September 2009 Notable Toys — Science & Nature

This 10x-300x digital microscope is compact and connects directly to a PC via the included USB 2.0 cable. There is no software installation required. Once connected, it's easy to magnify and view endless kinds of specimens and materials — from fabrics and coins to leaves and insects. Six LED lights illuminate the specimen and there are four brightness levels that are controlled by a button on the front of the microscope. Launch date: June 2009.

From the "It's Our Planet" series, this DVD is designed for kids to learn about the animals, people and plants that call this region home. They can discover what a rainforest needs to survive, and how this beautiful natural resource is disappearing. In collaboration with rainforest conservation organizations, One Smart Cookie has compiled an educational and informative DVD that uses imagery and video. "The DVDs in the 'Let's Explore' series and in the 'It's Our Planet' series use a multi-level format to cover background knowledge, as well as appealing to a wide age group (pre-K through age 10). Multi-level learning (or differentiation of instruction) is a critical factor in our children's education. Being able to move at their own pace allows your child to feel a sense of pride as they complete a level and move onto the next. Each level in the 'Let's Explore' series expands on the teachings of the previous level, adding more facts, vocabulary and scientific knowledge," Keli M. DiRisio, CEO of One Smart Cookie Productions, told TDmonthly. It was named a 2009 Dr. Toy Vacation Product of the Year and was a 2009 Gold Award winner in the National Parenting Publications Awards (NAPPA). Launch date: May 2008.