This month we continue our coverage of Toy Fair 2011, the biggest toy show in North America. We’ve tested some great toys for all types of grandkids. The toys range from high tech to no tech, but they all share one feature: They’re fun ! Let’s jump into part two of our Toy Fair coverage….
Remember when a Hot Wheels car was just a car? Not anymore! The Hot Wheels Video Racer puts a video camera, microphone, LCD screen, battery and USB jack into a standard-sized Hot Wheels car. Now the grandkids can record all the stunts and jumps they do with their Hot Wheels Video Racer car, export the videos to the computer and share with friends and family. Age 5+. [Hot Wheels Video Racer, $60. Full Review w/demo]
Like technology, but also want to get the kids to play outside? The Nerf Super Soaker Thunderstorm is the first battery powered Super Soaker water gun. Kids love the Super Soaker water guns, but the pumping action required to shoot them can be hard for younger kids. The Nerf Super Soaker Thunderstorm requires no pumping; just pull the trigger and water shoots out 25 feet. Age 6+. [Nerf Super Soaker Thunderstorm, $15. Full Review w/demo]
Water guns are great for those hot summer days, but what about when it rains? Head inside and play You’ve Been Sentenced! As strange as it sounds, this word game makes learning vocabulary and grammar fun. Use word cards to try to make sentences and then laugh hysterically as players try to explain how their sentence makes sense. Age 8+. [You’ve Been Sentenced! $25. Full Review w/demo]
Finally, what has no batteries, no manual and will make grandkids of all ages smile and laugh? The 2011 Line of Folkmanis Puppets. These beautiful puppets just come to life on your hand and enchant grandkids. The line now includes FolkMonsters – large, two-handed puppets that prove that monsters don’t need to be scary. Age: all. [Folkmanis Puppets, $20 and up. Full Review w/demo]
Have fun playing – just remember to give the grandkids a turn!
Dan Nessel is the Director of Product Reviews at DadDoes.com. Join Dad Does and read real-world, brutally honest product reviews geared toward parents and grandparents.
