PlayFoam Mini Single
MSRP: $2.99
Age: 3 and up
Category: Arts & Crafts

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 26014

Each single-color mini pack is designed to introduce kids to the texture and possibilities of PlayFoam. The collection includes six colors, which may be used as party gifts or stocking stuffers.
— PlayFoam small bricks have been consistent best sellers for the last two years at The Parent-Teacher Store & Toys Too in Louisville, Ky., Owner Kimberly Kopatz told TDmonthly in fall 2009. 11/9/2009 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Smencils
Category: School Supplies

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 24946

Made entirely out of recycled newspaper, Smencils are gourmet-scented pencils designed to retain their scents for two years. The tightly rolled newspaper is hardened around a core of No. 2 graphite, so it sharpens like a standard wood pencil. The Smencils are then soaked to infuse their fragrance, finished with an eraser and identifying sticker, and packaged in a biodegradable, corn-based plastic Freshness Tube. There are 10 scents available: Bubble Gum, Cinnamon, Tropical Blast, Grape, Cotton Candy, Very Berry, Black Cherry, Orange, Watermelon and Rootbeer. They are available assorted in packs of 10 (one of each scent) or buckets of 50 (five of each scent). 
— “One kid has it, then everyone has to have it. I've been selling buckets of those things,” Sherry Phipps, owner of School Crossing in Williamsburg, Va., told TDmonthly in July 2009 about why Smencils are a top seller in her store.
— Smencils are also strong sellers at Golden Apple Learning Store in Pleasanton, Calif., Owner John MacDougall told TDmonthly in summer 2009. 8/18/2009 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Blurt!®
Age: 10 and up
Category: General Games
Watch Video Now
ToyDirectory Product ID#: 23789

Think fast! What word means “a partially dried grape”? Be the first to say “raisin,” and you’re on your way to winning this riotous game of rapid word recall. Players take turns reading clues aloud, competing to blurt out the correct answer first and move ahead on the board. The first person or team to circle the board wins. Sounds simple, right? But as the race for the right word heats up, and the blurting gets boisterous, it’s easy to get tongue-tied! Blurt is a great vocabulary builder for kids, a hilarious addition to adult parties, and a must for family game night. Includes junior version for ages 7 to 9. For 3 to 12 players. 5/20/2009 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Foamfetti™ 10-Pack
MSRP: $24.99
Age: 5 and up
Category: Creative Activities

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 23788

Hear it crackle and feel it crinkle while you make animals, decorate frames and pencil cups, or roll it into a real bouncing ball. This special sculpting mix dries by itself, turning your idea into a fun work of art or keepsake. Foamfetti™ sticks to itself, to unfinished wood, and to paper. It’s easy to make all sorts of cool stuff with Foamfetti!

Includes red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple, pink, brown, white, and black. 5/20/2009 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Foamfetti™ 5-Pack
MSRP: $14.99
Age: 5 and up
Category: Arts & Crafts

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 23787

Hear it crackle and feel it crinkle while you make animals, decorate frames and pencil cups, or roll it into a real bouncing ball. This special sculpting mix dries by itself, turning your idea into a fun work of art or keepsake. Foamfetti™ sticks to itself, to unfinished wood, and to paper. It’s easy to make all sorts of cool stuff with Foamfetti!

Includes red, blue, yellow, green, and orange. 5/20/2009 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Critter Costumes - Tiger
MSRP: $14.99
Category: Costumes & Accessories

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 23575

Kids' imaginations will run wild with this 2-piece set which include a tiger "head" and matching tiger "shirt!"

Great for:

• Dress-up centers
• Dramatic play
• Storytelling
• School plays
• Costume parties

Comfortable, high quality, washable fabric. Easy-to-use Velcro® fasteners make dressing up simple. Made from flame-retardant material. One size fits all! 5/6/2009 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Critter Costumes - Monkey
MSRP: $14.99
Category: Costumes & Accessories

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 23574

Kids' imaginations will run wild with this 2-piece set which include a monkey "head" and matching monkey "shirt!"

Great for:

• Dress-up centers
• Dramatic play
• Storytelling
• School plays
• Costume parties

Comfortable, high quality, washable fabric. Easy-to-use Velcro® fasteners make dressing up simple. Made from flame-retardant material. One size fits all! 5/6/2009 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Critter Costumes - Cow
MSRP: $14.99
Category: Costumes & Accessories

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 23573

Complete with a cow head and matching cow shirt, this two-piece set may be used for storytelling, dramatic play, school plays, costume parties and dress-up centers. The washable fabric is made from flame-retardant material and features easy-to-use Velcro® fasteners to make dressing up simple. It is designed as a one-size-fits-all costume. 5/6/2009 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Critter Costumes - Dog
MSRP: $14.99
Category: Costumes & Accessories

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 23572

Kids' imaginations will run wild with this 2-piece set which include a dog "head" and matching dog "shirt!"

Great for:

• Dress-up centers
• Dramatic play
• Storytelling
• School plays
• Costume parties

Comfortable, high quality, washable fabric. Easy-to-use Velcro® fasteners make dressing up simple. Made from flame-retardant material. One size fits all! 5/6/2009 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

PlayFoam 12 Pack
MSRP: $19.99
Age: 3 and up
Category: Arts & Crafts

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 22020

Tactile, colorful PlayFoam never dries out, can be molded and sculpted, leaves no residue, and sticks best to itself rather than the many surfaces of a home. Whether constructed into elaborate art projects or simply enjoyed for its unique texture, this double pack of PlayFoam in 12 colors contains enough to share.
— “PlayFoam is still strong,” said Janet Gregory, owner of Over the Rainbow Toys in Anchorage, Alaska.
— Of 44 retailers surveyed in late fall 2008, seven percent said PlayFoam is one of their top-selling items. 1/7/2009 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Blokus 3-D
MSRP: $29.99
Category: General Games

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 21590

This brain-building strategy game plays off the original Blokus but plays with entirely new configurations in four construction plans: steps, pyramid, tower and corner (shown). The player who ends up with the most squares showing from above wins the game. Launch date: 2008. 12/5/2008 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

My Body Activity Center
MSRP: $79.99
Age: 6 and up
Category: Science & Nature

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 21068

This interactive cloth wall chart helps children learn about a subject that fascinates them — the human body. The hanging activity center comes with 16 soft, stuffed, self-sticking organs, and 15 embroidered labels, for hours of science fun. Children love to play with the beautifully detailed, self-checking pieces as they learn about the organs and where they are located in the body. It includes a giant cloth charge (38.5” x 19.5”) with grommets, 16 self-stick organs, 15 self-stick labels and an activity guide. Launch date: January 31, 2008. 10/27/2008 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

GeoSafari Fossils Collection
MSRP: $19.99
Age: 8 and up
Category: Science & Nature

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 21065

The Fossils Collection includes nine different fossils in a handy storage tray, an informational guide, a four-color insert card of photographed fossils, and a die-cut sheet of circle labels for the fossils. Fossils included are brachiopod, bryozoa, crinoid stem, gastropod, colony coral, ammonite, shark's tooth, fossil fern and petrified wood. Launch date: January 31, 2008. 10/27/2008 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Kanoodle
MSRP: $10.99
Age: 7 and up
Category: General Games

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 20962

The Kanoodle case holds two solitaire games that challenge the player to build colorful 2D puzzles and 3D pyramids. Once a child picks a design from the included puzzle book, he or she puts some of the pieces into place as shown, then fills the empty spots with the remaining pieces. Only one of hundreds of possible combinations actually completes the puzzle.
— Three of 68 specialty retailers named Kanoodle when asked about their top-selling toy or game in October 2008.
— Dean Smith, co-owner of JaZams in Pennington, N.J., told TDmonthly in October 2008 his store sells about 24 units of Kanoodle each month. 10/17/2008 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Isolate
Age: 6 and up
Category: General Games

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 20492

Isolate begins with the tactical positioning of game pieces on the board. Then it's a race to be the first player to "slide, separate, and remove" all your pieces. Simple to learn, yet challenging enough for experienced competitors. Isolate is a great game for two to four players of all ages. 9/15/2008 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Sea Monkeys Sunken Treasure
MSRP: $19.95
Age: 6 and up
Category: Science & Nature

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 20423

This Sea Monkeys kit comes with everything one needs to get started raising these living, swimming ”micro-crustaceans.” After treatment with the included water purifier, sprinkle the pouch of dormant Sea Monkey eggs into the tank, and watch the new pets appear and grow. It comes with a “growth guarantee.”
— “Another thing that sells really well is the Sea Monkeys. We sell a lot of those, and we had one of those on display,” Pat Cooley, owner of Cooleykatz Toys Livermore, Calif., told TDmonthly in August 2008 when discussing popular science and nature toys.
— “Kids still get so excited about those little kits,” said Janet Gregory, owner of Over the Rainbow Toys in Anchorage, Alaska. “A lot of adults seem to be drawn to them, too, because of the nostalgia factor.”
— When asked about sales in their Science and Nature sections in August 2008, 25 percent of 64 retailers said kids in their stores loved items that allowed them to raise and watch a living creature. 9/8/2008 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Sparkle PlayFoam 6-pack
MSRP: $10.99
Category: Arts & Crafts

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 19668

Sparkling snowflakes, glittery stars, and shimmering fish are just a few of the dazzling creations kids can make with new Sparkle PlayFoam, now available in a rainbow of colors! Like classic PlayFoam, the new sparkly foam beads are non-toxic, and won’t dry, harden, or stick to surfaces, making clean up quick and easy. Launch date: 2008. 7/1/2008 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Smencils – Watermelon
MSRP: $5.99
Category: School Supplies

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 19460

Each of the five scented pencils in this set comes in a freshness tube and is designed to retain its Watermelon scent for two years. Smencils are made from 100-percent recycled newspaper. Many other scents are available. 6/18/2008 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Learning Resources Smart Toss™
MSRP: $59.95
Age: 3 to 6
Category: Preschool

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 19109

The game offers four play options: recognition of colors, number or shapes and free play. It also provides kinesthetic learning opportunities and promotes physical activity. “This product if fun and easy to use,” Educational Insights Inc. Advertising and Public Relations Coordinator Heidi Bultman told TDmonthly. “It also folds up nicely and can be cleaned easily.” Launch date: January 31, 2008. 5/30/2008 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Goofball Rally
MSRP: $29.99
Age: 5 and up
Category: Educational

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 19108

The game teaches color recognition and enhances logical thinking skills. “Kids will love the fast-paced game,” Educational Insights Advertising and Public Relations Coordinator Heidi Bultman told TDmonthly. It’s “very easy to understand and [there is] no reading required.” Launch date: January 31, 2008. 5/30/2008 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Air Traffic Control Tower
MSRP: $19.99
Age: 8 and up
Category: Educational

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 19107

The game is great for travel and brain exercise. The game features 48 different puzzles at differing levels of difficulty. “Kids will also like it because it has planes,” Educational Insights Advertising and Public Relations Coordinator Heidi Bultman told TDmonthly. Launch date: January 31, 2008. 5/30/2008 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Giant Blokus
MSRP: $169.99
Age: 5 and up
Category: Educational

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 19106

The strategy game teaches spatial reasoning and critical thinking skills. “Giant Blokus is fun to play, easy to learn and has huge games pieces,” Educational Insights Advertising and Public Relations Coordinator Heidi Bultman told TDmonthly. Launch date: January 31, 2008. THIS PRODUCT IS NO LONGER DISTRIBUTED BY EDUCATIONAL INSIGHTS. 12/4/08. 5/30/2008 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

GeoSafari Tyrannosaurus Rex
MSRP: $99.99
Age: 8 and up
Category: Science & Nature

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 18716

The kit features 30 snap-together parts, a rock-like base with six plant fossils, a dinosaur jawbone fragment, support rods, a full-color T-Rex action poster and full-color assembly instructions. The skeleton displays beautifully after assembly. “Dinosaurs are very popluar right now and our product is a great quality for the money,” Educational Insights Inc. Advertising and Public Relations Coordinator Heidi Bultman told TDmonthly. “Also, our dinosaur can be put together over and over again, and does not use glue.” Launch date: January 2008. 5/5/2008 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Glow-in-the-Dark PlayFoam Six-Pack
MSRP: $10.99
Category: Creative Activities

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 17471

The neon-colored foam glows when the lights are turned off. The foam sculpting beads are reusable, lightweight, non-toxic and won’t dry, harden or stick to surfaces, providing hours of mess-free fun. The pack includes six neon bricks in white, green, pink, yellow, blue and orange.
— “PlayFoam has been selling extremely well for about the last two years,” said Owner Melodie Ingwersen of Creative Kids Toy Shop in Columbia, S.C., in early spring 2008.
— “Our No. 1 activity set is PlayFoam,” Ingwersen reiterated in April 2008.
— In April 2008, four of 50 retailers named play foam as a best-selling item, while two of the four named Educational Insight’s product as the best-selling kit their stores. 2/12/2008 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

North Pole Camouflage
MSRP: $19.99
Age: 7 and up
Category: Puzzles & Skill

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 16568

Using snow and ice to camouflage the polar bear and blue water to conceal the whale and fish, players arrange and rearrange six transparent puzzle pieces so that the animals are camouflaged in their correct environments. The single-player game gets progressively more difficult after each game, with four levels of difficulty. Puzzle pieces and cards store in the game board’s pull-out drawer, making this the perfect on-the-go game. The game comes with a game board, 48 challenging puzzle cards, six puzzle pieces and a solution book.
— Camouflage is a highly popular game at Evan’s Toy Shoppe in Hamden, Conn. Owner Lori Hershman told TDmonthly in December 2007 that they sold “close to 300” in a single month. 12/13/2007 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

GeoSafari 10-in-1 Electronic Lab
MSRP: $19.99
Age: 9 and up
Category: Science & Nature

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 15317

Curious minds can investigate the magic of electricity through the distinctive and versatile 10-in-1 Electronics Lab. Young electronic engineers can build 10 different circuit projects with one unit, including a Morse code telegraph, a burglar alarm and a radio that really works. The 20-page illustrated project guide provides easy-to-follow instructions and diagrams, and the spring-coil construction means no tools or soldering are required. The lab requires a nine-volt battery, which is not included.
— "For boys 8 to 12, we steer a lot of them toward science. We have a lot of science kits that are fun, [such as] GeoSafari by Educational Insights," said Linda Hays, owner of Hopscotch Inc. in McMinnville, Ore.
— Michael Lanz, owner of Kiddy Corner in Ellington, Conn., said that “anything to do with science — science kits by Educational Insights,” will probably sell well during the holidays 2007.
— Two of 54 retailers predicted that science kits from Educational Insights will sell well for tween boys at Christmastime. 9/20/2007 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Sea-Monkeys Sea-Bubble
MSRP: $11
Category: Science & Nature

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 14522

The Amazing Sea-Bubble is a return to the version everyone remembers from decades past, but it's vastly improved. The complete set includes Zoo-Quarium 10 oz. tank, Aero-Vent lid, and pouches that include purifier, eggs, and growth food. It also features universal clasp, aqua-leash, calibrated feeding spoon, user guide and insurance policy. It's all mounted on a footed blister card with convenient butterfly hook. Instructions are provided on the back of the blister card.
— We've been selling a lot of sea monkeys lately," said David Campbell, owner of Amazing Toys in Great Falls, Mont. when asked about the science and nature section of his store. 8/7/2007 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

GeoSafari AntZone
MSRP: $21.99
Category: Science & Nature

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 14521

After easy assembly, students can watch the amazing world of ants in this rounded and escape-proof habitat. AntZone's snap-on lid with a built-in magnifier allows close-up views. In addition, students can conduct a variety of experiments described in the activity guide provided. Also included is a full-color 17" x 22" "All About Ants" classroom poster, dual magnifier, tweezers, water dropper, unique Sugarcement sand, tunnel starting tool, water dish, and certificate to obtain ants by mail.
— David Campbell, owner of Amazing Toys in Great Falls, MT, told TDmonthly that the "rounder" ant farms from Educational Insights were among the most popular science and nature toys with his customers. 8/7/2007 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Bunny Hop
MSRP: $24.95
Age: 4 to 6
Category: General Games

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 14377

Think fast to outsmart the bunnies eating their way through the carrot patch. In this game of hopping hide-and-seek, children learn to recognize colors and remember which of their bunnies are hoppers. The best memory wins! For 2–4 players. 7/27/2007 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

GeoSafari® Bug Scene Investigator
MSRP: $21.95
Age: 5 to 7
Category: Science & Nature

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 14375

Be a BSI! Super-cool portable tools let kids discover bug body parts, eating habits and other bug business—wherever they go. BSI Bug Scope Double-viewing action shows bugs from the top and bottom! GeoSafari® Bug Patrol® Catch-and-release container clips to clothing for hands-free bug patrol. Super Sleuth Microscope Check out tiny bugs at 30x their normal size! Discovering Bugs Full-color booklet gives kids the scoop on bug care. 7/27/2007 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Sprout & Grow™ Greenhouse with Wonder Soil
MSRP: $19.99
Age: 5 and up
Category: Science & Nature

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 13420

This kit includes a greenhouse with a transparent lid, two bags of Wonder Soil (100 mini wafers), three removable six-section trays and an activity guide with reproducible worksheets.  Setting up the greenhouse is simple, making the kit perfect for anyone without greenhouse experience.  Wonder Soil mini wafers expand quickly with water and are polymer-fortified for better drainage and faster plant growth.  The greenhouse measures 5.5" x 22.5" x 6.5".  Launch date: June 2007. 6/13/2007 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Digitz
MSRP: $49.99
Age: 8 and up
Category: Electronics

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 12978

This hand-held game lets kids have fun while learning to multiply. Kids can choose from five different pre-programmed games specially designed to teach kids skills that will help them master the art of multiplying. Lighting and sound effects enhance the fun, while the included headphone jack allows the games to be played quietly anywhere. 5/21/2007 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

CoinStruction Super Set
MSRP: $39.99
Age: 6 and up
Category: Construction

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 12688

Piggy banks were never this much fun. Kids will watch their pennies and nickels grow into fun designs using CoinStruction's connector clips. They just connect two, three or four coins together with the color-coded clips, and sets can be combined for even more building fun. Each set includes color-coded clips needed to build the featured item and step-by-step illustrated directions and guidelines for creating their own designs. The Super Set includes more than 1,300 clips to make the robot, helicopter, dinosaur and submarine.
— "I sell quite a bit of what they call CoinStruction. … It's probably more an educational type toy, and for people who collect quarters," said Cheryl Richmond, owner of Punkin Doodles in Havre, Mont., in spring 2007.
― Owner Nellie Fais of Toy Magic in Bethlehem, Pa., told TDmonthly in spring 2007 that Educational Insights has great customer service. “When I call, they always respond and can deal with any situation,” she said. 5/7/2007 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Color Scheme
MSRP: $29.99
Age: 6 and up
Category: General Games
Watch Video Now
ToyDirectory Product ID#: 12183

This tactical, two-player, color-mixing game brings the color palette to life. Players choose a secondary “target” color (orange, green or purple), and then use primary colored tiles to blend colors and get three target-colored tiles in a row. Players calculate and strategize as they rotate the swiveling tower to block their opponents while trying to win. The game includes a game tower, 30 dual-colored tiles and a guide. “It is incredibly challenging, yet easy for younger children to learn. ... A player must think several steps ahead of his or her competitor,” Kati Elliot of KEH Communications told TDmonthly. Launch date: May 2007. 4/3/2007 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

USA Foam Map Floor Puzzle
MSRP: $21.98
Age: 3 to 8
Category: Puzzles & Skill

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 11645

Travel cross-country through this beautiful, giant, 2' x 3' puzzle of the United States. Children can explore America’s states, capitals, landmarks, animals and more with hands-on play as they connect the pieces of this colorful, illustrated map. Kids will love playing with these extra-soft foam cutouts, even if they are educational. It includes 54 interlocking, water-resistant and easy-to-clean puzzle pieces. 2/26/2007 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Mr. Scrambles
MSRP: $39.99
Age: 3 and up
Category: General Games
Watch Video Now
ToyDirectory Product ID#: 11501

Mr. Scrambles is the talking, singing egg that will have kids cracking up. Mr. Scrambles leads kids in seven egg-citing activities — energetic eggs-ercise games, a hilarious hide-and-seek egg hunt, and spirited sing-alongs featuring familiar favorites like the Alphabet Song and even a cool rap! While playing with Mr. Scramble, kids stay active, develop important gross motor skills, and learn to follow directions. The game requires 3 AA batteries (not included). 2/19/2007 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Freeze Up!
MSRP: $24.99
Age: 8 and up
Category: General Games

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 11500

This keep-your-cool countdown category game begins when players press “go.” They receive challenges such as “Name an animal that starts with M” or “a flower that starts with R.” If players are not sure of an answer, they can press the button to change the category or the letter, and players can challenge each other’s answers. If a player doesn’t answer before the time is up, he is frozen out. The last player left, wins. The game features auto and manual modes plus 170+ think-quick categories. It requires 3 AA batteries (not included). 2/19/2007 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Play by the Book
MSRP: $29.99
Age: 8 and up
Category: Board Games

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 11474

This game uses fiction to develop reading comprehension skills, literal recall and literary analysis. Players read the same chapter or short story, and then travel through regions that represent different genres and feature familiar characters. The objective is to reach THE END by answering questions and judging players’ answers with facts from the story. Players on “action spaces” may act, make up rap song or more. “This is a great way for parents to get reluctant readers interested in reading stories. It is easy for even the beginning reader to play, yet can move up in difficulty as the stories become more complex,” Kati Elliot of KEH Communications told TDmonthly. Launch date: July 2006. 2/19/2007 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

GeoSafari Talking Telescope
MSRP: $29.99
Age: 5 and up
Category: Science & Nature

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 10549

Children can get an up-close view of 12 animals and eight space-age phenomena as they hear cool facts or take a fun quiz. The detachable telescope features 3x magnification, automatic shut-off, and two game modes: Facts and Quizspeak. It is designed to develop listening comprehension skills and teach children important scientific concepts. “Children are learning about planets and animals with incredibly beautiful pictures….They can learn interesting facts, then take off the optical piece and use it as a real telescope," Kati Elliott of KEH Communications told TDmonthly. 12/7/2006 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Science of Special Effects
MSRP: $39.99
Age: 7 and up
Category: Science & Nature

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 8748

This kit explores key concepts behind optical illusions and special effects as kids complete the 30 engaging experiments inside. Each experiment is fully illustrated in a step-by-step format, and then the science behind the effect is explained in kid-friendly language. The kit includes all components necessary, except for a few household items. 7/26/2006 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Let's Pretend – Microwave Oven
Category: Pretend Play

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 7983

This little microwave has tasty features, such as six timed food settings with pictures (popcorn, pizza and hot chocolate). The turntable actually rotates the food. The clear door lets kids see what’s “cooking” inside, said Pat Sarka, vice president of creative development at Educational Insights. 5/24/2006 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

We Sign – Babies & Toddlers
MSRP: $29.99
Category: Videos & DVDs

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 7960

We Sign is the interactive program that helps hearing children of all ages develop their memory skills as they hear, see, say and do the sign-and-sing songs in this award-winning series of ASL (American Sign Language) DVDs and videos. Playful signing and singing activities also enhance hand-eye coordination, creativity, language development, interpersonal relationships, self-confidence and self-esteem as children accomplish new skills. Each beautifully produced video showcases real children signing and singing their way to learning success. All DVD titles feature English and Spanish language tracks, closed captioning and subtitles. 5/23/2006 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Math Whiz
MSRP: $19.95
Age: 6 and up
Category: Educational

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 7672

Math Whiz plays like a video game and teaches like electronic flash cards. The portable, handheld unit quizzes kids on addition, subtraction, division and multiplication and works as a full-function calculator with the switch of a button. It includes lights and sounds for instant feedback, comes with eight skill levels and requires two AAA batteries (not included). Colors may vary. 4/21/2006 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Young Architects Brick and Mortar Construction Kit – Statue of Liberty
MSRP: $29.99
Age: 8 and up
Category: Construction

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 7580

With this line of building toys young architects can experience the excitement and pride of building their own ready-to-display stone replicas of world-famous architectural masterpieces. The kit comes with mortar, a mini wheelbarrow, a trowel, an L-shaped ruler and an 8-page instruction guide. The mortar dissolves in water, making it possible to build the structure again and again. 4/14/2006 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Young Architects Brick and Mortar Construction Kit – White House
MSRP: $29.99
Age: 8 and up
Category: Construction

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 7579

Amateur architects can build this replica of the White House with this kit that includes bricks, mortar, a mini wheelbarrow, a trowel, an L-shaped ruler and an instruction book. The mortar dissolves in water, making it possible to build the structure again and again. “Wooden building sets like Brick and Mortar are good,” Dean Nelson, owner of Wizard Kids Toys in Toledo, Ohio, told TDmonthly in spring 2007. 4/14/2006 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Young Architects Brick and Mortar Construction Kit – Empire State Building
MSRP: $29.99
Age: 8 and up
Category: Construction

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 7578

Amateur architects can construct a replica of this New York City landmark. This kit includes bricks, mortar, a mini wheelbarrow, a trowel, an L-shaped ruler and an instruction book. The mortar dissolves in water, making it possible to build the structure again and again. 4/14/2006 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Amazing Live Sea-Monkeys: Sunken Treasure
MSRP: $19.95
Age: 6 and up
Category: Science & Nature

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 7556

This kit includes dormant sea-monkey eggs that can be grown in a tank that includes a glow-in-the-dark sunken galleon for sea monkeys to swim around (they are attracted to light). This new hybrid of sea monkey changes colors from yellow to orange to red. The kit includes water purifier, food, illustrated handbook and more. 4/12/2006 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Blokus Trigon
MSRP: $29.99
Age: 5 and up
Category: General Games
Watch Video Now
ToyDirectory Product ID#: 7199

The next in the series of the international best-seller Blokus. Designed for two to four players, it was launched in 2006. THIS PRODUCT IS NO LONGER DISTRIBUTED BY EDUCATIONAL INSIGHTS. 12/4/08. 3/10/2006 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Sprout & Grow Window
MSRP: $15.99
Age: 5 and up
Category: Science & Nature

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 6717

This transparent window on the plant world allows botanists of all ages to watch seeds sprout and grow into plants — right before their eyes. The large, transparent Sprout & Grow Window stands upright on a tabletop or windowsill. Special potting soil nurtures seeds for optimum growth. It comes with packets of bean and pea seeds, and a step-by-step guide with instructions, suggested activities and journal pages to fill in, following the process from seed planting to full-grown plants. 1/25/2006 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

PlayFoam
MSRP: $9.99
Age: 5 and up
Category: Arts & Crafts
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ToyDirectory Product ID#: 5962

PlayFoam provides hours of creative fun with its lightweight, colorful foam-sculpting material that won't crumble, stick to skin or surfaces or dry out. According to an Educational Insights press release, PlayFoam was being “pre-ordered by the hundreds” at Toy Fair 2006.
— Sally Lesser, owner of Henry Bear’s Park in Massachusetts, told TDmonthly in spring 2007 that PlayFoam is a product her stores try to keep “in stock all the time, as I’m sure anyone would.” In fall 2007, Owner Idanna Smith of Juggles in Wakefield, R.I., named it as a best seller.
— Jim Whitney, president of Educational Insights, shared this insight with TDmonthly: "From the moment you touch PlayFoam it intrigues and fascinates ... It combines all the fun of sculpting with the soft, dry, squishy tactile feeling of a stress ball. It ... will last for years and is addictively fun."
— PlayFoam, a winner of a TDmonthly Top Toy 2007 award, is one of those creative alternatives to clay that many specialty retailers have made a staple in their stores. The reusable product comprises tiny foam balls that draw textural interest for the sculptor and offer visual appeal in a finished creation. Playfoam easily encourages open-ended play. 12/14/2005 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

The Amazing Live Sea-Monkeys On MARS
MSRP: $11.90
Age: 6 and up
Category: Science & Nature

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 5443

Sea-Monkeys go to Mars! Sea-Monkeys have already traveled on several NASA missions and now these rugged space pioneers are ready to explore the Red Planet! This Sea-Monkey habitat features mysterious craters, towering arches and dormant volcanoes making this detailed landscape a fascinating Sea-Monkey playground! A crystal-clear magnifying lid allows a better view of this alien world. And, of course, water conditioner, food, and... Sea-Monkeys! 11/9/2005 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Regatta
MSRP: $24.99
Age: 6 and up
Category: General Games

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 4625

This single-player puzzler challenges the "sailor" to line up his color-coded crewmen in concordance with the card he was dealt at the beginning of the game. The game comes with 22 boats of various lengths, as well as 80 crew pieces (20 each of red, blue, yellow, and green) and a race course. Regatta also has over 50 starting cards, with each one presenting a new puzzle to be solved. 9/16/2005 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

SoftWalls 7-Piece Set
MSRP: $199.99
Age: 3 and up
Category: Play Houses

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 4602

SoftWalls are inflatable panels with Velcro-lined edges that allow the user to connect the pieces and build a variety of playful structures. The panels come in different colors and sizes, and are made of durable nylon. Pieces can be inflated manually, or with a separate electric pump. Sure beats the old sofa cushion fort! 9/14/2005 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Sea Monkeys Mini World Hang 10
MSRP: $19.95
Age: 6 and up
Category: Science & Nature

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 4546

Like the beach? Like Sea Monkeys? This has both. First, there´s a small beach-scape monkey-arium that has a plastic beach scene complete with hoops and beach towels and surf´s up for the Sea Monkeys to swim in. It comes with water conditioner, Sea Monkey instant eggs and a packet of food. It has a small spoon for stirring and measuring the food. It has instructions. Follow the instructions, and it has ... drum roll please: Sea Monkeys! 9/12/2005 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Lincoln Logs Collectors Edition
MSRP: $99.99
Age: 3 and up
Category: Construction

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 4390

This beautiful set contains all wooden pieces stained to match those of the original Lincoln Logs. Its red chimneys and green slats rekindle memories of classic Lincoln Logs building fun. The keepsake wooden storage case is individually numbered for true collector quality. 8/31/2005 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Let´s Pretend Teapot
MSRP: $19.99
Age: 3 and up
Category: Preschool

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 4333

Kids who are trying to cut down on pretend coffee can give this little teapot a try. The bright yellow plastic pot “boils” and “pours” with realistic sound effects and lights. An easy-grip handle is sized just right for small hands. The pot holds real liquids. A weighted base prevents spills. It requires 3AA batteries that aren´t included. 8/26/2005 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Let´s Pretend Mixer
MSRP: $19.99
Age: 3 and up
Category: Preschool

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 4332

Kids can use this either as a stand mixer or a portable hand mixer. Realistic sound effects and light make it seem more like Mom´s and Dad´s. Kids can set it to two speeds: either auto or pusle. It also comes with two different types of beaters, plus a clear plastic mixing bowl. It´s safe for even the littlest fingers. It requires 2AA batteries that are not included. 8/26/2005 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Let´s Pretend Coffee Maker
MSRP: $21.99
Age: 3 and up
Category: Preschool

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 4331

Kids can start their days out right with a nice cup of fake joe, using this bright yellow coffee maker. They can fill the pot´s reservoir with clear or colored water and press the brew button to hear the sound of “coffee” perking. If they press another button, the water is dispensed into the coffee pot, accompanied by “dripping” sound effects. The pot requires 3AA batteries that are not included. 8/26/2005 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Let´s Pretend Blender
MSRP: $19.99
Age: 3 and up
Category: Preschool
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ToyDirectory Product ID#: 4330

Kids can whip up their own fake smoothies in this child-sized pretend blender. It has two settings, a clear measuring cut that holds real liquids, and a sturdy weighted base. A "pulse" button adds extra authenticity. The base is bright yellow, the dial is red, and the base is blue. It needs 3AA batteries, which are not included. 8/26/2005 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Let´s Pretend Toaster
MSRP: $12.99
Age: 3 and up
Category: Preschool

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 4329

This little toaster is about 5” high and has a weighted base. It comes with two pieces of play bread that can be placed the toaster. Kids just push down the lever at the side and the bread drops down, ready for toasting. A dialed timer allows up to seven different settings for the perfect piece of toast. A mechanical toy that requires no batteries, the timer is sufficiently noisy for the most demanding of tot chefs. The toaster is bright yellow with red, blue and white details. It gives out a satisfying "pop" when the toast is done. 8/26/2005 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Heximania
MSRP: $24.99
Age: 6 and up
Category: Board Games
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ToyDirectory Product ID#: 4298

Building words has never been so fun, or wild. This Hexagonal board game teaches spelling, letter identification, visual discrimination and vocabulary. Spinning the board as they go, the players take turns placing letter tiles, earning points for each word built. As long as letters are adjoining and in the proper sequence, words may be read in any direction-up, down, backwards and forwards. The person with the highest score when the board is full, wins! 8/24/2005 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Space Faces
MSRP: $29.99
Age: 4 and up
Category: Board Games
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ToyDirectory Product ID#: 4297

Space Faces is an outer space search-and-rescue mission. It´s a race to identify stranded galactic travelers by the colors of their "space faces." Comes with a game board with 120 unique space faces, an alien identification device, 20 purple aliens, four rescue craft and a guide. 8/24/2005 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Travel Blokus
MSRP: $19.99
Category: Board Games

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 4228

This compact two-player edition of Blokus is an on-the-go strategy game. It takes less than a minute to learn, yet has the depth to challenge both beginners and experts. Players alternate placing their game pieces on the board, touching at the corners only. With one move a player can block an opponent, but open up lots of future moves. Addictive? Yes. Mind-bending strategy? Definitely! It includes a gameboard with 196 recessed squares and 42 vibrant, translucent game pieces in a storage tray. THIS PRODUCT IS NO LONGER DISTRIBUTED BY EDUCATIONAL INSIGHTS. 12/4/08. 8/22/2005 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Sea Monkeys Ocean Of Light
Category: Science & Nature

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 3978

A Zooquarium with its own mini-searchlight (Sea Monkeys always head towards light), it comes with everything one needs to start a Sea Monkey preserve. Easy to raise (if you let the water dry out, the Sea Monkeys go dormant — add water, and voila: back in business), this is a fascinating toy for families on the go. 7/18/2005 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

See N' Solve
Age: 6 and up
Category: Educational

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 3925

This handheld ELA is a calculator with an over-sized LCD screen designed to helps kids improve their basic math skills. Problems are displayed vertically, just as a teacher would write them on the blackboard. Unlike traditional calculators, See N’ Solve displays the whole problem in the window, not just the last entry. 7/11/2005 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Math Shark
Age: 6 and up
Category: Educational

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 3924

Educational Insights’ top seller in the electronic learning device category, this handheld is a battery-operated flash card game used to quiz kids on addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions, decimals and percentages. It has eight levels of difficulty. The user sees concrete results and receives instant feedback. 7/11/2005 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

GeoSafari Phonics Pad
MSRP: $149
Age: 3 to 9
Category: Educational

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 3921

Packing for a phonics safari just got a little easier. This was initially introduced as the Launch Pad, an award-winning reading product designed for schools. The 10.5" by 13.5" Phonics Pad came out in 2004 with new technology that eliminated separate cartridges. It features clear audio. 7/11/2005 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Phonics Firefly
MSRP: $39.99
Age: 3 to 7
Category: Educational

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 3920

Don´t bring out the bug spray for this one! With seven different levels, the Phonics Firefly adapts to the child´s changing skills and abilities. The 16" x 12" game teaches phonics with a combination of lights and top-notch sounds. It is also a great tool for teaching children and adults with special needs. 7/11/2005 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Hot Dots With Power Pen
MSRP: $14.95
Category: Educational

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 3523

This creative teacher aid includes a Hot Dots Power Pen and comes with 300 cold — or wrong answer — dots, and 150 hot — or correct answer — dots that can be used to create any number of tests or quizzes. When the pen touches a cold dot, it makes a “boing” sound, and when it touches a hot dot, it responds instantly with lights and any of four positive reward sounds. Hot Dots provide immediate feedback, turning practice sessions into fun time.
— “Hot Dot[s] by Educational Insights [are] still very strong,” Rich Gordon, owner of Learning Express in Exton, Pa., told TDmonthly. 5/10/2005 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

The GeoSafari Talking Microscope
MSRP: $29.99
Category: Science & Nature

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 3441

This unique product introduces young children to science at an early age. Kids can examine all sorts of insects on 12 prepared interactive slides and listen while facts are shared about the critters. They can even switch the talking microscope to quiz mode to test their knowledge. It features a 5X focusing magnifier and a light for easy viewing. It requires three C batteries (not included).
— “The Talking Microscope allows even young children to learn about the small creatures they may see in the world around them.  It is highly interactive yet easy to use and provides several levels of game play to bring out the budding scientist in children,” Kati Elliott of KEH Communications told TDmonthly. 4/27/2005 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

GeoSafari Talking Globe Junior
Age: 6 and up
Category: Electronics

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 2817

The 12” talking globe provides a geography lesson using skill questions with varying degrees of difficulty.

-- It is a winner of the Great American Toy Test Top 10 Toys.
-- It is a winner of the Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Platinum Award.
--The colorful map provides a visually engaging experience. 2/10/2005 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Teddy
MSRP: $19.99
Age: 3 and up
Category: Preschool
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ToyDirectory Product ID#: 2112

Even non-readers can learn basic skills from Teddy, the teaching bear. Teddy comes with 24 two-sided game cards that fit onto a sturdy Play Pad. Children learn colors, shapes, visual discrimination, alike and different, go-together, and counting. With infinite patience, Teddy lets children know if they answered their questions correctly. 12/29/2004 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Let´s Pretend Appliances
Age: 3 and up
Category: Pretend Play

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 2111

Feed children´s imaginations with colorful appliances ($12.99-21.99) that feature moving parts, flashing lights and fun sound effects. Let´s Pretend Appliances include everything imaginable for hours of dramatic play in the kitchen: Blender, Coffee Maker, Mixer, Teapot and Toaster, sold separately. - Aire Norell 12/29/2004 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Otto, the Electronic Sensor Robot
MSRP: $39.95
Age: 10 and up
Category: Robotics

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 2110

Explore the intricacies of electronics with Otto´s 20+ project experiments. The accompanying guide provides directions for experimenting with light, sound, magnetism, and touch. Otto allows children to create photometers, flashlight "guns", visitor alarms, rain detectors, speech conductors, and more. - Aire Norell 12/29/2004 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Chameleon
Age: 7 and up
Category: Puzzles & Skill
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ToyDirectory Product ID#: 2065

It´s the 3-D building game with a colorful twist! Chameleon is an exciting and challenging memory game that requires concentration, strategy and a double dose of luck. Players compete to construct colorful towers using special blocks with hidden color strips revealed only when one block is stacked on the next. Surprise! The block instantly transforms into a new color. If you make a color match, you take another turn and keep building. If the colors are different, you must dismantle the tower and take all the stacked blocks as yours, except the top. Get rid of all your blocks first, and you´re the Chameleon champ! So sharpen your memory as you track the blocks to match how they interact with each color. And look for that special extra lucky block, the WILD BAR! You´ll need skill, luck and "stacktactics" to stay on top! - Aire Norell 12/27/2004 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

GeoSafari Quiz Phone
MSRP: $24.95
Category: Educational

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 1624

The GeoSafari Quiz Phone is a new electronic device that teaches readiness, social studies, math, science and vocabulary. The interactive talking and teaching phone comes with a full-color game book. 12/7/2004 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

MagStruction
Category: Construction

ToyDirectory Product ID#: 1555

New in 2004 from Educational Insights, MagStruction features four separate colorful magnetic construction system sets. A series of multiple geometric shapes and a veritable rainbow of colors makes young builders imaginations run wild. 12/6/2004 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]