September Staff Picks

By TDmonthly Staff
September 2014

This month, TDmonthly's staff picks are chock-full-o-fun! From STEM skill-boosting kits to water-proof party games, we've got you covered in your search for cool new specialty toys.

Spot it! Splash - Waterproof Party Game! by BLUE ORANGE GAMES

Make a splash wherever your adventures take you with the new ultra-durable version of the family favorite! Water and dirt are no match for this deck of plastic cards. Now any time can be opportunity to spot it, whether you’re at the beach, by the pool, or camping in the great outdoors. Summery and seaside symbols get everybody in the mood for fun in the sun. Spot the match to win!
— In a September 2014 survey, Melissa Pennille, co-owner of Teaching Toys & Books in Tacoma, Wash., told TDmonthly that Spot It! Splash is one of the store's best-selling card games. 8/28/2014 (MSRP: $14.99)

Perplexus Warp by PATCH PRODUCTS INC.

Perplexus Warp by PATCH PRODUCTS INC. The current Perplexus games are sphere-shaped, but Warp is, well, a warped sphere. "If one had to name it, it would be called a spherical octahedron, but around here we just call it weird, cool, different, warpy, or the hyper egg. The new shape is also a bit easier to hold, doesn't roll off a table, and maximizes player's visibility all in a fun new size," says Matt Nelson of Perplexus, LLC. Perplexus Warp features nine internal cups that act as "baskets" when you maneuver the marble to leap into them, and a new internal pivot that gives the illusion of a magnet sticking to the ball, defying gravity, as it travels across a bridge with no rails. Warp has six flagged check points, 50 challenging events, and is deemed a difficulty level of six.
Awards: 2014 TDmonthly Magazine Top Toy Award 7/31/2014 (Age: 6 and Up)

3D Digital Bookmark by MARK-MY-TIME LLC

The Mark-My-Time™ 3D Digital Bookmark is a convenient, easy to set timer to count down or accumulate reading time.
Motivational - encourages kids to read often and independently while helping them to record time for school or library reading logs.
Portable - Encourage reading anytime and anywhere with a design that can remain in the book and be “on the go” like you are. Time is stored in the bookmark until you delete it.
This bookmark is ideal for timed math fact activities, music practice sessions, homework study sessions and more. Parents and teachers across the country confirm that Mark-My-Time bookmarks are a great way to get kids excited about reading and wanting to read more. Made of durable polyethylene plastic and now available in three cool 3D Royce animal images, a Snow Wolf, Turtle Town and a special “in motion” T-Rex which transforms from reptile to skeleton. These exciting new bookmarks will be shipping, just in time for the holidays at only $11.95.
Launch date: October 7, 2014 8/28/2014 (MSRP: $11.95; Age: 5 and Up)

Excavate and Explore Dig Kits by GEOCENTRAL

These deluxe kits are an amazing way to make learning fun!
Each kit contains a sculpted and painted dig block, digging tool, dusting brush, magnifier, keepsake bag and educational booklet. Each booklet has interesting information about the subject and fun activities.
Assortment includes 9 kits: 2 of the Amethyst, Gemstone and Dinosaur Poop Fossil kits and 1 each of the Meteorite, Real Sea Life Fossils and Dinosaur kits.

5/14/2014

Hearts of AttrAction™ by R&R GAMES INC.

The irresistibly fun and flirty game of skill, strategy and luck, where players shoot heart-shaped magnets to cause a chain reaction that’ll win them the game! Strategies develop and unfold, resulting in exciting and unexpected twists and turns.

3/4/2014 (MSRP: $19.95; Age: 14 and Up)

Boogie Board Jot 4.5 eWriter by IMPROV ELECTRONICS

Get noticed everywhere you go with the Boogie Board Jot 4.5 eWriter. The Boogie Board Jot 4.5 focuses on simplicity and style - with a compact design that fits easily in a pocket or purse. The contoured shape of the Boogie Board Jot 4.5 case is optimized to easily hold in one hand while writing or drawing with the other. The stylus uniquely clips to the side of the eWriter to always keep it within reach. The stylus can also be used as a stand by inserting it into the kickstand slot. The frosted plastic cover keeps unwanted marks off the Reflex LCD writing surface while on the go and easily snaps on and off. Choose from four accent colors (red, blue, pink, gray) to match your personal style.

2/26/2014

Owlet In Tree Stump by FOLKMANIS INC.

A natural wonder with whimsical detail, the OWLET IN TREE STUMP is nearly ready to take flight. This feathery soft baby bird rests in a sculptural tree stump complete with sweet fabric leaves. Pop him out for a fun surprise and a real hoot! 10"TALL.

7/7/2014 (MSRP: $27.99; Age: 3 and Up)

The Original DoodleArt - Prehistoric by PLASMART INC.

DoodleArt was originally launched in 1972 and the do-your-own-color-thing instantly became a worldwide craze that lasted through the 1980s. Fantastic family activity, kids’ project, or hobby. Sturdy, long-lasting posters stand the test of time. All Posters and Mini Kits come with 12 non-toxic, dual-tipped markers (calligraphy tip and fine tip). Intricate designs provide up to 70 hours of creative activity. Choose from five 24” x 34” full size poster designs (Butterflies, Flowers, Jungle, Prehistoric, Fairy Tales) or two Mini kits each containing four 11" x 14" posters. 8/13/2013 (MSRP: $24.99)

Rody Jr. by TMI TOYMARKETING INTERNATIONAL INC.

Made in Italy, the Gymnic Line’s Rody Jr. is a favorite with children for imaginative and creative play, and is also a good friend for your 18” doll. Made of heavy duty, latex-free vinyl, and is phthalate free. Is surface washable with soap and water. Rody Jr. is available in 3 colors (Light Yellow, Light Pink and Light Blue)! For ages 2 years and up, with adult supervision.

2/6/2014

4M Tin Can Cable Car by TOYSMITH

4M Tin Can Cable Car by TOYSMITH Use a recycled soda can to make a fun and educational motorized gondola cable car. Assemble the support and motor, attach a soda can and decorate it with the included stickers. Set up the cable string and watch your gondola travel along the cable. Requires 2 AAA batteries, not included. Made by 4M - Toysmith.
— In a March 2015 survey, two out of 10 retailers told TDmonthly that 4M from Toysmith is their best-selling line of eco-friendly toys. 8/28/2014 (MSRP: $15.99)