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RATINGS EXPLAINED: - perfect score = 5 1. Price is within reason for the product (1 pt) 2. The product does what it claims (1 pt) 3. Suited for recommended age (1 pt) 4. Quality manufacturing (1 pt) 5. Instructions are clear and easy to follow (1 pt) 5 = PERFECT | 4 = GOOD | 3 = OKAY | 2, 1, 0 = rejected |
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Bendos R/C Bumper Cars |
Company: | Kid Galaxy |
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Get ready for some fast rolling, crash'n smashin' fun, with Bendos R/C Bumper Cars.
This set is GREAT! We have had so much fun with these, that I am ecstatic to share them with you.
Our son and his cousin, enjoy this set so much, I am sure it is the favorite toy in the house right now! Everytime they get together this is the first toy to come out, and they are at it for hours.
During the time of the review process, we have eaten up two sets of batteries. Not that they are short lasting, they have plenty of life. However, they are never turned off!
This set contains two bumper cars, each coming with their own driver. The drivers can be removed and they are Bendos, so they are pliable rubber material and can be twisted and turned to any body configuration you like. They are a lot of fun all on their own. However, when you put them behind the wheel of their bumper car and set them into action, the fun doesn't stop. The radio controls each come with their own frequency, so there are no more problems using two remotes in one area. Even in close range we did not find any interference. This is a huge plus when the toy is created to be played as a set. My husband and son enjoy this set after the cousins have all gone home. My husband said this is one of his favorites for playing with our son, because it involves more than moving toy figures around on a mat, there is some manly action to go with it (smile). This set is best to use indoors, but on a dry day they even enjoy it out of doors, on the driveway. It runs well and the controls are easy to use. We have used it with ages 5 to adult, and it is recommended for ages 4 and up. If it is not an adult playing with a child, the ages I would recommend would be ages 4-10. If you are not wishing to go to the amusement park, let Kid Galaxy bring the Amusement Park to you! Now you can enjoy the fun and thrills in your own home. This is sure to be a true hit with your child, as it has been with mine. <<<- (2005) RETURN TO TOP |
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Conversation With Character |
Company: | Sweet Home Press |
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Conversation with character offers a years curriculum to children ages 9-15 in the art of speech and clarity, character and thought. Children who engage in this course will be offered an inside look at conversation / speech and will see the importance of it in a way never before discovered.
By working through one lesson a week, enjoying the fun filled activity included in that lesson and then practicing the skills learned throughout the week, every child will benefit from this course and the change just may be profound. Words that are spoken need to be accurate, spoken with love and purpose, and not be hindered by bad speech habits and lack of thought. Words are tools that can be used to build up or tear down. Improper use of words hinder those who hear them, from understanding the intent and meaning behind them. Sweet Home Press has hit on a topic that so many children show great lack in. Now is the time to equip our children for a rewarding future, by granting to them the tools they need to enter the complex world with a firm grip on their conversation. This is needed in business as well as in the home and in the world in general. If every married couple learned how to speak to one another in the manner portrayed in this book, we would see a rapid decline in the divorce records. Conversation skills are one of the least studied aspects in life, yet one that is most important in all areas and walks of life. It is never too early and it is never too late, to prune ones self of bad speech habits. Conversation With Character meets curriculum requirements for language arts and speech standards. <<<- (2005) RETURN TO TOP |
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Diabetes Education for Kids |
Company: | Dbaza |
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This software proved to be a true winner. With a target audience that is greatly in need of awareness for their present and future lives. Diabetes Education For Kids is a customizable and personable software program, for children who live with diabetes (type 1). This software allows the user to complete a customization area, which then creates a character in the program that is customized to their personal information. This will create a unique identity within the program for whomever wishes to use the program and makes it that much more fun to learn the valuable information the software contains. The software is created in a story environment, and children will learn vital information by watching the story unfold and interacting with the program. This method is proven to be effective in truly teaching children in a way they will remember and utilize.
When a child suffers from a lifelong illness, it is vitally important for them to learn the role of self care. This software teaches children 5 target key areas that are of great importance to them living with diabetes with the minimal adverse effects on their system as a whole. Chapter 1 teaches children about self testing and the importance of it. In this chapter one will also find crucial information on things such as the signs of hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia, which can both be life threatening and easily treated if one knows what to watch for in time. Chapter 2 teaches them about insulin, self injections and offers tips for reducing the effects of using insulin (such as site rotation etc). Children will learn why they take insulin and what its functioning role is with their system. Chapter 3 focuses on the importance of a proper and healthy diet. This segment will teach children about the various food factors that are important to them, what to watch out for in planning meals and snacks, and shares the importance of ensuring one is eating the right things to best ward off problems with their diabetes, which involves much more than simply avoiding sugar in candy. Chapter 4 focuses on the exercise factors that are important to regulating blood sugar levels. Stressing the importance of regular exercise in maintaining ones healthy future, and also strives to point out how snacking during exercise will help to ward off potential problems with hypoglycemia. Chapter 5 ties all of the above chapters together and recaps on what has been learned in a review style. This helps to reiterate the most important facts children should know, understand, and remember; when working to control their diabetes throughout their lives. Minimum system requirements: PC compatible 266 MHz processor (350 MHz or faster recommended) Windows 98/ME/2000/XP 32 MB RAM (Windows 2000 - 64 MB, Windows XP - 128 MB) 16x CD-ROM drive or faster 10 MB of free hard drive space Video display capable of 640 x 480 resolution + 16-bit color display Sound card Mouse or compatible pointing device Macromedia Flash Player <<<- (2005) RETURN TO TOP |
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The Fundamentals Of Soccer DVD |
Company: | Stinky Shoe |
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[Recipient of the 2005 Great Product Award] This video has a running time of 30 minutes, but with the amount of instruction one receives and the valuable lessons taught through watching it, one would think they had a full day of on the field training with a coach in a one-on-one setting. Sharing valuable information on the field with the coach and soccer players and then off the field with the animated Stinky Show & Coach Laroo, you will watch both on the field play action and go over the fundamentals and skills being shown, that are so vitally important if one wishes to do well in soccer. Along with a real coach, there are real-life soccer players, on the field. Both girls and boys are included, so both genders will feel equally familiar in the scene depicted in the video. You will learn the proper dress and gear for soccer, the importance of warm up exercises, and soccer positions; and the importance of practicing at home as well as on the field. Most of the strategies shown can be practiced in your own backyard, so when you arrive on the field, you will be in prime condition to handle the situations that present themself. The majority of the video focuses on the basic fundamentals of soccer; such as running, juggling, passing, dribbling, heading, and keeping control of the ball... All of the things that are vital to a good game of soccer, as well as things you do not want to do. Those actions that will cause the ref to stop the game. The little breaks the animated Stinky Shoe and Coach Laroo bring to the scene are great. Their whimsical, silly ways, have a way of lightening things up a bit before the video goes back to focus on more of the fundamentals. Good Sportsmanship and team cooperation are stressed throughout the video, many times subtly. Children will learn that being a good player means being a good team member and no one will succeed without everyone putting in their very best and working together toward a common goal - WINNING! Speaking of winning - This video is a TRUE WINNER! If you have a child interested in beginning soccer or in it already, I encourage you to have a peek at this one. The value of the lessons learned is worth far more than the pennies spent on the video. <<<- (2005) RETURN TO TOP |
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Googol Power - Multiplication Vacation |
Company: | Googol Learning |
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[Recipient of the 2005 Top Product Award] Googol Power Multiplication Vacation is a perfect name for this great piece of educational work! By combining many facets of education, into one fun to listen to audio cd, Googol Power allows a child to learn much, by doing little more than listening and memorizing from repetition. Not only will you find your child catching the beat and singing along, you will find them captivated when they listen to the storyline as well. This enchanting cd offers a "vacation" style of education, because it allows a child to enjoy learning to a new format. They can learn at home or in the car, and will forget that they are being educated, because they are just having fun! The multiple original songs are upbeat, catchy, and such a treat to enjoy. The story line is inviting, and brings the listener into the scene, by using great detail within the fun and folly characters that are featured. This CD has won numerous awards, and we can see why! We look forward to many more additions to this series, and know you and your child will await the new ones as well, as soon as you have heard this one! If you have a child who struggles with multiplication, or one who is just beginning in the subject, this would be a great way to get the basics into their mind and memory. This is so much more fun than memorizing charts. Now they can memorize it without the work involved, using normal methods. Once they have these basics memorized, the rest will be a snap and fall into place. This covers 1-13, the numbers that are needed to begin easy multiplication. Another nice feature to this cd, is the fact that they combine other subjects of learning in with the mathematics, to make it more amusing and to add more education to their work. This allows a child to learn about their world, the world of space, as well as art, history, and music. This one comes highly recommended and has been loved by all of us! I even caught my little guy, who is in preschool, singing along with the tunes once they had been played several times. I am positive this will help him as he progresses in his world of learning, as he keeps this in his mind and is able to recall it when he needs it. This audio cd combines music, art, history, earth science and space with math. 74 minutes in length. Their website is a nice addition to their audio works. <<<- (2005) RETURN TO TOP |
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Hummer H2 Spycam R/C ATV |
Company: | Nikko |
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The Nikko H2 Spycam was a real treat to review. Any boy's dream come true, this new R/C enables anyone to become a spy, or the camera and color monitor will also help you to see what is ahead of the vehicle during operation if you are not in the 'spy mode' mood. This is great if you are taking it around corners, etc. as you will be able to see what is coming and where the H2 is headed before it gets there.
The camera is not visible from the outside. It sits inside the cab with a small opening in the windshield for its viewpoint, so it keeps it concealed from sight when in use and keeps it safe from harm. The monitor on the hand held device is clear and effective. Now you have the hand controllers as well as your viewing monitor all in one handy device. The monitor is a perfect size to not be cumbersome, but allows you to have a clear image of what the Spycam is seeing. If you wish to use the Spycam at night, it comes with working headlights. We found you cannot see too well, with only the headlights at night for spying, but it does allow you to see images to a limited degree. The H2 comes equipped with its own battery pack and charger, so there is no need to purchase those expensive units on top of purchasing the vehicle. It also comes complete with chrome wheels, adjustable front wheel alignment, front and rear suspension, a differential gear which gives better traction and a low/high gear. The handheld controller offers full manuevering capabilities with forward, reverse, left and right control and stop. As you can see by the long list of features, this is well packed with everything you can think of to make it a powerful, easy to handle vehicle that will go many places other R/C's will not. We found it performs well even in the snow! The guys enjoyed taking it out to see it spin its wheels and slide when it was slick. Because of its high power level and good traction capabilities, its performance was magnificent. The only caution for use in snow and ice is to be sure and dry it well when it comes inside and do not take it through puddles or slush, as this could cause harm. This one is built to handle its toughest assignments with ease, as well as being built to last. We tested it thoroughly and were well pleased with its performance and durability. This is not one you will have to purchase every year due to breakage. With reasonable care and attention this vehicle will last for a long time. Last but not least, the H2 is fast! This one will out perform many in both its speed and endurance. When you set the controller to take off, it is more than happy to accomodate your wishes and it gets up and hauls! This is sure to please those who enjoy an R/C that can truly perform to its max. This is one I give three thumbs up for and encourage you to check out for every R/C enthusiast. It is a blast and will quickly become the envy of every boys friends. That is, if he can get it away from dad long enough to use it. <<<- (2005) RETURN TO TOP |
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Magic Frank's DVD 3 Pack |
Company: | Magic Frank |
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Every child 0-99 loves magic. There is something about it that fascinates and captivates us, and invokes a mystic "WOW!". Eventhough we know there is a "trick" to it, we watch closely to try and figure it out and then when we cannot, we love it even more. We enjoy being amazed and fooled by a good magician. We also have an inner joy when we are able to amaze and fool others.
Magic Frank's DVD series captures that interest and teaches beginners the fun behind the magic tricks. Now children can enjoy sharing these tricks with family and friends and continue practicing the art of trickery (magic) until they have refined it to an exciting and amusing level. From Dizzy Dominos, to Shattered Coins, and a missing card showing up in your wallet - these magic tricks are illusionary thrillers and will be a fun addition to the days activities and to every families DVD collection. Magic Frank walks the viewer through the magic trick; slowly and with visible clues of the tricks behind the magic. Then he uses props and explanation to thoroughly explain how to do the trick. His method is one that is easy to follow and easy to learn, as he goes step by step so he does not to lose you. I dare say by the end of the video, every one who watches it will have in their memory a seriers of tricks they already remember. Then, by watching it again and again, one can learn all of the tricks shown in the series. While this is not a "magic show" on DVD, it is a great learning series and one that children will enjoy again and again, as they learn new tricks and then practice them to perfection. These tricks use things like normal playing cards and ordinary things from around the house. There will not be a need to supplement with an entire magic kit to begin having fun the moment the DVD collection arrives. I encourage you to give Magic Frank's series a try and begin enjoying the fun of amusing and amazing your friends for your next gathering. Practice is all that is needed to become a mini pro magician. As you practice them over and over again you will develop your own techniques and flow, which Magic Frank encourages greatly. He gives his "way" of doing things and encourages you to find your own way as you learn magic as never before seen. This set of 3 DVDs has a total of 63 tricks to learn and enjoy. This will keep any child or adult busy for many days to come. You will find a whole new purpose and use for popcorn, coins, rubber bands, paper clips, wallets, shoes, markers etc. Here's to a little MAGIC in your life! Titles we reviewed: Magic 4 Fun - 21 tricks with everyday objects The Key To Card Magic - 21 tricks with a regular deck of cards Believe In Magic! Believe In Yourself! Magic You Can Do! - 21 tricks with coins, cards and even some snacks <<<- (2005) RETURN TO TOP |
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Sentence Says |
Company: | MarBan |
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[Recipient of the 2005 Cool Product Award] Sentence Says was found to be great for everyone in our family, including those with dyslexia. Finally a word game everyone could play together and feel they were on the same level, no matter what their age level or abilities in spelling skills. As players become more comfortable and familiar with the game, you will watch their creativity kick in on the sentences they create. The player simply creates a sentence, using the first letter of the words they use within the sentence, as the cards played. This increases the abilities of those who struggle with spelling and are left feeling inept when playing the usual word games available. This game proved to be a valuable asset to the grade 2-12 levels and a lot of fun for the adults. Games like this one, that add eduactional enrichment along with entertainment are always a hit and this one is sure to please. Examples of play: The roll of the di determines not only how many cards you will be dealt for the hand, but also how long you will have to form your sentence. Once the player has roller the di and the cards have been dealt (including only one vowel), the player or team chooses an action card, which gives the set of rules for that play. Once this card has been drawn, the next step is to lay out the cards from your hand, face up in front of you. The timer begins ticking from the moment you lay down the last card. Now you decide on your sentence, using the rules on the action card you were dealt, being sure to use every card in your hand. Let's pretend I am dealt the I - C - S - D - T - N cards. I can use these to form the sentence "I can surely do this now." If I am unsure how to spell surely, I can still use the sentence, as long as I know the beginning letter of the word is "S". Each card holds a value, defined on the card. Once the player has completed a proper sentence in their turn, the points are added to their score and play continues on to the next player. Should the player not be able to complete a sentence in the allotted time, their play ends and they must immediately turn their cards back over. This also happens if your sentence is judged as non conforming. The opposing players can now steal their play and points. This allows them to not only steal your points but double them. The player that is trying to steal from you, will have 15 seconds to complete a proper sentence, using the cards from your hand. Should they choose to steal and not be able to, they must deduct the double points from their score. - Winner is the first oen to reach 100 points. - The game can be played by individuals or teams. - Rules may be modified for younger players. <<<- (2005) RETURN TO TOP |
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Tangles Jr. |
Company: | Tangle Toys |
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I found Tangles jr. to be a fun little toy for children and adults to have handy when they need something for their hands to do, but are not sure what. It comes wrapped up in tangles but once you get it unwound, you may find it hard to get back into the shape it came in. Can you do it?
Children will find this toy amusing as they discover many different designs and shapes they can make by twisting the tangles around in different ways. Small and easy to take with them for those little round town trips they usually get bored accompanying mom for. Now they will have a safe little toy to keep their hands and minds busy. <<<- (2005) RETURN TO TOP |
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The Touch |
Company: | Anthony Innovations |
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The following review may be a "touchy" subject for some people, but is sure to reveal a game that will inspire laughter and a whole lot of fun.
'The Touch' allows players of all ages to play on an even playing field. Age will not matter in this game like it does in a game that is measured by skill or knowledge. This game is all about the sense of touch, which can fool you no matter what your age or IQ score. Players take turns choosing a card, discovering the interesting fun facts about the piece shown and try to find that piece, by reaching in the touch dome and not being able to see, but only feel the pieces. There are 49 pieces included in the game, with expansion sets available as well. The touch dome has an illuminated window, so the other players are able to watch as the person who is taking their turn is feeling around inside to find that matching piece. The one who is taking their turn is not able to see in however, as their hand is blocking the entrance and there is no viewing window on their side. You are solely reliant on your sense of touch for this one. In a game that is both educational and fun, the entire family will have fun with this one. Ready Set Go! It is time to hurry and find that piece, before the timer runs out. Will you find the right piece? or will you pull it out to find one that is close, but not the correct piece? Only time will tell, but hurry, because the timer is running and time is not something you have much of. This game has been recommended for those with special needs as it is one that helps to strengthen cognitive and motor skills for all ages. Rules can be adapted to fit all players at all skill and cognitive levels. It takes about 45 minutes to an hour to play the game from start to finish. This will vary depending on the age levels playing together, as well as how much conversation sparks in between turns. The game comes fully assembled and ready to use as soon as it comes out of the box. Get yours today and enjoy a fun family night around the table with a game everyone is sure to have fun with. This one is a true winner! Now lets see who the winner of your first game will be! Winner of 12 Awards Enhances fine motor skills, cognitive skills, and tactile awareness. Enhances visualization, sensory perception, and memory recall. Expansion packs available. Company offers free piece replacement. Comes with built-in timer, lighted observation window and self-adjusting hand opening No assembly required <<<- (2005) RETURN TO TOP |
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Trikke 8 |
Company: | Trikke |
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The Trikke 8 proved to be a lot of fun, once we got the hang of how to set it into motion. Your feet stay planted on the foot rests and there are no pedals to use, so you must adjust to shifting your weight and using side sweeping motions to set it into motion. Once we got it going, it was a true blast.
The Trikke can reach speeds of up to 18 mph on flat ground while offering complete agility and control to the rider. Downhill speeds are reported to be app. 30+ mph. Rear dual brakes and 3 wheel design, help to keep the rider safe and secure in their ride. The Trikke is a great exercise companion, offering both children and adults a way to exercise without noticing. On flat surfaces your speed is determined by your effort. Downhill is another story; and one will want to ensure supervision is in place for younger children. The downhill speeds may become overwhelming for younger riders. As with any sports equipment, safety equipment should be used with this product at all times. A video is available, to show both the setup and the use of the Trikke. This is highly recommended to ensure all is well from the start. The Trikke 8 is a beautiful piece of craftsmanship, offering a sleek design that ensures pride of ownership. Made of aircraft-grade aluminum, has 8 inch urethane wheels, and quickly folds down for easy storage. This is a worthy investment that will bring years of enjoyment and fitness for everyone in the family. <<<- (2005) RETURN TO TOP |
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X4 Metal Detector R/C Rover |
Company: | Uncle Milton |
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The X4 has proven to be a fun remote control vehicle for the 6-10 yr range. The metal detection system is not what you would find in the more elaborate and high priced metal detectors by any means, but is great fun for children to begin their explorations with and will prove to be an entertaining and exciting experience.
A remote controlled vehicle, with a new twist! The X4 is great fun to explore the sandy beach or the dirt trail. One never knows when the lights and siren will activate, letting you know there is hidden treasure. The people at Uncle Milton have combined the remote control car and metal detection concepts, into one fun dual purpose rc vehicle. Comes with a set of metal coins, so one can have fun at home too. Set the metal coins on the floor or outside and then go for a spin and give the X4 a try! You will know when it has found them! The siren and lights leave no question; Metal is there. This fun RC toy has tracks instead of tires, so it is able to go on more varying terrain. Comes with a 54" remote cable and runs on 4 AA batteries. The body is made of very durable material and in the center front lies the detection system. The metal must be found within the range of this detection device, as it is not high powered enough to be large in range, but it is perfect for the age range it is for, to begin exploring and finding little treasures. <<<- (2005) RETURN TO TOP |
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RATINGS EXPLAINED: - perfect score = 5 1. Price is within reason for the product (1 pt) 2. The product does what it claims (1 pt) 3. Suited for recommended age (1 pt) 4. Quality manufacturing (1 pt) 5. Instructions are clear and easy to follow (1 pt) 5 = PERFECT | 4 = GOOD | 3 = OKAY | 2, 1, 0 = rejected |
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