slide really is. An announcer's voice, high-energy music, and sound effects move these games along. With your head in the game, you'll soon block out all the noise and only hear the color to flick, slide, or shoot through the arch. Unfortunately, if the constant voice directions are not your thing, the game can't be played without these sounds, nor can the volume be adjusted. On the plus side, the Hyper Slide announces your score at the end of each competition and keeps track of the highest score for each game. This electronic system runs on three "AAA" batteries (sold separately). If the Hyper Slide goes unused for two minutes, this smartly designed toy "goes to sleep," saving battery life until the player buttons are pressed.

Pros
- 3 fast-paced games for 2-person and solo play
- Lighted buttons make it easy to switch through games
- Games remember high scores
- Electronic game shuts off on its own

Cons
- Game must be played with announcer and music going
- Volume can't be controlled

What's in the Box

Hyper Slide electronic game, hyper band, and 4 hyper discs.

Product Description

Be quick as you flick, slide or shoot the different-colored hyper discs under the arch. As the game unit calls out the sequence of colors for you to pass, the game "knows" if you've passed the right disc or not. Pass 'em fast before the buzzer blasts! Obey the voice commands, get your brain in the game and break the code, or guess which color will be called next. Play with a friend or practice solo.

Tabletop slide-and-pass excitement features electronic lights and sounds, plus an announcer's voice that talks you through three fast-sliding game modes. Electronic game unit comes with four Hyper Discs, each a different color; plus Hyper Band and instructions. Requires 3 "AA" batteries (not included). For 1 or 2 players.

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Apples to Apples Party Box

2008-11-24T08:18:00.000-08:00

Review

Apples to Apples Party Box is an award-winning party game that will have everyone laughing. We had a blast playing this game and think it is a perfect game for a "board game night" with friends and family. It is quick to set up, easy to learn, challenging, and a whole lot of fun.

Smart, Award-Winning Fun

Apples to Apples Party Box has won numerous awards including "Party Game of the Year" by Games magazine and "Mensa Select" by Mensa International. And for good reason: it involves quick thinking, humor, and strategy. For teens, the game teaches them to think about how different things can be compared to one another and how analogies are formed. One of our criticisms is that although the game states that it is designed for ages 12 and older, many of the subjects are clearly for older teens.

Hilarious Comparisons and Analogies

The name of the game is a play on the phrase "apples to oranges," and the game is about making comparisons between different things. General game play is as follows: players are dealt red cards which have a noun printed on them, and the judge (a different player in each turn) draws a green card on which an adjective is printed and places it for all players to see. Each player then chooses a red card they are holding that they think best describes the green card. The judge then decides which adjective she likes best.

The fun is in the variety of unexpected comparisons people make, sometimes apt, funny, creative, or simply absurd. For example: people might match "Awkward" with "Oil Spills," "My First Kiss," "Dandruff," and "Gold Chains. " Or: "Painful" with "High School Reunions" and "Regis Philben. " Strategy comes into play since, because each player takes turns being the judge, you begin to pick up on the preferences of each player and tailor your choices accordingly.

Players can also try variations on the basic game play. For example, instead of choosing the most apt comparison, players might try choosing the red card that is least like the green one. These variations keep the game fresh and interesting every time.

Conversation Kick Starter

Part of the fun is in standing up for your choices. For instance, you might discuss why you think "Regis Philben" is painful, or segue into a discussion of the embarrassing situations you got into on your first day of school, or your first kiss. Apples to Apples excels as an ice breaker and promotes a good amount of social interaction, as many conversations will be kick started thanks to these little cards.

More Players, More Fun

Although the box states that the game is playable with just four players, we found that the game is a lot more fun when there are at least five or six players. This increases both the frequency of funny answers and also requires players to refine their strategy a little more. Once we got going, hours passed, and it was only the lateness of the hour that reminded some of us that we had to go home.

This Party Box set comes with more than 1,000 cards total, and will entertain for a long time. Additional expansion sets are available to further increase the variety of word combinations.

What's in the Box

756 Red Apple Cards, 252 Green Apple Cards, card tray, quick play rules.

Product Description

Apples to Apples Party Box is the game of hilarious comparisons! It's as easy as "comparing apples to apples"... just open the box, deal the cards, and you're ready to play. Select the card from your hand that you think is best described by a card played by the judge. If the judge picks your card, you win that round. And everyone gets a chance to be the judge. Each round is filled with surprising and outrageous comparisons from a wide range of people, places, things and events. Includes over 1,000 cards.

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LEGO Star Wars Imperial Dropship

2008-11-24T07:40:00.000-08:00

Review

LEGO Star Wars Imperial Dropship (7667) - Send in the Imperial Dropship with its stormtrooper squad! Equipped with laser cannons and a detachable troop platform, this speedy space transport is ready to battle the Rebellion on any planet in the Empire.

Product Description

Send in the Imperial Dropship with its stormtrooper squad! Equipped with laser cannons and a detachable troop platform, this speedy space transport is ready to battle the Rebellion on any planet in the Empire. Includes three stormtroopers and a shadow stormtrooper pilot. Lift back up to drop the clone troop platform into battle. Imperial Dropship is 4" long. 81 pieces.

Product Features

-Send in the Imperial Dropship with its stormtrooper squad!
-Equipped with laser cannons and a detachable troop platform, this speedy space transport is ready to battle the Rebellion on any planet in the Empire.
- Includes 3 stormtroopers and shadow stormtrooper pilot!
- Ship drops seat with 3 stormtroopers
- 81 pieces

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Bakugan Battle Pack

2008-11-24T07:22:00.000-08:00

Review

The popular and fun anime TV series "Bakugan Battle Brawlers" has spawned this strategic game that pits a variety of "Bakugan warriors" -- such as "Juggernoids," "Fear rippers," and "Robatallians" -- against each other for points. With this Bakugan Battle Pack, kids 4 and above will enjoy the challenge of earning points by rolling their Bakugan (or shooting them from a launcher) onto magnetic cards where the plastic spheres burst open to reveal the fearsome warrior apparatus inside. Kids will also love the way the Bakugan transform suddenly into warrior mode, and fans of the show will have an especially good time with the game.

Ready, Set, Play!

The mission of Bakugan game play is to battle against other Bakugan to win the points awarded on the cards by getting your Bakugan to land on card. Players will love pretending to be one of the various characters in the show, such as the fiery 12-year-old leader "Dan" or the wise "Marucho," and they gain a deeper understanding of the cards and warriors as they play.

The Bakugan Battle Pack includes instructions, making it an ideal way for newbies to get started with this fun and exciting game. The game itself is fairly straightforward, but if your child has never played before, you might have to help him or her to understand the rules -- after reading and understanding them yourself. While some of the plastic Bakugan pieces are small and could easily get lost, others, like the Bakugan Deka, are as big as a softball.

If your child is already a Bakugan fan, the Battle Pack is a good investment. This set comes with six randomly selected Bakugan and eight magnetic cards. Your child will love how this set dramatically increases their collection of Bakugan! He or she can also use the Battle Pack to play with his friends who might not have any Bakugan of their own.

Exciting Magnetic Action

The Bakugan Battle Pack come in lots of colors and varieties that make them fun to collect and trade. Most of them are pocket-sized and easy for your child to carry around and bring over to their friend's houses. Having a magnet that activates the warriors is a clever idea that adds excitement to the game. The Bakugan Launcher (sold separately) is a great accessory, with three shooting modes ("curve," "angle, and "distance"), but it doesn't come with any instructions.

Room for the Imagination

We like that this that this game combines skill (aiming your Bakugan) with strategy (placement of the cards). We also enjoyed the way the warriors pop open on the magnetic cards -- although sometimes they do it even when they don't land on the cards. Being unfamiliar with the TV show, we felt a little lost at first in the world of Bakugan. But with the help of the colorful, animated Bakugan Web site, we got the gist of what the game is about and how to play. Our attempts to fire the launcher proved somewhat difficult and instructions would have helped. But the launcher isn't necessary. Kids can simply roll the Bakugan like marbles for a fun and action-packed game with their friends.

What's in the Box

Six Bakugan, eight metal cards, and instructions.

Product Description

This Bakugan Battle Pack Teal and Red Set has small spheres that magnetically morph into powerful Bakugan warriors when they roll onto the real metal gate cards. Use strategy to place your metal gate cards effectively as each cards affects the battle differently. Then master you precision shooting skills to roll your Bakugan into battle and win.

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Crayola Color Explosion Glow Board

2008-11-23T00:32:00.000-08:00

Review

With the Crayola Color Explosion Glow Board, kids can take their creations to a whole new level of fun. The glow board comes with six vibrant neon markers, which can be used to draw on either of the board's two drawing surfaces. Once their drawing is complete, kids can illuminate the colored inks with the touch of a button, as the board's lights give the ink an intense glow.

An Electronic Easel

The Crayola Color Explosion Glow Board offers a unique way for kids to display their art, as it lights up drawings much like a neon sign. It incorporates several violet lights under the drawing surface. When lit, these lights cause the ink to take on a vivid, striking glow. The board's surface is reusable -- ink erases in an instant -- making it good for hours of fun at a time. Children can easily display their artwork by using the easel back to prop the board in place. And the board's two separate drawing layers give kids even more room to doodle. Using the glow board's controls, kids can choose to display one layer, or flash between both for an exciting billboard-like effect.

Drawing with the Glow Board

The glow board's markers come in six dazzling neon colors -- red, blue, yellow, green, orange, and pink. With these colors at their command, kids will be able to create a multitude of different drawings. Perhaps they will envision a galaxy with stars and planets, or render an undersea adventure. The markers have medium tips, which can draw thickly but also offer the ability to draw finer images. A tracing sheet comes with the board to help kids get ideas for their artwork. This toy is recommended for children ages six and up, and requires three AAA batteries (not included.)

What's in the Box

Crayola Color Explosion Glow Board with two coloring surfaces, 6 glow board markers, and tracing sheet.

Product Description

Spark kids' creativity with this magical Glow Board where your drawings appear and disappear, creating cool 3-D effects like a neon sign. The reusable surface provides hours of non-stop creative fun. The colors give an intense, glow-in-the-dark effect, and violet lights illuminate the ink. Includes: two drawing surfaces, six glow-in-the-dark markers and a tracing sheet. Easel back. Measures 12" x 13.5" x 2.5".

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ThinkFun Zingo

2008-11-22T05:27:00.000-08:00

In this fast-paced, energetic variant of Bingo, kids get a kick out of pulling the Zinger forward to reveal two mystery tiles, and then try to be the first to call out the tiles that match the images on their cards. The first player to fill his or her card wins by yelling ¿Zingo.¿ Two levels of play add zing to the competition.

Product Description

Bingo with a Zing! This creative wonder is sure to entertain kids for hours. Players try to fill their Zingo! cards with matching tiles from the Zingo Zinger. The first player to fill his/her card wins! Rules can be adjusted to favor more or less competition among players, and to vary length of time that each game takes to play. Zingo teaches shape and pattern recognition, as well as observation, and short-term memory. Includes Zingo Zinger tile dispenser, 72 picture tiles and 8 Double-sided Zingo cards. For ages 4 and up.

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Munchkin Mozart Magic Cube

2008-11-22T05:17:00.000-08:00

A true breakthrough in music education, the Munchkin Mozart Magic Cube will be music to your baby's ears. Providing hours of interactive play for budding young composers of all ages, this award-winning toy is the perfect musical foundation for little ones.

Music Education in a Cube

Fun, creative, and inspiring, the Magic Cube teaches how sounds combine to create eight Mozart masterpieces. With a touch of a button, this interactive cube lets your child add or subtract from any combination of five different instruments, including harp, French horn, piano, flute, and violin. Each selected instrument button flashes along to the beat of the music. An orchestra button even plays all the instruments at once.

Baby-Safe Design

Designed with durable plastic construction, the Munchkin Mozart Magic Cube features bright colors such as yellow, green, purple, and magenta. Made with soft, rounded corners, it's easy and safe for baby to hold. The 6-inch cube requires three AA batteries (not included).

Product Description

Ideal for children of all ages! Create original music from 5 different instruments, French horn, flute, piano, violin and harp or play music from eight Mozart compositions. Large colorful buttons light up to the tempo of the music. Soft, rounded corners make it easy for a baby to hold. Batteries included.

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Snap Circuits SC 300

2008-11-22T05:00:00.000-08:00

Electronic Snap Circuits SC 300 by Elenco is an award-winning toy for budding engineers eight years old and above. The SC-300 model includes over 60 parts for creating more than 300 exciting projects. With lights, sounds, motors, and more, you'll not only enjoy creating beeping games, but also learn about basic electronics as well!

Real Electronic Parts

Electronic Snap Circuits SC 300 includes real circuit components just like the circuit boards inside radios, televisions, computers, and other electronic devices. This set makes it easy for anyone to create simple electronic circuits and devices. To operate, you simply snap the electronic elements onto a plastic grid, and then connect them together with wire pieces that snap easily into place.

The Snap Circuits SC 300 lets you build electronic devices such as a whistle chip, speaker, alarm circuit, LED, lamp socket, fan motor, and a speaker. Additional pieces can be purchased separately, or in different models, and they can all be used together to create larger and more elaborate projects.

Making Electronics Fun and Easy

The included instruction manual offers 305 projects ranging from a simple light switch to a noise-activated burglar alarm. We found the color-coded instruction manual clear and easy to understand, and we had no problems creating any of the projects we tried. The projects are organized by levels of difficulty, and each project teaches an objective such as "To show how electricity can only pass in one direction through an LED."

We definitely experienced a sense of satisfaction as we completed each project, and we definitely learned about electronics concepts. The manufacturer recommends the set for ages 8-108; younger engineers should be able to easily follow the diagrams for each project, but will probably require their parents to help explain how everything works. So a word of warning to parents: Brush up on your high school physics! Although the instruction offers some good information, we found that we still needed to brush up on the physics we learned years ago so we could understand concepts such as the difference between a circuit in parallel and in series.

Unique Learning Experience

Creating a flying UFO from "scratch" with rudimentary electronic pieces was highly satisfying to us, and we think Electronic Snap Circuits SC 300 may well help young students gain and foster an appreciation for, and interest in, how electronics work and are built.

For students who are already learning about electronics in school, this set creates a hands-on experience that makes for more fun than reading about how these things work in a textbook. So don't be surprised if report cards come back with higher grades after playing with this toy.

Parent-Child Bonding Experience

The Elenco Electronic Snap Circuits SC 300 would make a great parent-child bonding experience that is both educational and fun. As you work through each project with your child, don't be surprised when you, too, are learning something new and interesting. And after you've completed all the projects, you can create your own! The combinations are limitless!

What's in the Box

Plastic "circuit board," over 60 pieces including wire, resistors, speaker, battery holder, motor fan, red led, and lamp module.

Product Description

This educational kit is loaded with more than 300 projects to build. For example, kids can learn how transistors and capacitors function, and how to make time-delay circuits. In addition, this version includes circuits showing how oscillators and photo sensors work. Projects involve an AM Radio, Burglar Alarm, Radio Announcer and more. Contains over 60 parts. Requires 4 "AA" batteries, not included.

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IlluStory Make Your Own Story Kit

2008-11-22T04:47:00.000-08:00

Product Description

Publish your own book with the Illustory Make Your Own Story Kit! This award-winning activity kit allows future authors to write and illustrate their very own story on special book pages provided. Once the story is complete, it is sent to be published, and in a few short weeks the budding writer receives a color-copied, professionally type set hardbound book. Ideal for ages five and up, this innovative kit nurtures enthusiasm for reading, writing, and illustrating.

Let the Fun Begin

Illustory Make Your Own Story Kit is not only fun, it also helps your child build self-esteem. You'll never forget the look in your budding writer's eyes as you proudly display his or her first book on your coffee table or bookshelf. This kit even includes an "About the Author" biography page, title, and dedication, just like a real published book. Your child will also enjoy creating the cover and will be able to select from seven cover colors. Families can have fun too as they create their own story together. Extra books with alternate dedication pages can be ordered to make the child's story a gift or keepsake for family, friends, or teachers.

Once your child is finished with the writing, sending the manuscript to publishing is easy, with the included paid postage envelope. Production time is about three to four weeks, plus delivery time. The finished hardcover book measures 7 by 9 inches with 12 pages, and features a permanent hardback binding, a laminated cover drawing, and book title. For techno-savy young authors, the book can be created entirely online by using the Creations By You bookmaking Web site. The entire Illustory kit includes 18 special book pages, 2 cover pages, 10 washable markers, story web planner, instructions, order form, and a prepaid envelope. The correct spelling option allows a choice between leaving spelling errors in or having the words printed correctly.

Award-Winning Features

This kit was a winner of the Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Gold Seal Award, as well as multiple awards from other organizations. It helps builds self-esteem and sparks an interest in reading and writing. Youngsters learn to see a project through to completion, and their final printed story rewards their effort. There are many optional upgrades available (for a charge) to enhance the book. Extra books can be printed and separately dedicated as gifts for family and friends. In addition, the author's photo can appear on the bio page, and rush delivery is also available. The Make Your Own Book kit beautifully captures a child's creativity and turns it into a keepsake that will be treasured for years to come.

What's in the Box

18 book pages, 2 cover pages, 10 washable markers, story web planner, instructions, order form, and prepaid envelope.

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Bananagrams

2008-11-21T05:27:00.000-08:00

Bananagrams is a fast and fun word game that requires no pencil, paper or board. All you need is a table. One hand can be played in as little as five minutes. It is a great for family fun as well as being educational. Bananagrams portability makes it perfect for travel. Just grab the pouch and go.

Product Description

Calling all word lovers! Play this award-winning word game anytime, anywhere.

- Fun and fast word game
- Requires no pencil, paper or board
- Banana-shaped bag holds all pieces for easy travel
- 144 letter tiles
- Engaging for all ages
- For 2 – 8 players

Keep this game handy to engage kids while waiting in restaurants, to entertain family and friends after dinner, or anytime you want a quick and quick-witted challenge.

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Wild Planet Hyper Dash

2008-11-21T05:02:00.000-08:00

Review

Hyper Dash is an award-winning fast-paced race course game from Wild Planet that encourages kids to be active and think on their feet. Designed to improve listening, coordination and math skills, this exciting game is easy to set up and is an ideal way to help kids aged six and above to practice addition and subtraction while exercising and having fun.

Fast, Easy Set-Up

The only set-up required is to install three AA batteries. Opening the battery compartment requires a small Phillips head screw driver, which means an adult needs to change the batteries. This keeps batteries in the right place during active play, but it also means that changing batteries on the fly requires you to have a screwdriver with you.

The manual is clear and concise, with descriptions of how to play and a list of all the special commands the Hyper Voice issues, so any child can be up and running in just a few minutes. There's no button to turn the unit off, but it quickly shuts itself off when not in use to save battery life.

Getting Moving Quickly

The electronic tagger plays upbeat music and calls out voice commands to control the game, while players following the commands race against the clock to tag targets identified by color and number. Kids can play solo, up to four players can compete head-to-head, or up to eight players can work cooperatively in teams of two. There's even a level where kids need to solve addition and subtraction problems to figure out which target to strike next.

With no complex set-up and no complicated directions to follow, younger children get started playing Hyper Dash quickly. Since players control where the five targets are positioned, there are infinite ways to play Hyper Dash. Combined with the fact that Hyper Dash offers four games to choose from with increasingly difficult levels to master, and it's easy to see why even older, more experienced players (including parents!) stay excited about this game.

Four-Games-in-One

The original game, Hyper Dash, features the Hyper Voice calling out commands. Four different levels allow the players' skills to progress. Level one includes only colors in the calls. The calls on level two are a little faster and include both colors and numbers, while level three adds special commands like "Double Strike," "Triple Strike," and "Reverse. " Level four features the "CompuStrike" call, which require kids to solve basic math problems, such as "four plus one" or "three minus two. "

RFID Technology for a Flexible, Durable Game

Wild Planet Hyper Dash uses radio frequency identification (RFID) to recognize the targets. The same technology is used to track packages and to identify books and DVDs in many libraries. This means that a wireless signal connects the Hyper Dash unit and the targets, so there's no need to strike targets with force.

While the Hyper Dash tagger unit seems incredibly durable, it is made of plastic. Just because RFID technology means kids can tag targets lightly, it doesn't mean they will. Our one concern about the game is the possibility that hard play will damage the tagger over time.

With RFID, there's no limit to how far apart you set the targets. You can set them up at opposite ends of a football field for a serious test of endurance, or close together requiring fancy footwork. You can even them up next to each other to see who has the quickest hands. This flexibility makes Hyper Dash appropriate for both indoor and outdoor spaces.

Award-Winning Educational Fun

Kids have so much fun playing Wild Planet Hyper Dash that they don't realize how much they're learning. Parents will love the way Hyper Dash combines active play with lessons that support color and number recognition, basic math skills. The game's format also inspires better listening and improves kids' coordination. It's no wonder that Hyper Dash has won an iParenting Award and a Seal of Excellence Award from Creative Child Magazine, along with several other honors recognizing it as an innovative, educational toy.

What's in the Box

Hyper Dash unit and five plastic targets.

Product Description

It's the electronic game that's as fast as you are. Test your speed and agility in a race against time using five targets and an electronic handheld unit. To start, set up your targets on the table, around the room, around the house or throughout the yard. Then, follow the announcer's commands as you zip around your racecourse to tag your targets with the handheld unit. The fastest time wins. Features four game modes that challenge your speed, skill, memory, coordination and teamwork. Includes ergonomically designed Hyper Dash unit and five labelled targets. Requires 3 "AAA" batteries, not included. Measures 4.5"L x 12"W x 10"H.

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Spinmaster Aquadoodle Draw N' Doodle Mat

2008-11-21T04:47:00.000-08:00

The Aquadoodle isn't a pool or tub toy, but without water it's no fun at all. It's just a drawing mat after all, but kids will like the novelty of its disappearing colors. The 81 by 53-inch drawing mat is large enough for several kids to doodle on at a time, using the included magic marker pens that do not transfer color to other surfaces (to our knowledge ...). Color from the pens appears when water touches the mat; it then fades out without a trace in 60 seconds or so. That's it: no ink, no paint, and no mess.

Product Description

Just add water, doodle with the "magic" pen and see color magically appear with no mess. Designs dry and disappear in less than a minute. Several kids can play at once. Use over and over again. Includes magic pen, storage pouch and mat. Adult supervision recommended. Measures 32"L x 32"W.

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Air Hogs Havoc Heli

2008-11-21T04:23:00.000-08:00

Review

With the world's record for the smallest remote-controlled helicopter, the Air Hogs Havoc Heli goes where no other flying object can. Recommended for ages eight and up, this incredible little R/C heli from Spinmaster is easy and fun for kids of all ages -- even grown up ones.

Realistic Helicopter Fun

The Air Hogs Havoc Heli has twin rotors for stability and four-way control for flying in any direction with accuracy -- up, down, under, over, left, right, forward and backward. Like a real helicopter, the Havoc can hover in one spot. It even manuevers through the toughest of obstacles. Intended for indoor use, the helicopter operates outdoors with zero wind conditions, and can fly up to 100 feet high in the air. The Havoc Heli is also equipped with a flashing blue LED light for night flying.

Friendly competition

Not just for flying solo, the Air Hogs Havoc Heli is designed for fun with your friends. With three selectable frequencies, up to three Air Hogs helicopters can fly in the same room at the same time. Beyond flying for fun, the hook attachment on the bottom of the helicopter picks up objects for top secret racing missions -- with or againsts friends.

Tough, Tiny, And Ready To Fly

Measuring six inches long and weighing only ten grams, the Havoc fits in the palm of a hand. Extraordinarily lightweight, the helicopter is built for crash resistance with a flexible, high-impact EPP foam body. The internal battery offers twice the amount of flight time as other R/C helicopters. The remote control charges the rechargeable LIPO battery in 15 minutes, providing six minutes of flight time. The remote requires 6 "AA" batteries (not included). Available in yellow, blue, and red, the Air Hogs Havoc Heli comes completely assembled and ready to fly.

What's in the Box

Remote-Controlled helicopter and remote control.

Product Description

Note: COLORS VARY AND SHIP AT RANDOM Amazingly small Infrared Remote control helicopter Flashing Blue LED for Night Flying Intended for indoor use. Outdoor flying only under ZERO wind conditions. Full Flight control with up/down and turn right/left Body is constructed from durable EPP foam Internal helicopter battery charges from remote control unit 15 minute charge time, 5 - 7 minute flight time Extra rotor included Uses 6AA Batteries (Not Included)

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Cranium Hullabaloo

2008-11-21T02:22:00.000-08:00

Review

Cranium Hullabaloo will get the whole family moving. As kids ages four and up bounce, spin, and jump between the colorful pads, they'll learn new shapes, colors, and words. They'll also hone their listening skills --especially when they "freeze" and wait to see if they're a winner at the end. Though it's geared towards kids ages four and up, even two-year olds will want to play along. Though younger kids might not "get" everything, they'll still have a great time -- especially dancing to the "funky" music at the beginning and end of each quick-moving round. Though kids can play Hullaballoo among themselves, parents will enjoy the silliness and the exercise!

Easy to Learn; Fun to Play

The Cranium Hullaballo console is made of sturdy plastic with brightly-colored buttons that are easy for little fingers to find. Batteries aren't included and parents will need to put those in with the help of a screwdriver before play can start. The easy-to-read, illustrated instructions tell you how to play the game, which is a snap to learn. The console also clearly announces the rules of the game each time you turn it on. (It also plays a bouncy song at the beginning of each round that will stick in your head long after the game is over.)

Do a Funky Dance!

The talking musical console adds an element of excitement and unpredicability to the game. You never know what it will tell you to do next! The catchy music and the instructions to "do a funky dance!" at the end of the rounds especially appeal to kids. (Later, when you're not even playing the game, you can say, "Do a funky dance!" and they'll start dancing excitedly all over again.) The pleasing pallette of colors in Hullabaloo are appealing to the eye, from the purple, green, and red console to the multicolored play pads with their slightly retro images. These brightly-colored, sizeable play pads are hard to lose.Yet they are also easy to put away when the game is over.

Get Your Goof On

We especially enjoyed doing the funky dance at the end. We would even do a funky dance at the beginning of each round too-- the music is so catchy you just can't help it! At times, we wished the maximum volume of the console was higher. We also would have appreciated being able to put the batteries in without using a screwdriver. But overall, we found this game to be fun and energizing, with just the right amount of goofiness thrown in. It proceeds at a good pace -- slow enough so that kids have time to process the console's spoken directions, but fast enough to keep things exciting. The rounds are short so you don't get bored. And there are thousands of combinations of moves so you'll probably never play the same round again, not matter how many times you play!

What's in the Box

Talking musical console that directs play, 16 play pads, instructions.

Product Description

Cranium Hullabaloo is the surprise-filled, high-energy game that turns bouncing off the walls into bouncing across the room! Players move from one colorful shape to another and use their bodies to perform the many Hullabaloo moves -- touch your nose to a circle, spin to a red, put your elbow on a musical instrument. When Hullabaloo says, "Freeze!" the player on the lucky pad wins! Every few minutes there's a new winner who gets to take a bow, make a victory jump, or do a funky monkey dance. Faster than a scavenger hunt, more creative than Simon Says, and able to make imaginative leaps past musical chairs, Hullabaloo provides hours of fun for any occasion -- birthday parties, play dates, even a rainy day. Ready to play? High-energy game loved by kids of all ages Jump, dance, wiggle, and giggle! Encourages listening and problem solving Thousands of variations for endless fun Easy to play -- just turn it on and go. Includes: A Hullabaloo talking audio console and 16 colorful play pads.

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LeapFrog Learn & Groove Musical Table

2008-11-20T09:50:00.000-08:00

Grows with your Child

The sturdy, plastic-molded, brightly colored table sits flat on the floor for babies to play at while sitting. You can attach the table's legs to adjust it to accommodate toddlers' play while standing. And it offers plenty of activities at different levels of learning to keep your child entertained for these early developmental years. Your child will delight in spinning the maraca to hear a fun rendition of the ABC song; playing the colored piano keys to practice motor skills and learn about colors; moving the trombone's slide to count to 10; and sliding the cello to learn about up and down. Kids can tap on the colorful drum and learn about colors and primary shapes, too. Then, by flipping the pages of the "book" to go from the Learning Mode to the Music Mode, kids can hear more than 40 songs and melodies, including nursery rhymes and fun individual instrument sounds that will have them singing and dancing.

Plenty to Do, Lots to Learn

With all of these activities, your child will exercise his or her memory and problem-solving skills with lots of things to push, pull, turn, open, and close. And with the flip of a switch, the songs and games switch from English to Spanish, offering a great introduction to foreign-language learning. The LeapFrog Learn & Groove Musical Table requires some assembly and needs 3 AA batteries for operation. Batteries are not included.

Product Description

It's a learning fiesta for your little one. This interactive, bilingual activity table engages and entertains your baby for hours. There are songs, melodies, twinkling lights and real instrument sounds, plus lots of things to spin, roll, slide, open and close. The table plays over 40 songs and melodies so your baby stays entertained while exploring. When babies turn the center page, the activity table switches modes and transforms musical discoveries into learning activities where each instrument plays a learning song. The LeapFrog Learn & Groove Musical Table also helps your child develop the motor skills needed for learning to stand. Contoured grips make "pulling up" a piece of cake. As babies learn to stand, their little hands can stay busy with reaching, grabbing and pulling. Measures 23" x 5.5" x 15.5". Requires 3 "AA" batteries (not included).

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Hasbro Playskool Busy Ball Popper

2008-11-20T09:26:00.000-08:00

Get silly with poppin', droppin' colored balls! Pump the plunger and drop the balls onto the spiral track. When they reach the bottom, look out - the balls pop out the top! Giggles are guaranteed with wacky sound effects and 8 lively songs to help keep the fun rolling along. The Hasbro Playskool Busy Ball Popper has won numerous toy awards, including American Baby's Best Toy, Child Magazine's Best Toy, and the NAPPA Gold Award. Requires 4 "D" Batteries (not included).

Product Description

Get ready for some poppin', droppin', air-powered fun. Drop the five colorful balls onto the track. Watch them pop out of the top, roll down, then pop out all over again. Sometimes the balls spill over for even more interactive, put-and-take play. Silly sound effects and eight upbeat tunes accompany the animated action. This toy provides one "air-mazing" experience for your little one. Measures 18" x 7" x 13". Requires 4 "D" batteries (not included).

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Blokus Classic

2008-11-20T02:55:00.001-08:00

Not Your Average Board Game

Blokus Classic encourages creative thinking and has received a Mensa award for promoting healthy brain activity. The goal of this game is for players to fit all of their pieces onto the board. When placing a piece it may not lie adjacent to the player's other pieces, but must be placed touching at least one corner of their pieces already on the board. The player who gets rid of all of their tiles first is the winner and strategic thinking helps as you block moves from your opponent. Blokus sometimes comes to an end because there are no more possible moves.

Four players make this abstract game especially fast and exciting; however, it can be just as fun for two or three players. Blokus Classic has come up with a number of different ways to play the game to make it more thrilling when playing with less than four players. Draft Blokus allows a player to use more than one color and Reverse Blokus reverses the entire game so that the person who places the least amount of tiles on the board is the winner. It can even be played in a solitaire version when one player attempts to place all of their pieces in a single sitting. A game of Blokus typically lasts a 30 minutes. As a practical feature, raised edges on the board help keep the tiles in place and allow convenient clean-up. This game includes 84 pieces in four vibrant colors, an instruction guide, and one gameboard with 400 squares.

Blokus Classic is simple to understand, but the game's complexity is revealed shortly after everyone begins to play. It can be addictive, even for those not normally into abstract games. Blokus is a catalyst for spatial thinking, as players form images in their mind before placing the pieces on the board. Children and adults can play together for hours of competitive family fun. As Europe's 2003 Game of the Year, Blokus is adored by many and even played in professional tournaments.

What's in the Box

84 pieces in four colors, gameboard with 400 squares, and an instruction guide.

Product Description
Grades K and up. Europe's 2003 game of the year! Develops logic and spacial perception while kids learn to be tactical. Players take turns placing pieces on their board, each starting from their corner. Each new piece must touch at least one other piece of the same color, but only at the corners! The goal is to get rid of all your pieces. The game ends when all players are blocked from laying down any more of their pieces. Includes one gameboard with 400 squares, 84 game pieces in four bright translucent colors, and an instruction guide.

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Melissa and Doug Deluxe Standing Easel

2008-11-20T02:42:00.000-08:00

A Great Alternative to Professional Easels

Just like a professional easel, this work station is generously sized so that children can complete projects both big and small. Its durable wood construction ensures that it won't tip and it folds up easily for convenient storage. The easel also has a sturdy paint tray with cup holders for easy use and clean-up, and another tool tray that holds erasers, chalks, and clips. Four large, colorful clips are included with this easel. Paper rolls can be loaded effortlessly into the holder and a paper cutting edge at the top delivers clean cuts and leaves your artist's work whole. Parents may have to assist removing and loading the paper, as it can be difficult for kids to do on their own. (The paper rolls and paint cups are not included.) A standing easel is essential for any young artist. This large easel has a chalkboard, dry erase board, and paper roller to let the children express themselves with different mediums. It also has an adjustable height that grows with the creator and delivers years of use. The brightly colored tool containers are capacious enough to hold lots of different items and are simple for tiny fingers to utilize. This toy will unleash the little artist inside every child and could spark a lifelong interest in fine art.

What's in the Box

Easel, paint tray, chalk tray, 4 colorful clips, and paper roller.

Product Description

There's no better way to inspire your artist! Generously sized chalk board and dry erase boards are perfect for projects large and small. Easel folds ups easily for convenient storage and features a colorful paint tray with cup holders. Has an easy loading paper roll holder and an extra large tray for holding erasers, chalk and clips. Paper cutting edge at top of easel means clean paper cuts for your artist's work! 4 large clips included. Easy load paper and paint cups not included.

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Welcome to Mr Toy

2008-11-20T02:28:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Mr Toy. Here you can find more information about interesting & hot hit toy around the world.