Playmobil School – A Parents Guide To The Playmobil School

Posted on July 21, 2011 by admin

About The Playmobil School House

After spending most of their day in a classroom, you would not expect kids to find playing “pretend” school to be so exciting. However, Playmobil has created yet another educational and engaging toy for kids called the Playmobil School 4324, sometimes called the Furnished School Building. It is a complete scale school house with classroom, science room, music room, art room, and even restrooms all spread out over a large two story building. It comes complete with around 100 accessories each with attention to detail you would not believe. In addition, the kit comes complete with students and teachers, creating an environment for your child’s creativity to run wild.

Playmobil School – Attention To Detail

One of the most fantastic features of the Playmobil school is the attention to detail crafted into the toy. Each room of the school comes complete with accessories to make imagining things much more realistic. The science lab is complete with test tubes, beakers, and several working accessories like a spinning globe, a miniature magnifying glass, and even a sink with soap pump. The classroom has everything from miniature notepads, pencils, scissors and binders. A true testament of the attention to detail is an actual miniature erasable chalk board with tiny chalk pencil. Even the teachers lounge has a miniature coffee maker and mugs for everyone.

Playmobil School Assembly

To say that “some assembly is required” would be an understatement. Because of the sheer number of accessories including tables, desks, chairs, benches, trashcans, and plants, plan on spending a few hours with your childing setting up the school. Some customers reported assembly times in excess of 5 hours. However, by making the assembly part of the fun, you can turn the task into a game to play (think LEGOs). Just don’t expect to assemble the entire set as a surprise for your kids on Christmas eve.

Also, we should note that due to all of the small pieces and accessories, the Playmobil school presents a serious choking hazard for small children. If you have any kids under 4 in the house, don’t buy this toy.

Playmobil School Add-Ons

In true Playmobil fashion, they have developed the toy to accept additional toys, kits, and accessories to work well with the Playmobil school 4324. Some of the most popular include the Playmobil school bus and the Playmobile gym or cafeteria buildings which can be added directly to the main structure. Additionally, extra people and accessories for the classrooms can be purchased to add even more fun to the game. The Playmobil school add-ons are a great gift idea for grandparents and relatives looking for an affordable gift that will be loved.

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Angry Birds Plush Toys – Humorous Angry Bird Stuffed Animals

Posted on July 20, 2011 by admin

What Are Angry Birds Plush Toys?

Angry birds plush toys are novelty stuffed animals based on the hit mobile device game Angry Birds, developed and released by Rovio Mobile in 2009. Since it’s release, Angry Birds has sold over 100 million units worldwide. It was one numerous awards for being the best casual, addictive, and entertaining game at a low price point. Due to it’s overwhelming popularity, both Rovio Mobile and other manufacturers have begun selling angry birds plush toys as a novelty for enthusiasts, and an adorable stuffed animal for children.

The game of angry birds was actually developed around the characters developed by Jaakko Iisalo. Although the original pitch for the app had no clear structure of gameplay, the staff at Rovio Mobile fell in love with the wingless, legless, birds. Eventually the object of shooting the round birds out of a slingshot at their foe, green pigs hidden in structures, was developed.

Types Of Angry Birds Plush Toys

Anyone who receives an angry birds plush toy is sure to fall in love with their comical proportions and anatomy. However, to buy angry birds plush toys, you first have to pick your favorite character. Below are some of the most popular angry birds plush toys for sale.

  • Red Bird – Sometimes called the cardinal bird, this character has no special powers and is the first bird new users find when the open the first level. It is also considered to be the mascot for the game, making it one of the most popular plush toys.
  • Blue Bird – The blue bird has the ability to multiply into three spreading its destruction over a larger area.
  • Yellow Bird – One of only two birds with a triangular shape, the yellow bird can speed up to break through blocks when tapped.
  • Black Bird – Although in gameplay the black bird is the only bird without a tail, the plush toy version of the character in fact has a tail.
  • White Bird – Weak in strength, shaped like an egg.
  • Helmet Pig – Adorable plush toys with a cracked stone helmet and confused face.
  • Mustache Pig – Shaped differently than other pigs in the game, second strongest pig.

Other Angry Birds Merchandise

In addition to the angry birds plush toys, there are also several other items for sale to show your support of the game. Some of the most popular include card games, silly bands, key chains, and even flip flop sandals available in red and green colors with the face of your favorite characters. One of the bestselling angry birds branded items are Angry Birds iPhone cases for the iPhone 4.

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Toy Cash Register – Educational And Fun!

Posted on July 19, 2011 by admin

Buying A Toy Cash Register

One toy that parents and experts agree may provide some educational value is the toy cash register. Designed to give kids the feeling of running their own grocery, pet, or toy store, toy cash registers actually improve the skills of even young children in more ways than one. In fact, the Learning Resources Teach Cash Register won the Oppenheim toy portfolio platinum award for its educational value.

Toy cash registers work just like a normal cash register, with obvious function limitations. However, you may be surprised to find some of the features that are included in today’s cash register toy for kids. Everything from scanners that scan real barcodes, working calculators and cash drawers, even microphones to amplify the voice of your little one throughout the “store.”

Educational Benefits Of A Toy Cash Register

It could be expected that the math skills of child who plays with a toy cash register should increase. With most toys using low cash denominations such as 1, 5, 10, and 20s most kids in the early stages of elementary schooling can benefit from getting comfortable with currency. However there are other benefits that may not seem as obvious. Even children at a young age can see improvements in reason, logic, decimal usage, and recognizing patterns with extended use of the toy.

Having a toy cash register in the home also gives you the opportunity to spend one on one time with your child in play teaching them the value of money, budgeting, and overall healthy financial habits. With that being said, many parents choose to avoid some cash register toys because they include a Visa or American Express credit card reader in the kit. Some financial gurus such as Dave Ramsey feel this addition creates a harmful disconnect between your children and money at too early of an age.

Another reason toy cash registers are such a good value is because they can be both entertaining and stimulating for your kids many years. For the pre-schooler, the noises and lights provide stimulation. As they grow they begin to enjoy the scanning interaction, which is combined later in life with the calculations and budgeting. Just make sure to keep the small coins and parts away from young children.

The Best Toy Cash Register

While there are several toy cash registers on the market, by far the most popular among parents and experts alike is the Learning Resources Teach Cash Register. It is a winner of multiple awards and has a long standing review history of over 10 years. The toy itself is safe and durable and the features included will keep any child entertained for hours. It comes complete with pretend money, but is capable of holding real US currency as your child grows up.

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Pokemon Stuffed Animals – Furry, Friendly Pokemon Plush

Posted on July 19, 2011 by admin

About Pokemon Stuffed Animals

Since it’s inception in 1996 for the Nintendo game console, Pokemon has developed an entire culture around the characters and creatures ranging from plants and insects to hybrid animals. Traditionally, Pokemon creatures are stored and transported in their “Poke Ball” homes. However, exceptions have been made for young trainers which allow them to carry their Pokemon friends by foot. Although the franchise began as a game for Nintendo, it has surpassed anyone’s expectations generating a following in the anime, card game, television and other media outlets.

Buying Pokemon Stuffed Animals

By far the most important factor when choosing a Pokemon stuffed animal is which character you identify with the most. However, there are other considerations that should be taken into consideration:

  • Size – Don’t be deceived by online photographs when choosing a Pokemon Stuffed animal. Be sure to compare measurements to ensure you don’t end up with a Pokemon mini plush when you wanted a full size doll.
  • Durability – There are a number of knock off Pokemon dolls which will not stand the test of time. Be sure buy either officially licensed Pokemon toys, or read reviews from other customers before purchasing a product.
  • Authenticity – Depending on the manufacturer, the likeness of your Pokemon dolls may or may not be accurate. Although you might not notice a slightly incorrect color palette or misplaced shape, your children will certainly be able to tell the difference between an authentic pokemon pickachu plush, and a cheap impostor.

Popular Pokemon Stuffed Animal Characters

There are several different characters available from online retailers that are both authentic, durable, and affordable toys for your children. Some of the most popular Pokemon stuffed animals include:

Pikachu – Pikachu plush toys have been the mascot and representative of Pokemon since it’s inception in 1996. They are a short haired, yellow rodent with the ability to shoot lightning bolts.

Piplup – The Pokemon piplup plush takes a varitation of the shape of a penguin. It has special water attack abilities like “bubble.” Piplup is just a young chick so it has a hard time walking on it’s own, often falling down.

Oshawott – Oshawott plush toys take the form of a sea otterl-like creature. It has adorable round features, and prefers to be near water. (Note: Pokemon stuffed animals shouldn’t get wet)

Snivy – Snivy is a Pokemon plush who is a green reptile-like creature who loves to bask in the sun. S/he is smart, calm, and cool.

Victini – Victini Pokemons are a very special creature. Rodent-like in shape, they possess infinite energy which they can share with their own by touching them. They also have the ability to become invisible.

Zorua – Zorua is a fox-like Pokemon stuffed animal which can change it’s physical appearance to any form including a human.

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Best Baby Toys – Safe And Stimulating Toys For Babies And Infants

Posted on July 19, 2011 by admin

The Importance Of Baby Toys

Best Baby ToysSome experts say that a baby’s brain can triple in size in it’s first year of birth. Choosing the best baby toys to enhance your baby’s development is an important job of any parent. After birth, infants have to develop a sense of everything in the world ranging from colors, shapes, textures, sounds, and motor skills. Providing your children with the best infant toys for their age will increase not only their intelligence, but their happiness as well.

Choosing The Best Baby Toys By Age

In general, the best baby toys are determined by the age of your infant. Your baby has very specific needs during the first few months of it’s life and giving it the proper toys will encourage proper development.

  • 0-3 Month Old Baby Toys – Newborns have no sense of their surroundings and also have very limited vision. Therefore it’s best to subject your infant to as many colors, shapes, textures, and sounds as possible without overwhelming. Mobiles with varying shapes and bright colors are perfect to catch their attention. Shakers and rattlers are important for sound development as well as motor skills.
  • 3 Month To 1 Year Old Baby Toys – A few months after birth, you can begin introducing goal oriented and interactive toys to your baby. Motor skills will increase as your child begins experiencing cause and effect. Items like discovery and activity centers are a great way to keep your baby happy and in one place as your baby is just starting to learn how to crawl.

Baby Toy Safety

Even more important than keeping your baby stimulated and engaged is keeping him/her safe. There are several things to consider when inspecting toys to ensure they are age appropriate for your child.

  • Battery Compartments – Should be safely hidden in your toys and should have a secondary barrier to entry such as a screw or safety latch.
  • Sharp Edges – It goes without saying that no child should have access to any toy with sharp edges, however some items like plastic candles on a cupcake can be deceiving.
  • Small Pieces – Expect your child to put every toy they have in their mouth. If there is a chance of any small pieces separating from the toy, don’t risk it.
  • Cords and Strings – Even under supervision, babies can strangle themselves in cords and strings in just seconds.

Bonus Features

Using the rules above as a baseline, there are several features that transform ordinary toys into the best baby toys. First and foremost, make sure every toy you buy will be durable enough to handle being sat on, thrown, chewed, and banged. Long lasting toys offer a great value, especially if you plan on having more children. Secondly, look for toys that are easily washable. Expect everything to need disinfecting and washing after every playdate. Finally, the best baby toy is challenging, but not discouraging with the ability to teach your child a new skill.

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Imaginext Pirate Ship – Guide To Imaginext Pirate Ship Toys

Posted on July 1, 2011 by admin

About The Imaginext Pirate Ship

Hoist the anchor, lower the sail, and walk the plank with the Imaginext Pirate Ship. Kids can be pretend to head for open waters as they enjoy many of the interactive features of the Fisher Price pirate ship. There are several moving parts in these durable plastic toys all of which engage kids of many ages. With platforms throughout the Imaginext Pirate Ship for the included figurines, projectiles and even treasure chests and coins, you can place the figures and spin them to trigger all kinds of fun ship movements. One for example raises and lowers the anchor into the imaginary waters, while the other lowers the four sails into place simultaneously.

One of the best features are the included projectiles which can be fired out of the front of the ship with a simple twist of the figure on the platform. There are several colorful and durable ships in the Imaginext Adventures pirate ship fleet.

Imaginext Pirate Ship “Raider”

With several swords, weapons, headgear, and animals available for your little pirate to rearrange and configure, the Raider series of the Fisher Price Imaginext pirate ship is perfect for even slightly older kids. This is because in addition to several moving parts, the ship itself can be configured in several different way to make a personalized fleet for your child.

Imaginext Black Pirate Ship

One of the most popular pirate ships in the Imaginext fleet is the Black and Red version which looks just like a real pirate ship. Like the other versions of the toy, it has a working anchor, plank, sails, and even firing cannons with real projectiles. Whether it is the raid of another ship in their fleet, or a daring rescue kids love to pretend to be pirates.

Fisher-Price Imaginext Serpent Pirate Ship

One of the newest and most interactive Imaginext pirate ships is the serpent shaped fleet with even more moving parts. With real working wings, this serpent ship makes all kinds of movements as it is wheel across the floor. Like other ships in the fleet, placing your figures firmly on a platform and turning in circles will trigger several different movements from raising the anchor to opening the door to the captains quarters. One of the most impressive features is when you press down the serpent’s tail it lunges forward self propelled.

The Imaginext pirate ship fleet is a very stimulating toy for all young boys. We recommend the serpent pirate ship as a first addition to the fleet because of it’s enhanced interactivity. Unfortunately none of the ships in this fleet are water-worthy so make sure they stay on dry land.

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Harry Potter Glasses – Complete Your Harry Potter Halloween Costume

Posted on June 30, 2011 by admin

What Are Harry Potter Glasses?

Since the release of the first Harry Potter fantasy novel in 1997, the collection has sold over 450 million copies that have been translated into over 65 different languages. Coupled with the unbelievable success of the Harry Potter films, to say that the franchise is successful would be a huge understatement. Naturally with it’s popularity, millions of people want to look like Harry Potter both for Halloween costumes and in real life. The round wire frame Harry Potter glasses have been brought back as a serious fashion statement.

However, to be authentic the round Harry Potter glasses frames must be broken in the middle and taped together with pieces of scotch tape.

“He wore round glasses held together with a lot of Scotch tape because of all the times Dudley had punched him on the nose.”

Types Of Harry Potter Glasses

Harry Potter glasses are the most distinguishable characteristic of the loveable wizard. Finding the perfect round wire glasses can make or break your costume. The officially licensed wire framed costume glasses by Elope Inc. are made just like real glasses frames with the Harry Potter logo stamped on each side of the frames. For less than $10 dollars they even offer 100% UV protection.

For those making a Halloween costume on a budget, or if you don’t have the time to wait for shipping their are several other options. You could purchase simple round wire frame glasses off of a similar online retailer for less than $5 dollars which does not include the official logo and licensing. If you are in a rush, you could always go to the drugstore and find a pair of round wire frame reading glasses and have the lenses removed.

Of course, for those on a strict budget, making your own Hogwarts approved Harry Potter glasses can be as easy as it is fun. Making your own glasses out of cardboard or similar material you give you the satisfaction of contributing more than just your hard earned money to your costume. Simply cut out the Harry Potter glasses pattern and fold back the frames. Adding lots of Scotch tape to the bridge will increase their strength and authenticity.

Harry Potter Glasses And Wand

For those that want to complete the whole outfit, purchasing a Harry Potter glass and wand kit is sure to make you stand out in the crowd this Halloween. Place a spell on your friends or simply just poke them with it to get their attention. Some wands even come complete with built in movie sounds and phrases to take your Harry Potter glasses and costume to the next level.

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Toy Swords – A Guide To Toy Swords Of All Types

Posted on June 30, 2011 by admin

Toy Swords Review

Swords are considered to be one of the very first manufactured weapons with archaeological findings of primitive swords dating as far back as 3000 years BC. Going back to our primitive roots, it’s only natural for kids and adults alike to enjoy the rush of hand to hand combat, even if just for pretend. Toy swords allow kids to play for hours, imagining they are of a different time, fighting each other for property or even just honor.

Whether it is for entertainment, or even a Halloween costume, toy swords are always fun to play with no matter your age. Because of their popularity, manufacturers have developed several different types of toy swords to suit any occasion.

Types Of Toy Swords For Kids

On the most basic side of the spectrum, toy wooden swords have a following and culture all their own. Whether it be a mass produced product, or a work of art whittled by a master craftsman, wood toy swords really belong on a shelf, rather than in the hands of a child. The dense and rigid nature of toy wood swords is far to dangerous for most kids who don’t understand the damage that could be done with a misguided blow.

However, there are still plenty of toy swords for kids that are both fun and safe to play with. In general, there are two types of toy swords that hurt enough to want to avoid being hit, but don’t cause any bruising or cutting.

  • Plastic – Most common in Halloween costumes, plastic swords and sheaths are fun to play with for a short while. However, more often than not, their cheap construction cannot bear the abuse of one on one combat.
  • Foam – By far the most durable, and safest material for toy swords is hard foam. Products like the Nerf N-Force Marauder Long Sword are made with a high density EVA foam which gives it the feeling of a real sword without any of the risks of injuring one another.

Toy Swords And Shields

One way to really exercise your child’s imagination is to give them a full set of toy swords and shields. Allowing them to fully immerse themselves in a character like a Knight in shining armor can be very healthy for their creativity. Whether you are an adult looking for accessories to your ironic Halloween costume, or you are a parent looking for that perfect Christmas or birthday gift, toy swords are sure to put a smile on anyone’s face.

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Bigfoot Toy – Bigfoot The Monster Toy

Posted on June 30, 2011 by admin

About The Fisher Price Bigfoot Toy

Fisher Price’s Bigfoot toy has fast become a child favorite. He is a lovable monster that can walk, dance, and play by the command of his remote control. Made with hard plastic, Bigfoor The Monster toy is actually quite a feat of engineering. He can walk, roll, and tumble from any position, and his personality really shows when you press one of his six emotion buttons. Everything from happy, angry, sleep, ball, fun and exercise are all expressed with over 30 different words and phrases.

Interaction With The Bigfoot Toy

Imaginext took child interaction to the next level with the Bigfoot toy. With the included accessories, Bigfoot Monster Toy will throw a red ball that your child places in his hand across the room. Representing the next level of interactivity, your Bigfoot toy will soon become a stand in babysitter when you need a moment to yourself.

In addition to the ball throwing operation, Bigfoot The Monster Toy also has the usual interactive features you would expect from Fisher Price. Pressing the buttons on the wireless remote will cause him to move around on command, and the button on his stomach will cause him to laugh and giggle uncontrollably. Similarly, pressing the button on his mouth will cause him to belch, but not without excusing himself.

Challenges And Precautions

While most parents find little to take issue with, Bigfoot toy does has a few downfalls. The problems are mostly a result of his battery life. Although it takes 4 hours for Bigfoot The Monster toy to completely charge, he only has the energy to play for about an hour. This is understandable due to his constant movement, but it can be disappointing, especially if you have multiple children waiting their turn to play.

Like most toys, Bigfoot can be slightly obnoxious for parents. His phrases are certainly cute and humorous at first, but as your child falls in love, you will quickly fall out of love with his loud mouth attitude. However, that is no fault of the toy designers, as kids can’t get enough of Bigfoot.

Conclusion

Is Bigfoot toy worth the hefty price tag. While we feel like Bigfoot is certainly a lovable character, he may not keep the attention of the recommended age group upper limit of 8 years old. For those 3 to 6 years of age, you will love how Bigfoot The Monster toy interacts with your children. Bigfoot toy is definitely one of the hottest toys this year for a reason.

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Mickey Mouse Ears – The Official Mickey Mouse Club Souvenir

Posted on June 30, 2011 by admin

About Mickey Mouse Ears

Since his creation in 1928, Mickey Mouse has fast become an icon in homes worldwide. His most trademarked feature are his large ears characterized by their round shape attached to a round head. Mickey Mouse ears have become one of the most recognized symbols in American culture, not to mention being the hottest souvenir at Disney theme parks and resorts.

Mickey Mouse ears grew rapidly in popularity with the introduction of the Mickey Mouse Club in 1955 on American television. When the cast began wearing the Mickey Mouse ear headbands kids everywhere wanted a pair of their own generating a demand that would propel the head-wear into one of the most iconic accessories in history.

Mickey Mouse Ears Headband

Generally speaking, there are two types of Mickey Mouse ears. The first type mounts the classic round ears on top of a headband that seemingly disappears into your hair. This style is common with Mickey and Minnie Mouse ears as girls can use the headband to hold back their hair as well as show support for their favorite cartoon. The benefit of the Mickey Mouse ears headband is that they are adjustable for most head sizes. As opposed to a full cap which may or may not fit properly, most will find the headband style to be most comfortable.

Mickey Mouse Ears Hat

While the original Mousketeer cast wore headband Mickey Mouse ears while singing the amla mater, Disney gift shops sold a variation of souvenir as a Mickey Mouse ear hat. The smooth round cap slips right over the head of children and adults giving them more realistic looking ears. Complete with an elastic chin strap to keep the hat secured, kids everywhere love to look just like their friend Mickey Mouse.

Personalized Mickey Mouse Ears

One of the more recent additions to the Mickey Mouse ear headbands and hats you can find at Disney resorts is free personalization with your child’s name embroidered directly onto the cap. As an official inductee into the Mickey Mouse Club, they can where there hats with pride. And for the price, they make a wonderful keepsake and reminder of the fun they had at Disney for years to come. Personalization is generally limited to 10 characters, however each Mickey Mouse ears hat comes with the official seal of the club on the front, and your child’s name embroidered across the back.

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