Showing posts with label the holiday toy list. Show all posts
Showing posts with label the holiday toy list. Show all posts

Saturday, October 20, 2012

Fisher-Price Easy Link Internet Launch Pad Review

Fisher-Price Easy Link Internet Launch Pad
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I'm excited to write the first review for this product. I picked this up over the weekend for my son who is a few days shy of 3. He loves, loves, loves it! This is a great idea for anyone who shares their computer with a littler one. I purchased both the base unit as well as one expansion pack with Thomas the Train and Bob the Builder keys. Each website has multiple activities for varying ages and skill levels. I love that this thing browses the assigned websites in an adapted format for kids without all the difficult scroll bars, popups and useless links. It does utilize the forward, back, home and refresh buttons that will familiarize them with other browsers.
These sites are full of activities that your child can explore and you don't have to panic if they are left unattended. The unit will not allow access to any other programs or settings on your PC or any other websites. That means, no more freeze ups from inadvertent clicks, no more lost info, changed settings, etc...
I think my son will play with this toy for several years to come considering the large span of difficulty levels at each site.
Definitely reccomended to anyone with a child 3 or older and I believe that my son would have played with this probably from about 2 and 1/2 since he was already playing other computer games at his skill level.

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The Internet can be a nightmare for parents -- especially for parents with small children. Making the Internet a healthy, appropriate, and fun place for pre-schoolers, the Fisher-Price Easy Link Internet Launch Pad helps connect kids directly to the official Web sites of their favorite characters. Designed for children ages three and up, this launch pad is easy to use and safe for your kids -- and the family computer! Familiar Friends The Easy Link Launch Pad includes three popular child-safe and durable plastic figures -- Elmo from Sesame Street, two dinosaurs from The Wiggles, and a Fisher-Price dog. Each character works as a direct key to its own Web site. When Elmo is plugged into the launch pad, children are immediately transported to the games section of SesameStreet.com. Eight other familiar Easy Link character smart keys are available for purchase separately.Peace of Mind Because the Fisher-Price Easy Link Internet Launch Pad blocks access to other Internet sites, links, and pop-ups, kids can connect to these interactive Web sites all by themselves, without you having to worry that they're visiting other innappropriate or unsafe sites. The only way for your child to navigate to another Web site is by inserting a different Easy Link character. To get back to normal computer use, you simply input a password and the the Easy Link program turns off. Parents can also rest assured that their computer is secure, as the launch pad also blocks access to your desktop and hard drive.Super Simple Kids easily learn to play games on their favorite Web sites using the computer's mouse and arrow keys on the launch pad. Setting up the Easy Link system is easy. Simply connect the launch pad to the computer's USB port and install the software from the included CD-ROM. Not compatible with Mac computers, the Easy Link Internet Launch Pad requires Microsoft Windows XP, 2000, or Vista; a 750 MHz processor; a USB 1.1 port, 128 MB of RAM, and an Internet connection.
What's in the Box Easy Link Internet Launch Pad, CD-ROM software, USB cable, and three character smart keys.

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Wednesday, August 8, 2012

Vtech - V.Smile Pocket Learning System Review

Vtech - V.Smile Pocket Learning System
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This toy has been a life saver for long trips, doctor's office visits, boring trips to the grocery store, but you should know the screen scratches really easily. Also, the cases hold so few games. we have probably 12 or 13 games, all wonderful for teaching, but you can only get two or three in the carrying cases. that being said, my son loves this game, and it beats the heck out of the mindless video games that are the beginning of brain death. cute and educational, just wish the darned thing didn't get scratched so easily.

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Who says education and fun don't go hand in hand? The portable VTech V.Smile Pocket Learning System combines video games and educational content for brain-building, on-the-go game play or connecting directly to a television at home. Specifically designed for children between ages five and eight, the Pocket V.Smile is a fun way to learn for both enthusiastic and reluctant students. Built For Kids The Pocket V.Smile's full-color LCD screen with a 320-by-240 pixel resolution competes with the "big kid" video game systems. A unique alternative to other systems, the V.Smile is built inside and out with young children in mind. The big buttons are made for a child's hands, and the games build skills in spelling, logic, counting, problem solving, phonics, and vocabulary. Kids get so engrossed with the V.Smile that they won't even realize how much they're developing their minds in language, science and math. Because they can carry the handheld device wherever they go, kids can learn and play independently while parents can rest assured they are providing something healthy, age-appropriate, and educational. At Home Or On-The-Go With the included A/V cable, the Pocket V.Smile hooks up directly to televisions as well, requiring no additional equipment. Not only does this option keep kids in one place and allow them to learn and play using a larger screen, but it also makes it easier for them to share the in the fun with friends and siblings -- even parents. More Favorites The Pocket V.Smile plays all the same "Smartridges" for the original V.Smile system. This learning system comes bundled with one Smartridge called Zayzoo My Alien Classmate, which teaches skills in math, shapes, time concepts, music, directions, English, and more. A wide selection of other wholesome video games are available separately, involving many favorite characters like Scooby Doo, Dora, Thomas, and Shrek. The Pocket V.Smile requires four "AA" heavy duty batteries (included); alkaline batteries are recommended for longer life and optimum performance.What's in the Box Pocket V.Smile, one Smartridge, A/V cable, wrist strap, manual, and four "AA" batteries.

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Sunday, July 8, 2012

Edushape 5" Jumbo Textured Blocks, Set of 16 toys Review

Edushape 5 Jumbo Textured Blocks, Set of 16 toys
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I first used these blocks in a pre-school classroom. I have searched everywhere for them so that I could purchase a set for my two daughters to have at home. Hooray for Amazon! These blocks offer hours of fun, are safe, and easy to wipe clean. Kids love to build pretend villages, furniture and large towers, and if they tumble no-one gets hurt.

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These soft, lightweight, jumbo blocks made of dense, non-toxic foam, in colorful, geometric shapes, are 4 thick. Largest block is 22" L. 16 pc. Set. Ages 2 yrs. +."

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Wednesday, June 27, 2012

Rose Art Smart Easel Review

Rose Art Smart Easel
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Well my daughter is a drawing nut. So I knew she would love this and so far she does. The drawbacks are the drawing board is pretty flexable. I was excited for the dry erase board since my daughter loves those things well I pull it out of the box and it's in 2 peices. You clip the board together and there is a line, bump right down the middle. So when you draw you go over a bump. It doesn't line up without having a lip on it. If I would have seen this in the pictures and video I would not have purchased this easel. To be honest I'm quite disappointed luckily she doesn't seem to annoyed with it yet!

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The RoseArt Smart Easel provides a sturdy work surface, handy access to markers and materials, a dry erase board and a roll of paper that attaches to the easel to keep your young artist's creativity freely flowing. Intended for ages four and up, this kid-sized easel also features a lightweight, portable design so that it can easily be taken outdoors or on the road. This means that your little van Gogh can be out in the field painting sunflowers in no time, and that the whole easel can be compactly stowed away when not in use. Art Anytime, Anywhere After fairly simple assembly, which requires an adult but not any tools, the included 50-foot roll of butcher paper slips onto a bar at the top for an ongoing paper supply. Three plastic clips are included to hold the paper securely in place at the bottom. The Smart Easel also comes with eight washable markers (in classic rainbow colors plus versatile brown and black), so your young artist can get started right away. Two flaps swing out from the easel's sides, featuring mesh pockets and elastic pen holsters that are designed to hold a variety of coloring materials. The plastic paint tray at the bottom is the perfect size for small paint jars, wet brushes, glue or glitter. A large fabric under-tray at the base serves as a catch-all for finished artwork, at least until the refrigerator debut or hallway retrospective can be scheduled.When art time is over, or a new location for drawing is desired, the easel can be quickly washed down and folded up. The fabric side flaps, under-tray, and carrying bag are all made of washable materials, and the paint tray can be removed for cleaning or spills.Stray marks from the washable pens can be removed from most surfaces with warm water and mild soap. The easel's durable metal frame with plastic connecting pieces is 50 inches tall and has a sturdy 4-leg design. Weighing in at about 13 pounds, the easel is substantial enough to remain stable while in use, but light enough to be carried by an adult or older child. The set also includes a large bag with a handle and shoulder strap for easy transportation. Set-up and Organization Features A slight downside to the easel is its assembly process. Although the easel includes easy-to-read directions, and though the pieces themselves were easy to snap together without any tools, the set-up was a bit confusing and took about 30 minutes. Once assembled, the easel has an inviting appeal. The design of the side flaps definitely encourages tidiness. Plus, having all the supplies neatly on hand, and all the colors in full view, helps keep the creative momentum going. The thrill of having all that paper at your fingertips is also a great incentive to make more art. Another small downside is that the paint tray is a bit too narrow to hold a mason jar for cleaning brushes or to comfortably balance an open watercolor box. And while the tray's separate cup-shaped space is handy for preventing spills, it is also quite small -- about the size of one paint jar or a Dixie cup. And inconveniently, the easel doesn't come with any dry erase markers or erasers, which makes its whiteboard seem like an accident waiting to happen. However, even if the dry erase board gets permanently marked, it will still serve its main purpose as a sturdy work surface for the paper.Overall, the RoseArt Smart Easel inspires creativity in young artists-to-be, with an easy-to-clean, portable design that will keep parents pleased. What's in the Box Easel with dry erase board, side flaps, under-tray, paint tray, carrying bag, 50-foot paper roll, and 8 washable markers.

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Tuesday, March 6, 2012

Mega Bloks Wonder Builders Bag Review

Mega Bloks  Wonder Builders Bag
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This is the best type of building block for toddlers in the market. The pieces are big and easy to connect. Fully recommended. We sometimes take a small selection when traveling in the car. I chose this bag because it contains a few blocks with interesting features. These are worth the extra money, particularly when buying for a young toddler. My daughter is 15 month old and she loves to find those pieces with peekaboo, beads or little windows. The plastic container is very useful and big enough to put all the pieces away. For my daughter, "clean up time" is just as much fun as the playing time. The only minor problem is that the plastic can tear, but that is easily fixed with a bit of tape.

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Young imaginations will bloom with creativity when they use this Mega Bloks set. The Wonder Builders Bag includes 80 pieces for limitless building potential and endless fun. Recommended for children ages one to three years old, the set helps kids gain skill in math, problem solving, and science, while also building confidence and fine motor skills. 80 Blocks with Fun Animal Characters Easy to tote around in a translucent red PVC zippered carrying case, this set features 80 pieces--including eight Wonder Builders, 71 Maxi Bloks, and one special "key" block--for interactive fun and added dimensions to the standard building set. Perfect for little hands, each plastic piece has slightly rounded edges to prevent poking, and none are small enough to choke on. The colorful animal Wonder Builder blocks have developmental elements such as knobs to turn, buttons to press, and beads to rattle. The friendly animals include a tiger, a turtle, a squirrelly squirrel, a rattling snake, and a hiding baby kangaroo. Using the star-shaped key, kids can unlock a secret behind a block with corresponding shape and color.With a Little Help from Parents The colors, shapes, and comical animals are perfectly fun for one to three year olds, but young children may be content to touch, taste, and toss the numerous parts; excellent building skills may not come til further down the line. To help young builders fully enjoy the friendly, interactive pieces, parents can play along and do some of the building. With the zippered carrying case, this set is simple to stow away, which makes clean-up that much easier for parents. What's more, the Wonder Builders set is compatible with standard Maxi Bloks, allowing young ones to make even bigger and better creations.What's in the Box 80-piece block set with zippered carrying case.

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Tuesday, February 14, 2012

Mega Bloks Diego's African Safari Review

Mega Bloks Diego's African Safari
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This was one of two Diego Mega Bloks sets that I got for my 5 year old for Xmas. He's old enough for smaller legos, but because he has a 2 year old brother, I've been hesitant to bring those "chokables" into our house. This was a great compromise: both my kids can play with this and no choking hazard, really. There are some small pieces, but I think it was a good investment. They can (and do) build lots of different play-things out of this one set, so they can really be imaginative. All of the pieces are sturdy and durable, so I think this set will be around for a long time.

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If you have a Diego- or animal-loving kid in your life, let them join in the critter-rescuing fun with this African safari set. Dora's older cousin is out saving wildlife in need with the help of friends Juma and Baby Jaguar. An electronic computer plays animal sounds to help you figure out which animal is currently in a desperate situation. The amazing details on the baby elephant, giraffe, and baboon make it easy to make up dangerous circumstances, while the all-terrain vehicles help Juma and Diego execute the rescue missions.

Once the animals are safe and sound, the electronic computer can play fun Latin beats that you can dance around to. Maybe the animals will join in the fun, too! If kids are too small to create their own heroics, they can follow along with the included activity cards. Other accessories in the set include: fully articulated 2.5" Diego and Juma figures, two vehicles for the African terrain, the park ranger's office, Baby Jaguar, three animals, a tree, and 45 interchangeable pieces. Three 1.5v non-rechargeable batteries are also included so that the fun can start right out of the box.


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Sunday, February 5, 2012

Fisher-Price Sesame Street Singing Pizza Elmo Review

Fisher-Price Sesame Street Singing Pizza Elmo
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OK, I don't have kids and I got this thing as a gag gift. But it has more smiles per gallon that anything I've seen in a while. The tickle-me-elmo is just plain annoying unless you're 2 or have had unfortunate head trauma recently. But this thing is so bizarrely funny that I'm considering doll-napping it to fire up on rainy days or after scratching off another losing lottery ticket. The singing pizza is the piece-de-resistance, no pun intended. It will give you pause next time you order a slice for fear that you're eating an endangered species. Like eating dolphins or puppies.

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Who doesn't love Elmo from Sesame Street? Now the cuddly red character comes to life in your own home, and he's cooking up some big fun. Recommended for children 18 months old and up, the Fisher-Price Sesame Street Singing Pizza Elmo will delight kids and adults with his singing and dancing. More Than A Stuffed Toy In his package--a cardboard diorama of an Italian kitchen--Singing Pizza Elmo stands with one arm extended and the other holding a pizza. Covered in velvety polyester material, Elmo is dressed in a red and white checkered apron and a plush cotton baker's hat. Much more than a stuffed toy, when Elmo's extended hand is pressed, he begins to move and talk. "Let's sing the pizza song together," he says, and begins his lighthearted pizza pie song and dance.Who Ordered The Talking Pizza? But Elmo isn't alone! The best part about this Sesame Street toy is the surprise singing pizza. Elmo's lovable friend has eyes that open and close, and a mouth that moves to the music. With a face made from pepperoni, mushroom and green pepper toppings, the talking pizza is made from soft rubbery plastic.Put To The Test While Elmo is soft to touch on the outside, his song and dance moves require hard plastic insides that make him too uncomfortable and heavy to be carried around by young children like a regular stuffed toy. Parents should also take note that this battery-powered toy is surface washable only. On the other hand, Singing Pizza Elmo's firm, plastic feet keep him standing on any flat surface--making him the ideal toy for stationary play and as a room decoration. An instant delight for kids, Elmo's cute voice brings smiles and laughs to babies, toddlers, and young children alike. At first parents will be charmed as well. The song and dance lasts around a minute, and it can only be stopped by switching the toy off. Elmo freezes immediately wherever he is; when turned back on, he starts his song from the beginning. Even if parents opt to take the batteries out from time to time for some peace and quiet, the adorable Elmo is still bound to bring joy to little ones. Pros
Delights children with their favorite character's voice and singing
Pizza comes to life with moving eyes and mouth
Elmo sways and dances to the music
Ideal for stationary play and decoration
Cons
Made with hard and heavy inside materials
Surface washable only
What's in the Box Singing Pizza Elmo and four "AA" batteries.

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Saturday, January 14, 2012

Mega Bloks Firetruck Review

Mega Bloks Firetruck
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Got this for my 2yr old son and my 3yr old daughter. This is one of the only toys that they will actually sit on the floor and play with for a extended period of time. My son loves to pull it from room to room and clean up is a snap.

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Almost 2 feet in length, this Mega Firetruck includes a working ladder, 38 maxi blocks with stickers, and one firefighter figurine. Made of heavy-duty red and gray plastic, this four-wheeler looks and feels impressive. The ladder can stay in an upright position on its own and it includes a handle to carry the truck around. Fully equipped with a firefighter figurine and 38 blocks to build scenes, it makes rescue adventures even more thrilling.

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Sunday, January 1, 2012

Melissa & Doug Deluxe Jumbo Cardboard Blocks Review

Melissa and Doug Deluxe Jumbo Cardboard Blocks
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I bought this for my daughter's fourth birthday because I remembered similar big red blocks from my own kindergarten years. It has been her favorite present. She has built towers, beds for her stuffed animals, hurdles, set up a restaurant table and chairs for her dolls, and more. It's a classic toy, great for creative play.
I do wish it had more of the big red blocks; the vast majority are the small yellow ones. And you do have to assemble the blocks, which is not too difficult if you have two people to do it. It really takes more than two hands.

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This 40-piece set takes the blah out of blocks, especially for kids who create best with lots of pieces, lots of color, and lots of space. A staple item in many preschools, this set can spark endless imaginative play as children build large, life-size structures. Kids will find plenty of ways to construct forts, bridges, walls, chairs, and more with the easy to assemble pieces. Three different size blocks offer a strong building foundation as well as a starting point for kids to conceptualize math (one large red block is the same size as two medium blue blocks or four small yellow blocks, adding blocks, counting blocks, etc.). The blocks also help develop large motor skills and teamwork.

Made from heavy grade cardboard, these blocks are lightweight enough for small architects to lift and connect, but strong enough to support those same builders standing or sitting on them. Kids with a knack for construction and creative play will be enraptured by these bright red, yellow, and blue blocks for hours. The 40-piece set is made up of eight large red blocks (12" x 6" x 3"), eight medium blue blocks (6" x 6" x 3"), and 24 small yellow blocks (6" x 3" x 3").


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Tuesday, December 20, 2011

Piranha Panic Game Review

Piranha Panic Game
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I recently purchased this game for my 5 year old son and he loves it!
He understands how to play the game, but he also just likes to play with the Piranhas, flipping them and making them eat the marbles...
I would recommend this game to other parents.

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Imagine that you're a fish happily swimming through the Amazon basin and suddenly you come across a feeding frenzy of vicious piranhas! To stay alive in this Piranha Panic game, you must get all three of your fish marbles to the top of the stream. But be careful, the marbles might be attacked by big fish with even bigger appetites. In this thrilling game, kids ages five and up take turns rolling the die to see how many spaces to move and whether or not the piranhas will attack. It is a great tool to teach patience, taking turns, and counting, and best of all, two to four players can join in on the frantic fun.Fun for the Whole Family The whole family can enjoy racing their marbles through this action-packed frenzy. The game moves quickly and is unique in many ways. Kids love the plastic board with its bright blue color and piranha cartoon. Piranha Panic is easy to assemble and does not require batteries, so kids can start playing almost the minute they open the box. This game entices children with its fish-flipping action. The die tells the children when to let the piranhas lose and then the piranha knocks the marble back into the stream. This simple action delights young players. Kids also love the marbles' cute fearful faces and the piranhas' ugly mugs. Piranha Panic is a heart- stopping race that never really ends -- the first game is as fun as the last. (Parents with very young children should be careful as Piranha Panic has small parts that could be dangerous for babies and toddlers.)


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Saturday, November 26, 2011

Vtech V.Smile TV Learning System Review

Vtech V.Smile TV Learning System
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Electronics are evolving into pretty much every area of life, and that includes Early Learning. Apart from PC software, and stand-alone toys, a new approach follows the `games console' line: a console that you can hook up to your television so your little one can play games that will teach him or her counting, the alphabet, and the basic reading/writing/'rithmetic. Whether this approach actually `works', in terms of teaching children the basics, remains to be seen - it's too early for any useful research evidence.
Two of the front-runners in this evolution are the V.Smile from VTech, and the Clickstart `First Computer' from Leapfrog. Both are fairly cheap plastic battery-powered consoles pitched at 3- to 6/8-year-olds; both come with initial free software, and have a range of additional software available as cartridges, mostly themed on popular cartoon/comic characters (Disney, Thomas the Tank Engine, Superman etc). Unable to decide which (if either) of these might be helpful for our three-year-old boy, we decided to buy both and try them out. This is what we found.
The V.Smile is slightly more expensive (AU$119 for the console, plus AU$40 per software cartridge). It seems like the better machine in a lot of respects. There is a much wider range of software (about 30 cartridges available), catering from 3-to-5-year-olds up to 6-to-8-year-olds. It looks better engineered: sound output can be in stereo; there is a built-in compartment for storing your cartridges; there is a microphone (which we haven't used yet); and, although battery-powered (4 x AA), you can also run it off the mains - though, somewhat annoyingly, you have to buy a separate AC adapter. The user manual leaflet is somewhat better than that of its competitor, though both are adequate and both systems were quite easy to set-up without the manual.
However, its appearance gives the game away for the V.Smile: it looks like a cartoon version of a Playstation, and the interface is joystick-based (one supplied, with the option to add a second). It is first and foremost a games console, and the software confirms this: the activities are essentially `platform games' (think Donkey Kong or Super Mario), with a fairly thin serving of word/number/pattern/colour recognition thrown in. It was readily apparent that the main entertainment lay in manoeuvring, jumping, and evading hazards, and the basics of this were beyond our three-year-old at his first sitting; in contrast, the puzzles shown (`which one is the apple?' `pick the red circle' etc) posed little or no challenge to him at all. Although he had great fun (with Daddy's help), I'm not sure he learnt anything at all in an hour's test run.
The Clickstart got off to a poorer start, despite being a bit cheaper (AU$98 for the console, and AU$31.50 per cartridge). For openers, it's packaged in that annoying wire-and-sticky-tape fashion that takes at least half-an-hour to get out of the box and generally requires destroying a substantial amount of the packaging. There seem to be only six software cartridges available, aiming up to 6-year-olds. It does have the big advantage of being cordless, relying on an infra-red transmitter rather like your remote. We thought this might be a problem for our projector (being behind the child, as opposed to a TV screen in front of them), but it proved to be no problem at all unless someone stood in front of the IR receiver - presumably the IR signal is reflected from the wall. However, this does also mean that there are two components each requiring batteries (4 x AA and 4 x C), with no option for an AC adapter.
But - and it's a big but - the Clickstart is quite clearly based on a computer, not a games console. The interface is a QWERTY keyboard, with a simple one-button mouse; it can register different `users', if you have more than one child; and the home screen is a simplistic `point-and-click' GUI. A cute puppy called Scout is your guide to the system (and our boy LOVES puppies). The built-in games are more varied in format, and richer in content, than those of the V.Smile; they focus on developing both conceptual skills (numbers, letters, shapes, colours etc) and interface skills (how to use a keyboard and mouse). Even with no keyboard skills at all, our three-year-old could still have a grand time pressing random keys to collect alphabetical fruit or bring up phonetic-linked pictures. But by the end of an hour or so, he was starting to recognise individual digits (`press the 8 key'), and was getting the hang of the mouse. The cartridge games we tried were somewhat more `platform'-like, but with less emphasis on tricky manoeuvring and more emphasis on picking the right shape/number/colour, and some counting. The cartridge graphics seem to have come from the 1980s, but our three-year-old could recognise Buzz and Woody and Emperor Zurg and that was good enough for him! And whereas the V.Smile cartridges are each pitched at a specific age range, the Clickstart games and cartridges each contain different levels for different age groups - making up to some degree for the fact that there are fewer of them.
So my vote goes to the Clickstart, simply because it aims to be an educational toy computer rather than an educational games console; and (on the basis of a short test run), it actually seems to achieve some education. On the other hand, for an older child who's already hooked on video games, the V.Smile probably stands a better chance of getting their attention, and perhaps keeping it with the older-age-group cartridges and two-player options. I'm still not convinced that either of these systems is really the best way to teach children their numbers and letters; and I realise that nothing will take the place of hours of input from an enthusiastic adult. But I'd much rather see my toddler having fun with a keyboard than a joystick, particularly if that's going to set any sort of pattern for the future.


Click Here to see more reviews about: Vtech V.Smile TV Learning System

Educational video gaming just got smarter! Through our V.Smile TV Learning System, your child will learn math, spelling, logic and more while Turning Game Time Into Brain Time! The V.Smile TV Learning System is a brilliant breakthrough in TV gaming that combines a video game platform and educational content with a system that plugs directly into your television! This award-winning system plays Smartridges that are made especially for three to seven year olds, and features popular characters like Dora, Spiderman, Thomas and Shrek. Your child will love joining familiar friends on exciting adventures that guide them through age-appropriate skill levels and developmental activities. Each Smartridge includes four to five additional learning zone games that focus on specific skills needed in school. Two different game levels let children advance the curriculum and game speeds as they progress. The V.Smile system includes a jumbo joystick designed for both left-handed and right-handed users, four flashing buttons, and an oversized enter button created specifically for a preschooler's active hands and mind.



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Thursday, November 17, 2011

Fisher-Price Star Station Entertainment System Review

Fisher-Price Star Station Entertainment System
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I was really excited to give this to our daughter for her 3rd birthday- she adores singing and is super outgoing. Unfortunately, the microphones aren't great and it is difficult to hear her singing. The song selections also were disappointing, she of course, loves the Dora one. The Princess one doesn't have many "popular" princess songs. I wish I could really recommend this product, but I wish I had boxed it up and sent it back. Should have just bought a high quality microphone!

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Now your child can be a rock star on TV. With the Star Station Entertainment System kids sing into the microphone to perform favorite songs, all while watching and hearing their performance "live" on the television screen. The base unit uses plug-n-play technology to easily hook up to your TV, allowing performers to see and hear themselves as they put on their show. You can even record performances by connecting to a VCR or DVD player as well if your TV has audio/video input jacks.

The base has a controllable camera with five different lenses that create cool video effects, and the base's oversized, kid-friendly buttons make it simple for small hands to control all the action. The four buttons include play, pause, volume control, and song selection. The system comes with one cartridge with four recognizable sing-along tunes: If You're Happy and You Know It, Row Row Row Your Boat, This Old Man, and The Wheels on the Bus. When kids (or parents) grow tired of these songs, there are eight additional cartridges that can be purchased separately, or the device can be hooked up to a CD or MP3 player if kids have other favorites.

This entertainment system also includes two wireless microphones, which means double the fun. Kids can invite friends over to play, parents can join in, harmonies can be added, or solo performers can just hold one in each hand. The fact that they're wireless is ingenious. This allows budding pop stars to dance around as they sing, means they don't have to be two inches from the TV screen, and, most of all, means there are no cords for tripping over, ripping out, or taking up space when not in use.

One base unit, two wireless microphones, and one music cartridge are included. The necessary six AA and three AAA batteries are not.


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Friday, October 7, 2011

Mega Bloks Cat 3 - In - 1 Ride - On Dump Truck Review

Mega Bloks Cat 3 - In - 1 Ride - On Dump Truck
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I love the look of this toy. I purchased it for my godson (just turned one) who is a strong walker and typical tough boy. It looks cute as anything and I have been happy w/ all of my son's (2 yrs old), "CAT" tractors, trucks etc. I wanted to have the cool "big boy" present, unfortunately it doesn't hold up to a boy's love, The dump truck bed continues to fall off, which makes it easier to ride but a pain for mom and dad to put on all of the time. I expected much better quality. I wouldn't buy it again.


Click Here to see more reviews about: Mega Bloks Cat 3 - In - 1 Ride - On Dump Truck

With realistic truck sounds and building blocks, the 3-in-1 Ride On Dump Truck makes working fun. Toddlers will have a blast scooping up toy bricks and small toys, dumping them out of the dump bed, and driving a vehicle for the very first time. Recommended for children from one to three years old, this dump truck helps young ones transition from crawling, to walking, to riding! Ride, Dump, and Build with Blocks Perfectly built for little bodies, the 3-in-1 Ride-On Dump Truck is the right height for kids who still spend much of their time crawling and playing on the floor. Toddlers can easily roll the dump truck around with them as they walk or stand, supported by the ergonomic handle on the dump bed. With the truck bed up, kids can ride the truck facing forward with their hands low on the steering wheel, or with their hands higher on the dump handle. Although the truck doesn't unload on its own, the light truck bed lifts up and slides back easily. Made from tough, durable plastic with safe, rounded edges, this Caterpillar brand dump truck holds up to long days of play. Like the real thing, this truck stands out with a bright yellow and black design. The 10 included Maxi Mega Blocks attach to each other for fun building and connect to spots in the dump bed, to the left and right of the truck, and on the steering wheel. The same color as the steering wheel and its buttons, these blocks are red, black, and gray.Realistic Dump Truck Sounds As exciting as the building and dumping action are the fun sound effects the truck makes. Turning on this dump truck, kids are immediately transported to the sounds of a construction site. By pushing one of three buttons on the steering wheel, the driver hears the truck's engine starting up and blowing exhaust, the truck's horn honking, or the truck dumping. The truck creates engine sounds when pushed forward; rolled backward, it beeps to make sure no one's in the truck's blind spots. Whether or not construction sounds are a part of your daily life, the toy's realistic noises can grow a little tiresome. Thankfully, the toy doesn't have to be turned on to be played with and comes completely assembled. While this dump truck is too heavy for children to pick up, its design is compact enough for parents to move it with one hand from one room to the next, or quickly pack it in the back seat of the car. What's more, the 3-in-1 Ride-On Dump Truck is compatible with standard Maxi Bloks, allowing young ones to make even bigger and better creations.

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Thursday, September 15, 2011

Hasbro Playskool Dream Town Rose Petal Cottage Review

Hasbro Playskool Dream Town Rose Petal Cottage
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We bought this for my 3 year old girl's birthday. It was SO easy to set up...only took 1/2 hour for all pieces, including the oven and sink! The attention to detail in this product was amazing and the quality was far better than I expected. She absolutely loves it. The best part...when she is tired of it for a while, take it apart and store it under the bed or in the attic. I can't wait for more pieces to come out. All the parts nest inside each other for space saving too. I HIGHLY recommend this item!!!!

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Give your little girl a place of her own. This fabric-covered playhouse is the perfect place to let little imaginations roam free. Standing just over four feet tall, this cottage has cozy, double-sided fabric walls, complete with windows, a Dutch door and a chimney. When It's time to prepare pretend meals, the durable fiberboard stove has knobs that really turn and an oven door that opens. Playing "house" in the Rose Petal Cottage lets your little girl build and create unforgettable memories in her very own home. Appliances and Nursery Playset sold separately. Measures 38.25"L x 38.5"W x 52"H. Adult assembly required. Available November 28, 2007.

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Tuesday, August 23, 2011

Dora's Talking House Additions - Clubhouse Review

Dora's Talking House Additions - Clubhouse
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This is the only toy my Grandaughter told me she wanted for Xmas, and I could not find it in the stores. I ordered it online and it arrived in a timely manner and as a new product. I know she will be so excited when she opens it up on Xmas day.
DSD

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Friday, August 12, 2011

Giant Foam Block Set II (32 pcs.) Review

Giant Foam Block Set II (32 pcs.)
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A foam block is just a foam block, no matter how it is marketed. With my first child, I have purchased similar blocks for my son for substantially lower prices. Because I am familiar with this kind of toy and its real value, I would never pay over a dollar a piece for a block of this type. And this product offer is asking you to pay over three dollars for each of these small blocks!
Foam blocks are easy to find at most toy stores and even from other online vendors. I like foam blocks, I gave them to my son when he was a baby and I plan to buy some new ones for my second son due soon. I don't dispute the value of foam blocks for a child's playtime, I dispute the ridiculous price asked for this toy (and other toys I have seen offered here as well).
While the convenience of online shopping is a great boon to busy parents, this simply crosses the line into the arena of taking advantage of parents' desires to do what is best for their kids. Spending (this much) for cheap blocks of the type that you can get for less elsewhere is not smart and does not do anything for your child that you are probably are already doing. Sure, your baby will like these blocks, but your baby will be just as pleased with blocks that are fairly priced. The money you save can be spent on other things your family needs. I advise all parents to pass this one by and caution them to be sure to look at all the products and prices offered here more closely.

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Giant Blocks, 32 Piece Set\nThese extra durable foam blocks are ideal for safe and quiet play. The colorful shapes and sizes help develop motor coordination and enhance gross motor skills. Blocks are 4 1/3 inches thick. Ages 2 and up.

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