More Power Plays

Break speed records on a skateboard without breaking a bone. Put the virtual reality goggles on (the headset is wireless for complete mobility, delivering incredible sound effects and true-to-life, full-color, three-dimensional graphics), jump on the board base and steer just like a real skateboard. The virtual reality screen inside their headset translates the motion of the board into daring maneuvers on a thrilling street course that includes leaps and jumps. Additional features include multi-level play, volume control and automatic scoring and timekeeping. Board and headset are both ABS plastic, and require one 9 volt and 3 AAA batteries (included). It comes with earbud earphones.

This totally fun plastic air gun uses the same patented design as the classic toy from the 1950s. Using an air-powered pump to safely fire up to 15 Ping-Pong type balls (one at a time or in multi-shot bursts), it is accurate up to 20 feet. Each ball makes a “burp” sound when shot. Because it´s powered by pump action instead of batteries, there’s nothing to interrupt days of play time. It’s perfect for adults as well as for children over the age of 3. Made of ABS plastic, it includes 15 balls.

Another kidult gadget, the IMfree lets instant messengers roam almost anywhere around the house — up to 150 feet from an Internet-connected PC and base station — so kids can chat with up to six buddies at a time from the comfort of ... wherever. Best of all, with the home computer in less demand, other family members can get their work done at the same time. Parents can control when the IMfree device can be used and which chat invitations can be accepted. Big families can support up to seven handsets with one base station. There are no wires to string, and no additional monthly fees because it works with a free AOL Instant Messenger (AIM) account — you don´t even have to be an AOL subscriber. Getting started is easy, too, because it uses current AIM Buddy Lists.