July 2012 Notable Toys — Preschool

This big, soft and cuddly owl makes a great snuggle buddy at home, in the car, or to take along to Grandma's house. The calico patchwork print of fine-wale corduroy, soft cotton and flannel in bright colors, and whimsical eyes appeal to the child in us all. Made by Kathe Kruse of Germany. Some fabrics may vary.

This playful melody maker develops an early interest in music while teaching shape & color recognition. As individual pieces, these colorful blocks allow children to arrange and rearrange to create their very own melodies. When the music is done, nest the blocks together for a quick and easy clean up or stack for a beautiful display.

Made easy for driving trips with adjustable straps for vehicle headrest attachment – this playful ocean-themed mirror features dancing lights, charming characters and classical melodies.  Four play modes: Discovery mode introduces baby to colors and shapes in 3 languages; Lights and melodies; Melodies; Lights only. Adjustable straps for use over most headrests.

An innovative new magnetic, crescent shaped building block. A magnet rolls through each Arx piece, giving any builder the option of building in ways that defy common thought. When the magnetic force between two Arx pieces meets, kids’ll feel the slight click as the magnets adhere. 24 Versatile magnetic pieces. Building base included (optional for building). Launch date: August 2012.

Build a burger higher and higher with toppings without making it fall. The wobbly plate is placed on the table and a bun is put on it. Players take turns rolling the die to see how many ingredients to add to the super sandwich. With every turn the burger towers higher. Enhance logic and reasoning skills as well as fine motor skills. Can be played as a cooperative game or a competitive game. Contains 14 burger parts, game die, and plate.

With 4-in-1 endless fun, the Vtech Kidizoom Camera - Pink allows children to become an instant photographer and movie director with the press of a button. Kids' creativity will come alive as they learn to take and edit their photos with wacky effects. They can also shoot their own video movies or play 3 cool games right on the camera. With storage of up to 1000 photos, and the ability to connect to a computer, children can easily keep all of their creations so they can be treasured forever.
— As of 4/11/2012 this product had 4.1 out of 5 stars from 8 reviews on ToysRUs.com. Pros: long battery life; lots of fun for kids; durable. Cons: Picture quality isn't great.

Everything tastes better when you've got the right accessories. These safe and simple toys revolve around food and cooking, to promote realistic role play, and encourage healthy eating. The Apron Set includes an elasticized chef's hat, quilted oven mitt and bright orange-trimmed apron. The mitt and apron fabric is exclusive to Hape.

Have a bedroom fit for a Princess with this whimsical Mirror. Match shapes and colors to create this sparkling piece of room decor. This kit uses bright oversized tiles perfect for the youngest crafters. Launch date: March 2012.

Have a bedroom fit for a Princess with this whimsical Jewelry Box. Match shapes and colors to create this sparkling piece of room decor. This kit uses bright oversized tiles perfect for the youngest crafters. "Each kit contains 4 unique projects to hang and display," Stephanie Carver, marketing manager at The Orb Factory Limited, told TDmonthly. Launch date: March 2012.
— In a Fall 2012 survey, two out of 12 retailers told TDmonthly that Sticky Mosaics were their best selling hobby item.

No kitchen is complete without these basic utensils.  The 13-piece set includes a pot with lid, fry pan, two plates, knives, forks, soup ladle and spatula and salt and pepper shakers that make sounds when shook.