June 2010 New Specialty Toys — Science & Nature

At least half a dozen classic mind-benders, take-aparts, and other conundrums to keep the puzzler bemused, busy, and happy. Part of our growing new line DIY: Happy activities.

A Bloom Ball, aka seedball, is a seed delivery pod that is encased in a protective (clay) and nutrient rich (organic compost) shell. Toss and leave to grow - these contain more than 20 types of wildflower seed selected to thrive in the USA. Peggable card.

See the phenomenal secret power of this humble rock. Create a lovely snowy white rock garden in days. Part of the growing Compact Curiosity Line. Made in the USA

In researching this Glux, I came upon a word for blue: “Hoovaloo,” meaning an intelligent blue. This GLUX is just full of intelligent blues as well a spectrum of other colors. It’s quite beautiful to look at and satisfying to smush and stretch. Made in the USA.

This ant habitat lets kids see all the inner workings of an ant colony. The Antosphere allows for children to connect and customize their own anti-gravity ant colony at home. The package contains eight pods, three bases and 18 supports.

With more than 60 activities, this set can serve as a great introduction to the wonders of science. It allows kids to set up their own science lab and investigate activities in chemistry, physics, biology, geology, weather, magnets and electricity. Activities include Insta-Snow , the Geyser Tube (Mentos and diet soda geyser), Water Gel, Gravity Goo, Windbags, Twister Tube and more.  "We have billed it as “the best of Be Amazing!” since it contains many of our signature science activities," Renee Whitney, president of Be Amazing Toys, told TDmonthly. Launch date: June 2010.

Designed as a realistic replica of the Eastern Diamondback rattlesnake, this serpent's moves can be dictated by the remote. It flicks its tongue and rattles its tail while on the move. The product requires 4 AA and a 9V battery (not included).
Awards: Creative Child Magazine Toy of the Year 2010

The Curse of Pirate Island is designed to encourage young adventurers to dig up buried treasure. Will they find jewels? Gold? Something else? Variations in buried items and creepy surprises will keep young treasure hunters coming back for more. The Excavation Set features a sand-based island with buried treasure box. Children dig using a stainless steel hammer and chisel to uncover treasure. The excavation glasses add to the "archeological experience." "Most of our competitors use plaster digging blocks. Plaster is extremely messy and gets everywhere! Our Sandblocks are made of a course sand that is dust free and easy to clean up," Andrew Tober, Director of Creative Development, BSW Toy Inc., told TDmonthly.

The Easter Grass-kit offers an eco-friendly, all-natural alternative to wasteful plastic grass. It's designed as a fun and educational activity for parent and child to enjoy together in anticipation of the holiday. Each kit contains enough materials for two medium baskets of real grass. Recommended growth time is seven to 10 days. Launch date: March 5, 2010.

This Emperor Penguin chick moves according to the shake of the egg, which functions as a remote control. The user simply shakes the egg up, down, left or right to make the penguin move forward, backward or to either side. It requires four AG13 batteries (included). Launch date: June 2010.