TDmonthly - Santa Gets Smarter: Science Toys Are Hot Sellers This Holiday Season

This high-tech tumbler transforms rough rocks and minerals into smooth, shiny gemstones. It is great for making decorative accessories or gifts. Tumbling machine comes with 1/2 lb. of rough rocks. The grinding powder duplicates nature´s erosion process, delivering a smooth finish. Includes two key chains, two necklaces, rings, earrings and glue. Instructions on how to find polishable rocks outdoors are included. It is approved by Underwriters Laboratories — the worldwide trusted source for product compliance. It includes a two-month manufacturer´s warranty.

For all those kids who have a burning desire to launch a rocket, this is another creation from the man who created the Ultimate Robot Kit and the Robot Challenge Kit, David Eckold. The Ultimate Rocket Kit contains four different rockets, each with its own mission. Read up on rockets in the enclosed book, build one and get it ready to soar into space.

Create four kinds of intruder alarms with voice warnings, secret message devices, a pressure-activated security mat, a metal detector or a lie detector. Record your own secret messages and play them back automatically. The set includes 10 electronic blocks, one jack plug, two pressure mat cards, decorative stickers and an Inventor´s Manual. Each kit includes bright transparent electronic blocks that connect into circuit systems to create fun activity toys. All Logiblocs integrate with each other to provide an ongoing, expandable discovery system of endless creative fun.
— The Toy Chest manager, Winnie Chaffee, likes the Spy-Tech Lab because, “It does so many things. It keeps a child occupied and challenges their thinking. They have fun ‘spying’ while learning about electronics. It’s a fantastic toy.”
— John Verloc, owner of Electro-Toy in Topeka, Kan., said about Logiblocs: “They’re both informative and fun. Because of their plug-and-play nature, younger kids can enjoy them, while older kids can expand and use their creativity.”
— It won a Dr. Toy´s Best Vacation Product.

In addition to the Robosapien and Robopet, Wow Wee is now introducing the Roboraptor. The robotic dinosaur is fully functional in three modes: remote-controlled, where the owner controls his actions; free-roam mode, where the Roboraptor's artificial intelligence takes over; and guard mode. Motion sensors, infrared vision and laser-tracking technology all make this dino one of the smartest toys on the market, as well as one of the most fun and unique.
— “The coolest toy on the market. Everyone wants one,” effused Danny Southerland, owner, CEO and head banana of Shenanigans in Austin, Texas.
— “I was surprised that at this price point Roboraptors are outselling toys one-tenth their cost,” explained Rikki Desoto, manager of The Play’s The Thing in Rochester, N.Y.
— “Amazing. Can’t say enough about it,” piped Tom Finci, owner of The Toy Stop in Portland, Ore.

Bring nature inside and witness the wonder of the butterfly life cycle with this amazing experience. The roomy 2-foot-tall Butterfly Pavilion habitat "pops-up" easily, looking like a Chinese lantern. Hang it from a string or set it on a tabletop for best display. The breathable see-through mesh and zippered entry allows easy access for care and feeding. The Butterfly Pavilion is a 2004 Teacher´s Choice Award winner.

Build incredible mazelike marble rollercoasters with both the starter and advanced construction kits. They retail for between $20 and $30.

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!