May 2009 New Specialty Toys — American-Made

Inspired by the author’s childhood memories of receiving notes in his lunchbox, Lunchbox Stories were created as an innovative way for kids to enjoy reading. With more than 40 chapters in each book, readers experience the twists and turns of each adventure through a series of suspenseful Chapter-Cards™. Four titles are available, and each story includes full-color illustrations and packaging. "The Chapter-Cards have approximately 200 words, and are written with just enough suspense to encourage the child to read the next card. The unique design makes Lunchbox Stories effective for quick and consistent reading before bed or during the day, and teachers find they can use the short chapters to playfully regain the attention of the class after recess and lunch," Brian Martin, president of Lunchbox Stories, Inc., told TDmonthly. Launch date: February 5, 2009.

Approximately 8" tall, this magnetic paper doll comes with outfits and accessories, most of which are interchangeable on other critters in the collection. They are made to cut out easily with regular scissors. "MAGNETIC PALS teach dexterity while expanding the imagination in all age groups from tots to older adults needing physical therapy," Jan Gardner, partner of Gardner's Gatherings, told TDmonthly. Launch date: April 2009.

These Christmas clothes will fit all but three of the MAGNETIC PAL critters and dolls. They do not fit Rita, the frog or the monkey. The designs are made to be cut out easily with regular scissors. "MAGNETIC PALS teach dexterity while expanding the imagination in all age groups from tots to older adults needing physical therapy," Jan Gardner, partner at Gardner's Gatherings, told TDmonthly. Launch date: April 2009.

Rita is magnetic and comes with clothing and accessories that are interchangeable with other critters in the collection. She is approximately 8" tall and can be cut out with regular scissors. Launch date: April 2009.

This is a complete, all-natural prenatal supplement system. "It's the most complete and only all-natural prenatal supplement on the market. All others are incomplete and/or include many to all synthetic ingredients that many can't absorb," Birgitta Lauren, president of Expecting Fitness Inc., told TDmonthly. "Whether you miss some nutrients and or you can't absorb the synthetic ones, you may end up deficient in some nutrients or get toxic high levels of others; either way, baby will suffer. Prenatal nutrition molds the health or lack of it, of a baby for the rest of its life." Launch date: August 2007.

Fashion prints in the softest flannel on one side and a sumptuous organic cotton velour on the other make these wipes hip and green. They are available in a relaxed, beach-y stripe or a colorful infusion of energetic blooms. "They offer endless uses: use as burp cloths; tuck at neck for an instant bib; excellent as traveling towels; use to clean up eating messes, drooling mouths and more," Tashi Nibber, president of Kissaluvs, told TDmonthly. The wipes are "hand-sewn by moms and grandmoms with love in Houston, Texas." Launch date: April 2009.

These natural wood construction sets are made using wood from sustainable forest management practices and are packaged in a cotton duck canvas bag. There are also sets in canisters and tubs to make cabins, forts and treehouses. The interlocking pieces require no tools and provide hours of safe and educational fun. The sets are made in the USA. Launch date: 2008.

The object of this double-play puzzle is to remove the ring. It can be solved in one way, then turned over, hanging vertically, to be solved differently. Launch date: 2009.

Made in the United States and available in pink, purple and green, this eco-friendly jump rope features 7' rope that's adjustable and made of 100-percent cotton, and handles made from recycled plastic. Launch date: 2009.

Made in the USA of recycled plastic milk jugs, this tool kit includes flat and Phillips screwdrivers, a wrench, pliers, a hammer, a saw, and two each of nails, bolts, nuts and two-hole connectors. The environmentally friendly set also includes a tool box for storage of the toys. Launch date: 2009.

Past Videos: ASTRA 2009

The Red Bolt Cape is elegant and durable. Each satin cape is lined with supersoft velvet chamois (made from recycled plastic bottles) and adorned with a retro-cool handsewn wool felt applique. The high neckline has a one-size-fits-all snap closure. It includes a drawstring bag, perfect for tucking away secret identities. Available in various styles, and two sizes, the cape starts at $18. It is handcrafted in San Francisco. Launch date: March 2009.

Jingle Blocks were created with baby's love for discovery and touch in mind. Soft and visually interesting prints are appliqued with felt stars, and a gently chiming bell is securely placed in the center of each block. Other applique options include letters and numbers. Other fabrics are also available. The product is made in Vermont. "The Jingle Blocks combine old-world quality with design that appeals to modern parents. There is a special magic about toys such as these blocks, that are handmade in small batches by artisans who love thier work. They are intended to be lasting heirlooms, cherished by many generations," Cecilia Leibovitz, president and creative director of Craftsbury Kids, told TDmonthly. Launch date: April 15, 2009.

The Vamos Kids product line is designed to introduce the Spanish language to toddlers and preschoolers through the use of toys and audio CDs while interacting with a parent. Launch date: November 2008.

Follow history in the making with our 44th President. Each card in this 510-card deck identifies an actual campaign promise made by Obama, and provides background information on the impact of the promise. This deck is an ideal starting point for lively debates, discussions and classroom activities. Compiled by reporters and researchers at Politifact.com, this deck can be used interactively to track the progress of each promise. It is made in the USA. Launch date: March 2008.

This no-stress optical illusion coloring activity captivates all ages, has global appeal, and is ideal for mixed boy and girl groups. The activity is easy to assemble, totally child safe, and made in the USA. Each Party Fun Pack for 8 Children contains eight morphed placemat coloring pages with colorable borders, eight Morph-O-Scope mirror decoders, and eight bonus morph activities. Activity time is about 30 to 45 minutes. Retail cost per child is about $2. The Princess Pony Party Fun Pack meets or exceeds all U.S. safety standards. Pirate and Halloween themes are also available.

Available in blue and purple, this play sand has a unique texture and almost lifelike quality. It is dustless, non-stain, eco-friendly, and safe for kids, and may even be used in reptile habitats. The product is made in the USA. Launch date: February 2009.

Part of a collection designed to introduce children to Spanish in a fun way, this set of five vehicles (car, truck, airplane, boat and bus) bearing their names in Spanish as well as the phonetic pronunciation. It also comes with a CD that has the pronunciation and activity phrases. Launch date: 2009.

Muu, the new children’s furniture line created by Robert Kwak, is inspired by the Zen concept of Mu, which teaches that there is no difference between us and our environment. This modern crib  can be tailored to your personal taste. A centerpiece that is safe, comfortable, and elegant, it will become a family heirloom. Make it your own with a custom MuuPanel® … which is a snap to change for baby number two … or three. Made in the USA, the Sam Crib features fixed side rails for greater stability, three-level adjustable mattress position, easily converts to toddler bed with Sam Toddler Conversion Kit, fits standard 28" x 52" full-size crib mattress (not included), made of solid maple, poplar and recycled wood fiber MDF, white non-toxic lacquer finish, easy assembly.  Launch date: February 2009.