Amongst the largest exhibitors in Hall 3 at Toy Fair, TDmonthly Magazine discovered interesting and innovative finds in all categories: a puzzle without puzzle pieces, a solar-powered grasshopper, developmental toys for children with autism and much more. See our top picks here:
Pieceless Puzzle by CEACO
This unique new puzzle, made of double-sided foam material like that used to make mousepads, features “branches” or “fingers” instead of separate pieces. In lieu of piece counts, each puzzle comes with level and age-group designations. Three sizes and levels of difficulty are available.
Frightened Grasshopper Mini Solar Robot Kit by OWI INC.
Eyes jiggle, legs wiggle and antennae sway to-and-fro in the combo tango-jitterbug-Frightened Grasshopper dance. This little kit is an attention-grabber. Pint-sized and powered to pack a punch, this enticing amusing solar bug will capture kids’ hearts while demonstrating an alternative energy principle. No batteries or tools are required, and there are fewer than 10 parts to assemble. This product received a 2007 Seal of Excellence from Creative Child Magazine. Launch date: February 2007. — For promoting the use of solar energy in a hoppin’ way, this cute, little grasshopper received a TDmonthly Innovations 2007 award. It is simple to assemble and reacts immediately when placed under sunlight, clicking its legs across the ground as it rattles around, shivering with fear.
Wackymals are a unique line of plush collectibles that combine two animals into one. The collection includes Tigeroo (tiger/kangaroo), Hurtle (horse/turtle) and many other wacky animal combinations. Wackymals inspire kids to use their imagination to create their own characters. Launch date: April 1, 2007.
These bright accessories for iPod earbuds feature the faces of the Emotibles, emoticon characters that use typographical symbols to express different moods — Starry-Eyed, Smitten or Zippy, to name a few. “Emotibles iPod Earbud Charms bring color and whimsy to those ubiquitous white earphones, letting tween/teen consumers express themselves using a language they invented — emoticons,” Kate Hall at Emotibles.com told TDmonthly. Launch date: January 2007.
Tangle Tronics DNA Sound Portable Speaker System by TANGLE INC.
This omni-directional stereo speaker set features “flex and shape” design and is compatible with iPod or other MP3 players. Curvy white tubes lead the two round speakers in opposite directions, and the shape and flexibility can make for a fun listening experience. “The Tangle Tronics speakers' unique shape and flexibility allow them to stand out from all other speakers on the market. [They] allow you to express your own creativity and make your music look as good as it sounds!” Scott Masline, senior vice president of marketing at Tangle Toys, told TDmonthly. Launch date: February 2007.
These six linking beanbags weigh 8 oz. each and provide endless game possibilities. Throwing and catching are made easy with two Snap Bags linked together. They create a calming presence when all six are attached and used as a shoulder or lap weight, and open a new world of gross-motor, fine-motor and social skill game opportunities. Ideal for children with autism or other sensory or learning disabilities, they introduce colors, numbers and shapes, and are great for sorting and matching. Snap Bags are durable and spot washable, come in a drawstring bag for storage, and are accompanied by a booklet that introduces several play options. Launch date: Mid March 2007. — “Pencil Grip is the first company I’ve seen that is doing toys 'engaging children' with autism,” David Hesel, owner of Concord Toy Shop in Concord, Ma., told TDmonthly. He purchased products in the DbD line at Toy Fair 2007.
This sheared terry wrap features removable sequined straps and glitter bathtub embroidered appliqué. It is available in Citrus Lime and Coconut Ice Blue, and is part of a luxurious line of spa products for girls. “This product is made with the finest of fabrics and is very detailed. … Others in the market are somewhat plain. This product also comes with the matching painted wood hanger,” Jason Butts of Three Cheers for Girls told TDmonthly. Launch date: April 2007. ― “The most accommodating [supplier] is Three Cheers for Girls — very friendly and I receive my products in a few days!” retailer Lori Paris told TDmonthly in spring 2007.
One of many colorful new craft projects by Alex, this kit includes 48 precut straps in six colors. It comes with a weaving form that makes the technique easy for girls as young as 7. And the result is a sturdy, colorful bag measuring 10” wide by 11” high.
Triton: The Ultimate Three-Wheeled Cruiser by ASA PRODUCTS INC.
This pedal cruiser with an adjustable frame features a unique steering system composed of vertical handles on both sides of the driver’s body. The Triton is said to be smooth-riding, safe and easily maneuverable. And riders can get a cardiovascular workout while they’re cruising around. It is available in red, blue and silver. Launch date: December 2006.
Writer's Bio: Julie L. Jones has written articles for both newspapers and magazines. Before joining the staff of TDmonthly Magazine, she worked as a communications writer and provided editorial support for a market research company. Read more articles by this author
Writer's Bio: Julie L. Jones has written articles for both newspapers and magazines. Before joining the staff of TDmonthly Magazine, she worked as a communications writer and provided editorial support for a market research company. Read more articles by this author
