Active Minds - Comet

Spelling Takes Off

“I had representatives from France, Germany, Japan and South America wanting this game in their languages.” — Sandy Evans, Active Minds

While petitioning to be a subject for TDmonthly Magazine’s new documentary, Toy Frenzy!, Sandy Evans, creator of Comet from Active Minds, wrote about how and why she developed her spelling game:

Years ago, I applied for a job. In the interview room, the lady stated, “We took in over 300 applications today. … We are only interviewing 10 and you are in the top three.”

I was stunned. I had no experience, and I was in the top three to be hired. I asked, in much disbelief, “Why am I sitting here? I have no experience!”

Her reply? “Because you can spell!”

I got the job. What a profound impact that had on me.

SPELLING IT OUT

Some time later, I bought a game that had no copy on the sides or underneath to indicate exactly what it was about — only the name Dictionary Dabble. I thought I would learn something, but the game was based on 1,000 vague, nebulous, nonexistent words.

On that day, I decided to write a game to help others have fun learning.

Comet - The Fast Path to Learning is based on spelling. It gives players multiple choices. The game is based on every conceivable interesting fact that I could find in the realms of science, geography, art, literature, history and the Bible. Win a bonus card, throw the dice; everyone has a chance to win.

I did some research and development in B.C., Canada, where I am from. The children wanted to play the game longer. That is why we have taken a number of years to perfect this product. Originally, you could only go around the game board once.

I was the first woman in Science and Technology to be given a grant to put the game on a DVD. Unfortunately, that project was never completed.

IMPROVING WITH TIME

All of this was back in 1992. Much has taken place since then, but the game is better than ever. We at Active Minds are very proud to attend the New York Toy Fair again.

We actually debuted in 1991 but were told by the bigger players that there is no profit in education. And yet, I had representatives from France, Germany, Japan and South America wanting this game in their languages.

Comet is my passion. I really believe that when we educate our children, we give them hope for a brighter future, and eventually we will eliminate poverty, making the world a better place!

Comet® The Fast Path to Learning by ACTIVE MINDS INC

Comet® The Fast Path to Learning, is Active Minds' premier product. Comet® is an enjoyable and engaging way to learn and spell, having fun based on world facts, legends, geography, science, history, health, nature, animals and dictionary meanings. The game has several game editions such as Bible and Family, with a Children's card expansion deck. Launch date: June 2008.
— "'Comet, The Fast Past to Learning' is being played in schools across America and has been praised in South Africa for helping patients suffering from brain injuries develop their learning skills," Sandy Evans, creator of Comet® at Active Minds, told TDmonthly.
Awards: 2008-2010 Preferred Choice Award; 2008-2010 Editors Choice Award; 2008-2010 Toyman Seal of Approval ( Watch Video) 12/28/2007 (MSRP: $24.95; Age: 11 and Up)