January Staff Picks

The LaQ Zodiac Collection series are 53-piece kits to complete models representing the various signs of the Zodiac. By collecting all twelve of the Zodiac Collection kits, it is possible to make the model of the Greek Hero Perseus. Instructions to build the Perseus model is available at the LaQ website, Gallery Level 4.

Playing the ENI Puzzle is very simple. Everyone who sees ENI for the first time can easily start playing without any instruction. The ENI PUZZLE is designed to enhance problem solving and dexterity. A workout for the mind while using hand and motor skills. The Eni Puzzle has 3 different sizes and 2 different color schemes. The larger size is equipt with braille. The medium size (called the "mini" is the hardest, ast it has the most pieces in each column. There is also a miniature keychain, dubbed the "keychain" , which dresses up iphones and other accessories.

Nanodots are sets of spherical magnets (dots) held together by magnetic force. You can use them as a stress ball, putty, or constructor to build fascinating creations. Inspired by the miniature craft of nanotechnology, Nanodots are designed to supply players of all skill levels with endless fun and creativity, wherever they go. The magnets are protected by a shiny resilient surface with anti-bacterial properties, offering the benefit of industrial, kid-proof strength in a lightweight form. "There is no predefined set of rules one has to follow. As the players advance their skill levels, they experiment with magnetic properties and discover a diversity of unique applications. Nanodots can be rearranged into an infinite number of formations and original compositions," Tim Szeto, Director of Sales & Marketing, Nano Magnetics Ltd., told TDmonthly. Available in Original ($29.99), Black/Silver ($34.99), and Gold ($39.99). Launch date: September 2009.
— Jeanette Lauture, owner of Aunt Jean 's Toys and Treats in Montclair, N.J., sells about three Nanodots per week, she said in autumn 2010.

This game is currently licensed to Spinmaster.
Outwit your opponents by stomping their marbles before they stomp yours! Outmaneuver by leaving their Stomper trapped with no escape. For 2-6 Players.

Sqwishlanders – they are cute, they are collectible, they are fun – a craze every parent can afford to support and you don’t have to go far to find one. Available at those ubiquitous red vending machines found in every supermarket, convenience store, arcade and malls across America, put your quarter in, crank the handle and wait and see what comes out. The surprise of the catch is just part of the fun. Once you open the capsule and see which Sqwishland® character has been dispensed, a fortune cookie style secret code will reveal yet another surprise, an unknown bounty of virtual game cash will be discovered when the code is entered on line.

Each Shoulder Buddies "Smarts" character teaches kids a special life lesson, from friendship to fire safety. The magnetic feature lets kids wear Shoulder Buddies on their shirt, hat, hair and more. Kids can take Shoulder Buddies and their "Smarts" with them wherever they go.  This collection includes 8 buddies, including Biffle, Breezee, Peace, Eco, Blaze, Pirate and Princess.

Zoobies 3-in-1 Furbie the Feline plush toy, super-soft blanket & comfy pillow is ideal for road excursions or just cuddling in bed. Furbie also makes a great baby shower gift. Launch date: February 14, 2010.

Spot It is a party game for two to eight players. It's played by laying a random assortment of cards on the table and all players racing to find one image that matches between two cards. This fast-paced game is designed to never be the same twice, and though it has very few rules to remember it requires a sharp eye to master. The set of 55 round cards transports in its own carry tin. Watch Spot It: Top-5 Video, Toy Fair 2010
— Spot It has been been a top seller for retailers surveyed by TDmonthly since early Spring 2010.
— In a March 2012 survey, 3 out of 12 retailers told TDmonthly that Spot It was their overall best selling product, and had been for more than a year.
— Dean Smith, Co-owner of JaZams in Princeton, N.J., told TDmonthly in a Summer 2011 survey that he sells 50-60 copies of Spot It each month.
Awards: 2010 TDmonthly Top Seller, Dr. Toy 100 Best Children's Products - 2010

Where to buy:
SOUTH
NORTH EAST
NORTH WEST

Handcrafted in the USA.  Drop a quarter, dime, nickel or penny into the opening of the wooden track and watch the money fall into the Belly.  Constructed of high gloss painted wood - 20 inches tall.  Features a plastic "Belly" that is opened by unscrewing the center bolt. Great gift - makes learning to save fun!

This adorable Alice in Wonderland Tutu features a fluffy royal and light blue tutu, embellished satin aporn with harlequin trim and glimmering red sequence heart. Also includes satin hairbow. S/M - Girl's 3-6, M/L - Girl's 6-12. Costume comes wrapped in package with hanger for display.