November 2012 Notable Toys — Eco-Friendly

Designed for both the classroom and the playroom, this magnetic wooden block set includes 106 blocks in 8 shapes: 12 cubes, 8 large columns, 16 mega planks, 26 long planks, 8 medium columns, 8 small trapezoids, 8 large trapezoids, and 20 short planks. During Tegu’s design process, we observe students in their natural environments and create educational tools that encourage active, inquisitive, and resourceful minds at all grade levels. Powered by magnets, Tegu Blocks offer puzzle-like constructive possibilities that challenge students to develop and problem solve their way to gravity-defying breakthroughs—improving hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills in the process. Launch date: February 2013.

The Urban Canvas Cityscape Building Set is constructed of heavy duty recyclable cardboard and contains 40 connector pieces and 6 specially shaped roof top pieces. Each interlocking piece is pre-printed on both sides with city scenes, skyscrapers and buildings. Children can delve into the wonder of the city by building a tall skyscraper or a wide city skyline. The pieces fit together to build endless configurations, even animals, planes, or anything the imagination can create. "While 'skyscrapers' can be constructed with other building sets, the Cityscape set is the only one with a city structure and skyline motif and specially shaped pieces to achieve the architectural elements of an actual skyscraper," Maria Chee, founder of Urban Canvas told TDmonthly. Launch date: September 2012.

As children turn the pages of Care for Our World, they’ll encounter dozens of playful creatures, and will learn the importance of caring for all the plants, animals, and people that call planet Earth their home. The whimsical animals come to life with this punch-out-and-play set, which includes everything kids need to create and explore their own wildlife habitat. Simply punch out and assemble the pre-cut animals and plants, and use the habitat box as a backdrop for hours of imaginative play. Launch date: May 2012.
Awards: 2012 Mom's Choice Award; 2012 Silver Medal in Book with Merchandise (plush toy, etc.), Moonbeam Children's Book Award; 2012 Playset of the Year, Creative Child Awards; 2012 Top Toy of the Year, Creative Child Awards; 2012 Runner-up in the Children's Books Category, Green Book Festival

This non-toxic nail polish now comes in a brand new neon bubblegum pink. Launch date: October 2012.

This environmentally friendly, wooden Threading Beads Set is made of wood from FSC-monitored source, painted with water-based paints, packaged in a sturdy reuseable box made of recycled materials, and printed with soy-bean ink. Includes 12 double-sided wooden beads with charming Boikido characters and numbers (1 - 12). Develops fine motor skills, encourages problem solving, and learn numbers and counting. Comes in a sturdy re-usable box for easy storage. Tested to meet European and U.S. safety standards. Launch date: February 2013.

The Classic set consists of 36 varieties of maple blocks. Painted with non-toxic water based acrylic paints and sealed with organic beewax.
Awards: 2013 TDmonthly Seal of Approval

Green Toys' Flatbed Truck and Race Car lets kids ages one and up enjoy two cars, either apart for racing or stacked together for hauling. These eco-conscious vehicles are made in the USA from 100 percent recycled plastic milk containers. The recycled products in this set help to save energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Parents can feel confident giving this toy to their little one as it contains no BPA, PVC, phthalates, or external coatings.
— As of 10/26/2012 this product had 4.6 out of 5 stars from 51 reviews on Amazon.com. Pros: Durable; BPA and pthalate free; made in the USA. Cons: Several users mentioned that the wheels had difficulty turning.

Singer-Songwriters Lydia Adams Davis and Kathy Byers have collaborated on this album of original songs about nature, recycling, animal habitats, global warming, conservation and environmental awareness. Highlights include the sprightly "Shy Raccoon," the appropriately tropical and lyrically transformative "Chameleon," and the easy picking tale of the great northern environment "In Alaska." Elsewhere, we are treated to tales of the decidedly un-limbed "I Am Snake," the busy "Be a Bumble Bee," and the complexity of ecosystems in "Think About the Ocean." Other favorites include "We Study Frogs" which will be a welcomed song for any science teacher to learn, and the pressing question of "Why Do Turtles Cross the Road," answered in the song of the same name. The album closes with the lovely and spirited "Song of Life" which should become the theme song for every nature center and school. The CD comes in mostly paper packaging, with nature-themed illustrations, a full booklet of lyrics and credits. Launch date: January 2012/
Awards: 2012 A Parents' Choice Award-Music Category

Big Owl Toy makes the perfect addition to your baby's toy collection. Measuring 16” tall and available in two colors, the cuddly owl will be cherished for years to come. Makes for a great pillow as well. Launch date: September 2012.

A wall hook with handy storage built in. It's perfect for tidying purses, jackets, phones, loose change, and lots more. hooknooks are made from 50% recycled polypropylene. hooknooks have a diameter of 3.75", and extend outward 4.75" from the wall. mounting hardware is included. Launch date: 2011.

The Little Yoga Mat is a colorful, eco-safe yoga mat for babies and toddlers.  Designed by a yoga mom and created for the under 4 set, The Little Yoga Mat is a multi-purpose mat that works beautifully for tummy time, nap time and on-the-go.  Toss it into a stroller bag or backpack and take it on your travels!  It's simple to clean (soap & water), and comes in 2 yoga inspired designs:  SUN or LOTUS flower.  Kids LOVE having a mat that's just their size. Launch date: January 2011.
— As of 09/25/2012 this product had 5 out of 5 stars from 2 reviews on Amazon.com.

Whoo Hooo! You little one now has a new friend! Measuring 6", this owl toy will be your child's favorite new companion, especially while on the go! Made with the finest 100% GOTS certified Organic Egyptian cotton.

Buddy the Dog makes a cute companion and a great baby gift. Measuring 16” tall Buddy is available is two colors, Rugby Red Rib Knit or Soft Stripe Navy Terry. He will be loved for years to come. Made of 100% GOTS certified organic Egyptian cotton. Launch date: September 2012.

Satsuma Designs' new Bootlegs are a totally innovative solution for baby's footwear. Our fully-lined velour baby bootie is lined in SOFT and COZY velour and neatly attached to a stretch bamboo and organic cotton jersey legging in one of five versatile colors. Launch date: September 2012.

The 26 piece brightly stained But erfl y teaches children let ers with fun puzzle play. One side of this puzzle teaches upper case let ers and turn it over to learn lower-case. The But erfl y A to Z Puzzle is carefully craf ed & stained with child-safe stains. The But erfl y A to Z Puzzle comes packaged with an easy clean up storage box made from Beech wood. Made from Natural Rubber wood, stained with child safe stains, box made from Beech wood, manufactured in China.

This is a version of Tempera Paint without any harsh chemicals and always safe for curious mouths. Tempera paints are made with the same organic fruit and vegetable pigments and are a great step up from our Original Naturally Safe Finger Paints. They do not have a tactile texture, but are smooth and silky. Paints come in 2 ounce jars with 4 colors and make over 12 ounces of paint. Paints come in powder form, just add water in a separate container. Caution: Do not add too much water, it can ruin the paint consistency. CPSIA Compliant. Please supervise children at all times when using this product. VEGAN, no wheat, no dairy, no sugar, no preservatives.

Crayons made from edible ingredients, so as always, hand to mouth safe. Don't worry about petroleum or other toxic additives in our crayons...made with organic ingredients: organic fruit and vegetable powders and practically good for you. VEGAN, no wheat, no sugar, no preservatives.

Wee ones, decorate the sidewalks...No Lead in this chalk. Safe enough to eat and fun to use. Made with Organic Ingredients. Yes, totally eat-a-ble, VEGAN, no wheat, no sugar, no preservatives, no dairy. Chalk is thick and perfect for baby to hold. Comes in 5 organic colors:  Green, Yellow, Orange, Pink & Purple.
— As of 09/25/2012 this product had 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2 reviews on Amazon.com.

This hands on kit includes supplies for kids to recycle and make their own paper. Includes 6"X8" mold and deckle, supplies to make patterned & textured bookmarks, a notebook, and greeting cards.

My Swim Baby is long-trusted as a retailer of protective swim and sun wear for children. They are excited to announce the release their own line of Sun Hats, Swim Shirts and Reusable Swim Diapers. The custom prints on the hat and swim diaper coordinate with the UPF 50+ swim shirts to create an entire ensemble that is certain to keep your little one safe and cool in the sun. Distributed by Planet Wise, Inc. Launch date: 2012.

One of most trusted names in cloth diapering is proud to announce the release of the new Planet Wise Diaper Cover. Available in two adjustable sizes, this diaper cover truly offers a great fit from birth through potty training. Inner flaps hold cloth diapers in place and the signature prints match ALL Planet Wise Products. Launch date: 2012.

The popular Planet Wise Snack Products are now available in a zipper closure. Replace disposable plastic baggies with these reusable, FDA food safe snack and sandwich bags. Patent Pending seam sealing keeps food fresh and with the large selection of colors and prints, there is sure to be one for every taste. Made in the USA. Launch date: 2012.

For the first time ever, piece together Jan Brett's beautiful illustrations at home. This 1000 piece jigsaw puzzle featuring Noah's Ark makes a great holiday gift for any puzzle lover any time of year. Made in the USA from recycled chipboard. Launch date: September 2012.

Stampers of all ages are wild about the new Ink ‘n’ Stamp collection of critters that have left their mark with Animal Print Ink ‘n’ Stamp set. The delightful Ink ‘n’ Stamp tub contains 18 woodblock stamps and one ink pad. All Hero Arts woodblock stamps are made in the USA on sustainably-harvested woodblocks. Conforms to ASTM D-4236.
Awards: 2012 Dr. Toy 100 Best Toys