November 2008 Notable Toys — Developmental Toys

Excalibur Electronics presents Phantom Force, a powerful chess set with one incredible trick–it moves pieces all on its own. Utilizing the latest in micro motor and magnet technology, Phantom Force brings chess computing into the 21st century. Phantom Force will play Knights, Pawns and other pieces, sliding them into position as if an invisible hand were controlling it. "Phantom Force Chess offers a wide variety of features, including sound effects, voice vocabulary in three languages, hint button, coaching mode, teaching mode for new players, time control, built-in dual chess clock display, in-game memory, adjustable LCD contrast, [and] auto-shut off, and [it] is designed with a storage compartment to hold your chessmen," Meg Sahdala, senior product manager at Excalibur Electronics Inc., told TDmonthly. Launch date: 2008.
— As of 1.06.2011 this product was listed as a bestseller in the Games & Puzzle category on Toysrus.com. Pros: Helps hone logic skills; can be played alone.

These blocks, designed in Italy, can be connected in four different ways (vertically, stacked, laterally, perpendicularly and obliquely). "The models that could be made with these building blocks, unlike ... others, are realistic reproductions. For example, the airplane model [looks like] a real airplane; the castle [resembles] a real castle, etc. From the educational point of view, Special Cross develops creativity and imagination in children, as well as precision and patience," Georgiy Saturchenko, president of Bim Bom Trading, Inc., told TDmonthly. Launch date: August 2008.

Suitable for children ages 1 1/2 and up, this wooden puzzle made in Taiwan is designed to improve hand-eye coordination and motor skills. The different puzzle pieces — items found in dad's suitcase — are labeled underneath: tie, watch, electric razor, wallet and more.

This dual-headed gripping spoon is intended to be used prior to an infant/toddler actually needing it to eat.  This allows a child to target the path from table to mouth ,so when they are fully fledged table eaters, there are less mishaps and increased success. The arc-shaped handle with angled lateral guard forms a wedge-like shape to reduce hand shifting along the handle.  This allows for a more consistent path from table to mouth. The dual lateral guards pevents gagging and the dual heads prevent choking.  Additionally, the arc-shaped handle makes the spoon–end angle toward the mouth so by just pivoting at the elbow toward the mouth enables success (no wrist movement required).  This reduces the need to coordinate the movement of multiple body parts, which reduces neurological stress and increases time on task and focus. Launch date: January 25, 2007

Students, friends and their fellow employees can have fun and get to know one another by responding to this ball's suggestions to share experiences from work and personal life. The 32 panels include questions and statements such as "Smartest Career Decision" and "Two Office Tools You Can't Live Without." Launch date: September 2008.

Ideal for counseling, character-building activities and socialization among employees, the Virtues & Values Thumball includes three positive characteristics for each letter of the alphabet, inviting comments on qualities that the speaker or other players have. Launch date: September 2008.

Featuring various color palettes, designs and different textures, these flat shape characters are extra easy for little ones to grasp. "Bright Beginnings products benefit a children’s development by enticing them to explore through visual and tactile stimulation," said Stephanie Araujo, marketing coordinator for Russ Berrie. Launch date: 2008

Toddlers can open the barn door on this activity set and find a barnyard of fun just waiting for them. They'll be delighted to discover three soft removable friends inside: a cow that chimes, a squeaky little chick and a cute pig that rattles. "This playset combines different sights, sounds, and textures to encourage toddlers' development and stimulate their imagination," said Stephanie Araujo, marketing coordinator for Russ Berrie. Launch date: 2008.

Kids can play simple tunes on this durable, wooden instrument by just covering different holes to play various notes. It's an excellent instrument to add to a child's band. Launch date: October 2008.

Enrich a child's knowledge with this Odyssey Magic Talking Farm Learning Toy. Watch as he or she giggles while playing and learning at the same time. The Learning Magic Talking Barnyard Learning Toy by Odyssey includes a Magic farm barn and pasture; six farm figures (farmer, horse, cow, chicken and sheep); and six learning modes, including Number, Color, Counting, Characters and Quiz modes. "This educational toy is not sold in big-box stores," assured Sal Irigoyen, president of Odyssey Marketing. Launch date: 6/1/2008

This new line of marine-inspired plush allows members to create their own virtual and interactive aquarium amid realistic ocean scenery. Each SeaPal comes with a secret code that allows kids to log on to www.seapalsworld.com where they can personalize an aquarium, play games, chat with other fish in the sea, explore reefs and shipwrecks, and learn about marine life. "This is the ultimate marine-inspired, web-interactive plush that lets kids build their own virtual aquarium amid realistic ocean scenery," said Stephanie Araujo, marketing coordinator for Russ Berrie. Launch date: 07/01/2008

An amazing soft discovery cube turns inside out to reveal six different sides — 12 sides in all. The toy features engaging images and patterns, multiple textures and beautifully embroidered details. It encourages exploration and teaches lessons in object performance. This product is designed to entice, entertain and nurture the developing minds of children from birth to 3 years.

Easy-stand, extra large dominos are designed for little hands to easily manipulate. The uniquely designed base and pitch of each domino helps the small child stand them up easily, with little frustration and yet when pushed they will come crashing down upon each other. Children will find many ways to design and stack the dominos using bridge and stairs.
Awards: A TDmonthly Classics Award for being an all-time favorite toy.