August 2009 New Specialty Toys — All

This two-sided Dry Erase Paddle Board has one lined side and one blank side. It comes with an EZ pen and storage for the pen right in the handle. The durable, lightweight paddles may be used by both young students and adults. They are sold in a four-pack reusable mesh tote with an activity booklet and four extra dry erase markers/erasers. The boards can be cleaned with soap and water. Launch date: July 2009.

Qubits is a simple plastic toy that can be built up using a distinct, patented modular geometry. It is designed to quickly capture the imagination of those who might have visions of becoming architects, engineers, scientists or even nanotech designers. The pieces are flexible to allow for curved creations. The Jumbo Kit comes with 330 pieces. 120 flexible Qubits, 150 connectors and 60 bridges. Molded with high quality plastic featuring bendable pieces that allow curved shapes. Launch date: June 2009.

Kids Crooked House can customize a playhouse specifically to the interests or needs of a child. Custom-designed playhouses are handcrafted and built to individual requirements. Parents can turn to the company's existing designs for inspiration or ask their kids (or inner kid) to describe their dream playhouse. Launch date: June 2009.

This colorful trio of crocheted balls features interior rattles and bright spots on the outside. They are handcrafted, and Yellow Label is a member of the Fair Trade Federation.

This soft foam pirate saber will make a little blackbeard feel like the king of the seas, without causing any harm.

Kids can shiver timbers anywhere with this fierce pirate puppet.

Playing with puppets can be a joyful experience for children as they create stories, use new words and practice fine motor skills to make puppet gestures.

This pig glove puppet is soft and easy to manipulate. Snort.

The Pirate Set includes panne vest,  and a hat made from durable laminated panne. New this year, the set includes the Eye Patch. It comes in black or red.

This fairy tunic features a bridal satin top with multiple layers of tricot and tulle for the skirt. The fairy tunic is designed to be worn over clothes, and it fastens at the sides with adjustable satin ribbon ties. Trimmed with ribbon roses, this fairy dress is sure to be a hit with any fairies-to-be. It features satin-tie ribbons allow for size flexibility at the waist. It comes in  light pink, dark pink, lilac and purple.

Babies can be at home wherever they go, if the Monkey Mat goes with them. This extra-soft plush playmat and rug will keep baby safe and clean.

The Gyro-discs spin up to 1000 rpm. Just hold the 11" metal ring and strike the smaller, colored discs. As you rotate the ring, the discs begin spinning faster and faster, like mini-gyroscopes. At first, the challenge is to keep all the discs spinning. Once you can do this, there are several tricks and stunts to master.

Taggies Naturals  are ideal for the family that embraces a natural lifestyle and has both safety and the environment in mind. These small 12" x 12" blankets are made of exceptionally comfortable, 100% certified organically grown cotton fibers, pure silk ribbons and safe dyes. With an eco-friendly conscience, the Naturals collection offers sophisticated and unexpected prints. Launch date: 2009

Maurice Sendak's magical story has continued to delight generation after generation. This 15" soft and cuddly Sipi is based on Maurice Sendak's classic book. The upcoming "Where the Wild Things Are" movie may reignite interest in these lovable characters.  Note: This item in this size has been discontinued.

Maurice Sendak's magical story has continued to delight generation after generation. This 24" soft and cuddly Bernard is based on Maurice Sendak's classic book.

Maurice Sendak's magical story has continued to delight generation after generation. This 7" soft and cuddly Max is based on Maurice Sendak's classic book. Other sizes may also be available.

Kids can learn about healthy food choices by running their own market stall filled with wooden fruits and vegetables. Produce sold separately.

The Parking Garage has three floors of parking space, a working elevator tower, attendant's booth and helipad. The set also includes a figure, car, gas station and car wash. It measures 19.3" x 13.8" x 13".

This tall treasure box is excellent for tiny treasures. Earrings, bracelets, charms and sachets are all safe and comfortable inside. Four drawers, one in front and one on each side. It measures 6” x 4” x 6”.

From the Under the Sea Collection, this sturdy lunch box will keep kids' midday meals safe from the sharks and other hungry predators.

The Super Chubbies Helicopter includes three removable figures: two rescue pilots and a patient. Also included is a stretcher. The propellers spin.

This 10" dump truck includes two figures. The bed of the truck actually dumps.

Now little kids can mimic big sis and bro with their own designer backpack. Made of lighweight vinyl, it's perfect for toting around favorite toys and stuffed animals.

This sturdy backpack will help kids get their stuff from point A to point B.