October 2009 Notable Toys — Battery Operated

Raphael is the most assured martial artist of the group and this R/C vehicle follows in the same tradition. It is a full function R/C vehicle that is able to stop, turn and spin on a dime. It also features removable weapons and cool spinning action. "It is part of the only line of R/C vehicles featuring the ever-popular Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles," Andrew Eugenio, intern at Productivity PR Inc., told TDmonthly. Launch date: October 2009.

Featuring a two-channel remote control and a tail rudder for directional movement, the FlyTech Hoverpod racer can jet across most smooth surfaces and be controlled to maneuver around obstacles. Made from durable, lightweight materials, the racer is designed to be crash resistant. A simple 10-minute charge will last for up to five minutes of play. It requires 4 AA batteries (not included). Launch date: June 2009.

The WowWee Roborover™ robot is a talking, tread-based, roving explorer with an inquisitive personality that grows to become more confident as users navigate and play with him. The Roborover robot is operated via remote control and features poseable arms, head and waist. This shy little explorer features spoken content, various driving-based games, infrared sensors for obstacle avoidance, and tilt sensors allowing him to perceive when he has fallen over. It takes four C batteries, and the remote takes three AA batteries (not included). Launch date: August 2009.

This ready-to-fly mini helicopter measures 10.5 cm x 3.5 cm x 8 cm and can travel up, down, left or right. It requires 15 to 25 minutes of charge time for 6 to 8 minutes of flying time. It comes with a 3.7 Li-polymer battery and requires a transmitter battery (6*AA 1.5V - not included). Launch date: August 10, 2009.

Gentle Giraffe On The Go helps recreate sleep time routines by bringing familiar soothing sounds while away from home. Gentle Giraffe’s unique Serengeti sounds aim to take a child on a magical journey while effortlessly transforming unknown surroundings to a more familiar environment. It features four peaceful sounds, push-button sound selection with volume control, and two sleep-timer options, plus more, and may be used for all ages. Gentle Giraffe On The Go is part of the Cloud B Endangered Species Series, which helps bring awareness to animal friends who need our attention. A portion of every purchase goes to Conservation International. This product received a 2009 NAPPA Honors award, a 2009 iParenting Media Award for Outstanding Product in the Toy Category, a 2009 Creative Child Top Choice of the Year Award in the Travel-Soothing Sleep Aids for Kids Category, a 2009 Seal of Approval from the National Parenting Center, and a 2009 Dr. Toy Best Vacation Children's Product Award. Launch date: June 2009.