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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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Another Sommer-Time Story Series |
Company: | Advance Publishing |
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Recipient of the 2006 Gold Award Advance Publishing : Author, John Sommer. 24 Book Series. Hard Cover Books + Audio available. For Grade K-4 level This series of books was selected as a 2006 winner of a Gold Award for the following reasons. 1) Age appropriate material 2) Helps beginning or struggling readers perform at appropriate level 3) Promotes good character, moral, social, behavioral standards & principles 4) Topics are favorable and interesting for the intended age group 5) Graphics are fun, alive, and colorful - Professional appearance 6) An entire series is available for enjoyment 7) Books and Audio read alongs available 8) Written by an educator <<<- (2006) RETURN TO TOP |
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Desktop PC |
Company: | The Learning Journey Int'l |
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The Desktop PC is a great introduction to computers.
With a realistic monitor, keyboard and mouse,
the Desktop PC offers over 30 activities to keep children
entertained while they are learning.
Needing only a couple of AA batteries, this offers a lot of playtime on very little power. You may also use an adapter (not included). One thing I liked about this computer is the screen / monitor. With most children's computer type games and learning toys, the screen is so hard to read and has such small print that is very unclear. Not so with the Desktop PC. It is clear and easy to read / see. Children enjoy engaging in learning activities that are fun and they like to be able to do so on their own, without the guidance / help of an adult all of the time. With this one they will get the hang of it very quickly and be able to use it any time they please. And because it is not hooked to the internet, you know exactly what they are seeing on the screen, so you will be comfortable with them doing just that. Enriching fun that has many activities for the various basic subjects - this will help children with their math skills, reading and comprehension, as well as deductive reasoning skills. If you break the price down on a per activity basis it is not even $2 per activity that they will enjoy again, and again. Well priced, well made, well worth the time and money to pick one up for your child. It is great looking and works great too. Children love it when their stuff looks like mom and dads. Now they can have one like yours but flashier in appealing design. <<<- (2006) RETURN TO TOP |
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Fun with Calligraphy |
Company: | Walter Foster Publishing |
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Art Start! Fun With Calligraphy, is a complete kit for beginners. This kit will
help develop the appreciation for, and the ability to create calligraphy art.
Containing everything needed to begin, including a detailed step-by-step activity
book, this is a great set for child or adult, who has interest in learning
this great writing talent.
BACKGROUND: Walter Foster Publishing provides “how to draw” and “how to paint” books and kits to millions of enthusiastic artists worldwide who enjoy the rewards of learning to draw and paint. People who have never before picked up a paintbrush or drawing pencil have discovered their artistic talents through the easy-to-follow art instruction books, covering media from watercolor, oil, and acrylic to pastel, graphite pencil, colored pencil, and even watercolor pencil. Walter Foster Publishing carries a broad range of art instruction products—for both children and adults, beginners and advanced—including a full line of licensed step-by-step drawing books and kits. WHAT IS IT? This kit contains a 32-page step-by-step project book, 2 felt-tip calligraphy pens, 7 ink cartridges, a cartridge calligraphy pen, a silver calligraphy marker, an artist's triangle, a drawing pencil, an eraser, practice paper, stationery paper, stickers, and notecards with envelopes. All of this is contained within a nice hardbound book size case, that neatly stores all of the items listed above. WHAT IS IT USED FOR? Art Start! Fun With Calligraphy, is a kit to help those wishing they knew how to write in calligraphy art, learn in an easy manner that will be enjoyed. WHO WILL LIKE IT? All ages will enjoy this kit. It is neither age, nor gender specific. SIDE NOTE: Kit specifications: 9-1/8" x 11-1/4" x 1-1/8" FOOTNOTE: I have never used the art of Calligraphy prior to this kit. Though I have always wished I knew how, as it looked so beautiful, I just had never thought I could do it, so left it alone. Then this kit came for review, and I thought I would give it a try. I mean, afterall, if recommended for ages eight and up, I should be able to figure out at least one letter of the alphabet in this unique style, right? Well, this was my theory anyway. What I found was it truly was simple. And with practice, I began seeing images appear on the paper that truly looked like calligraphy! I was not only surprised, I was impressed. Not impressed by my heroics of learning it, but by the simplistic manner in which this set teaches it. The step by step book, which is 32 pages, gently walks you through the beginning, just doing symbols. This helps you get on to the angles, and how to hold the pen, how to work the pen, etc. Then you move on to numbers and letters. It walks you through every phase of calligraphy, including how to properly space your numbers and letters, so they look even on the page. Simply formatted, simply written - easy to understand and implement! I highly suggest this set for anyone who has always wished they knew how to do it, but were afraid to try! <<<- (2006) RETURN TO TOP |
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Kick Dis! Power Puck |
Company: | Edmund Scientific |
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[Recipient of the 2005 Top Product Award] Kick Dis! Power Puck has proven to be a lot of fun. Great to play with at home, or take it to work (if you are the boss), and wow your co-workers. Whether you are whacking it, kicking it, smacking it, or booting it, the Kick Dis! Power Puck will get everyone's attention that is nearby. The motor provides a cushion of air beneath the Power Puck, allowing it to hover. This creates a fun interaction between you and your Power Puck. Get a friend to play with you, kicking it back and forth, and have twice the fun! The Kick Dis! Power Puck hovers on air, just above the ground. It will hover there until you give it a command, such as a kick. Once it receives this command, it will then streak across the room, hovering just above the surface, and go until it bumps into something. If it hits it at good enough speed, it will then go the opposite direction, until it loses momentum. The Kick Dis! Power Puck has a built in rubber bumper, which not only protects it from damage when it hits a hard surface, it also protects your furniture from damage. Now you can have your own, personal UFO, at your command. Kids love it, adults love it even more. Now you can play a new game with the kids, and enjoy it as much as they do. Indoors or Outdoors, this toy will serve you well. <<<- (2005) RETURN TO TOP |
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Make-Your-Own Games |
Company: | Made By Hands |
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This set " Make-Your-Own™ Games", by Made By Hands, Inc., is wonderful!
When I sat down at the table with my daughter, I had the bag which I had carried this set home in. I opened the bag, as she sat there wondering what mom had in store for her. When I opened the bag, she saw the portfolio this set comes in. She smiled, her eyes lit up, but she was still wondering, just what this was. Usually when we sit down at the table together, it is to play a game or make a craft. Her first question was "Is it a game?" To which I replied "Sort of..." I then opened the portfolio, which is easy to do because it has velcro closures. Then I said "How about we MAKE a game to play!?" To which she replied "REALLY!?!?! OK!!!" We then discussed what type of game she would like to make. She decided it would be "The Princess" game. We then discussed what we would need for this game, as we looked at all of the great pieces that come with the set, that allow for so much creativity in the design a child chooses. Once she decided it would consist of dice, cards, the game board, and a spinner for the final move on the board, she began designing her deck of cards. She used her marker set, along with the popouts, to number and design the cards. She then moved on to decorate the board, etc. in the way that matched her created design in her mind. Once she had completed the design phase, we went to the computer, where she decided on the rules for the game, and we made up a rule book (consisting of a whopping 1.5 pages on a 1/2 sheet size). We then sat down and played the game. She decided to change the rules, after one play. Once she had decided the rules worked as she wanted, we played another round and she beat me. (hmmmmm ... perhaps this was why the change in rules? ... I will have to ponder this) However you look at this experience, SHE WON! As did the 'Make-Your-Own™ Games' set. This was a truly fun experience and one that she will repeat, I have no doubt. Any child will enjoy using this set. They all love to design and create. This builds their creative skills, the fine motor skills, and develops in them a level of confidence and self esteem that nothing else will match. This lets a child know he or she CAN do it, and be proud of their accomplishments. The Make-Your-Own™ Games set is created to let every child succeed in their mission of creating their own game. How you expand on this is up to you, to make it an even more valuable learning experience, but it is a great set as it comes in the portfolio, so expansion is not necessary unless it is desired. Make-Your-Own™ Games will give you another opportunity to explore the world of creation with your child. Now instead of simply coloring pictures, or making paper hats, you can watch as they explore the world of game design. A true hit! and a true blast! This was a fun afternoon with my little girl, and her game is set up on her little table in her room, on display for all to see (AND PLAY!) <<<- (2005) RETURN TO TOP |
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My Dad Is Scratchy CD |
Company: | Good Mood Records |
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HILARIOUS! This cd will have you on the edge of your seat with roaring laughter!
My Dad Is Scratchy is simply a brilliant, heartwarming, series of songs for the entire family to enjoy together. This audio cd gives a lighthearted look at family life, being a child and being a parent.
The music is catchy, the lyrics are remarkably fun, and the whole experience is a fun one, for every family member, at every age.
BACKGROUND: My Daddy is Scratchy’ picks up where Jamie’s,‘Bad Mood Mom’, left off. Accomplished musician and TV, film and stage composer Jamie Broza adds his own humor and style to this collection. WHAT IS IT? A series of fun filled songs (11 of them originals), from the perspective of the parent and the child. These are songs that are so funny, because we can relate to them; as sad, or funny! as that may be, depending on your perspective. (HINT: As a parent, don't take yourself too seriously when listening to this one! ) WHO WILL LIKE IT? I believe every mother, father, and child will enjoy 'My Dad Is Scratchy'. FOOTNOTE: A style for everyone. Mixed in are touches of jazz, rock 'n roll, country, even some Broadway Musical sounds. We found no one really noticed the various music styles mixed in, the first time listening to it. We were all too busy listening to and laughing at the words to notice. Catchy music, with great lyrics, adding sound effects, with interjected punchy & timely phrases, make this a fun and unique experience for all to cherish. Jamie Broza is simply brilliant in this one! <<<- (2006) RETURN TO TOP |
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Project Kit For Kids : Boats |
Company: | Jazwares Distribution, Inc. |
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Intended for ages 7 an up, this kit includes 36 pages of fun and learning.
Using this kit, and the wonderful book inside, you will: Over 10 projects to work on, are included. All parts are included, that you will need for the experiments and activities. (except the water) - This kit is simple, yet excellent! Children will usually be able to do the activities on their own, with little or no supervision. While they are having a blast, creating the crafts and experimenting, they will also be learning a great deal about the scientific aspects of boating, and the history of them. Even adults will find this kit interesting. Just be sure to let the children experience it themselves, so they are able to learn by it. I know my husband was right in there having fun with my son, and I had to remind him it was a childs' kit, and the child needed to have the experience, not dad. (oops!) Kids love boats! This is a great way to build on that, by offering them a terrific learning activity series, that will enhance their love, by giving them the power of knowledge to go with it. Jazwares offers many kits that are similar, in that they are simple enough for children to do on their own, and all enhance their knowledge and give them a fun learning tool. Check their site for the others offered. <<<- (2006) RETURN TO TOP |
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 Winner 2008 
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Robosapien |
Company: | Edmund Scientific |
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Robosapien: the first commercially available biomorphic robot. At 18" high, this guy is a true blast! Found to be one of the hottest selling toys on the market for Christmas 2004, enjoyed by boys and girls alike, Robosapien is described as the Robot With Attitude! .. And attitude is what he has. Robosapien has gained his popularity partly due to the fact that he is loved by young and old alike, and when the big kids (those over 21) like him, the fun never seems to end.
Because of this popularity, and because the creator has made the opportunities for added development limitless, you can look for him to become more and more famous among robot enthusiasts, who have already begun to develop new programs to enhance his functionality and increase the fun one may have interacting with him. He is fastly becoming known as a hardware hackers dream, as they learn to develop new methods of control to add to his functionality. Searching the internet will bring you multiple links to help you find both fun and free additions you may incorporate. Because he is so popular in the world of programmers, when you buy a Robosapien the fun will not be limited to what you experience straight out of the box, eventhough this in and of itself is great! Like a first set of building blocks, you can continue to add to RS and create something new and exciting all of the time, by adding on great new things created by others, or by developing some cool new tricks yourself! Using the standard remote included with the Robosapien, one can have him perform up to 67 different commands. Each function button on the remote is attached to 3 different commands. You can also program in macros, which then add a string of commands together for him to perform in sequence. This is done by use of the remote. This will add up to 4 different command modes which may each include up to 84 steps. This will increase Robosapien's responsiveness and make him more fun to watch, as you set him into action. You will be able to set him into motion by simply turning him on and playing with the remote. However, to really learn what all this guy can do, you will want to get into the manual and learn what all is available, as it will amaze you. When you first turn Robosapien on, he goes through his wake up routine. This includes various movements and sounds. He then sits quiet to await your command. If no command comes within a 2 hour span, he shuts himself off to conserve on battery life. Batteries will last approximately 6 hours when he is in use. Demo mode is fun to watch, as he goes through a small dance routine for you. He plays his own music as he dances away. He has a total of 3 demo modes for you to enjoy. Other basic functions include such things picking things up, throwing them, kicking, dancing, kung-fu actions, farting, belching, rapping... it seems endless, as he comes to life before your eyes. He is amusing to watch, even prior to your learning the secret to work his command sequence more extensively. His english is non-existent, but he speaks great caveman. Robosapien has an advanced interactive reflex system which allows him to respond to sound, touch, and obstacles in his path. His 4 sensors will activate when he bumps into something and you may hear him say "ouch" when this happens. His movements are quite fluid and his response time is immediate. Mark Tilden, creator of the Robosapien, dreamed of designing a robot he would have loved as a child. While he has not yet gone as far as he will in his robot creation dream, Robosapien is a robot everyone loves and is every boy's dream. Robosapien may not conquer the world, but he is sure to capture your heart! Robert Oschler has developed a dance program. This program requires the use of a program called Girder. This allows you to automate your Robosapien into a dancing robot. Requires 4 D batteries Remote requires 3 AAA batteries Batteries not included Features 3 demonstration routines Many programmers have developed add ons to help you further your experience with Robosapien Incorporated programs/macros via the standard remote are not saved when it is shut off <<<- (2005) RETURN TO TOP |
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SC-100R Snap Circuits Training Program |
Company: | Elenco Electronics |
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The SC-100R Snap Circuits Training Program, available at Elenco Electronics, is a great beginner set for helping children learn the basics about electronics. This fully self contained kit has over 30 pieces, while the child will then use to build over 100 exciting experiments.
These experiments teach them about circuits, switches, resistors, capacitors, motors, batteries, etc. in a fun and hands on way. Every boy or girl will enjoy using this kit. It requires no equipment or tools to use the kit in its entirety. This makes it nice for the younger ones, as they are able to fully conduct the experiments on their own, without adult supervision from about the age of 8 and up (you be the one to decide when they are old enough). A well priced set, that comes complete with the 30+ pieces, plus a color coded manual, and comes in its own custom box to hold everything neatly. A must have for any child that wishes to learn about electronics. <<<- (2005) RETURN TO TOP |
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Bungee Cord Training Tool Our Rating:
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SoccerEdge |
Company: | SoccerEdge |
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If your child is a lover of Soccer, as my son is - they will appreciate this training set. Skill, strength and accuracy are so important in the game of soccer. These are hard skills for children to practice on their own, as they usually get upset having to chase the ball continually. This solves the dilemma, by allowing them to practice non stop - and never have to chase another run away ball.
Simply drive the stake in the ground, it will stay in place nicely because it is a corkscrew shape stake. Then place the net around the ball that is attached to the bungee cord. Kick - throw - hit ... whatever you wish - and the ball will respond according to your commands and accuracy and will then return to do it all again. My son has commented again and again at how helpful the SoccerEdge trainer is. It motivates him to practice even harder, and more often, because he does not have to recruit someone to play with him now. The setup is easy and only takes a moment, and it can be used anywhere, anytime. Throw it in the car for playing at the park or at grandmas ... Set it up in the backyard for day to day play. A high quality product that is worth its weight in gold for the soccer player in your life. <<<- (2007) RETURN TO TOP |
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The Birds, The Bees & Me (For Boys) |
Company: | Birds and Bees Video |
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I was impressed with this video, and thought it handled the subject so much better than I, as a parent, could ever do on my own. What this video has done is open the lines of communication, about a hard topic to deal with, especially when you are the mom, and you want to discuss this with your son.
Never having been a boy, I really was not sure how to discuss this with him. I was not sure exactly what they feel, what they go through, and how to relate to this sequence of events. So, I learned by watching it too. I then let my son watch it, and while he didn't seem "impressed", he did have some questions for me when he was done. The questions showed me that he did pay attention and was interested in the subject, he was just not going to let me know it. The video introduces puberty, the effects, changes and feelings associated with it. It then goes through the sex scenerio, how it works and what it is for. Then it covers pregnancy and childbirth. The use of comic characters lighten up the subject and make it easier for children of this age group to handle easily, while still driving home the point. Jason (a college age guy) walks boys through the video and is the one that explains everything. I like his approach, which is one that lets boys know he relates to them and understands what they are going through (or will go through), and assures them everything is normal and felt / experienced by every boy. He does not lecture, but rather informs and lets the viewer come to their own decisions about the topics he covers. Created by a pediatrician, I feel Dr. Tom McCaffrey has created a video that is both correct and subtle in its approach on the subject, and I applaud him for the careful introduction to a subject that frightens many parents. A great alternative to pulling out a book. I urge every parent to consider this video for their child. This is available for girls or boys, and is available in DVD or VHS format. <<<- (2006) RETURN TO TOP |
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YO Stick |
Company: | Playmates Toys |
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My son enjoys his YoStick. He has a lot of fun maneuvering it to do a lot of tricks, similar to using a yoyo. It retracts easily, twirls and spins into crazy configurations, and one can see why children enjoy it so much. I find my son sitting at his desk, with his YoStick in hand, throwing it and having it come back to him, etc. I also find he carries it along with him outside and around the house alot, as it he has a YoStick habit! This just goes to show me that he does enjoy it.
He has figured out almost all of the tricks you can do with it, and has mastered them to a science.
It is not a hard toy to master, but it is a hard toy to put down.
There are many styles to choose from, a lion, skull, snake, etc. View the Playmates Toys website for more details on all of the styles you can choose from. His only complaint with the YoStick is it does go thru rubber bands, when you use it alot, like he does. The YoStick is easy to open up to replace them, however. It comes with two replacement rubber bands. <<<- (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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