May 2009 New Specialty Toys — General Toys

Perfect for princesses who want to take their treasures with them when roaming from the castle!  The fanny pack features a front zipper pocket for small toys and an elastic waistband with sheaths on either side for royal essentials.

These eco-friendly construction toys were inspired by children's board books and come with landscape and character pieces. Each set includes flat panels printed with colorful, water-based ink and slotted building blocks made from earth-friendly Sprigwood. The Palace and Barnyard are large sets. There are also medium sets: Construction Site, Ladybug Adventure and Safari Adventure (MSRP: $19.99). Large sets are 90 pieces; the medium are 60. Launch date: Fall 2009.

When thrown onto the ground, these squishy pigs splat into a flat, liquid-looking mess, then morph back into their original shape. The pigs come in four colors, and various designs are available. Launch date: February 2009.

The first completely electronic, solvable Rubik's Cube has six touch-sensitive sides. A player just moves his finger, sliding the row of colored squares where he wants. This version also comes equipped with a teaching tool that shows how to solve the puzzle, and a rechargeable battery with charging display stand. Launch date: Fall 2009.

The best toys are ones children dream up themselves. Eric Levin, president of TechnoSource, told TDmonthly that Printies “allow kids to experience a whole new level of customization and self-expression by creating their own stuffed toys.” Kids can design, print and stuff their own Printies toys, print them out with fabric paper, and stuff them at home — all with the items in this kit. Launch date: Fall 2009.

Smiley Central Studio™ toys allow kids to show the world who they are, how they feel and who they want to be. The plush come in 7” and 3” doll assortments, with a removable key clip for attachment to bags, clothes and backpacks. Kids can create a virtual version of their character or mix and match parts to create an original smiley. Every purchase earns points toward unlocking more creative features online. Launch date: Fall 2009.