March 2012 New Specialty Toys — Sporting Goods & Accessories

Kendama is the ultimate form of the traditional ball and cup game. Originating in Japan, Kendama has captivated the world with its simple design and endless freestyle trick possibilities. With no moving parts, Kendama is deceptively simple at first glance. The simplicity makes it enjoyable for the beginner and also gives it its infinite playability.

Now kids can take their A-Game everywhere with the Go Sport™ Basketball Backpack. This backpack lets kids keep their mini arena and books neatly tucked away. Has padded pocket for MP3 player and a pass-through for headphones. It includes a fabric handle that fits over a door knob so kids can hang and shoot. The included net hoop packs flat under a clear cover. When unzipped, the clear cover acts as a ball return and zips up into the backpack when not being used.  Rugged build, soft padding and a built in hoop brings out the student-athlete in all of us. Includes hoop, net and 3" basketball.

Two kid-sized racquets featuring shell designs and a boing-y surface, team up with two brightly colored balls to make a great racquet set that will entice players of all ages to "come out of their shells." Improves hand-eye coordination and encourages physical activity.
— In a March 2012 survey, Donna Frederick, owner of The Play House Toy Store in Durham, N.C., told TDmonthly that this is one of her best selling outdoor toys for younger kids.

This is the official Wiffle Ball brand 32 inch bat in classic yellow with a 12 inch softball. This is the same ball, made by the same family that started the whole thing way back in 1952.
— In a March 2012 survey, Donna Frederick, owner of The Play House Toy Store in Durham, N.C., told TDmonthly that her best selling outdoor toy is the original Wiffle Ball and Bat. “It's all retro, and it's under $10. It's made in the USA, and it's a good outdoor family toy,” she said. They sell "A dozen a month, easily, not including extra balls people buy."

The original Hula Hoop. Promotes physical activity. Contains ball inside for the Shoop-Shoop Hula Hoop sound effect. Assortment of three sizes.
— In a March 2012 survey about outdoor toys, Mike DiAndrea, manager of Hardware Toys in Paoli, Pa., told TDmonthly that they sell 65 of the Original Hula Hoop each month.

Toy Boarders are made just like the toy soldiers that have been around for decades, but why promote war to kids when you now can promote a positive image of fun and exercise with these authentic skateboarders? They are hand designed and molded with remarkable attention to detail and style. Launch date: 2012.

ASTM safety approved + HR4040. Totally foldable; suitable for indoor/outdoor use. Extra safety, comes with padded frame cover and handle. Holds 1 child up to 150+ lbs. Retail packaging. 36" diameter x 35" floor to handle.

The Clear29 LT lighted longboard skateboard is a hot seller that looks great both day and night. Created with all superior quality parts that provide a high performance ride that experts and novices will appreciate. The addition of LIGHTS makes for a one-of-a-kind longboard. Made from clear polycarbonate for a super smooth ride and incredible light dispersement.

The JumpSport kids trampoline is a fun and engaging way for preschoolers to exercise and learn. Every iBounce also comes with the 12- minute exercise adventure video cartoon, “Hop-Along with RompyRoo™ - Where Is Mr. Fuzzy?” Preschoolers can bounce along with RompyRoo as they help him search for his lost teddy bear. This video introduces basic movement skills and counting concepts as children bounce through the woods, over logs and across lily pads. The iBounce uses a bungee cord system that gives a soft and lively bounce. Plus, the sturdy handle bar adds stability so little ones can safely develop their balance, coordination, endurance and motor skills. Parents that own iPads or other tablet devices can download the cartoon animation, then attach the iPad to the kid-tough, universal tablet mount that’s included. Or, kids can watch the DVD version on the TV. To keep exercise activities fresh, the company will introduce a new RompyRoo adventure every few months. Launch date: 2012.
Awards: 2012 Creative Child Magazine Product of the Year, 2012 Dr Toy Best Vacation Product, 2012 Mom's Choice Gold Award, 2012 National Parenting Center Seal of Approval, 2012 Parents Choice Approved Seal, 2012 Parent Tested Parent Approved Winner, 2012 Tillywig Top Fun Award.
— As of 09/13/2012 this product had 4.6 out of 5 stars from 10 reviews on Amazon.com. Pros: Triangular platform helps prevent tipping; Great exercise option for the winter; Rompy Roo DVD is fun. Cons: Assembly is involved, but is doable with two adults.

With this kit, kids can personalize their own skateboard. One of the only sports craft kits available on the market. With the DYO Real Skateboard Kit, children can decorate their own one-of-a-kind real skateboard. Personalizing their own skateboard will inspire a child's originality, and foster spirit and commitment. Launch date: 2012.

Using a special turbine-like technology, this football can fly up to and possibly further than 100 yards. Not only does this football have a hollow center for aerodynamics, it also has 3 settings for throwing it. Kids can set the football up for Right-handed, Left-handed, or short passed with the click of the dial. Launch Date: March 1, 2012.

We created the first printed canvas stroller system on the market. No more sliding fabrics. We also created a line of wonderful accessories only found on our strollers to make them more personalized to the individual. We have also added an upgrade line so you can change the fabrics to any of the colors if you so desire. "The innovative stylish color combinations that are all interchangeable and functionality of our strollers sets us apart from the other manufacturers," Michael D Sallus, president/creator of Baby Bling Design Co. told TDmonthly. Launch date: September 2004.
Awards: Best product award from Baby and Childrens magazine 2005

What happens when America’s favorite pastime and the best-selling card game in the country collide? The official MLB™ edition of Spot It! Whether the logo of a favorite team, a bitter rival, or another baseball related image, spot it and players will be running the bases to victory.
— In a May 2012 survey about licensed products, Elmer  Carranza, manager of Doodlehopper 4 Kids in Springfield, Va., named Spot It as their best seller. They sell 24 copies each month.