Toys to Talk About: Science and Nature

By TDmonthly Staff
October 2012

Check out these recently added specialty and mass-market science and nature toys:

4D Octopus Siamensis Puzzle by TEDCO INC.

Packed in a gift box the model is approximately 3" and consist of 26 pieces. Museum quality fine detailed sculpturing and hand painted. Collect the series - great gifts for the future marine biologist. 9/17/2012 (MSRP: $6.00; Age: 6 and Up)

Ignition Series - Color-Changing Crystals by THAMES & KOSMOS

With this kit, kids can grow amazing crystals that change color. Learn about the chemical reaction that causes the beautiful shift in colors, and examine the factors that influence the reaction. Conduct a chemical analysis to better understand why the color change occurs. Show off the crystal creations in two special locking display cases.
— In a Fall 2013 survey, three out of 12 retailers told TDmonthly that Thames & Kosmos was a best-selling brand of science toy. 9/17/2012 (MSRP: $13.99; Age: 10 and Up)

The Fascinating World of Birds by BRAINFOOD LEARNING

The Fascinating World of Birds is part of a video series designed by BrainFood Learning to build confidence in science through fun and interesting content. The video series advances a child's education by showing amazing video footage along with narration describing bird features and abilities. This format is designed to expand a child's vocabulary as the video content grabs the viewer's attention and the vocabulary is absorbed. This animal DVD is appropriate for kids of all ages. Each bird is clearly identified and shown in their natural habitat keeping children engaged. More advanced children will enjoy learning larger concepts such as depth perception. Birds featured in this animal video include ostrich, penguin, Canada Goose, owl, hummingbird, woodpecker, macaw, pelican, American Robin, and eagle. A multi-section review reinforces information presented earlier in the video. The beginner level reviews show bird flash cards and what features are common among all birds. The more advanced levels quiz children on bird facts and broader scientific terms related to birds.
Awards: 2012 Dr. Toy 100 Best Toys 9/11/2012 (MSRP: $14.99; Age: 2 to 12)

Shark Teeth Excavation Kit! by DISCOVER WITH DR. COOL

Shark Teeth Excavation Kit! by DISCOVER WITH DR. COOL Excavate 3 genuine shark teeth just like a real paleontologist. Buried inside the shark tooth shaped digging brick shark-lovers will uncover 3 different species of shark teeth. This hands-on kit includes an excavation tool, brush, magnifying glass, full-color information guide, and an activity booklet with 10 fun games, puzzles, and challenges to complete. This is a must have gift for anyone who loves sharks. The genuine specimens in this kit are each millions of years old. This educational gift is a great way to start a fossil collection. Launch date: August 2012.
Awards: 2012 Dr. Toy 100 Best Toys; 2012 Seal of Approval - Parent Tested, Parent Approved; 2012 Dr. Toy 10 Best Socially Responsible Products. 9/11/2012 (MSRP: $14.95; Age: 6 to 12)

HYDRODYNAMIC DELUXE Building Set by BRIDGE STREET TOYS

This set comes with a large tray and footing in which kids build the structure. The tray measures approximately 10 inches by 16 inches by 3 inches deep. The tray and the footing are both white. The footing has a grid of 12 holes for columns (4 x 3 configuration). Build the structure using the footing in the tray for the base, place the submersible pump in the tray, add water until it completely covers the inlet on the pump, and then enjoy reconfiguring the pipes, opening and closing valves and watching the action. When one takes the set down, all the parts pack into the tray, the plastic lid snaps on and it can be safely stored away for future use.
Awards: 2012 Dr. Toy 100 Best Toys 9/11/2012 (MSRP: $89.95; Age: 10 and Up)

One Minute Mysteries: 65 More Short Mysteries You Solve With Science by SCIENCE, NATURALLY! LLC

"65 More Short Mysteries You Solve With Science!" continues the fun in the acclaimed One Minute Mysteries series. These brainteasers have a clever twist; kids must tap into their science wisdom and critical thinking skills to solve them. This entertaining and educational book is great for anyone who loves good mysteries, good science or both. Become a super sleuth with the newest book from this award-winning father-daughter team. Launch date: October 2012. 9/7/2012 (MSRP: $9.95; Age: 7 to 13)

Nature's Patchwork Quilt by DAWN PUBLICATIONS

Nature Just imagine all of nature—mountains, prairies, oceans, and all—lying on your bed as a patchwork quilt. Take flora and fauna in their unique habitats, fold them up and you have a book, this book. Earth’s major habitats are spread before you, ready to be examined. Here in this beautiful package are revealed the key concepts of natural science. This patchwork quilt of nature covers the whole Earth to learn about, to enjoy, to care for, and to love. 8/23/2012 (MSRP: $8.95)

littleBits Temperature Sensor by LITTLEBITS ELECTRONICS INC

This is one individual littleBits bit: The temperature sensor senses the temperature surrounding it. Whether it's sitting in a cold glass of water, or just hanging out at your table, or anything in between, the temperature sensor gets stronger when it's warmer. The littleBits Starter kit or Teaser kit, or the USB Power bit is required for use. 8/3/2012 (MSRP: $24.99; Age: 8 and Up)

Basher Science Sticker Book: Science That Sticks by KINGFISHER BOOKS

From Basher, the illustrator who made science too-cool-for-school, comes a fun and funky poster and sticker book to introduce the youngest readers to the wonderful world of Basher Science. Featuring some of the friendly and iconic superstars of the best-selling titles in the series—Rocks and Minerals, Astronomy, Biology, Chemistry, Planet Earth, Oceans, and Physics—as well as four pages of reusable stickers and gentle, child-friendly text, this book is an appealing, interactive treat for the youngest science hounds. Launch date: July 2012. 7/24/2012 (MSRP: $8.99; Age: 7 and Up)

Mossy Meadows Gnome Garden by CREATIVITY FOR KIDS

Mossy Meadows Gnome Garden by CREATIVITY FOR KIDS Includes everything kids need to create an enchanting home for three wee gnomes. This all-inclusive garden craft kit includes a garden dish, potting mix, wheat grass seeds, bark house, leaf-shaped pond, mossy rocks, stepping stones, resin gnomes, toadstools, ladybugs, paint, brush and a mister - just add water and a little sunshine. The garden dish measures 11"w x 2"d. The natural wheat grass seeds are pet friendly and sprout in just a few days.
Awards: Summer 2012 Tillywig Award Winner 7/18/2012 (MSRP: $29.99; Age: 7 and Up)