A handheld flash-card game that targets tricky times tables. Kids can play just the ones they want or select them all. Answer as many problems (numbers 0–12) as they can in 60 seconds. Vertical problem format, 2 skill levels, timed/untimed modes, plus fun sound effects. Requires 3 AAA batteries, not included.
Awards: 2012 Dr. Toy 100 Best Toys

WrapStar is the first mic kids can bend and twist. With 3 feet of bendability, kids can get all wrapped up in the fun. Each color includes three fun sound effects, and the built-in speaker provides ultimate creative freedom.
Awards: 2012 Dr. Toy 100 Best Toys

Simply touch the face to unlock the most technologically advanced Omnitrix ever created. The pop up touch pad allows kids to discover over 40 sounds and three separate modes of play. Mode one allows kids to hear 7 Alien voices, while mode two has ambient sounds that kids can overlay their own sound effects onto and create beats. Mode 3 allows them to replicate the DNA code found in other Ben 10 items to unlock secret messages from Azmuth, the creator of the Omnitrix.
Awards: 2012 Dr. Toy 100 Best Toys

Kids can send their Spidey up the wall after villains with this fast-climbing figure. When kids point the controller at him and press the buttons, he climbs up and down, left and right, even upside down. Put him on smooth, clean, dry surfaces such as windows and his mini-vacuums help him stick to the surface. Then guide the wall-crawling action with the controller.

Kids can capture still images and movies with this cool The Amazing Spider-Man Digital Camcorder from Marvel. The handheld video camera takes movies at an effective resolution of 640 x 480. Its built-in microphone captures sound, and the included Snap n' Share software lets kids create personalized videos with a soundtrack, edit titles and credits, and produce fun visual effects. Pictures are stored on an SD or MMC card (sold separately) up to 8GB, and USB and AV outputs transfer images and videos to a computer or television. Dimensions: 4"H x 2.5"L x 1.75"W. Weight: 6 oz.

The ultimate large scale battleground for all HEXBUG Warriors students comes with two fully-armored collectible HEXBUG Warriors, eight Battle Stadium Pieces (compatible with Battle Arena) and 12 standoffs. There are two assorted HEXBUG Warrior Battle Stadiums available for fans to collect. Each features a different opposing pair of Warriors.
— "Super easy to snap together...my son gave it a huge thumb’s up!" - Review from Kathy at DetroitMommies.com.
Awards: 2013 TDmonthly Seal of Approval

The battle arena is the perfect stage for HEXBUG Warriors students to hone their skills. It comes with two HEXBUG Warriors with weapons and armor, two expandable battle arena pieces (compatible with Battle Stadium), three standoffs and extra bonus armor. There are four assorted HEXBUG Warrior Battle Arenas available for fans to collect. Each features a different opposing pair of Warriors.
— "The robots do look really cool with all the different armor that can be switched back and forth with the other robots to make your own custom version...My son’s only suggestion was that they should come up with a solar powered version so the batteries would last a little longer." - Review from Kathy at DetroitMommies.com.

Kids can operate their HEXBUG Warriors in Training Mode, with unlimited health, for scrimmages and testing purposes. Once the Warriors are equipped and ready for battle, they can be powered into Match Mode and are set to enter into competition, where they crash, jab and jostle with their opponents until they win or lose by running out of health at which point they deactivate. Once put in Match Mode, each robot’s Shock Sensor activates its Damage Indicator Light which changes colors from green to red and blinks more rapidly as its health decreases. There are 12 assorted HEXBUG Warrior Battling Robots Single packs available for fans to collect. Each Single pack includes 1 fully-armored Warrior.
— Mary Porter Green, owner of Curiosity Zone in Ashbburn, Va., told TDmonthly in a Fall 2012 survey that Hexbugs are one of their bestselling tween toys. "In a good month, we sell dozens," she told us.

This is one individual littleBits bit: The temperature sensor senses the temperature surrounding it. Whether it's sitting in a cold glass of water, or just hanging out at your table, or anything in between, the temperature sensor gets stronger when it's warmer. The littleBits Starter kit or Teaser kit, or the USB Power bit is required for use.

The #1 learning tablet just got better! LeapPad2 Explorer™ inspires kids to imagine and explore with front-and-back cameras, 4 GB of memory and a library of 325+ apps for limitless learning and fun. Comes bundled with Explorer Learning Game Cartridges: Disney Jake and the Never Land Pirates and Disney•Pixar Pixar Pals and a green LeapPad case. Also comes in pink.

Ravensburger’s Augmented Reality technology makes puzzles come to life. Download the free AR Puzzle app from the App Store that utilizes the camera function of the iPhone or iPad versions 2 and 3 to animate the scene. Experience a totally new visual reality and reveal audio details, sound effects and factual information. Watch these fascinating animals roam through their natural habitat and listen to the sounds of Africa.
— As of 07/23/2012 this product had 4.6 out of 5 stars from 17 reviews on Amazon.com. Pros: Great picture quality; has a nice mix of easy and difficult sections; AR component can help encourage kids to play with a more traditional toy (you have to complete the puzzle before you can unlock the digital components). Cons: One reviewer said the interlocking pieces were looser than is usual for a Ravensburger puzzle; only works with iPhone or iPad.

The Ares™ Ultra-Micro MD 500D CX 100 is perfect for first-time and experienced pilots looking for an ultra-scale and ultra-stable heli they can fly indoors almost anytime and anywhere. The highly-detailed MD 500D scale body is equipped with LED lights and is available in two attractive trim schemes while the included decals allow for quick and easy customization as a News, Rescue, Fire or Police helicopter. The MD 500D CX 100’s coaxial, counter-rotating blade design offers excellent control and unsurpassed stability that will have any first-time pilot hovering like a pro in no time. The ultra-micro size and low weight make it possible to fly indoors in just about any bedroom, living room or office, and best of all the heli is 100% factory-assembled and ready-to-fly right out of the box. Also in the box is everything needed to fly including AA batteries for the 4-channel transmitter equipped with interference-free 2.4GHz technology, an LCD screen, dual rates and digital trims, a 220mAh 1S 3.7V LiPo battery and DC USB charger for charging from almost any computer or 5V USB power source, plus an AC adapter for quick and convenient charging from almost any outlet.
— In a Summer 2012 survey about electronic and battery operated toys, Mark Rosenblum from Hobbytown in Fairfield, Conn., told TDmonthly that he sells 20-30 RC helicopters from E-Flite and Ares each month.

TeenyTrack Nano Kit is Worldwide smallest moving train set that recommended for dedicated enthusiasts, who are striving to build stuff by themselves. Fits the Dole Houses. The kit includes: 1. Fully integrated Unit, does not require any assembly. 2. Set of Silver Nano Express Train (one locomotive and three passenger cars)  3. Power adapter for 110 V - 250 V. Proudly Made in the USA. "The smallest moving Track with the train on it," Ed Lopatinsky, President of IDL Motors, told TDmonthly. Launch date: June 2012.

Virtual Strumming with No Strings Attached. Play the Air Guitar by pressing on the chord buttons & strumming in the air.  Connect to an iPod & play along with favorite songs. Infrared sensor detects your hand motions. Plays all chords in major, minor, sharp, flat & 7th. Play along with 10 preset songs. Built in speaker. Earphone jack for private playing. Connects to an external amplifier. Connect to any music player to play along. Free play mode. Runs on 2 ‘AAA’ batteries (not included).  Size: 8 ¼” x 3 ½” x 1 ½” Weighs: 6 ozs. Launch date: January 2012.

A part of the company’s recently expanded "spy line," this role play toy includes a video camera operated by a remote control that enables kids to view their subjects from 250 feet away.

The Cybercycle is full function RC and powered for sleek-riding slides and maneuvers. Designed with hidden wheels that prevent falling over, this motorcycle has front and back wheels that are independently controlled for the coolest of maneuvers. Drive this cycle real fast up to 25 feet or perform power slides and sleek maneuvers.

Comes with 9 inserts, and up to 6 can be displayed at a time. Rotates on it's own, makes a great nightlight or children's room decor item.

Kids can build and program their own computer. As easy as snapping together the circuits and downloading Elenco’s programs. Kids can write their own programs using Basic commands or flowcharts. Includes over 100 projects and over 50 parts. A great introduction to microcontrollers and how they are used in the world around us. Requires 3 "AA" batteries.
Awards: 2013 TDmonthly Seal of Approval

The BugLit "body" is actually our powerful INOVA Microlight - a tough micro flashlight encased in a durable polycarbonate plastic housing, with four functions (high power, low power, strobe, and signal). This bright white LED has an effective range of up to 50 feet, and one-mile visibility. Next, the securely attached "legs" are two flexible, fully moldable 6" Nite Ize Gear Ties, which can be bent, wrapped, or twisted in many configurations, to sit, stand, store, or shine the flashlight. Wrap the legs around the body for compact storage and transport. And, finally, its lightweight plastic S-Biner clip allows you to attach, hang, or store the BugLit for convenient access on zippers or keys.

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.

The original Boogie Board LCD eWriter that started a revolution. Ultra light (4oz.) and thin (1/8"). One just isn’t enough. Get one for on the go, in the office and multiple places around the house. Almost anywhere you’d keep memo pads, sticky notes or scrap paper.
— Erika Evers, owner of Dancing Bear Toys in Hendersonville, N.C., told TDmonthly in an April 2012 survey that their best selling travel toy is the Boogie Board. They sell 6-7 each month.
— Chris Lowe, owner of Beanhead Toys in Sandy Springs, Ga., told TDmonthly in a late Summer 2012 survey that they sell 15 of this item each month, making it a bestselling novelty item.
— Greg Larson, owner of Larson's Toys and Games in Columbus, Ohio, told TDmonthly in a March 2013 survey that they sell 18 Boogie Boards each month, and up to 48 a month during 4th quarter.

Where to buy:
NORTH WEST

The Legends of MIMOBOT Series features icons, geniuses, and stars of the human race. Leading off the initiative, and in collaboration with the Albert Einstein Estate, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, and GreenLight, is the Einstein™ x MIMOBOT line of up to 64GB flash drives. The Einstein™ x MIMOBOT drives come preloaded with bonus Mimory™ and the MimoDesk™ personalization suite of Einstein-themed wallpapers, icons, and avatars. With his signature bushy hair and mustache, Einstein™ MIMOBOT reveals his lighthearted side when you remove his cap, exposing the USB plug and Einstein's playful pose with tongue sticking out. Launch date: 2012.

littleBits is a system of modular electronics that snap together with tiny magnets for prototyping and play. The littleBits starter kit is the first kit by littleBits and contains all you need to get started within seconds. Each bit has a simple, unique function (light, sound, sensors, etc), and modules snap to make larger circuits. With a growing number of available modules, littleBits aims to put the power of engineers in the hands of artists, makers and children. Included in the kit are 10 color coded modules (power, input, output, and wire) that snap together magnetically to create larger circuits, guaranteed to keep kids occupied for hours. Comes packaged in an attractive case with a magnetic closure and includes an instruction sheet, 9v battery and a custom plastic screwdriver. 

This tablet features a 7-inch color touchscreen, can can download movies, musics, apps, and e-books. The tablet boasts web-browsing capabilities, and parents have the ability to limit content and websites of their choice. Downloaded content can be stored on an SD card, or to embedded memory. Launch date: 2012.

This Barbie has a 5 megapixel camera and LED encase in her chest. When kids snap a picture, it appears on Barbie's t-shirt (the LED screen). This rechargeable Barbie can hold up to 100 pictures, and features 15 different effects to alter the photographs. To upload pictures to a computer, simply hook Barbie up via the mini USB port in her back. Launch date: 2012.