Toys & Family Entertainment, February 2013 by aNb Media

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What’s New with K’NEX

Vol. 8, No. 2, February 2013

Toy Fair 2013 State of the Specialty Industry Competition Heats up in Doll Category

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February 2013 Volume 8, No. 2

features

38 Control Your Brand with MAPP Trap by Ron Solomon

10 Observations & Opinions

40 Competition Heats up in the Doll Category

12 Sizzlers

by Christine Sullivan

14 The Ticker

42 Dolls: Product Presentation

18 Entertainment Marketplace:

by Christine Sullivan

44 Strong Start at This Year’s Hong Kong Toys & Games Fair by Christopher Byrne

46 Disney, Partners Launch Monsters University Initiative by Nancy Lombardi

TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT EXCLUSIVE

48 State of the Specialty Toy Industry by Nancy Lombardi

58 What’s New at Toy Fair 2013

compiled by Laurie Leahey and Jennifer Lynch

128 Specialty Emporium: Blue Orange by Jennifer Lynch

departments

Babar

22 Industry Forum: TIA

on this page

clockwise from left: Babar wooden car from Schylling; Spot It! Party Game from Blue Orange; LEGO Mindstorms EV3 robot; A scene from Disney/Pixar’s Monsters University; Monster High Scaris assortment from Mattel

24 Industry Forum: ASTRA

26 Industry Forum: Design Edge 28 Industry Forum:

Dallas Market Center

30 Industry Forum: ToyFest West 32 Industry Forum:

Gameplan Europe

34 Merchandise Makers: K’NEX 130 Calendar of Events

Cover and related Toy Fair 2013 poster created by Design Edge

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OBSERVATIONS & OPINIONS

WWW.ANBMEDIA.COM

Embrace the Change BY

BOB GLASER

he only constant is change. As we embark on yet another Toy Fair, things are very different this year. There are major shifts happening within society that are not “trends” but rather signify real change in how consumers spend their time and money. As you will read on the pages ahead, the recurring theme in the issue speaks to these shifts. At the root of this sea change is the internet. One aspect of the shift is the rise of online shopping. The other is mobile devices, which encompass smartphones and tablets. Online shopping is still in its infancy. According to an October 2012 survey of American consumers by the National Retail Federation, 51.8 percent of U.S. consumers planned to shop online during this past holiday season. That’s up from 46.7 percent in 2011. It’s obvious that this number will accelerate with each passing year, not just in the U.S. but globally. Amazon.com is without question the leader when shopping for anything online. After all, the tagline is “Earth’s biggest selection.” It does indeed seem true. So how is anyone else supposed to compete? Most mass market chains will have to act quickly to catch up to what consumers believe are givens when shopping online: search, shop, pay, ship, and return with ease—all at the lowest price. It’s a tall order to fulfill. Oddly enough, this should not spell certain doom for independent toy stores. They will not be able to compete based on the criteria above. However, it’s been written about repeatedly in this magazine that the independents will be able to compete based on customer service and community activities—two things that can’t be replicated online. The other issue vexing the industry is tablets and accompanying apps. The reality is an iPad is the ultimate toy—regardless of the user’s age. Many toy companies have tried to make complementary toys for iPods and iPads known as “app-cessories” but without too much success. We can expect to see many more attempts this year. It will be interesting to see how this category evolves and what product will break through at retail. At aNb Media we are also in the midst of change. Our consumer site, TimetoPlayMag.com, has allowed us to move from a trade magazine publisher to a full-service media company. We continue to serve the trade with magazines and a website (aNbMedia.com). But we have seen explosive growth with our comprehensive video reviews, media events, blogger lunches, Twitter game show, social media outreach, and so much more. In addition, 2013 will see growth on TimetoPlayMag.com in the infant, sporting goods, and tech for kids categories. We live in an exciting time. We can see the change happening around us and we should all be open to embracing what is on the horizon. It will allow everyone’s business to grow in 2013.

10 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY 2013

February 2013 • Volume 8, Number 2 PUBLISHER BOB GLASER BOB@ANBMEDIA.COM ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER ANDY KRINNER ANDY@ANBMEDIA.COM ADVERTISING DIRECTOR DONNA MOORE DONNA@ANBMEDIA.COM CONTROLLER MARY GROGAN MARY@ANBMEDIA.COM EDITOR IN CHIEF JIM SILVER JIM@ANBMEDIA.COM EDITORIAL DIRECTOR NANCY LOMBARDI NANCY@ANBMEDIA.COM EDITOR AT LARGE CHRISTOPHER BYRNE CHRISB@ANBMEDIA.COM EDITOR LAURIE LEAHEY LAURIE@ANBMEDIA.COM ASSISTANT EDITOR JENNIFER LYNCH JENNIFER@ANBMEDIA.COM WEB MASTER ERIK KIECKHAFER ERIK@ANBMEDIA.COM WEB CONTENT MANAGER BRENDAN SANABRIA BRENDAN@ANBMEDIA.COM CONTRIBUTORS ANDREW DOBBIE; KATHLEEN MCHUGH; KRISTIN MORENCY; CINDY MORRIS; MATT NUCCIO; RON SOLOMON; BILL ST. JOHN; CHRISTINE SULLIVAN PUBLIC RELATIONS REPRESENTATIVE JOSSLYNNE WELCH LITZKY PUBLIC RELATIONS, 320 SINATRA DRIVE, HOBOKEN, N.J. 07030 (201) 222–9118 EXT. 13 • JWELCH@LITZKYPR.COM INTERESTED IN A SUBSCRIPTION? CONTACT SUBSCRIPTIONS@ANBMEDIA.COM ANB MEDIA, INC. 229 WEST 28TH STREET, SUITE 401, NEW YORK, N.Y. 10001 PHONE: (646) 763–8710 • FAX: (646) 763–8727 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT is published four times per year by aNb Media. Copyright 2013 aNb Media. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form, or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, recording, or any information storage and retrieval system, without written permission from the publisher. Printed in the U.S.A. TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT and SPECIALTY EMPORIUM are registered trademarks of aNb Media. Opinions and comments expressed in this publication by editors, contributing writers, or solicited or unsolicited documents are not necessarily those of management.

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SIZZLERS

Sizzlers: What’s Moving Off Store Shelves? What Are the Hottest Web Orders? Here is an alphabetical listing of the hottest-selling items in the toy industry, based on a combined survey of both offline and online retailers, reflecting the previous month’s sales.

Doc McStuffins Time for Your Checkup Doll

AIR HUNTRESS Z-CURVE BOW Zing Toys

BARBIE BUILD ’N STYLE ASSORTMENT MEGA Bloks

DOC MCSTUFFINS DOCTOR’S BAG SET Just Play DOC MCSTUFFINS TIME FOR YOUR CHECKUP DOLL Just Play

CRAYOLA COLOR WONDER ASSORTMENT Crayola FURBY Hasbro

HEDBANZ GAME Spin Master

12 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY 2013

My Little Pony Friendship Is Magic Pony Princess Wedding Castle

JAKE AND THE NEVER LAND PIRATES JAKE’S MUSICAL PIRATE SHIP BUCKY Fisher-Price LEAPPAD2 EXPLORER LeapFrog

LEGO FRIENDS ASSORTMENT LEGO

LEGO NINJAGO ASSORTMENT LEGO

MONSTER HIGH GHOULS RULE ASSORTMENT Mattel

MY LITTLE PONY FRIENDSHIP IS MAGIC PONY PRINCESS WEDDING CASTLE Hasbro

Air Huntress Z-Curve Bow

PERPLEXUS ASSORTMENT PlaSmart

REGULAR SHOW FIGURE ASSORTMENT Jazwares SKYLANDERS GIANTS Activision

TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES ROLEPLAY AND VEHICLE ASSORTMENTS Playmates TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES COMBAT GEAR ASSORTMENT Playmates WWE BRAWLIN’ BUDDIES Mattel

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THE TICKER

A Recap of Industry Headlines • For More News, Visit www.aNbMedia.com • Sign up to Receive FREE Weekly News Alerts

JAKKS PACIFIC L AUNCHES DREAMPLAY WITH NANT WORKS, DISNEY

DreamPlay Toys, LLC, the joint venture between NantWorks, LLC and Jakks Pacific, Inc., debuted Disney-branded DreamPlay products at last month’s Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas. DreamPlay products will incorporate NantWorks’ groundbreaking iD image recognition technology. It is a robust recognition platform that accurately recognizes images, 3-D objects, voice, speech, data, live video, and more, with the capability to differentiate between millions of objects instantaneously. The integration of this technology with Disney characters enables the consumer to experience a seamless blending of a physical toy with new character-based content in the form of interactive games and animation right on a smart phone or tablet device. DreamPlay Toys and Jakks Pacific plan to launch this interactive product line in the U.S. at major retailers in fall 2013 and internationally in 2014. Using NantWorks’ iD technology, apps will be developed for both iOS and Android devices, which will allow the consumer to access deeper content-rich experiences from their mobile and tablet devices without the need for any type of QR code, according to the companies. The patented 2-D and 3-D recognition technologies instantly recognize the toy and allow children to interact, play, and learn in ways that were not possible before. It is a seamless convergence of technology, storytelling, and tradiBy pointing the iPad’s camera at the interactive tional toy play delivered through a single experience. Little Mermaid drums, Sebastian appears and interacts “What really sets this apart from anything else out there is the combination with the drums on the screen. of a truly incredible technological platform combined with the best content and storytelling company in the world, Disney. Kids are about to see the magic they always dreamed of come to life right before their eyes,” says Dr. Patrick Soon-Shiong, NantWorks’ founder, in a statement. “At NantWorks, we believe in breaking barriers and bringing the impossible to life. This collaboration marks the convergence of imagination, innovation, and interactivity, and we are excited that Disney is delivering new experiences to the consumer utilizing our groundbreaking iD technology.” Bob Chapek, president, Disney Consumer Products, says in a statement, “One of our top priorities is to integrate cutting-edge technologies with our incredible Disney content to transform traditional toys into interactive storytelling experiences that are uniquely Disney. This announcement is an exciting first step toward our vision of re-imagining conventional toys as new forms of play and digital entertainment that will enrich and enhance how the consumer interacts with Disney products.” Stephen Berman, president and CEO, Jakks Pacific, Inc., also says in a statement, “We are excited to work with Disney, our longtime licensor, to develop and deliver best-in-class play experiences for families to enjoy. Increasingly, kids are ‘playing’ with digital technology. Our goal is to combine physical toy play with a digital experience incorporating the unique content that only Disney can provide. By marrying toys and Disney to our DreamPlay technology using the powerful NantWorks iD recognition platform, we are merging the two ways kids are playing today, with smart devices and traditional toys, enhancing their experience and deepening the level of interaction with our products using their smart phone or tablet device.” Disney will be granted exclusive rights to utilize the DreamPlay technology in the toy space along with select entertainment characters and brands owned by Jakks, such as Monsuno.

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THE TICKER

A Recap of Industry Headlines • For More News, Visit www.aNbMedia.com • Sign up to Receive FREE Weekly News Alerts

LEGO UNVEILS MINDSTORMS EV3

The LEGO Group introduced its new LEGO Mindstorms EV3 platform for consumer robotics, designed to introduce a younger generation to building and programming robots while adding new flexibility for its existing fan base. The entire Mindstorms system is powered by the new EV3 Intelligent Brick, featuring more memory and a larger processor. A new infrared sensor gives builders more control over their robots than ever before. A new Linux-based firmware, a USB port, and SD expansion slot will offer nearly unlimited programming and expansion capabilities. Additionally, LEGO Mindstorms EV3 will also include full iOS and Android compatibility out of the box. At launch, it will include building instructions for 17 different robots. The LEGO Group has created a series of modular builds designed to help children begin programming and playing within minutes. Builders can then add LEGO Technic pieces, additional motors, or sensors to change the functionality of the robot. A mission pad included with the box encourages children to compete against themselves in a series of obstacle courses for the robots they build and program. Mindstorms EV3 is the first LEGO playset to incorporate 3-D building instructions, made possible through collaboration with Autodesk. Mindstorms will be released with native language editions for Russia, China, Korea, Japan, Spain, and Denmark in addition to the English, French, German, and Dutch language versions now available.

ANGRY BIRDS MOVIE EXPECTED IN THEATERS IN 2016

Rovio Entertainment announced that Despicable Me producer John Cohen has signed on as producer of the upcoming Angry Birds movie. David Maisel, former chairman of Marvel Studios and executive producer of Iron Man, will be executive producer of the feature film, which is expected in theaters in the summer of 2016. Following Marvel Studios’ example, which was architected by Maisel, Rovio will produce and finance the movie outside the studio system and retain full creative control. The upcoming movie marks Rovio Entertainment’s first foray into feature films. Since its debut in 2009, the Angry Birds gaming app —and its numerous versions—has been downloaded more than one billion times across multiple platforms.

UGLYDOLL HAS NEW OFFICE DUE TO HURRICANE

Thanks to Hurricane Sandy, PrettyUgly LLC, home of Uglydoll, has new permanent office space. The company has been fully operational at this location since early November. Pretty Ugly, LLC 290 Highway 22 West Green Brook, NJ 08812 Email: pretty@uglydolls.com Phone: (908) 620-0931

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ICONIX HIRES BRODSKY FOR PEANUTS

Iconix Brand Group, Inc., appointed Leigh Anne Brodsky to the position of managing director of Peanuts Worldwide, a joint venture with Charles M. Schulz Creative Associates. Brodsky will oversee the global business for the Peanuts property, including the launch of the recently announced 2015 feature film from Twentieth Century Fox and Blue Sky Studios. She will also oversee and develop the Iconix Entertainment division as well as seek out properties for the company’s growing portfolio of brands. Brodsky is well known for her role as president at Nickelodeon Consumer Products, where she built the division into the world’s No.1 TV-based licensing business. Most recently, she has been an acting member of the board of directors at Jakks Pacific, a board member of the Children’s Brain Tumor Foundation, and president of L.A.B Licensing and Branding.

ENTERTAINMENT MARKETPLACE

Babar BY

NANCY LOMBARDI

from Nelvana & Clifford Ross Company

abar originated in the 1930s as a bedtime story told to Laurent de Brunhoff and his brother by their mother, Cecile. The books then came to life through the art of Laurent’s father, Jean de Brunhoff, a painter, who produced seven books about the character. Jean passed away suddenly at the young age of 37. Laurent, who studied at the same art academy, built on his father’s work, creating many bestselling adventures for the elephant family. Babar tells the tale of a little elephant playing in the jungle who ventures into town after his mother is shot by a hunter and then returns to the jungle, where he becomes the king of the elephants. The lovable elephant has appeared in more than 100 books in 17 languages as well as multiple TV series and specials and even a feature-length film. More than 42 Babar titles have been published to date with more than 10.1 million copies sold in the U.S. alone. Babar is celebrating its 80th anniversary in the U.S. this year. A celebration fit for a king got underway in fall 2012 as New York City’s Saks Fifth Avenue and Books of Wonder showcased Babar with a lineup of upscale products. In November 2012, the flagship Saks Fifth Avenue Toy Boutique featured Babar, which expanded into 21 other Saks locations nationwide. Babar was included in Saks’ New York City holiday window display as well as the store’s holiday catalog. Books of Wonder, New York’s largest independent children’s bookstore, featured Babar window displays last fall, a Babar book signing by author and illustrator Laurent de Brunhoff, story times throughout the month, and an auction of rare Babar silkscreened prints with proceeds benefiting Reading Is Fundamental. “What began as a family bedtime story nearly a century ago has grown into one of the most successful and well-loved children’s book series and brands of all time,” says Andrew Kerr, head of consumer products, The Americas and Australasia, for Nelvana Enterprises, which manages the Babar brand in collaboration with The Clifford Ross Company. “With a standout presence at Saks Fifth Avenue and Books of Wonder, coupled with the launch of an exciting new product range marking the brand’s stateside reintroduction after more than a decade, we are thrilled to kick off Babar’s 80th celebration.” As part of the 80th birthday celebration, the vintage Babar brand will be showcased in a range of new products set to launch at specialty toy and book stores nationwide. A selection of the licensees are featured on the next page. The upscale collection of Babar products will mark the beloved brand’s widespread reemergence at retail after more than 10 years, paving the way for a whole new generation of fans to become immersed in the world of Babar.

18 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY 2013

Fun Facts

• 2013 marks Babar’s 80th anniversary in the U.S. • There are currently 100-plus Babar book titles available in 17 languages. There are even more in development along with multiple TV series and a feature-length film. • The animated Babar TV series, produced by Nelvana and The Clifford Ross Company, premiered on January 23, 1989. • 78 Babar classic and 52 Babar and the Adventures of Badou TV episodes have been produced. • Babar means “lion” in Hindi. • The first book, Histoire de Babar by Jean de Brunhoff, was published in France in 1931. The English version, The Story of Babar, was introduced by A.A. Milne in 1933 in the U.S. and England. • Laurent de Brunhoff, son of the creator, wrote and illustrated Babar et ce Coquin d’Arthur (Babar’s Cousin: That Rascal Arthur) in 1946 at age 21.

New York Puzzle Company

Big Piece Puzzles have colorful, easy-to-see and easy-to-hold two-inch pieces that feature classic Babar images. Available in the line is this Babar et les Ballons, which is a 300piece puzzle.

Out of Print

Out of Print offers 100 percent cotton vintage short-sleeved T-shirts featuring three styles of distressed softened prints. Styles include Babar Comes to America, ABC de Babar (shown), and Babar’s Little Girl.

Books to Bed

This matching crewneck, longsleeved pajama set is paired with Babar’s ABC book, which has Babar and the residents of Celesteville presenting the letters of the alphabet. The pajamas are available in blue and pink cotton in sizes 18 months to children’s size 10.

Schylling

Schylling offers a classic collection of nostalgic wooden and tin toys capturing the heritage of Babar. Some of the items include Babar Wooden Car (shown), Babar Tin Bank, Babar Tin Kaleidoscope, Babar Jack-in-theBox, Babar Tin Tea Set, Wooden Peg Puzzle, Babar 4-in-1 Jigsaw Puzzle, and Babar Mood Puzzle.

Yottoy

Yottoy is celebrating Babar’s 80th anniversary in a big way with a five-foot tall plush Babar in his familiar, signature green suit with gold crown with an MSRP of $495. He’s in a sitting position (shown here) and ready to snuggle as kids read one of the many celebrated books for the Babar series. Also available is the classic 13-inch Babar and Celeste plush for $28. Dressed in their signature outfits, each stands tall with golden felt crowns atop their heads.

Mudpuppy

The Babar Wooden Magnetic Shapes features 35 magnetic pieces of Babar, his family, friends, and other citizens of Celesteville. The Mudpuppy set is made of 80 percent recycled wood.

FEBRUARY 2013 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT 19

Fun on a Global Scale. NEW CHARACTERS. FRESH CONTENT. STATE-OF-THE-ART DISTRIBUTION PLATFORMS. WE’RE GROWING AND REACHING ALL KIDS, EVERYWHERE!

ACTION WHACKED SATURDAY MORNINGS ON THE CW AND 24/7/365 ON MYVORTEXX.COM

LARGEST AGGREGATOR OF KID SAFE CONTENT ON THE WEB

TM & © 2013 SCG Power Rangers LLC. All Rights Reserved. TM & © 2013 Paul Frank Industries LLC. All Rights Reserved. TM & © 2013 SCG Characters LLC. All Rights Reserved. © Akiyoshi Hongo, Toei Animation. TM Saban Properties LLC. All Rights Reserved. TM & © 2013 Vortexx Entertainment Ventures. All Rights Reserved. TM & © 2013 Saban Digital Studios LLC. All Rights Reserved. TM & © 2013 Playforge Games LLC. All Rights Reserved. TM & © 2013 Saban Brands LLC. All Rights Reserved.

LEADING MOBILE GAMES PUBLISHER AND DEVELOPER

INDUSTRY FORUM

TIA STRENGTHENS COMMITMENT TO TOY INDUSTRY GLOBAL EXPANSION hile the United States is the world’s largest consumer of toys, domestic toy sales have remained relatively flat over the past few years. U.S. toymakers are increasingly looking for growth opportunities in international markets, especially with recent estimates predicting that worldwide toy and game sales are expected to rise 22 percent by 2016, bringing the global market to almost $95 billion. As part of its strategic plan for 2013–2015, the Toy Industry Association (TIA) is dedicated to helping its members grow their market share both domestically and internationally. TIA’s advocacy team is stepping up efforts to support international legislative initiatives that help toy companies expand their businesses across borders with ease. “Working with peer organizations such as the Toy Industries of Europe and the International Council of Toy Industries, one of our top priorities in 2013 is to improve trade relations among key international partners, align global standards to make international business easier, and increase market access for our members,” says Ed Desmond, TIA executive vice-president of external affairs.

KRISTIN MORENCY, TIA

Trade topics currently being monitored include: • Regulatory Cooperation—alignment of international regulations • Improved Efficiency at Ports—entry/release delays of compliant product caused by agency activity such as U.S. Customs & Border Protection and/or Consumer Product Safety Commission • Corporate Social Responsibility—child/forced labor, living wage, supply chain visibility, etc. • China’s currency—efforts to revalue China’s currency • Forced Localization—regulations and laws that favor domestic companies • Export Assistance—increasing the ability to sell products in foreign countries • Technical Barriers to Trade—unique standards, inspections, etc. by foreign countries • Free Trade Agreements—increase market access and reduce barriers to trade • Intellectual Property Protection—antipiracy, counterfeit protec-

22 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY 2013

tion, copyright protection, etc. • Countervailing duties—by foreign countries on goods entering their market or by U.S. on imported goods To account for the rising globalization of the toy industry, TIA is building on its year-round educational and informational resources: • The TIA Knowledge Network recently presented webinars covering topics such as anti-counterfeiting and intellectual property protection that apply in the international arena. In the coming months, webinars will cover toy-related issues in North and South America, Europe, the Middle East, and other regions. • The re-vamped Global Commerce section of the TIA website (www.ToyAssociation.org/GlobalCommerce) includes news and information on international regulatory cooperation initiatives, technical or tariff barriers to trade, and other trade and customs updates. • At this month’s Toy Fair, two seminars will provide companies with the tools and information they need to expand their businesses further into the global marketplace. On February 11, the Department of Commerce (DOC) will present Guide to Exporting: North & South of the Border, and on February 12, TIA will host its annual Toy Safety Compliance Update, which will feature recently passed toy safety standards, laws, and compliance requirements in the U.S. and abroad. For more information about TIA’s commitment to tracking and reporting on issues related to the expanding marketplace, visit www.ToyAssociation.org. For more details about Toy Fair’s various opportunities, visit www.ToyFairNY.com. Kristin Morency is communications specialist for the Toy Industry Association (TIA). Visit toyassociation.org for more information.

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INDUSTRY FORUM

DESTINATION: YOUR STORE BY

KATHLEEN MCHUGH

he first business buzz of 2013 is in, and it’s all about competition, competition, competition. There are hopeful signs in the economy (hooray!), and members of The American Specialty Toy Retailing Association (ASTRA) are looking to translate that hopefulness into sales. For independent toy store owners, that starts with getting customers into your store. How does a store become a popular place to visit and shop? How do you become a destination? As you look ahead to your big business challenges for 2013, let’s be clear that this must be one of your top priorities. Your customers have more choices than ever, and between new technologies and online competitors, it is essential that you find new ways to ramp up foot traffic. As bestselling author Jon Acuff, who will be keynoting ASTRA’s Marketplace & Academy in Nashville, Tenn., (June 16–19, 2013) points out, you cannot expect your business to do better just by doing the same things.

ENVISION

THE

STORE YOU WANT

Clarifying your business’ mission and values can help lead you to strategies for creating a place customers seek out. Claudia and Tom Towles, owners of aMuse Toys in Baltimore, Md., were conscious of creating a destination when they opened their toy store. “We pictured a place that would be a hub of community activity—a welcoming, friendly gathering place in a downtown area that did not have anything for kids,” says Claudia Towles. “Being a destination is baked into our mission and our core values. We have worked hard to position ourselves as a desti-

24 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY 2013

nation in the customer’s mind.” aMuse Toys wants customers to have a calm, relaxing, distinctive shopping experience. “We make our shopping space physically beautiful,” says Claudia Towles. “When you walk through our door, you are relaxed by classical music and you can find what you want in displays that are well grouped and not cramped.” The mission of aMuse Toys—beautiful, purposeful play— drives all aspects of the store’s operations from product selection to merchandising to the charities the store supports.

PROVIDE WORLD CLASS CUSTOMER SERVICE

The single most significant competitive advantage most independent stores offer is your customer service. Service—including your product knowledge—differentiates you from stressful, ho-hum shopping experiences at big box stores, and provides the personal, human interaction that online shopping will never match. “People really appreciate good service because they don’t get it in very many places anymore,” says Greg Larson, owner of Larson’s Toys and Games in Columbus, Ohio. “In my many years in this business, I have read lots of books and attended many terrific ASTRA seminars that reinforce how crucial it is to provide world class customer service. This cannot be said often enough. It sets your store apart from other choices available to your customers.” Sari and Sam Powazek, owners of two Doll House & Toy Store locations in the Phoenix, Ariz., area, agree and point out that the same things that differentiate you from big box stores and online retailers are the

things that make you a destination. “It’s about being open, giving, gracious, and highly focused on customer needs,” says Sari Powazek. “It also helps to have a popular dog named Sydney in the store that kids like to pet and shower with treats.” (Several ASTRA store owners have popular pets who become part of their store’s brand image— and part of their destination strategy.)

MAKE YOUR STORE FUN—AND USEFUL

The Powazeks welcome customers to stop by even if they are not shopping. They maintain play areas in their stores, and if families have half an hour between the kids’ activities, they can use them to keep children occupied. They also provide a reason for parents to be in the store. They offer parenting resources through recurring classes and services like infant massage, music demonstrations, and a home safety series. So take another look around. Think like a mom who is tired of being cooped up with preschoolers at home, or a grandmother who is watching the kids for the weekend, or the family that likes to do arts and crafts projects but hates the mess. Think like the dad who just remembered that he was supposed to pick up a gift for his daughter to take to a classmate’s birthday party tomorrow. What will make them think of you—every time? The bottom line? Keep it simple. Take all the hassle out of shopping at your store. Make it a place where kids have a great time and parents exhale when they walk through the door. Kathleen McHugh is president of The American Specialty Toy Retailing Association (ASTRA).

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INDUSTRY FORUM

FROM RADIO TO TABLETS: EMBRACE (TECHNOLOGICAL) CHANGE BY

MATT NUCCIO, DESIGN EDGE

t seems we survived the Mayan prediction regarding the end of the world last December. Surely we’ve heard these end-of-the-world prophecies before. Remember Y2K? And, of course, there is always a Nostradamus prediction floating around. But somehow we never learn about those until after a calamity occurs. Yet lately it seems that a lot of the woeful predictions are coming from the toy industry. It seems everyone is convinced that computers, smart phones, tablets, and just about any other techrelated device means the end of traditional toys. I have to laugh at this idea. How can an industry that is as flexible and innovative as this one seriously consider new technology as a threat? Rather, it’s a long-term asset to be tapped into. While it is prudent to consider the long-term changes these products may have on traditional toys, it is important to remember that new technology—and change—in general always creates apprehension and resistance. Yet in the end, it is these new developments that usually add to traditional play, and grow the economy. When radio debuted the fledgling toy industry debated whether listening to cowboy serials took away from kids’ playtime. We know now that’s certainly not true. In the end, it sold a ton of toys.

Have extra inventory?

Donate it to K.I.D.S.

Your excess product can put smiles on faces!

Donating your excess apparel, shoes, toys, books and juvenile products can provide your company with a generous tax deduction and and replace despair with dignity. Fill out the donation form online at www.KIDSdonations.org or call 1-800-266-3314.

26 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY 2013

That same pattern played itself out when television made its way into American homes. It was predicted that time spent watching television would end playtime. Instead play—and the sale of toys—increased considerably due to children’s series. It helped to fuel the modern-day toy industry. It lead to the creation of sophisticated character licensing. It also lead to the development of the modern-day advertising industry. The same pattern repeated itself yet again when video games entered homes, then computers, CD-ROMs, web-based games, etc. I could go on and on, but I think you get the point. Each new generation of kids weaves technology seamlessly into their lives as it evolves without even giving it a thought. It manages to fit very comfortably right next to traditional toys. It’s all part of a balanced toy box—and a balanced life in general as kids move into adulthood. Forward-thinking companies are looking at the creativity coming from the digital world and are realizing that there will always be a strong market for conventional toys if they are inventive and timely. The industry should be immersing itself in this new world. That doesn’t mean companies should abandon classic product lines. But companies should be willing to absorb technology’s strengths, learn from its weaknesses, and apply the lessons learned to every aspect of play—regardless of what products you manufacture. This is how you will really get to know the market and keep up with play patterns that are in sync with the times. Each new generation thinks technology should stop right where it is comfortable. Everyone wants to remain in their definition of the “good ol’ days.” For some it was the 1950s, for others it was the 1980s. But those born into today’s generation will never know life without a tablet, for example, and for them its use is as natural as the light switch you flick on when you enter a room. Move forward in 2013 to simply learn—even if you are not quite personally ready to forfeit your library card for an eReader. Design Edge is a New York-based graphic design and research development studio. Matt Nuccio can be reached at (516) 377–0500 or matt@designedge.net.

Barbie (2-in-1)

Barbie in The Pink Shoes movie

Ballerina Dress

BarbieÂŽ as Kristyn Farraday doll changes from dance fashion to recital costume!

Available on DVD and Blu-Ray February 26, 2013.

Movie-inspired dress allows girls to recreate movie magic!

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INDUSTRY FORUM

PBJ Show Launches in March BY

CINDY MORRIS, DALLAS MARKET CENTER

Shown here are exhibitors for the PBJ show. From the left is The Daisy Baby, Baby Elephant Ears, and WubbaNub. PBJ is scheduled for March 21 & 22, 2013, at Dallas Market Center.

BJ: Play. Baby. Juvenile., a new trade event for baby gifts and gadgets at the Dallas Market Center will make its debut March 21 and 22. This trade show is expected to become an annual spring event. PBJ further expands the selection inside the Dallas marketplace that includes apparel, accessories, toys, furniture, bedding, books, and educational gifts. “We see a tremendous growth opportunity in the gifts and gadgets market,” said Bill Winsor, president and CEO, Dallas Market Center. “As specialty stores continue to expand their product mix, we can deliver a comprehensive marketplace fulfilling every retail need.” PBJ, taking place on the eighth floor of the World Trade Center, will feature a unique array of new products from emerging companies as well as recognized brand names. The show space, designed by the Dallas

28 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY 2013

Market Center visual merchandising team, will be modern, fun, and inspirational. Fresh displays, hospitalities, special events, and educational and networking opportunities will be available throughout the show. “Our approach to this event is to create an energetic temporary marketplace that is similar to European exhibitions,” said Amber Williams, visual director, Dallas Market Center. “We will keep a playful mood while integrating sophisticated design elements and displays.” PBJ will be held in conjunction with the Dallas KidsWorld Market (March 18–21), which draws specialty retailers from across the U.S. and internationally to the 200,000square-foot marketplace on the eighth floor of the World Trade Center. Other show amenities include the Dallas Market App, free buyer Wi-Fi, a range of dining choices, airfare discounts, special hotel rates, complimentary shuttle services

from partner hotels, and more. Dallas is centrally located and within a four-hour flight from most North American destinations. In addition, Dallas Love Field Airport is conveniently located 10 minutes from the Market Center. While in Dallas, visitors can enjoy some of the best shopping in the southwest, four- and five-diamond restaurants, the largest urban arts district in the nation, more than 13 entertainment districts, and much more. Make plans now to attend next month’s inaugural PBJ (March 21–22) by contacting Market Travel at (214) 744–7444 or markettravel@mcmcmail.com. Stay up to date by visiting www.dallasmarketcenter.com/pbj/ and by “Liking” Dallas Market Center on Facebook and following @DallasMarket on Twitter. Cindy Morris is COO of Dallas Market Center. Visit www.dallasmarketcenter.com/pbj/

THE #1 MUSIC BRAND FOR KIDS 5-12 IN THE U.S.!

FOR MARKETING AND LICENSING INQUIRIES, CONTACT: The social network and video site for kids

Sasha Junk (212) 598-2200 sjunk@kidzbop.com

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INDUSTRY FORUM

TOYFEST WEST: THE BUYER’S PLAYGROUND MOVES TO LAS VEGAS BY

BILL ST. JOHN, TOYFEST WEST

oyFest West (formerly known as the Western States Toy & Hobby Show) makes another fresh start with a move to Las Vegas this year. For many decades, The Western Toy and Hobby Representatives Association (WTHRA) hosted the show in Long Beach, Calif. We are excited to maintain our tradition yet change our show venue. ToyFest West has enjoyed a substantial growth in attendance over the years, with impressive increases in both exhibitor and buyer participation contributing to the overall success of the event. Attendance not only comes from the West, but from many other parts of the U.S. as well as Mexico and the Pacific Rim countries. Overall, we expect a more than 30 percent growth this year compared to previous years. We believe that the reason for this growth is that attendees recognize that travel to industry trade shows in New York City during the winter months can be both complicated and expensive. Our attendees are drawn by the beautiful western weather, easy arrival and departure on our spacious convention facilities, and the casual, reunion-like atmosphere of our event to be a winning combination. We know that our attendees will surely have fun this year as they also enjoy Las Vegas, a more regionally attractive destination with great spas, casinos, restaurants, and shows. Frankly, Las Vegas just makes good business sense during these economic times. In addition, our host, South Point, is offering an unprecedented hotel room incentive—Monday, March 11 will be free of charge to the first 300 guests that book rooms for March 9 and March 10. Attendees can also expect myriad networking opportunities as ToyFest West will again host the annual Gala Event, a much-anticipated affair celebrating industry colleagues who have been inducted in the WTHRA Hall of Fame. This year, WTHRA congratulates the 2013 Retailer of the Year Geppetto’s, located in La Jolla, Calif. We are also continuing our annual ToyFest Game Night, where retailers experience a funfilled venue where they learn about products, enjoy refreshments, and even win prizes. Participants will engage in a fast-paced, three-hour, roundtable event. Additional information about this year’s activities is featured in the box on the right. We hope you will join us next month for another successful show in this year’s new location.

Bill St. John is Western States Toy & Hobby Retail Association (WTHRA) board president. For more information, visit www.toyfestwest.com.

30 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY 2013

TOYFEST WEST IN LAS VEGAS MARCH 10–13 SOUTH POINT HOTEL, CASINO, AND SPA WWW.SOUTHPOINTCASINO.COM SCHEDULE OF EVENTS PLAYWEST GALA RECEPTION Sunday, March 10, 6:30PM–9:00PM at the South Point Hotel. A playful celebration designed exclusively for retailers, representatives, and exhibitors. The event includes food, entertainment, and a brief awards ceremony inducting outstanding industry peers into the Hall of Fame. Congratulations to the following 2013 Hall of Fame Inductees: Rich Brady, Kathleen Milne, and Bill and Nancy Smith. The 2013 Retailer of the Year, Geppetto’s in La Jolla, Calif., will also be honored.

TOYFEST GAME NIGHT Monday, March 11, 6:30PM–9:30PM at the South Point Hotel. Buyers only are welcome to learn and laugh at this signature event of the expo. The event is free; register early as seating is limited.

BEST OF THE FEST BY ASTRA Tuesday, March 12, 8:00AM–9:00AM at the South Point Hotel. ASTRA welcomes all retailers to learn what’s on trend for 2013. No registration required.

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INDUSTRY FORUM

Change Is in the Air BY

ANDREW DOBBIE

t is no secret that parts of Europe are an economic mess. Greece leads the pack with deep economic woes that will not be fixed anytime soon. Portugal, Spain, Italy and, perhaps, even France are not far behind with entrenched issues that stem, in part, from multi-generational reliance on the government mixed with a failure of its citizens to pay taxes. So it comes as no surprise that toy-buying is not top of mind at the moment in these regions. Toy market values year-over-year declined by 16 percent in Spain, 7 percent in France, and 4 percent in Italy. (Of course, some of these stats also have to do with declining birth rates.) Yet apart from these macro-economic problems, the toy industry—in Europe and globally—has other issues to contend with. One is the rapid growth of toy sales from the internet. In the UK and Germany, in particular, web sales are growing so fast that one of the largest multi-national toy companies now predicts that by the end of 2014, 40 percent of German toy sales will be from the internet. This includes both internet-only retailers such as Amazon.com as well as the internet divisions of brick-and-mortar retailers. The latter have to find a way to contend with consumers who expect the same prices both in-store and online. Consumers who are increasingly equipped with smartphones can instantly comparison shop while in-store, as we have seen with the “showrooming” phenomenon. There is no way to fight this inevitable change—and no one should fight it.

32 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY 2013

Embrace it. Mass market retailers must adapt by creating the best site possible for their consumer with low prices, ease of use, easy returns, and multiple ways for consumers to receive their merchandise. It is obvious that this is nearly an impossible task for a mom-and-pop retailer to accomplish. Yet there are other ways to adapt and embrace. This retailer’s strength will be in knowing how to serve its local customers for repeat business. Here is a seemingly simple idea that I was recently told about. For the past year, a specialty toy store in Hannover, Germany, has hosted twice weekly “men evenings” for 30 men. They each pay 30 Euros (which is just under $40) for beer, pretzels, and the opportunity to play with model trains, radio control vehicles, steam engines, slot racing, or other such items for a couple of hours. They cannot make purchases but, of course, many of them return to buy on subsequent days. These “men evenings” are booked six months in advance and the store’s owner makes more profit in a year on these events than he does in operating the store from what I am told. The point is, it is a simple idea, which can be replicated and adapted anywhere in the world. It gives traditional retailers a chance to offer a point of differentiation. You simply can’t do this online. The next major change that has already arrived in the toy industry is the “threat” from tablets and smartphones as entertainment providers. A 3-year-old can now operate an iPad and there are countless apps geared for that age group and younger. Until now, the game play on mobile devices has primarily been solitary, so conventional

board game sales haven’t been fatally affected. But at CES last month, Lenovo introduced the IdeaCentre Horizon Table PC, which has been dubbed an “interpersonal computer” rather than a “personal computer.” It is expected to be for sale later this year for about $1,700. It won’t be as ubiquitous as an iPod in a year’s time but it could be a game changer for game playing. This 27-inch screen can stand or lay flat on a table and can be easily transported around the house. It allows for a group of people to sit around it and play. It’s appealing from a game play perspective. However, globally it is also appealing as a space saver. Most Europeans and Asians live in spaces that are much smaller than American homes. This tablet allows for countless games, apps, photos, etc. to be stored without taking up any living space. Again, this is a chance to embrace the change. Traditional board game makers can offer versions of their classic games for this or any other related device, as an example. If they don’t, someone else will. The toy industry has always been a fastmoving industry but I believe we are entering a period of unprecedented change. Those companies that can be flexible, innovative, and adapt will prevail. This will favor small companies that can implement change immediately. The pressure will be on the large multi-national toy manufacturers and retailers. Their long-lead processes may leave them a step behind. Andrew Dobbie, founder and managing director of Gameplan Europe, can be reached at andrew@gameplaneurope.com.

MERCHANDISE MAKERS

: CONSTRUCTING LASTING FUN magine. Build. Play. That’s the K’NEX slogan. But more than that, it’s a truncated version of the company’s own start. As a third generation owner of The Rodon Group, a U.S. custom plastic injection molding company, toy inventing was not a top priority for Joel Glickman, K’NEX inventor and chairman, or his brother Bob Glickman, vice-chairman and chief counsel of K’NEX. But when Joel Glickman started playing with straws one day during a crowded wedding, instead of writing it off as perhaps boredom, he imagined opportunity. Looking back at the Tinkertoy and Erector sets of his youth, he saw their limitations. And with the help of his brother and their factory at hand, he built a solution—the original K’NEX 22-piece Rod and Connectors color-coded system. Since its start, K’NEX has grown from its basic sets into a well-rounded system that now include bricks and blocks, buildable motorized roller coasters, licensed construction lines, and more. “We’ve focused over the past five years in particular on building worlds kids love,” says Araten. “This has merged into bringing video games and apps to life with Nintendo and [Rovio’s] Angry Birds, adding Tinkertoy, and taking on Lincoln Logs from Hasbro as well as NASCAR, Monster Jams, Sesame Street, and more.” In creating product, K’NEX approaches it from a kid’s angle, says Araten. Its instructions merely offer a launching point. “Because the system is totally expandable it allows them to then use their imagination and take one set, combine it with another, and create something we could have never imagined,” he says. “That’s one of the fun

34 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY 2013

BY JENNIFER LYNCH

parts.” Mechanisms, such as gears and pullies, have always been a key component to the original K’NEX systems, and the addition of motorized versions of these components in 1994 has only enhanced that experience. This can prominently be seen in its Thrill Rides buildable roller coasters, which lift the cars to the top of the coaster before shooting them down. “We believe, and what we’ve seen from research, that roughly half the experience is the building of the product while the other half is playing with it afterward,” says Araten. “The ability to have movement, whether it’s mechanical or motorized or both, allows kids to experience as much joy playing with the product as they do building it.” Part of that joy also comes in products that are built to last. This past fall K’NEX teamed with Hasbro to reinvent the classic wooden Tinkertoy using its plastic injection molding expertise. “We wanted to take the iconic shapes within Tinkertoy—the huband-spoke system—and give preschoolers total buildability, open-ended play, and fun themes and still address what mom was telling us,” says Araten. And moms demanded sturdy sets that stayed together— to prevent any tears if things fall apart—and germ-free sets, both of which the new dishwasher-safe plastic sets meet. What moms also like about the updated product is that, thanks to K’NEX, all the core Tinkertoy parts are manufactured in the U.S. for the first time in five to six decades, says Araten. “It’s pretty clear from all the national surveys that have been conducted that more and more people would rather buy products that are made in the U.S. if they can,” says Araten.

While other construction toys are typically imported, K’NEX has prided itself as a company where, through its connection to The Rodon Group, 95 percent of K’NEX parts are made on-site and cost either the same or less than if the product had been made overseas. “On top of all that, we’re giving consumers better quality because we’re using the highest engineer-level, quality plastics to make the toys,” he says. By also cutting out the time it would take to import new product, K’NEX has tripled its speed to market. For example, when the company signed Angry Birds in January of last year, they were able to have product on shelves by June. “Especially in a trend-driven industry like toys, speed is a tremendous advantage,” Araten says. K’NEX’s dedication to stateside manufacturing even earned it recognition beyond the toy industry when President Barack Obama toured The Rodon Group and K’NEX factories in December and used them as an example of success in American manufacturing. For 2013, K’NEX will continue expanding its current lines with new additions to its Tinkertoy and Angry Birds sets and more as well as take on the new construction license for Pac-Man and the Ghostly Adventures animated series, premiering this fall.

CONTROL YOUR BRAND WITH MAPP TRAP BY

RON SOLOMON, THE CREDITORS NETWORK onsumers are flocking to the inter-

much lower than standard brick-and-mortar stores.

word-protected accounts where they can see

quarter 2012 online sales reached

ufacturers that value their brick-and-mortar

past week, or the past month. A Top 10 Merchant

net to shop. According to the U.S.

Department of Commerce, third $56.99 billion, which is up 17.3

percent from the same period one year ago. Those

numbers are increasing with each passing day. While that is good news, there is also bad news.

Any manufacturer will tell you that selling through an online merchant can be a double-edged sword.

While having distribution through Amazon.com,

eBay.com, and other retail websites can certainly increase gross sales, there are challenges.

Two of the biggest online sales challenges for

manufacturers are channel control and brand management. As of January 2012, it is estimated that

there are more than two million third-party sellers on Amazon.com alone. When you add in the number of merchants on eBay.com and others, that

number grows exponentially. Most of these mer-

chants are small businesses or sole proprietors that purchase product from distributors then hide their identities by outsourcing their warehousing

and fulfillment to Amazon.com. So when it comes to channel control, how can a manufacturer possibly know who is selling its product?

Another growing concern for manufacturers is

brand management. The vast majority of online

shoppers use the internet not only for convenience but for price comparison. According to Grant

Thornton International, an advisory, tax, and audit

firm, more than 78 million Americans currently

use smartphones; 40 percent of those use it to com-

pare prices before shopping. E-commerce mer-

chants know this and therefore employ systems

that automatically find and match the lowest price.

Such practices have created a virtual race to the

bottom. This discounting works for online merchants because their cost of doing business is

One response to the decline in channel and

brand control, and an important one to those manstores, is the adoption of minimum advertised pricing policies (MAPP). Not to be confused with

MSRP, and not an illegal price-fixing strategy,

manufacturers have created policies that tell their customers at what price they may “advertise” products. Advertising encompasses listings on online stores, print mailers, and in-store signage.

Of course, every solution presents new chal-

lenges. Now manufacturers using MAPP are faced with not only finding out who is selling

their products online, but with knowing the advertised prices. This leaves manufacturers with one

impossible option—search the internet daily to find offenders. With all the online sellers, this task would be equal to digging a hole in water.

In response to this dilemma, The Creditors

Network has created a system that helps children’s products manufacturers maintain online channel and brand control. MAPP Trap, a propri-

etary search engine, automatically monitors the

internet to find advertised-price violations. The system not only identifies violations, but it then

“traps” the links to those violations as images for

use in policy enforcement. Additionally, and per-

haps more important, MAPP Trap provides the

true identity of the eMerchants so manufacturers

know who to contact for policy enforcement.

To get started with the service, MAPP Trap

users simply provide a document with their prod-

uct list, the prices they’d like monitored, and an

account list for cross-referencing. The information gets uploaded into our system and the search-

es begin. Based on user feedback from an extended beta-testing period, users can view the search

results anytime by logging into their online, pass-

38 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY 2013

either standard or customized reports. Users can view search results from the past 24 hours, the

Violator and Top 10 Product Violation page allows companies to get a quick start.

In order to assist users in the enforcement of

MAPP, all MAPP Trap reports are exportable. Users can easily create reports for a specific merchant, export the information to Excel, and then email the

reports along with whatever policy points they need to communicate. Because MAPP policies must be

created unilaterally by each manufacturer, there are no boilerplate letters or emails. And very important-

ly, in order to protect themselves from claims of collusion, manufacturers instituting MAPP should

never confer with their competitors. Lastly, in order to avoid potential disputes and/or litigation, retail accounts need to be treated equally.

“MAPP Trap allows us to monitor violations

and correct them with a minimum of time and

trouble,” says Lea Culliton, president of HABA USA, who has been using MAPP Trap since its

launch in November. “It provides a convenient location to collect, view, and act on this information in one organized place, and the additional

information The Creditors Network provides to help us contact violators is invaluable.”

The Creditors Network is the service that

ASTRA, CTA, JPMA, NSSEA, and TIA manufacturers and distributors use to grow and keep

their businesses financially fit. For more information on the organization or on its MAPP Trap service visit www.creditorsnetwork.com.

Ron Solomon, founder and CEO of The Creditors Network, developed MAPP Trap service. He’s the

former CEO and founder of Swingset Press, which recently licensed its products to Schylling Toys.

COMPETITION HEATS UP IN THE DOLL CATEGORY BY

CHRISTINE SULLIVAN

ashion, sports, video games, apps, online games, and social media—with all the activities a kid has to choose from, is it any wonder they seem to be outgrowing traditional toys at an earlier age? These factors add to the challenges of selling products across any category in the toy industry. However, the competition is especially fierce in the doll category. And for all the competition, it is a category that is enjoying a surge in sales—thanks in large part to innovative twists on the classic category. These changes have allowed some toymakers to defy the odds by engaging and retaining older girls.

Mattel also utilizes social media to reach out to fans of the original fashion doll Barbie, providing them with new ways to connect with the iconic doll. New for Barbie in 2013 will be the Barbie Digital Dress, a doll that allows girls to customize Barbie’s dress with digital graphics such as hearts and stars, or explore the draw and design function—combining fashion with technology. Creating your own style is the thinking behind Spin Master’s La Dee Da dolls as well. “In our La Dee Da fashion dolls, girls can truly express themselves through four teen fashion designers,” says Cristy Collins, Spin Master’s senior marketing director. “It’s making the ordinary extraordinary and celebrating what makes every girl unique.” She agrees that it is possible to reach the older girl by offering them “new “What’s trending in fashion dolls is manuideas, new formats, and dolls that inspire them Pictured here is Mattel’s Monster High Scaris City facturers thinking outside of the box on style and connect with them emotionally.” of Fright Travel Collection. Shown from the left is Frankie Stein, Rochelle Goyle, and Clawdeen Wolf. and theme,” says Jay Foreman, president of Possibly the most unique offering in this The Bridge Direct. “Whoever would have category will be rolled out this year by The thought that girls would go for dolls that essentially look like monsters?” Bridge Direct: Pinkie Cooper, a fashion doll with the head of a dog. But girls did in a huge way. Mattel’s Monster High brand continues “We’re taking the trend of thinking outside of the box one step further,” to enjoy phenomenal success among fashion dolls and within the doll says The Bridge’s Foreman. “Pinkie Cooper is fashion doll play. It’s just category in general. (Needless to say, its success has spawned a few imi- projecting a girl’s personality to a new characterization.” tators along the way.) The brand has actually expanded a shrinking Clearly, supernatural properties work well in this category. To wit, demographic by bringing older girls back into the doll play pattern. Jakks Pacific’s Winx Club line, based on the hit Nickelodeon series, is a “Monster High has struck a chord with fans for its rich storytelling and hot seller right now. “A media presence definitely drives a girl’s awareunique aesthetic—based on the universal truth that everyone has times ness and her requests for a toy,” says Lisa Whitaker, vice-president of when they feel like they don’t fit in,” says Michael Shore, Mattel’s vice- marketing at Jakks Pacific. “Something like Winx that’s on every day is president of global consumer insights. By launching the franchise across like a half hour commercial.” multiple categories from doll and publishing to apparel, accessories, and Media exposure certainly is key to the appeal of teen idol dolls such as cosmetics, Mattel provides the older girl multiple ways to discover the Hasbro’s One Direction line. There too, the tween is brought back into the brand. Moreover, the brand is supported by extensive online promotion. fashion doll market. “To keep kids interested in the doll category as they “Social media offers Monster High fans the opportunity to remain age can be accomplished by keeping ideas fresh and on trend,” says engaged with the brand by further exploring the rich storytelling, as well Michelle Paolino, vice-president of global brand marketing at Hasbro. as contributing to the storytelling themselves,” says Shore. “Fans can “We recognized early the popularity of One Direction and believed the create and design their own characters, story settings, and story exten- doll line would be a draw across all age categories. Older children play sions and proudly share them with other Monster High fans.” with the dolls differently than young ones but they remain an important

Fashion Dolls

40 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY 2013

part of kids’ lives and the growing-up process.” Also worth noting is the entry of Famosa’s Nancy, a 17-inch tall fashion doll, a transitional doll if you will, whose larger size facilitates smaller hands being able to dress it.

Small Dolls

What they lack in size, small dolls make up for in volume. Collectibility and pretend play are the appeal of this category. Jakks’ Whitaker recalls the strategy of the original launch of Littlest Pet Shop more than two decades ago. “The prospect of being able to own a whole collection is often what got a little girl very interested in this brand,” she says. Today Hasbro’s Littlest Pet Shop strives to remain relevant with its fans with the introduction of new line extensions, an app from Gameloft enabling kids to take virtual versions of their collections anywhere, and an animated series airing on The Hub TV network. Bill Nichols, president of Blip Toys, creators of the successful Squinkies, anticipates a repeat hit with Palace Pets, which is a licensed extension of the Disney Princess brand. Due out this fall, the 2.5-inch pet dolls correspond and coordinate with the Disney Princess dolls. But Nichols says, “They don’t necessarily have to have the doll to want the pet.” Spin Master will also be presenting a new line of small dolls this fall: Kawaii Crush—the dolls that allow girls to share the happiness all around them. “We will be supporting this with a robust 360-degree marketing campaign,” says Collins. “It includes a TV campaign, interactive website, digital web campaigns, retail displays, as well as social media feeds through Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Pinterest.” Spin Master’s existing La Dee Da fashion doll line will also receive this broad scope of support.

Keeping brands foremost in the mind of kids is essential. Blip’s Nichols agrees. “You need as much reinforcing as you can get, so television shows and commercials are important, along with social media and websites, because kids are looking at that,” he says. “But at the end of the day, the product needs to be relevant to them.” Pinypon from Famosa, which is based in Spain, has enjoyed much global success. Distribution in the U.S. started last year and the line has held its own in this competitive market. Children like it because they can change the doll’s expressions and customize its look. “It’s not just about roleplay anymore,” says Ed Young, general manager of Famosa USA. “It’s about empowerment, creation, customization, and construction.”

Baby Dolls

As private label baby dolls continue to grab larger shares of this sub-category, manufacturers seek new approaches to regain lost ground. Generally moms and grandmas are the ones to select their children’s first dolls. Hence, Mattel markets its Little Mommy dolls to caregivers. Suitable for girls as young as 18 months, the dolls are designed for nurturing play. One of the most successful dolls in nurturing play for fall 2012 was Just Play’s Doc McStuffins Time for Your Checkup Doll. It is based on the Disney Junior animated series Doc McStuffins. The show is about a girl who heals toys out of her backyard clinic. Just Play declined to have the 2013 lineup featured in this issue. However, it is expected that this doll as well as the rest of Just Play’s Doc McStuffins line will expand in 2013. Nostalgia also affects a mom’s choice in dolls. That certainly is a factor in the successful relaunch of Hasbro’s Baby Alive, which will

Palace Pets, from Blip Toys, will expand on the Disney Princess brand. These pets correspond with a Disney Princess. However, the princess isn’t neccessary for the Pet Palace play pattern.

feature three new dolls for 2013. Jakks Pacific’s line of Cabbage Patch Kids certainly tugs at the hearts of today’s parents and grandparents who will fondly remember the 1980s craze. Just about everyone has a story about how they tracked one down decades ago. Today’s line from Jakks features classic Cabbage Patch Kids as well as updates for today’s girls. Famosa introduced its Nenuco baby doll line to the U.S. last fall and so far the reception has been strong, according to the company. “Nenuco brings a freshness to the baby doll category,” says Young. Freshness seems to be the right approach for all types of dolls. Spin Master’s Collins says, “The doll category in general is fiercely competitive, yet there’s room for growth in all three [aspects of the category—fashion, collectible, and baby dolls].” Blip’s Nichols concurs that there’s still opportunity. However, “kids move on very quickly with toys,” he says. “So if you have an established brand, you need to reinvent that brand every year so it stays relevant.” Truer words were never spoken and it’s a rule that applies to the doll category and the toy industry overall.

FEBRUARY 2013 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT 41

DOLLS

CHRISTINE SULLIVAN

The competition is heating up in the doll category. A broad range of new dolls will be introduced this year within the baby doll, fashion doll, and small doll segments. These offerings reach girls starting at birth as moms and grandmothers purchase baby dolls, and it spans into the tween years as Mattel reaches older girls once again with its successful Monster High brand. Here is a sampling of what will be on shelf in 2013.

JAKKS PACIFIC

Jakks Pacific’s Tollytots division offers My First Disney Princess Ariel. This toddler version of The Little Mermaid is aimed at ages 2–5. Rooted hair, extra clothes, and accessories make it fun for hair and fashion play. The line also includes a toddler Prince Eric, Mulan, Rapunzel, Merida, and Cinderella. Tollytots is also introducing a bath-time version of Ariel with waterproof hair and a tail that lights up when wet.

BLIP TOYS

Blip Toys introduces Palace Pets. This small doll—or, more accurately small pet—line is connected to the Disney Princess brand of fashion dolls. Both Disney pets and dolls share a similar design palette. The pets are 2.5 inches high and all feature large bushy tails, which are designed for hair play. The line will also include a remote control plush puppy that sings, dances, and bows.

42 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY 2013

PLAYHUT

By day, they’re popular girls at school, but at night they morph into powerful vampires. Mystixx Vampires are 11-inch fashion dolls, exclusive to Toys “R” Us, that transform from co-eds to vampires simply by turning their heads and switching their wigs. The four dolls that make up Playhut’s line are Talin, Siva, Azra, and Kalani. The set includes a doll with two distinct faces and two complete outfits with shoes, accessories, and wigs.

THE BRIDGE

Pinkie Cooper, from The Bridge Direct, is the fashion doll with a dog’s head. It will be rolling out in 30 countries in 2013. “We expect girls will stretch their imagination and think of Pinkie as a girl,” says The Bridge’s Jay Foreman. “It’s been going on in entertainment for years as there have been a plethora of entertainment properties featuring talking animals with human properties. In fact, Pinkie will even have her own pet dog to dress up and pamper.”

COROLLE

HASBRO

Corolle’s Mon Bébé Classique Dodo is a 14-inch soft-body doll that wears a grey one-piece and soft pink jacket. It comes with a blanket and snugglie for cuddling, along with a small book on how to care for baby. This doll, as well as all dolls from Corolle, features a light vanilla scent.

FAMOSA

Kids can create their own Pinypon Friends, then play with the playsets. Faces, outfits, accessories, and hairstyles are interchangeable. A Pinypon ski chalet is also available. “The magic of Pinypon is watching a child pick one up for the first time and seeing the pride they feel after creating their own figures,” says Ed Young, general manager of Famosa USA. Shown here is the Fun in the Snow Playset.

The Baby Alive brand, from Hasbro, continues to deliver realistic baby moments and nurturing play for toddlers. Kids will be able to feed Baby Alive Yummy Treat Baby Doll by placing the cookie or ice cream cone to its mouth. The doll in turn licks the sweet. Other new offerings in the line this year include Make Me Better Baby, Baby Alive Party Baby, and Baby Alive Kicks and Cuddles (shown).

SPIN MASTER

Kawaii Crush, from Spin Master, is a lifestyle brand of small dolls that includes dress-up sets, a custom car, sleepover set, shopping kiosk mini playsets, and a large mall playset. In addition, there is a BFF Value Pack, which comes with two dolls, two sleeping bags, and 30-plus accessories. The line will be available in August.

MATTEL

Monster High Ghouls Alive features creepy cool lights and sounds for each doll. Frankie Stein’s skull, rib cage, and bolts light up with electrifying sounds; Spectra Vondergeist glows blue through a translucent body and makes ghostly noises; and Clawdeen Wolf tilts her head back, closes her eyes, and howls at the moon. Rolling out this spring from Mattel, the Monster High Ghouls Alive is part of the Monster High brand.

FEBRUARY 2013 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT 43

STRONG START AT THIS YEAR’S HONG KONG TOYS & GAMES FAIR

n overcast sky couldn’t darken the mood at the opening of the 39th annual Hong Kong Toys & Games Fair on January 7 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Center in Wan Chai. Moods were as bright as the colors of the costumed characters and the hundreds of thousands of toys on display. The combination of lower inventories coming into 2013 and the growing importance and presence of buyers from emerging markets all contributed to the buoyant mood as the fair opened. This was enhanced by predictions from exhibitors and show management that Hong Kong exports could rise about five percent in 2013 over the previous year. Given some slowness in certain market segments and the challenges faced by the rise of apps and tablets, as well as declines in certain markets around the world, the prospect of even a modest increase was greeted with enthusiasm. In addition to the Toys & Games Fair, the Convention Centre also played host to three other concurrent shows: Hong Kong Baby Products Fair, the Hong Kong International Stationery Fair, and the Hong Kong International Licensing Show. All of the shows reported a total buyer attendance of more than 100,000, up seven percent over 2012, and reinforcing the shows’ position as the largest in Asia. The current Convention Centre, which has expanded several times since it opened in 1997, was filled to capacity with some exhibitors spilling over into additional space. The Toys & Games Fair featured more than 1,900 exhibitors from 41 countries and regions, and there were an increased number of buying missions from around the world, creating a packed hall on the first days of the fair. Buyers came from more than 120 countries and regions. “[Buyer] participation from mainland China, Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, Taiwan, Thailand, and Cambodia in the Asia-Pacific region, along with Columbia and the Czech Republic, registered the most significant increases,” says Benjamin Chau, Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) deputy executive director. According to the HKTDC, producers of the shows, the commitment to making the show easy to use and relevant to its attendees remains a primary objective. This year the organizers significantly expanded the Brand Name Gallery, with more than 120 different internationally known brands, including Dragon Models, showcasing extraordinary Batman

44 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY 2013

CHRISTOPHER BYRNE

and Mickey Mouse figures; Welly Die-Cast, showcasing a broad range of play and collectible die-cast vehicles; and Eastcolight, showcasing advanced robotics. According to these companies, traffic was up, and they were seeing increased orders and expansion into new markets. Other product zones included Educational Toys and Games; Electronic and Remote Control Toys; Outdoor and Sporting Items; Soft Toys and Dolls; and others related to packaging, testing, and component parts. The show also introduced a new area this year called the SmallOrder Zone, a section of the show devoted to manufacturers who were specifically trying to attract buyers interested in placing smaller orders. The area was set up specifically to help these buyers with pricing and minimum orders. This area was highly trafficked during the shows, with the HKTDC reporting more than 6,000 buyer inquiries for information from the U.S., Europe, Japan, and emerging markets. In interviews with a variety of manufacturers, all said that they were pleased with the traffic at the fair and the opportunities for developing business. Dutch game company Identity Games International had already sold its Boom Boom Balloon game into 35 countries and had inked a distribution deal with Spin Master before the show opened. Look for the game to be hitting the U.S. later this year. Blue Box reported strong international response to its Watch Over Me Dream Station, an innovative, interactive infant product, according to May Chan, senior brand manager. It is developed with a five-phase sleep program that Chan says was designed to provide the most comfortable sleep environment for children, automatically responding to the different, natural stages of sleep for the child. This was just one example of the technologically advanced infant and baby products featured at the fair—an area of growing interest for buyers in emerging markets looking for higher-end products. Maksco Toy, a company with a more than 50-year history of making water blasters, introduced its first electronic toy, an augmented reality blaster that works with an iPhone or Android phone or an iPod touch. While the interface will be familiar, the programming is more sophisticated than has been seen in other comparable items, and the company says that the next generation, due out later this year, will use Bluetooth, mak-

MANUFACTURERS RESPOND POSITIVELY

Identity Games’ Boom Boom Balloon game has been sold into 35 countries. Spin Master signed a distribution deal with the company just before the Hong Kong Toys & Games Fair opened. Look for the item to be in stores later this year.

Dragon Models showcased Batman and Mickey Mouse figures in the Brand Name Gallery.

ing it possible to play across a variety of platforms. Toyeast, Ltd., set up a battlefield at the fair to showcase its smartphonecontrolled tanks, and it quickly became a destination for big kids who wanted a turn at battle. Yet despite the sophistication of electronics and an emphasis on what are being called i-toys, traditional toys remained strong for many manufacturers. Preschool learning toys, ride-ons, sports toys, and especially diverse roleplay items underscored the strengths of the traditional toy business in the contemporary market. Manufacturers noted that delivering outstanding quality and good margin for retailers remained key objectives and what buyers were primarily looking for. An integral part of the shows continues to be the seminar program. A two-day licensing conference concurrent with the show attracted more than 1,000 participants. The Toys & Games Fair also hosted a very well-attended seminar on new chemical requirements for toys for both the EU and the U.S. Manufacturers who need to be on top of these changes, which will continue through this year and into 2014, got an in-depth introduction to the various requirements for toys and toy components. On the opening day, a session on so-called “kidult” toys addressed the expanding market for toys that are bought by adults for themselves.

A COMMITMENT

KNOWLEDGE BUILDING

Buyers were filing into the hall as the Hong Kong Toys & Games Fair opened.

This complemented a new section on the show floor called “Kidult World,” which showcased diverse products ranging from puzzles to construction to sophisticated toy guns. While popular in various parts of the world, according to the exhibitors, the realistic replicas would not meet U.S. standards for toy guns. Toy industry veterans Neil Friedman (formerly of Mattel and Toys “R” Us) and Marty Abrams of iStar Entertainment, along with Tim Kimber, president of PlaSmart, and Josh Lorezel, senior vice-president of Zing Toys, participated in a panel discussion on the U.S. toy market, including trends in product, branding, licensing, and retailing. Of particular interest was the growth in the online market and the opportunities it presents to enter the U.S. market. The panelists also addressed the growing market for the “kidult” products, with Lorezel of Zing talking about the expanded appeal of Zing’s foam-dart bows to older kids and Abrams discussing the trend toward fan-based merchandise, such as the products that iStar produces under the One Direction license. Kimber discussed how products like his Doodle Art, which started in the 1970s in record stores, has found an expanded audience outside the traditional toy industry. In fact, if one had to distill any one theme out of the fairs, it is that play is—or at least can be—a lifelong activity and that identifying and addressing the growing opportunities for new products, new markets, and new channels of distribution are what keeps the industry vibrant—as vibrant as the city of Hong Kong itself, the perfect setting for this dynamic show.

FEBRUARY 2013 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT 45

DISNEY & PARTNERS LAUNCH MONSTERS UNIVERSITY INITIATIVE BY

NANCY LOMBARDI

onsters University is the prequel to the 2001 Disney/Pixar film Monsters, Inc. In this film, moviegoers are reunited with Mike Wazowski (voiced by Billy Crystal) and James “Sulley” Sullivan (voiced by John Goodman). The pair may have been friends in the 2001 film, but this prequel takes them back to their Monsters University days during a time when these mismatched students couldn’t stand each other. As the film unfolds they work out their differences to become best friends. This family friendly film, which is expected in theaters on Friday, June 21, is a key initiative for Disney/Pixar and its licensees this year. Although it’s been more than a decade between films, the characters, most notably Mike and Sulley, are familiar to today’s kids and parents. The brand continues to reach families through its presence at theme parks and resorts, the movie airs frequently on Disney Channel as well as on affiliate stations around the world, and the original DVD is still for sale, according to Josh Silverman, executive vice-president of global licensing for Disney Consumer Products. To kick off this new Monsters University initiative, the original, Monsters, Inc., was re-released in theaters in 3-D on December 19. It’s also available on Collector’s Edition Blu-ray and on Ultimate Collector’s Edition Blu-ray 3-D on February 19. That was the first step in the aware-

Toys & F am Entertain ily men EXCLUSIV t E

ness campaign. The next steps kick off this spring with a product-specific marketing campaign that launches at retail around May 10. Spin Master, the master toy licensee, will start its TV ad campaign on June 24—the Monday after the film opens. In addition, Spin Master will work with Disney on all digital and social media promotions, according to Rachel Griffin, Spin Master’s director of global communications. Fisher-Price is another key partner. “The Fisher-Price line will be supported with a comprehensive marketing campaign highlighted by a kid-targeted TV commercial for the Imaginext Scare Floor Playset,” says Mike Pisors, senior marketing manager for Fisher-Price Friends. “The line will also be touted throughout Fisher-Price’s extensive social media outlets and PR channels. In addition, we are finalizing a partnership with other Monsters University licensees on a cross-category program that will roll out this year.” Disney Publishing Worldwide plans to unveil a print program including four Monsters University titles and a special interest magazine, which is expected to hit retail outlets this spring. The Monsters, Inc. Storybook Deluxe app launched on December 17 and a Monsters University Storybook app will be available in conjunction with the release of the film. Both Spin Master and Fisher-Price will be rolling product out in waves to match the movie release and the subsequent DVD and digital download releases, whose dates have yet to be determined.

Key Items in the Monsters University Product Line Spin Master is the global master toy licensee for Monsters University. The product line is targeted for boys ages 4–6. The Roll-A-Scare Monsters figures have a surprise pop-up activation. Inside each pack kids will discover a student ID card that springs the monster open. There are 12 characters to collect in total. In addition to the figures, the Roll-A-Scare Toxic Race Playset lets kids roll, pop, and scare. Each Roll-A-Scare Playset comes with an exclusive Sulley figure to race. The Monsters University Sulley Monster Mask is 100 percent kid powered. As a user’s jaw opens, closes, or moves side to side, the Sulley Monster Mask’s eyebrows and lips move too. My Scare Pal Sulley comes to life when kids squeeze its belly. It features three modes of play: scary mode, tickle mode, and sleepy mode. To switch between its different modes, just give it a little shake. Watch as Sulley comes to life when its eyebrows move up and down and mouth opens. It also comes loaded with multiple sounds and key phrases straight from the movie. The Scare Off Sulley Feature Plush has five modes of play. Using sound and light detection technology, Sulley is able to sense the environment and change play modes to match the present surroundings. Kids can start their Scare Training with lessons from Sulley. Scream loud enough and Sulley will fall backwards in fear. Scare Off Sulley delivers Scare Training, Speed Scare, Scare ‘O Meter, Room Guard, and the Scare Off Challenge features. Fisher-Price has the rights to produce Monsters University-licensed products within its Imaginext brand of preschool playsets (North America only). This extensive line lets kids recreate the world of Disney/Pixar’s Monsters University with a variety of figure packs, vehicles, and playsets such as the items listed below: • Basic Figure Assortment • Deluxe Figure Assortment A scene from Disney/Pixar’s • Vehicles Monsters University • Scare Games Playset featuring Mike Wazowski (voiced by Billy Crystal). • University Row Playset • Scare Floor Playset

46 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY 2013

State of the Specialty Toy Industry

NANCY LOMBARDI

he economy remains a top concern as we assess the state of the specialty toy industry as 2013 unfolds. This sentiment is, of course, reflected into the overall toy industry—and consumer products in general—as most of the world’s major economies continue to struggle. In addition, shifting consumer habits are forcing the specialty industry to take a hard look at innovating the classics to offer a point of difference from the mass market. Those interviewed all cited tablets and mobile devices—with their accompanying apps—as well as the rise of price-comparison online shopping as two of the largest shifts in consumer behavior that are impacting the specialty toy market. However, that impact doesn’t have to be negative as these manufacturers, listed below in alphabetical order, reveal how each is navigating change with positive results.

A LEX T OYS

J ANET S IMON , VICE - P RE SIDENT

MARKETING

How are you keeping today’s kids engaged in classic arts & crafts products? DIY (Do It Yourself) is as popular today as it ever was. Kids love to express their creativity, and personalizing and making things yourself is empowering and fun. We are consistently bringing products to the market that are trendy and allow kids to make their own versions of styles they see in fashion magazines. Everything from art materials to scrapbooking to classics such as sewing, knitting, or creating with Shrinky Dinks are all available in Alex’s wide product range.

What can specialty retailers do to engage and retain customers as online shopping continues to rise? Specialty stores need to provide an in-store experience to consumers that they cannot get when shopping on the internet. Consumers will happily visit local stores and, within that environment, pay for products and experiences they find valuable. The best retailers provide great customer service. Their stores are energetic and well merchandised, making it exciting for consumers to be there and interact.

Specialty retailers will need to provide more than just a place to shop; they need to become a destination for many reasons. Activity days, birthday parties, community sponsorships, and engaged consumer relationships are key. There are numerous ways for stores to market with social media, local community websites, and within their local area for little to no money. Keeping their name and image upfront with continued outreach and offering a variety of experiences is very important.

B A NANAGRA MS

R ENA N ATHANSON , CEO

How do you keep today’s tech-savvy families interested in classic games? As a family-owned company that develops and markets all of our games in-house, we know firsthand about the changing household dynamics in the digital age. We strive to create games that are equally fun for parents and kids to play with and that encourage families to return to the table for quality, non-digital fun. While we know that kids spend a fair amount of time in the digital realm, we also know that everyone in the family values a chance to truly unplug and connect with each other around the table—even if it’s just for a few minutes while

48 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY 2013

dinner is warming up. We’ve seen a real resurgence of interest in this kind of game play, particularly with parents of the younger set who find great value in Appletters and Pairs in Pears as a refreshing change from the games that blink, beep, and frazzle. However, we do understand the power of social media and technology, and we use Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and more to engage with our fans on an ongoing basis.

What challenges do you see for consumers in 2013 that could divert their attention away from the toy industry? With more and more toy and game options featuring app components, consumers are being drawn away from quality products that foster creativity, literacy, critical thinking, and true social interaction. We strive to offer modern classic games that grow along with children and help them to thrive in many developmental areas. There’s a place for digital products, and they do have their benefits, but we believe that good, playable toys and games— sans bells and whistles—play a critical role in children’s development. What markets are providing the most growth for your company? We are looking to the college market at the moment. It seems that age demographic has

State of the Specialty Toy Industry rediscovered the joy of traditional game playing. The home-schooling network is also proving to be a huge growth area for us. Also we have been receiving some very positive feedback on all our games from special needs educators and therapists.

B LUE O RANGE G AMES

J ULIEN M AYOT ,

PRESIDENT

What challenges are small businesses facing as we enter 2013? As a company making classic style, tangible board games, we need to constantly be innovative to counter the time spent on smart phones and tablets. The more people spend on these devices, the more we want to develop products that shift attention away from technology, at least for an hour. Small businesses need to keep working to build a community. Interact. Feel. Put a real smile on kids’ faces and maintain this advantage that cannot be found in large businesses.

How are you keeping today’s tech-savvy kids and parents engaged in your products? The more we see tablets and iPhones invade our everyday lives, the more we are inspired to create products that bring people face to face for quality time together. Electronic games are mostly played individually, so every opportunity to interact with a good game needs to be encouraged. Tech-savvy kids also need to go play baseball and see friends. They need to develop all aspects of their personalities and their social skills, which unfortunately is not something

best achieved with an iPhone. Social interaction, following directions, cooperation, fairness, and grace all need to be part of kids everyday lives and games play a big role in learning all those skills. Simple yet catchy concepts with huge play value seem to attract players the most nowadays. To keep families engaged, we design games to be easy to learn and ready to play right out of the box with minimal set up. We know people are short on attention and time; that’s why most of our games have a fast, exciting pace with a lot of opportunity to win, so you’ll want to play again and again.

What challenges do you see for American consumers in 2013? Do you see any signs that consumer confidence is rising? We have the opportunity to speak with families often. We do this during focus groups, consumer shows, and the many play days we host at our retailers’ stores. It seems that financial struggles are still an everyday issue for many Americans, though it is hard for us to tell since we sell inexpensive entertainment. Sales of board games have remained relatively stable, maybe because consumers are choosing more carefully what they buy or they are buying more durable products. Board games are a one-time, low-cost purchase and can be enjoyed again and again. For $15, you can buy a fun game that will entertain a whole family for hours.

C LOUD B

L INDA S UH , CEO

What challenges are small businesses facing? I can’t say what other small businesses are faced with but for us, it’s dealing with coun-

50 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY 2013

terfeit products. We felt an onslaught of them in 2012 and we are hoping with our efforts in our IP protection, we are able to ward them off in 2013. Though all companies are concerned with their brand image, the impact is even greater for a small business. Counterfeit products misrepresent a brand and, more importantly, raise concerns regarding the inherent safety issues they present. It is vitally important to small business to have a strong program in place to secure IP protection.

How important are specialty retailers in explaining the value in your product to consumers? It’s very important. Specialty retail stores help keep the brand elevated. We are able to test new product launches in our specialty channels and get more personal feedback from consumers through our retailers.

F A BER -C ASTELL

H EATHER L AMBE RT -S HEMO ,

BRAND MANAGER , CHILDREN ’ S PRODUCTS

What keeps today’s families engaged in arts & crafts activities? Hands-on creative experiences are critical to children’s development. There is a movement spreading highlighting the importance of childhood creativity and its relationship with the ability for children to grow into creative problem solvers and innovators. Technology is wonderful but there should be balance in children’s lives. Without creative thinkers and innovation, technology will not evolve. By designing products that are rele-

Untitled-1 1

Jennifer Coleman jcoleman@4kmedia.com • 212-590-2100

www.yugioh.com 1/16/2013 2:29:11 PM

State of the Specialty Toy Industry vant to today’s kids, Faber-Castell and Creativity for Kids keep parents and kids engaged in arts and craft products. When given the opportunity, kids love to create and we don’t see this changing anytime soon.

What challenges is the toy industry facing globally? What markets are offering the most growth for Faber-Castell? We foresee a weak economy and the continuing shift of consumer-buying behaviors from brick-and-mortar stores to online. Within our global Faber-Castell company, we have identified tremendous opportunities for our products in the toy channel in markets outside the U.S. These markets include Europe and Asia-Pacific.

G R EEN T OYS

R OBERT

VON

CO - FOUNDER

G OEBEN ,

What challenges are small businesses facing as we enter 2013? Small businesses are faced with many challenges—especially with an uncertain economy and unpredictable consumer spending habits. In our case, the recession has actually helped drive the interest in “Made in the U.S.A.” goods. We see that our customers are interested in buying goods that support the domestic economy and employ U.S. citizens for patriotic reasons. We also see that many small businesses continue to overspend and rely heavily on outside investors with the constant need to provide updates regarding sales growth and forecasts. At Green Toys, we’ve been selffunded since our founding, which has offered us a considerable competitive advantage.

How has the attitude toward “green” toys changed over the years? Do you feel that consumers understand the importance and impact on the environment? The eco-friendly toy category is now one of the fastest growing areas in children’s products. Concern about global warming and its impact on how we live are driving innovation in the toy category and therefore has increased consumer demand in “green” toys. Following the trend with organic food products, consumers want to know what is in the products they buy and what they are made from. Consumers are savvy and will no longer tolerate products made from ambiguous materials. As such, companies that offer eco-friendly products are almost by definition required to provide clarity around the materials they are made from— especially when it comes to children’s products. In a sense, the sustainable materials are a core component to the value proposition. The result is that consumers know what they’re buying when they purchase an eco-friendly toy.

How important are specialty retailers in explaining the value in your product to consumers? When we established the company in 2007, it was important for us to partner with alternative retail channels including specialty stores. This strategy has proven to be quite effective for us; in fact Green Toys can be found in more than 2,500 specialty stores nationwide. We align ourselves with specific retail partners who have the same core values and cater to “green-minded” consumers looking for a quality product made here in the U.S. Our rep partners were all selected

52 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY 2013

because of their experience and success selling to specialty trade. Each group does an outstanding job of helping our retail partners understand what makes Green Toys unique.

I NTERNATIONAL P LAY THINGS

D AVID S HAPIRO ,

VICE - PRESIDENT

OF MARKETING AND PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT

How do you keep today’s tech-savvy families interested in the classic play offered by International Playthings? Children need a chance to play with toys that allow them to explore their own creativity. That is why International Playthings continues to offer timeless products that feature imaginative play. These toys provide the foundation from which children will learn and grow. What challenges do you see for the toy industry in 2013? The challenging economy is still a large source of concern for members of the toy industry. In addition, interactive devices are becoming a larger part of children’s play patterns. At International Playthings we focus on gaining consumer attention by continuing to offer quality products that are reasonably priced.

L EARNING R ESOURCES

R ICK W OLDENBERG , CEO

What new things is Learning Resources doing to engage educators in 2013? How can specialty retailers work more closely

State of the Specialty Toy Industry with educators to get the appropriate products into the hands of kids, especially those with special needs? At Learning Resources, our goal is to provide both educators and parents with innovative, hands-on games and toys that support cognitive growth and skill development and are equally appropriate in the classroom and the home. For 2013, we have aligned our products to key areas that educators are focused on such as STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math), the Common Core State Standards (CCSS), and special needs. We’re also offering bonus online content for all of our new products so that parents can take the learning begun in the classroom and extend it into the home. Specialty retailers can work more closely with educators by highlighting the products they offer for children with different learning styles, including those children with special needs. In addition, educators will support parents with product recommendations so that children can continue the learning process at home with locallysourced educational toys. The home-school connection is extremely important for students, and can be a great source of business for our specialty retailers. Do you see any signs that consumer confidence is rising? The uncertain economy was a drag on the specialty toy market in 2012 but spending on education remains a priority. Consumer confidence seems to be rising as we start 2013 but consumers will not spend

freely until they see growth in the economy. Even in a down economy, parents always want the best for their children. They are committed to investing in toys and games with educational value that not only satisfy a child’s need for fun but help to better prepare them for the future.

M ANHATTAN T OY

M IKE K LE IN ,

PRESI DE NT AND

CE O

How has social media changed the way Manhattan Toy interacts with consumers? The way consumers shop and make buying decisions has always been, in part, a social endeavor. In the toy industry, what better way to discover quality toys while receiving guidance about purchasing decisions than to turn to your local specialty retailer, manufacturer, and trusted experts, who you can now access and communicate with through social media networks. Beyond that, a brand or local business can use social media to engage with these consumers and actively listen to their needs, concerns, and feedback.

What challenges do you see for consumers in 2013 that could divert their attention away from the specialty toy industry? While the economy will still be on people’s minds, I think many people are adjusting to this “new normal.” I think as long as manufacturers continue to offer unique, innovative product, specialty retailers will want to offer their customers something they can’t get in the mass market.

54 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY 2013

P ATCH P RODUC TS

B RIAN M AXWELL ,

PRESI DE NT

How has social media changed the way Patch interacts with consumers? Social media is an incredible tool that bridges the gap between businesses and consumers in a way that wasn’t previously possible. It provides us with an opportunity to have an ongoing dialog with current consumers and a chance to reach out to potential new consumers. We love the multiple purposes afforded by social media. We use it to share the latest about industry news, product awards, and new additions to our product lines more quickly and more efficiently than ever before. We use it to do giveaways that get consumers excited about our brand. We use it to gauge consumer interest and trends. Additionally, for both manufacturers and retailers alike, social media humanizes them to the public. Consumers like knowing there are people they can relate to that are behind the scenes of their favorite toy company or toy store.

What challenges do you see for consumers in 2013 that could divert their attention away from the toy industry? Probably the biggest challenge is the changing landscape of entertainment. Entertainment options available to children—and adults—have never been so varied, so numerous, and so accessible. In addition to construction toys, dolls, and board games, also available to children are television programs, video games, and

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State of the Specialty Toy Industry tablets chock-full of child-friendly apps. The mobile device, and its increasing offerings of apps designed for children, is perhaps the biggest hurdle the toy industry faces. This can be addressed in a couple of ways: by producing the highest quality hands-on, non-digital toys and games and emphasizing the irreplaceable nature of these items that aid with all-important dexterity, fine motor skills, and cognitive development. And secondly, by finding ways to supplement or complement nondigital play with digital play possibilities.

R AV ENSBUR GER , USA

T HOMAS K AEPPLER , CEO

How is Ravensburger evolving to keep up with changing consumer tastes? With the exception of building sets as a super category in NPD’s consumer panel, most other super categories in toys have been trending downward over the past couple of years. Besides the toy market being affected by the economy, we attribute that trend to the influence of smartphones and tablets and the accompanying apps offered for these products. These items divert buying power and interest from traditional toys. We believe that applying the latest developments in the smartphone and tablet markets—such as augmented reality with traditional toys— enhances play patterns and the experience that consumers have with our toys. We launched an extremely successful line of Augmented Reality Puzzles in 2012 and are actively working on getting other concepts

to market that integrate technology into our products in a meaningful way.

What challenges do you see for U.S consumers in 2013? What challenges is the toy market facing globally—especially across Europe? What areas of the world are offering the most growth options for Ravensburger? The biggest challenges for the toy industry in 2013 remain the economy and sustained job growth. Without economic growth there won’t be any new jobs. Consumers with no—or greatly reduced— household income have other things to worry about than shopping for toys. Our core markets for traditional toys in Europe remain stagnant. Some markets such as Spain and France have been down significantly as of the end of November 2012. Despite the negative developments in the market and an overall challenging economy, Ravensburger will continue to grow in 2013. We’re seeing the biggest long-term potential for growth in eastern Europe and non-European countries.

S CHY LLING

S TEPHEN M EDINA ,

S ALES

MANAGER , SPE CI ALTY

TOYS

GI FTS

How are you keeping today’s families engaged in your products? Parents and grandparents remember the joy of playing with certain toys during their own childhood and want their children to experience a similar joy. Brands such as

56 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY 2013

Brio, Erector, and Schylling Classics continue to retail well and prove hands-on toys remain an important part of balanced play. Our marketing approach is to have parents and children experience a quality toy on the specialty store floor. The ASTRA Neighborhood Toy Store Day and American Express’ Small Business Saturday are important yearly events that remind families that there are other play options in addition to tech devices. Also, it is encouraging to see the continuing national campaigns combating childhood obesity and inactiveness. Knowing that specialty toys are creating healthier and happier kids should offer a sense of pride for everyone involved in our industry.

What challenges do you see for American consumers in 2013? Do you see any signs that consumer confidence is rising? A major challenge for American consumers is to realize that time spent with their child is priceless and keeping things simple is what’s best for their family. Shopping solely based on lowest price, driving an extra 10 miles to save $2 on an item, and frantically chasing down unavailable popular holiday toys will take away from the quality play time every child needs with their parent. An easy family visit to a neighborhood specialty toy store will result in a positive shopping experience and the purchase of great products. Consumer confidence is rising, but the lessons of the past are still prevalent when making purchasing decisions. Successful specialty businesses add to consumer confidence by providing quality customer service and encouraging repeat loyal business.

Toy Fair 2013

COMPILED BY JENNIFER LYNCH AND LAURIE LEAHEY

The following companies represent a sampling of what will be on display at the Jacob Javits Convention Center in New York City during this year’s Toy Fair.

Mattel

spin them. Then watch as the characters set themselves Barbie brings ballet back to the spotlight as right side up again. Zing ‘Ems include 20 figures and Kristyn Farraday in the direct-to-DVD/Blu-Ray are sold in packs of two. The Toy Story Zing ‘Ems movie Barbie in the Pink Shoes. The Barbie in Rocket Rumble Playset, stationed on Pizza Planet, The Pink Shoes Barbie as Kristyn Farraday 2pits Woody, Buzz Lightyear, and the gang in a batin-1 doll captures Kristyn’s transformation with tle against the Evil Emperor Zurg. It features a a pirouette-style fashion change that twirls launcher and obstacles such as an asteroid field. from purple and blue to a pink and red dancing Spinshotz top-like toys deliver the performcostume. Also included are a rose tiara and ance and action of Hot Wheels to disc-shaped sparking pink shoes. Barbie in the Pink spinners, which also have the ability to speed, accelShoes Barbie as Giselle and Odette erate, and fly through obstacles. Place Spinshotz on Feature Dolls are dressed in the color the included base, wind the T-spin handle, place the themes and icons from the corresponhandle on top, and push the red button to launch. ding ballets Giselle and Swan Lake and feature articulated legs. Push the above: Monster High Ghouls Alive Each two-pack set comes with a pair of Spinshotz below: WWE Power Slammers discs, including a super rotator Spinshotz top and a doll down into a pile and watch as the stunt top designed for speed, endurance, and acceldoll performs a fast entrechat. Each doll eration. There are 24 packs currently in the line. They are comes with a girl-sized princess tiara. These for ages 5 and up. dolls are for ages 3 and up. Among Mattel’s new skill-and-action games is the New Monster High dolls for 2013 include the Angry Birds Space Game, a hands-on version of the app Monster High Scaris doll assortment and the Monster High game that lets players build, blast, and lift-off within a spaceGhouls Alive doll assortment. The new Ghouls Alive dolls themed edition. The object of the game is to build and knock magnify each ghouls signature freaky flaw through lights down structures indicated on the playing cards, featuring and sounds. Frankie Stein’s skull, rib cage, and bolts light space-themed characters and elements. The included up with sounds; Spectra Vondergeist glows blue through asteroid and pig space helmet offer gamers additional her translucent body and makes ghostly noises; and Clawdeen Wolf’s head tilts back and her eyes close as she howls. The dolls point-earning opportunities while space mission cards provide four levels of difficulty including new freestyle. It includes two birds, two pigs, are for ages 6 and up. The Polly Pocket Wall Party Tree House utilizes 3M Command Strips a space helmet, construction pieces (blocks and asteroid), one launcher, to hang the toy tree house without wall damage. It features multiple lev- and 40 cards. The game is for ages 5 and up. The all-new WWE Power Slammers are an exaggerated figures line els, a trap door, basket lift, bedroom with two hanging sleeping bags, and speedy slide that can be moved to connect the Tree House to other Wall that can attach to each other or to a battling accessory to create life-like Party playsets. It also features Stick ‘n’ Play toy pieces that stick into wrestling action. They connect by their arms or legs as kids rotate a crank on the back of each figure to activate the grappling, leg locks, place with suction cups. Polly Pocket is for ages 4 and up. The Toy Story Zing ‘Ems Playset and Figure Assortment are all-new and rumbling bashing. Each Power Slammers features one of three two-inch figures that feature speedy, stunt-infused action. They feature fighting styles so when they’re locked together will produce different unique bobble shapes and wheels that allow kids to knock, crash, and wrestling combinations. 58 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY 2013

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Toy Fair 2013 Hasbro

Ultimate Oven Trends assortment offers all of the Hasbro’s Playskool Rocktivity line, which ingredients and tools needed to make two of the includes a piano, tambourine, microphone and hottest baking trends: cake pops and whoopie pies. more, encourages babies to move, learn, and play Hasbro will revamp its classic games this year, with music that mom will also enjoy. With the Mix offering new looks and ways to play. The Classic ‘N Crawl DJ Ball, which features digitally re-creMonopoly Game will be updated this spring with ated pop tunes such as “Get the Party Started” and a new look and a new token voted on by fans. At “Hey Ya,” ages 6 months and up can slide, toggle, Shake ‘N Groove Microphone the same time the game will retire one of the curand push buttons to change rhythms as lights flash rent tokens. But before this happens, fans can get to the beat. Close the mini mix station into a brightly colored ball for baby to crawl and chase after. It requires two AA the limited-edition Classic Monopoly Golden Token Edition Game, batteries, which are included. Baby can sing along to a digitally recre- which includes the eight current tokens, the five potential new playing ated version of “Born This Way” and other songs using the Shake ‘N pieces, and a “golden” token. Also new is Monopoly Hotels, based on Groove Microphone (pictured). When baby tilts the mic, the tempo and the EA app game. Lights and movement take over Twister with Twister lights change in response to baby’s movements. It is for ages 18 Rave Stickz, Hoopz, and Skip-It. Flip, spin, or skip through the levels to make all the iconic Twister colors light up at once. With Twister Rave months and up and requires three AAA batteries, which are included. The Baby Alive line will deliver new offerings for girls ages 3 and up Ringz, players snap and clap to make the Ringz change color. Twister this spring. Girls can feed their Baby Alive Yummy Treat Baby an ice Rave Dance gives girls another way to master dance moves or continue cream cone and strawberry frosted cookie by holding the food to the that experience online at PlayTwister.com. Hasbro will amp up the Beyblade brand with the addition of new doll’s mouth. Then celebrate baby’s birthday with the Baby Alive Party Baby, complete with a birthday hat and pink party tutu. Squeeze the Spark FX treatments this spring, including Beyblade Electro Wheelz doll’s belly to make it blow a noisemaker. The doll also drinks from its and Electro Spark Battlers. Spark FX LED-colored lights make tops bottle and requires diaper changes. Girls can also play mommy with the flash and light up when they collide. New, special edition Beyblade: first line of small Baby Alive dolls, Baby Alive Kicks & Cuddles Metal Fury Hyperblades battling tops will feature more metal and Newborns. Each doll holds a mini accessory in its hand that can be more customization. The Hyper-Strike Battle Set features two Hyperblades battling tops and an exclusive stadium in Spark FX pulled to make the doll gently kick its legs. The Easy-Bake brand celebrates its 50th anniversary this spring with translucent orange. Each Beyblade product, for age 8 and up, includes a collector code for online battles on the Easy-Bake Ultimate Oven. It features a large baking www.BeybladeBattles.com. chamber, treats designed for today’s generation of bakers, News toys inspired by G.I. Joe: Retaliation, hitting and a heating element that doesn’t require a light bulb. theaters March 29, will include 3.75- and 10-inch action Little chefs ages 8 and up can bake an extended menu that figures and detailed vehicles. New roleplay toys include includes cookies, red velvet cupcakes, checker cakes, pizza, masks, swords, and blasters, such as G.I. Joe Snake Eyes pretzels, cinnamon twists, and brownie sticks. It comes with Ninja Gear and G.I. Joe Battle Kata Blaster. Hasbro is also a baking pan, cupcake pan, spatula, storage drawer, and introducing two new brand expressions—G.I. Joe Micro mixes to make 12 mini cookies and 12 mini red velvet cupForce, a line of collectible micro-sized G.I. Joe and Cobra batcakes complete with frosting and sprinkles. Adult participatle action figures, and KRE-O G.I. Joe building sets. tion and electricity required. The additional Easy-Bake 60 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY 2013

Toy Fair 2013 LEGO

The new LEGO Chima line includes the The LEGO Duplo Toddler Build and LEGO Friends Heartlake City Pool Ultimate Speedor Tournament set. Deep in Pull Along lets kids 1.5 and up explore, the lion territory of Chima, the tribes are play, and create with extra-large Duplo gathering for the tournament. Attach Laval bricks. This collection of 15 brightly coland Cragger onto the Speedorz, then pull ored bricks and elements includes a pullthe rip cord to speed through the lion’s along wagon, decals, and assorted extramouth and release the CHI. Fly up the large bricks. All extra-large elements are ramp, hit the CHI tower, and release even fully compatible with standard Duplo more CHI. Attach the power-upz to make bricks and elements. the Speedorz wider for additional battling Two new Duplo Read and Builds power. The 246-piece set includes two include A Fairy Tale and Peekaboo Jungle. minifigures, four weapons, two Speedorz, Children 1.5 and up listen and build along two rip cords, two power-upz, a ramp, two with the storybook adventures of either Prince Jake, Princess Rose, and Jed the friendly dragon or iconic jun- fire cones, 12 CHI, and 10 game cards. A 211-piece Legends of Chima gle animals. A Fairy Tale comes with 15 pieces, and Peekaboo Jungle LEGO game will also be available. Players roll the buildable dice, then take their animals to the desert, jungle, and mountains to battle for the comes with 13 pieces. The LEGO Blue Suitcase, for ages 4 and up, features a gas station CHI. The first player to collect eight CHI wins the game. Both Chima theme. The 146 colorful elements fit into a handy case complete with a products are for ages 7 and up. New in the LEGO Super Heroes line is The Bat vs. Bane: Tumbler sorting function. Kids can build vehicles and fill them up at the gas station. Chase. Bust through the road barricades in the Bane Tumbler with hidThe set includes two minifigures and a building instruction booklet. New building sets in the LEGO Friends line include Andrea’s den dual flick missiles and flame exhaust. Then swoop down in The Bedroom. It comes with 75 pieces, including a vanity with stool, mir- Bat and winch Commissioner Gordon to safety with the rescue rope. ror, and accessories. It is for ages 5 and up. Kids 5 and up can build The 367-piece set includes three minifigures: Batman, Bane, and Emma’s Sports Car with the set’s 159 pieces. Accessories include a Police Commisioner Gordon. It is for ages 6 and up. LEGO’s Lone Ranger building sets include the Stagecoach Escape. camera, picnic accessories, and Emma’s cat. Downtown Bakery is a 253-piece set that lets kids 6 and up build a bake shop with sign, Launch the baggage off the back of the wagon, then jump onto the gallopcanopy, outdoor display, and food accessories. The Heartlake City Pool ing horses and detach them from the wagon to help the Lone Ranger and Tonto chase the outlaws. The 279-piece set includes comes with 423 pieces, including a changing room five minifigures with weapons and accessories: the and shower, diving board, snack bar, table and Lone Ranger, Tonto, Red Harrington, and two banchairs, lounge chairs, hot tub, and lots of realistic dits: Jesus and Barret. accessories. It is for ages 6 and up. And a new The 113-piece The Lord of the Rings The LEGO Friends Advent Calendar, for ages 5 and Wizard Battle set is for ages 8 and up. Recreate up, helps kids count down to Christmas and build a the battle between Gandalf and Saruman at the holiday scene of Stephanie going to the Christmas Tower of Orthanc. Gandalf the Grey and Saruman market. It comes with 213 pieces, including minifigures are included. Stephanie and Lily minifigures. LEGO Duplo Toddler Build and Pull Along 62 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY 2013

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Toy Fair 2013 Jakks Pacific

Featuring pool- and beach-inspired fashions and The Jakks Pacific Monsuno toy line continues accessories, Disney Fairies fans can dress and reto grow in 2013 with the addition of more than 100 Winx Club Deluxe Harmonix Dolls dress Tinker Bell and Silver Mist with the Tropical collectible transforming monster figures. The toy Vacation Fashion dolls. Additionally, girls can line will offer easy-to-learn, action-packed game explore the sand dunes of Palm Tree Cove with play that is tightly integrated with season two of Rosetta’s Beach Buggy, taste delectable treats at the animated series Monsuno Combat Chaos. Tink’s Tikki Treats Stand, and twirl down the In 2013, Jakks brings magical slugs to life with water slide into Tink’s Pixie Paradise Pool. Each the new Slugterra toy line based on the animated vehicle and playset comes with a 4.5-inch doll. series Slugterra, a sci-fi, action-comedy adventure CDI, a division of Jakks Pacific, brings iconseries airing on Disney XD. The new line includes 1.5-inch collectible slug figures, weapons, and transforming darts that ic superheroes and villains to life with 31-inch figures that include seven points of articulation and highly detailed features. Available this resemble slugs and open on impact. The Smurfs head back to the big screen in 2013. Based on the live- spring, collectors can purchase an all-new MegaForce Red Power action film The Smurfs 2, Jakks will celebrate the film’s release with a Ranger, and in fall, DC Comics fans can collect both the Man of Steel new lineup of collectible figures, plush, fashion dolls, and and a new variation of the Dark Knight. Maui Toys, a division of Jakks Pacific and the company behind Sky playsets. Also in 2013, Jakks will introduce a new platform called Smurfs Micro World, a line of highly detailed one-inch figures and Ball, introduces a new toy that flies and bounces. Sky Bouncer has playsets with connecting platforms. The Smurfs Micro World features high-bouncing technology that allows it to fly through the air and bounce off walls and floors. Smurfette, Pirate Smurf, Brainy Smurf, and more. The Ultimate Spider-Man Pinball Game by Moose Mountain, a In 2013, Winx Club is introduced to its newest powers Harmonix and Sirenix. Jakks Pacific will bring the new powers to life with an division of Jakks Pacific, features electronic lights, sound effects, and all-new line of dolls and roleplay products inspired by the animat- LCD scoring. Launch a ball into action and watch as it ricochets off the bumpers and obstacles. Rack up points as the ed series airing on Nickelodeon. In spring, the LCD scoreboard records the scores. dolls will sparkle in their Harmonix fashions, Tink’s Pixie Paradise Pool The Fisher-Price Little People Sing-Along and in fall, they will make a splash in Sirenix Scoot ‘n Ride from Moose Mountain is a ride-on fashions that feature color-change hair. that includes an echo microphone to sing along to Cabbage Patch Kids celebrates its 30th three nursery rhymes: “ABCs,” “The Wheels on anniversary in 2013. To mark the occasion for the Bus,” and “Row, Row, Row Your Boat.” the iconic toy brand, Jakks will introduce In 2013, Kids Only, a division of Jakks Pacific, Cabbage Patch Kids in party-themed fashions will introduce the Friendship Seat with seating for with brightly colored hair streaks as well as the two, built-in cup holders, and inlaid character nostalgic baby powder scent. graphics. Kids Only will also release Original Big This spring, girls can join Tinker Bell and Wheel Racers featuring children’s properties friends on a tropical vacation in Palm Tree Cove including Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. with an all-new 4.5-inch doll line and playsets. 64 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY 2013

Toy Fair 2013 Spin MaSter

With Spin Master’s Cool Baker Donut Maker no baking is required. Just add water to the mix and place in the fridge for 15 minutes. Decorate three donuts with chocolate and pink vanilla icing using a drizzle or rosette icing tip and add rainbow sprinkles. It is for ages 6 and up, launching this fall. Aquadoodle will introduce two new products this fall for ages 2 and up including the Aquadoodle Velvet Book. It combines the fun of Velvet Art with reusable coloring fun. It will be available in Disney Princess-, Minnie Bow-tique-, and Sesame Street-licensed themes. Zip Bandz fully functional zipper bracelets will add an assortment of One Direction Zip Bandz this spring, featuring different colors and charms. Attach several bands together to form belts, necklaces, anklets, and more. They are for ages 8 and up. With the new Doctor Dreadful Werewolf Feeding Frenzy, for ages 5 and up, create disgustingly edible treats such as gushing eyeballs, dripping blood fangs, squirmy ear bugs, and a magically growing werewolf tongue. Each Organ Grinder playset includes a Werewolf, two ear molds, one stir stick, and two packets of food. New Nano Speed Riderz are the smallest and fastest Nano Speed motorcycles. Pull them back and let them go. Perform gravity defying stunts or save the city from total meltdown with the Moto Meltdown Trackset. Knock the hazardous barrels off the motorized elevator by launching your Nano Speed Rider into mid air. One Nano Speed Rider is included. There are six different motorcycles to collect. They are for ages 6 and up. The Spy Gear line is expanding this fall with the Lazer Defense Network. Set up your receivers anywhere so that if anyone passes, an alarm will go off. Also new to the line are Sonic Sphere Distracters, a Spike Mic Launcher, Stealth Com Walkie Talkies, Tri Cam Video Watch, and Panosphere 360 Spy Cam. With Spin Master’s new Boom Boom Balloon game, roll the die and carefully push in a stick until it clicks. Watch as the balloon 66 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY 2013

squishes, squeezes, and stretches. If the balloon goes “Boom!” you’re out. It is for ages 7 and up, available this fall. Spin Master is also expanding its game line this fall with Don’t Take My Word, Storage Wars (based on the A&E series), Hedbanz Act Up, and Logo Party Edition. Half pillow, half superhero, with Pillow Kapow kids can slide their arms into the pillow’s extendable sleeves and instantly transform into one of their favorite superheroes (Batman, Spider-Man, or WWE characters). They are for ages 3 and up. The La Dee Da fashion line is adding new collections for 2013. In the Fairytale Dance collection, the La Dee Da girls are getting ready for the school dance and find inspiration in their favorite fairytales: the Frog Prince (Dee), Little Red Riding Hood (Sloane), Rapunzel (Cyanne), and the Snow Queen (Tylie). Each doll comes with a clutch, hair accessory, hairbrush, and a pair of shoes. Other new La Dee Da collections include the Garden Tea Party, Juicy Crush, and more. They are for ages 5 and up. And launching this fall, from the world of La Dee Da comes Dee.I.Y., a new line of fashion-forward DIY activities. The line will include kits such as the Dee-sign Portfolio, Style-letto (pictured), and Kick-Buttons Jewelry Jar. Each activity is inspired by Dee and her friends, allowing girls to play out the fantasy of being a designer. Kawaii Crush is a new line of dolls featuring characters that each express her own fashion, lifestyle, and accessories. In the Pet Crush collection, each Animal Love mini doll (Bunny, Panda, Kitty, Owl, Monkey, and Penguin) comes with two fashionable outfits, one Animal Love Dee.I.Y. Style-letto pet, and an outfit for their pet. The line will also include a range of large dolls, mini playsets and vehicles, and more, available this August. New Air Hogs for 2013 include the Air Hogs Elite Helix X4, Air Hogs Hover Assault Eject, Air Hogs Hyperactives 5, Air Hogs MegaBlast, and Air Hogs O.R.B. Kawaii Crush Bunny Pet Crush

Toy Fair 2013 ravenSburger

Ravensburger is debuting a new line of science activity kits called Science X. The debut line includes 10 total kits, available in three different sized versions: mini, midi, and maxi. In the CSI: Crime Scene Investigations kit, German forensic biologist Dr. Mark Benecke provides tips to help young investigators learn how to use scientific methods to examine clues. It is for ages 8 and up. In the Electronics and Circuitry kit, young scientists ages 10 and up take on eight different science activities including how to make an alarm, construct a loudspeaker, assemble a reading lamp and a flashlight, and create and send Morse Code messages. New in the 216-piece 3D Building Sets line, which lets kids piece together some of the world’s most recognizable structures, are Windmill, Taipei 101 Tower, and Leaning Tower of Pisa. Like Ravensburger’s puzzleball line, the 3D Building Sets feature precision-cut flat and hinged pieces that snap into place. Once complete, the structures stand up to 18 inches tall. New Thomas & Friends puzzles for 2013 include Birthday Surprise, a 72-piece 3-D puzzleball for ages 6 and up, Right On Time, a 60-piece 2-D puzzle with movable clock hands, and Farm Days, an 80-piece 2-D puzzle packaged in an easy-to-seal pouch for ages 4 and up. Make ‘n’ Break Party Break is a new party-themed addition of the Make ‘n’ Break game. Players complete four different game variations, including building according to the description of team members and building blindfolded.

Saban brandS

Celebrating the 20th anniversary of Power Rangers, Saban Brands will introduce the newest Power Rangers Megaforce series this year alongside new product from licensees. With the Deluxe Gosei Great Megazord from Bandai, Power Rangers can use their cards to summon the Gosei Great Megazord to help stop evil. There are three ways to play: Morph into five separate Zords; Morph together Gosei Great into Megazord mode; Or morph into unique combinations with items in the ZordBuilder collection. Mega Bloks Megazord from will offer buildable characters from the series including Gosei Great Megazord, which features LED light-up Bandai blocks and real sounds; a buildable articulated Lion Zord with working launcher; and Megaforce Blind Pack Figures (Series 1) with poseable figure designs and one secret race chase figure. Saban is currently developing its Julius Jr. series, which follows the imaginative adventures of the monkey Julius Jr. and his friends as they make inventions out of everyday objects that come to life in a box that turns into a magical playhouse. The series is based on the company’s Paul Frank property and its main character Julius. Saban repurchased Digimon, a franchise it also brought to American audiences in the 1990s. Digimon explores a digital world where powerful creatures known as Digimon, or digital monsters, battle for supremacy. The company is also in the process of reintroducing the Popples franchise with new characters and merchandise. Plans are also underway to reenergize the brand for today’s multimedia-savvy audiences. Saban also reintroduced a variety of new gaming titles, including My Pet Monster. Saban is building its digital capability to create online and mobile extensions of its brands. It plans to expand the recently acquired property Zui, a collection of curated, kid-friendly online content that also operates KidZui, a downloadable browser for kid-safe internet experiences and more than six million websites, online videos, pictures, and games. Saban Brands also acquired The Playforge, a leading free-to-play mobile games developer and publisher (Zombie Farm). Saban plans to extend current and future free-to-play mobile games developed by The Playforge into licensing, merchandising, and media opportunities. Saban Brands Media Solutions, a new division of the company, will work to attract those interested in reaching the audiences for these and other Saban digital properties. 68 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY 2013

Toy Fair 2013 Warner Bros. consumer ProducTs

For the anticipated summer blockbuster Man of Steel, master toy licensee Mattel will unveil a robust toy line including action figures, playsets, and collectible figures, including its Movie Masters line. Also supporting the franchise are global partners LEGO (construction sets) and Rubie’s Costume Co. (costumes and accessories) along with Thinkway Toys (roleplay toys and more), Jakks Pacific (collectible figures and novelty toys), and Cardinal Industries (games and puzzles). The all-new Warner Bros. Animation series Beware the Batman will be supported by new toy lines. The comedy-action series Teen Titans Go! will be accompanied by a character-driven toy line. Master toy partners Mattel and Fisher-Price will continue expanding the Batman and the DC Super Friends lines this year, which include products inspired by the classic Batman TV series. WBCP and its partners will roll out toy lines to support the classic Looney Tunes and The Looney Tunes Show with product from licensees including master toy partner The Bridge Direct, Rubie’s, and EMTEC. Scooby-Doo will be supported by master toy partner The Character Group, Pressman Toy, and others. Tom and Jerry will be supported by master toy partner Jazwares, set to debut a new line for the all-new animated series The Tom and Jerry Show, coming soon to Cartoon Network. The Big Bang Theory has also inspired toy products and collectibles for its fan base from partners such as Ripple Junction (character plush and Soft Kitty-themed toys), Cardinal Industries, Funko, Mezco, and Cryptozoic Entertainment. Following the release of The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey, comaster toy partners The Bridge Direct and Vivid Group are set to unveil new characters to their collection of figures, and New Zealand-based WETA Workshop will continue to roll out an array of authentic film prop replicas and collectibles. Global licensee LEGO will also offer a range of The Hobbit new construction sets inspired by figures assortment The Hobbit film trilogy. 70 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY 2013

The Wish FacTory

New additions to The Wish Factory’s One Direction (1D) line launching this spring include new themed iPhone cases. The 1D Light Up iPhone Case features a hard plastic case for iPhone 4 and 4S models that lights up and changes colors for calls, texts, and emails. Batteries are included. The 1D Striped Customizable Case is a rubber case that comes with five different mix and match stripes, each featuring a different 1D member, fans can use to create their own unique 1D design. Customize even more with the Striped Case Refills, which feature special packs exclusive to each band member. Refill packs are sold separately. Cases are for ages 6 and up. The Wish Factory will also launch a line of Carly Rae Jepsen-licensed merchandise for spring. The “Call Me Maybe” Singing Doll features the singer’s signature brown hair and trendy outfits and sings Jepsen’s hit single. The “Call Me Maybe” Singing Toy Microphone also lets fans sing along to the hit single with or without background tracks. New in the Pop Grrl line are Pop Grrl Urban Animals Plush Headphones, featuring popular animal-inspired headphone designs including Tiger, Cheetah, and Zebra. They are adjustable and lightweight with high-quality, fullrange stereo sound. Pop Grrl Urban Animals Plush Speakers also offer high-quality, full-range stereo sound in Zebra, Tiger, or Pink Cheetah designs. Pop Grrl Bon Bon Bags are fashionable everyday bags available in a variety of designs, including round, rectangular, heart-shaped, and square in six different colors. The unique shapes are specialized to carry coins, makeup, cell phones, and pencils. Combining classic wayfarer and aviator styles, Shadez are customizable sunglasses. Pick lenses, frames, and stems and snap them together to create a custom look. Patterns, mirrored lenses, and licensed options are coming soon. Each piece is sold separately.

Toy Fair 2013 GOldie internatiOnal

Goldie International’s Super Mario Large Collector’s Plush Assortment features a 12-inch Mario, a 12-inch Luigi, and an 11.5-inch Yoshi. Each character is detailed in its classic attire. They are for ages 3 and up. The Mario Kart Die-Cast Collection features five characters from the world of Mario Kart racing. The Mario Kart die-cast five-pack series one set includes Mario, Yoshi, Luigi, Donkey Kong, and Peach. They are for ages 3 and up. Kids can control their own Mario Kart Small Radio Control Assortment. The karts include a 1:24th scale Mario, Luigi, Yoshi, Donkey Kong, or Toad with a controller. Rechargeable batteries are included with the racer, but three AA batteries are also required and not included. Hook up the controller to the racer to charge it. They are for ages 8 and up. Goldie is also producing a larger 1:8th scale Radio Control Donkey Kong in a matching brown racer with controller. A 9.6-volt battery charger and a nine-volt battery for the controller are includ1:8th scale Radio Control ed. It is for ages 8 and up. Donkey Kong The Mario Kart Pullback Racers assortment includes Mario, Yoshi, Luigi, Donkey Kong, and Toad. These pullback racers are fully assembled and ready to race without batteries. Simply pull back and let them go. They are for ages 3 and up. Goldie is bringing Pac-Man to life with Pac-Man small plush with sound. The assortment includes Pac-Man and Ghost. Activate each character’s retro sound effects by pressing down on their heads. They are for ages 3 and up. 72 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY 2013

Blue OranGe Games

Blue Orange Games is launching new titles for 2013, including Ooga Booga, a comical memory game in which players must memorize and recite a chain of ancient words and gestures using visual cues, without leaving anything out. The 50 cards are contained in a travel-friendly, durable tin. It is for three to six players ages 7 and up. In Flash, players race to complete eight challenges of dice combinations and rack up the most points. It’s for two to six players ages 7 and up. Nada is a game of chance and visual skill. Roll the 12 dice and quickly scan the array for matching symbols between the orange and white dice. The first person to call a match gets to grab all the dice with that symbol. If there are no matches, shout “Nada” to collect all the dice. It’s for two to six players ages 7 and up. For younger players, ages 3 and up, KeeKee the Rocking Monkey helps develop dexterity and balance. KeeKee’s big act is juggling while balancing on a giant banana. The object of the game is to keep KeeKee balanced by moving and placing KeeKee’s juggling balls in KeeKee the the right place. This game is crafted from 100-percent sustainRocking Monkey able wood. It is for two to six players. Additional new titles include Built It, a collection of three wooden aviation model construction toys; 20 Express; and Zimbbos, a wooden game of balancing elephants for ages 3 and up that has been redesigned for 2013.

Gund

Now available from Gund is Hi-Ya! Magnus, an ultra-soft multi-textured plush ninja dragon. Hi-Ya! Magnus is 12 inches tall and says 10 different phrases, such as “I call this move the broccoli slicer. Hi-ya!” Three AAA batteries are included. The four-inch Itty Bitty Birthday Boo and Itty Bitty Jogging Suit Boo are the latest releases in Gund’s line of Boo–The World’s Cutest Dog ultra-soft plush. Gund has also released a 15-inch ultra-soft plush Sesame Street Super Grover. This plush is for ages 1 and up. Hi-Ya! Magnus

Toy Fair 2013 douglas

Douglas’ Flower Doodle Ruffle Tote is a colorful tote that features ruffles and a daisy appliqué on a yellow pin-dot bib. Patterns and fabrics are coordinated on the eight-inchwide bag. The newest additions of baby jungle cats Flower Doodle Ruffle Tote plush include Chillin’ Cheetah Cub, Pancake Tiger Cub, Silky White Tiger Cub, and Spatter Leopard Cub. Each has soft fur with detailed markings. They come in laying and pounce poses. Each is 12-inches long. New wildlife plush include 11-inch Almond Black Bear, 11-inch Aput Polar Bear, 10-inch Atka Wolf, seven-inch Bristles Hedgehog, 11-inch Cookie Panda, 11-inch Delila Fawn, 18-inch Furbo Fox, 10-inch Legend Snowy Owl, 10-inch Samantha Skunk, 18-inch Smoke Wolf, 16-inch Tip Toes Raccoon, and seven-inch Zip Road Runner. They are available this March.

spirograph

The Original Spirograph Design Set features the iconic wheels and rings of the original, reengineered and updated. The kit features a travelfriendly collectors tin with a snap-in storage tray. The Spirograph gears work with the two retractable ballpoint pens, included in the set, as well as with most standard pens, markers, and pencils. The new Spiro-Putty holds the Spirograph pieces securely on the paper without puncturing holes in the paper. Also included are seven Spirograph Precision Wheels, a Spirograph Precision Ring, a Spirograph Precision Rack, .025 ounces of Spiro-Putty, a 24-page design pad, and a full-color design guide. The Original Spirograph Deluxe Set features a highquality, durable carrying case with snap-in storage and a built-in drawing surface. It includes 19 Spirograph Precision Wheels, two Spirograph Precision Rings, a Spirograph Precision Rack, three retractable ballpoint pens, 20 sheets of design paper, and a full-color design guide. This set also comes with .053 ounces of the new, reusable Spiro-Putty. 74 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY 2013

B Kids

New from B Kids, a division of Blue Box Toys, is the Splash ‘n Slide Waterpark Wonder, making bathtime fun for ages 1 and up. A water slide and spinning water wheel keep young hands active in the tub. It also features sturdy construction, moving action parts, and characters. Also new to the bath line are Splash ‘n Scrub Pals, bath companions that break out in dirty ink splotches in warm water, but the dirt disappears in a matter of seconds as the water cools down. Launching this spring, they are for ages 8 months and up. In B Kids’ wooden line, the Tap ‘n Tilt Roller Rack helps foster early shape, color, and size differentiation skills in toddlers ages 18 months and up. It features soft plastic edges and vibrant colors with stripes to engage baby. It also includes a light-up ball, which baby can tap through the holes then watch and listen as it rolls down the track. The Pounding Shape Bench also helps foster shape recognition, colors, Tap ‘n Tilt Roller Rack and size differentiation skills as baby taps the shapes through the holes using the soft, wooden hammer. It is for ages 1 and up. The Sorting Cube is a wooden play cube that encourages the development of motor skills and enhances learning through discovery. It includes a mixture of block shapes such as a cylinder, star, triangle, cube, heart, and cross sign. It is for ages 2 and up. With the See ‘n Spin Alphabet Rack, toddlers ages 1 and up can learn the letters of the alphabet using the twosided blocks, which feature letters and simple shapes for development skills.

Toy Fair 2013 young scienTisTs club

Scholastic’s Clifford the Big Red Dog will guide kids in three new Young Scientists Club science kits. In Big Red Dog Bubble Science, Emily Elizabeth guides young scientists through experiments, such as water bubbles, bubble sculptures, and more, in a colorful 20-page manual. Other kits include Clifford the Big Red Dog Rainbow Science and Clifford the Big Red Dog Kitchen Science. The kits are for ages 3 and up and include a colorful lab tray, measuring cup, test tubes, pipette, and funnel. Also new for 2013 are two new The Magic School Bus kits. In The Magic School Bus Weather Lab, Ms. Frizzle and her students guide young scientists as they explore the weather. In The Magic School Bus Magic School Bus Weather Lab Explore The Wonders Of Nature kit, Ms. Frizzle and her class guide kids as they make a bug house, cast an animal track, create a papier-mâché ant, and more. These Magic School Bus kits are for ages 5 and up.

Wicked cool Toys

Scanimalz, from Wicked Cool Toys, combines cuddly toys, technology, and games. Consumers can download the free iOS or Android Scanimalz app to scan the QR codes on a Scanimalz’s belly to play games, track their collections, earn points, and work their way up the leader board. Each Scanimalz has different abilities and point value powers within each game, and there are many ways to collect points. Kids can also learn the Scanimalz story. Series one of Scanimalz will launch in spring 2013. There will be 32 new styles in the first year. Rare styles will also be included. Scanimalz are for ages 3 and up. 76 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY 2013

Poof-slinky

In addition to the Original Slinky, pictured here, the Slinky lineup now includes new products such as Light Up Slinky; Giant Slinky; and Color Metal Slinky, which comes in a variety of fresh colors. Slinky products are for ages 5 and up. Sno-Markers, part of the Ideal brand, turn snow into a child’s blank canvas. Mix warm water with the Sno-Marker color packet in the Sno-Marker squeeze bottle, squeeze, spray, and decorate. SnoMarkers come with a twist-off cap so they can be reused. A flip-up nozzle prevents leaks and spills. They are for ages 5 and up. The Poof Pro Gold Mini Sport Pack is a sport set for ages 5 and up. With miniature foam versions of the balls used in popular sports, the set encourages active yet safe play.

HedsTrom

Hedstrom is moving into new markets with a core focus on product for children ages 2–8. The Hedstrom Hopper is a durable vinyl exercise ball for ages 3 and up. Easy to inflate, Hoppers can be deflated to a smaller size for convenient storage. They are available in licensed and non-licensed assortments. Hedstrom’s line of Sensory Ball toys for ages 6 months and up offers different shapes, sizes, and textures to stimulate baby’s senses. These toys help to refine motor skills, while also offering massage stimulation for little ones. Hedstrom’s Training Camp accessories are perfect for little athletes looking to practice their sports skills indoors or outdoors. Training Camp products are for ages 3 and up. Wibbly Buddies are squishy rubber collectible characters that light up when squeezed. Available in licensed and non-licensed assortments, they are for ages 3 and up. Pogo Hops are balance exercise disks for kids inspired by the retro toy of the 1980s. They are for ages 6 and up.

Toy Fair 2013 DemDaco

Alligator is the newest addition to Nat&Jules By Demdaco’s Mellow Fellows line. Mellow Fellows are 13-inch soft and floppy plush. Available in four styles—Alligator, Hippo, Elephant, and Monkey, each features a uniquely defined texture and color palette. They are for ages birth and up. New to the Domers line is Giraffe. Domers are a collection of 10-inch plush characters with a distinct shape and squeezable likeness. They are available in eight styles: Owl, Panda, Giraffe, Pig, Cow, Elephant, Alligator, and Monkey. They are for ages birth and up. The Bow Wow Boutique Yorkshire Terrier Wristlet is the latest in the line of miniature plush couture companions. They are all adorned with highfashion bows and accessories and equipped with a petite leash that makes a wristlet for girls of all ages. The six-inch plush is available in six styles: Yellow Labrador, Chocolate Labrador, Pug, Yorkshire Terrier, Beagle, and Poodle. They are for ages newborn and up. The Discovery Peek A Boo Toy is Discovery Peek A Boo an interactive koala that squeaks and crinkles. It easily attaches to strollers, car seats, and cribs. The seven-inch activity toy includes a mirror, teether, and rings. It is for ages birth and up. The nine-inch Mistletoe Pugster sings and dances to the Justin Bieber song “Mistletoe.” It is for ages 3 and up. 78 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY 2013

Thinkway Toys

Thinkway Toys is offering new Despicable Me 2 talking figures and plush, for ages 4 and up, this spring. The eight-inch Talking Dave and Stuart figures feature moving heads and eyes and poseable arms with soft skin upper bodies. Push the button to hear their voices and sound effects. The poseable and articulated 11-inch Talking Gru talks with the press of a button. Gru also features a body that turns from side to side and moving arms and head. It includes a display stand. Press the button on Talking Tim the Minion to hear it speak with sound effects. The nine-inch figure also features a moving head and eyes as well as poseable arms with a soft skin upper body. Agnes’s Unicorn is a soft, huggable plush unicorn featuring “clip, clop” hoof sounds and effects. Its horn lights up in various colors. It is 14 inches tall. Bedtime Agnes Doll is a soft-bodied plush featuring Talking Tim the Minion embroidered facial features, a button that activates voice and sound effects, and slippers that light up in multiple colors.

Bachmann Trains

Based on the Chuggington TV series, Bachmann Trains is launching a new line of HO-scale Chuggington electric locomotives, rolling stock, and accessories. Kids can join their favorite Chuggington characters Brewster, Wilson, and Koko as they roll around the tracks. Chuggington cars include a box car, low-sided wagon, flat wagon, hopper, and passenger carriage. The line also includes Vee, the depot dispatcher, to help keep all the Chuggers on schedule.

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Toy Fair 2013 mOOse tOys

Moose Toys’ The Trash Pack is set to introduce Ultimate Fighting Trashies (UFTs). Kids choose their Trashie fighter, load it into the spin bin, wind it up, and battle other UFTs. Series 3 of The Trash Pack launched at mass retailers in December. Moose will expand its Micro Chargers this spring with the Crash Track, which will let kids race and crash their cars. Additional new track sets will also be introduced throughout the year, including a new expansion pack that lets kids configure new track designs. Micro Chargers is a line of fast micro vehicles that race at scale speeds of 600 MPH. Gelarti, a line of reusable gel stickers that kids create, will make its debut at mass retailers this year after a Toys “R” Us exclusive in 2012. New Gelarti SKUs will also launch for fall. Blingles, the gem stickers that let girls create trendy bling for their accessories, will introduce new themes including Dazzling Butterflies, Glitter Rock, and Ocean Glitz. Moose will also introduce the Blingles Jewelry Pack this spring, which includes all the tools needed to create jeweled stickers and accessories. A new brand in the arts & crafts category will also launch this year.

plAsmArt

With PlaSmart, Inc.’s The Original DoodleArt, kids ages 8 and up can create color-it-yourself posters. Originally launched in 1972, PlaSmart is bringing back the craze that lasted through the 1980s. Choose from five 24-inch by 34-inch poster designs and two mini kits each with four 11inch by 14-inch posters. Poster themes include flowers, jungle, butterflies, prehistoric, and fairy tales. Scribble Down kits are on-the-go activity packs. Kids ages 4 and up can scribble colorful transfers onto themed backgrounds. Each features illustrations by artist Clinton Banbury. Design themes include enchanted castle, woodland fairies, wild adventures, pirate adventure, dinosaur encounter, and fairy cake factory. Launching this year is Squashed, a new family game created by Chitag Young Inventor Challenge winner Nicholas Metzler at age 16. Two to four players take turns rolling the die to strategically eliminate other players by “squashing” one pawn at a time. Or players can flip the cube for a total wipeout. Be the last pawn on the Squashed cube to win. Threadz are new hooking and weaving looms for girls 6 and up. Choose from three kits—beanie, scarf, or purse— to weave and wear in just two hours. Kits feature the latest yarns in various colors. Girls ages 6–9 may need some help from a parent getting started, according to the company.

AmrApur OverseAs

From Amrapur Overseas comes Zeenie Dollz, the line of powerful, stylish 12-inch eco-warrior dolls. Each Zeenie possesses a secret identity and unique eco-power that protects the Earth. The Zeenie Dollz launch begins with Zennia, the limited-edition first doll in the series and the protector of our planet. Evee is the Protector of the Skies; Kazumi is the Guardian of the Polar Regions; Lina is the Defender of the Rainforest; Yana is the Protector of the Oceans; and Sini is the Rescuer of Abused Animals. The series focuses on the various environmental issues affecting our planet and teaches kids how to help to make a difference. Zeenie Dollz are made of 100 percent sustainable and recyclable materials. The dolls will be targeted toward young girls and tweens. A portion of every Zeenie Dollz sale will be given to the World Wildlife Fund. 80 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY 2013

Zennia

Toy Fair 2013 Bigjigs toys

Bigjigs Toys will introduce the Around the World Train Set for ages 3 and up. This 73-piece train set features iconic buildings and objects from around the world including Big Ben, The Eiffel Tower, The Statue of Liberty, The Sydney Opera House, and the Egyptian Pyramids. Bigjigs Toys will commemorate the classic Flying Scotsman locomotive with a 38-piece train set featuring its iconic steam engine and carriages, wooden train track, decorative accessories, and a retro ticket office. This set is for ages 3 and up. Bigjigs Toys has added to its comprehensive range of jigsaw puzzles, which includes my first puzzles, educational puzzles, floor puzzles, and more. Fashionistas can mix and match outfits with the Dressing Boy and Girl Puzzles (pictured). Made from high-quality wood, the chunky lift-out pieces fit easily in little hands, helping develop motor skills and hand-eye coordination.

Cardinal industries

Cardinal Industries will introduce two new The Big Bang Theory-licensed games this year: Rocks Paper Scissors Lizard Spock Dice Game and The Big Bang Theory Ultimate Ultimate Party Game. A new expanded deal with Mattel has granted Cardinal the rights to produce some of Mattel’s classic games such as Toss Across, TipIt, and Rebound. Some games will be co-branded with licenses to introduce them to a new generation. Cardinal will also work with Hasbro to bring brands such as Mr. Potato Head and Play-Doh into new categories such as puzzles. Cardinal will relaunch its Big Ben Puzzle line in a new series that will feature new and noteworthy artists. Cardinal has also acquired Puzz 3-D, a line of three-dimensional puzzles known for their detailed replication of renowned icons. 82 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY 2013

entertainment one

Entertainment One (eOne) is continuing the expansion of its preschool property Peppa Pig with new toys from its master toy licensee Fisher-Price. Muddy Bedtime Peppa Puddles Bathtime Peppa from FisherPrice, launching this fall, includes a Peppa figure, a George squirter, washing brush, and 6.5-inch by 2.5-inch piggy bathtub that suctions to tub walls. Use the George squirter or brush to clean Peppa. Peppa’s muddy spots disappear in warm water. Water strains from the bottom of the Piggy tub. It is for ages 3 and up. Bedtime Peppa is a cuddly 10-inch Peppa doll ready for bedtime with pajamas and a blanket. Lay Peppa down to hear a sweet lullaby, nighttime phrases, and piggy snores. Tilt Peppa in the upright position for wake-up sayings, a morning song, phrases, giggles, and oinks. The doll’s cheeks will softly glow as Peppa speaks and sings. It is for ages 3 and up. Candlewick Press will also release two new picture books, for ages 2–5, for 2013. Each book comes with a coloring poster for added play. Peppa Pig and the Muddy Puddles will launch in April. Peppa Pig and the Busy Day at School will launch in June.

tosy

mRobo

Tosy’s mRobo is a one-of-a-kind gadget that fuses a high-quality portable speaker with a dancing robot. Once the music starts, the mRobo transforms into a full-body dancing robot with signature moves. Tosy will also showcase DiscoRobo. Once the music starts, DiscoRobo responds to the music and dances along while expressing lively emotions. The latest beat detection technology allows for smooth and rhythmic movement. Both products will launch at retail this summer.

Toy Fair 2013 EndlEss GAMEs

Korner’d from Endless Games is a pattern recognition game. Each four-colored piece can only fit in one intersection on the game grid. Be the first to play your three pieces to win. Korner’d is also a challenging activity for anyone on the Autism Spectrum. For this reason, Endless Games has teamed up with Autism Speaks and will donate proceeds from this game to Autism research.

tEch 4 Kids

With Tech 4 Kids’ 3D Magic, each creativity station provides an innovative design opportunity to generate 3-D art. Using a smart phone or tablet, launch the free Magna Color app and scan a completed Magic App Stencil to see the creation come to life and jump off the screen. Complete and scan different design templates to 3D Magic build virtual 3-D habitats with multiple characters that interact with you and each other or use your finger to create your own 3-D interactive AR animated characters. The kit includes a special magnetic drawing studio with screen sweeper, four UnderWater World app-enhanced stencils, four colored Magic Dot pens, 160 pieces of 3D Magic Dots in four colors, one pair of 3-D glasses, and a free Magna Color app download. It is for ages 4 and up, available this fall. Tech 4 Kids’ new Tek Recon blasters bring video game-quality multi-player battles and team play to the real world with features such as high-performance rapid-fire triggers with real recoil kickback, reusable ammo capacity, and long blasting distance with modifiable shooting modes. The optional smart phone enhanced features include Reality/Digital Convergence, Heads-up Display, downloadable upgrades, a flashlight for night vision, and more.

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BrEr rABBit toys

Brer Rabbit Toys will introduce new specialty sport toys designed to enhance kids’ experience by capturing their developmental skills and stages as they play and grow. All products include a Hip Hop Grow Development Guide, which offers a guide to the age grading and levels of development stages children should achieve while playing with each toy. The line includes a badminton set, seven-foot and 14-foot jump ropes, playground ball, catchers set, and bowling set.

MGA EntErtAinMEnt

Under the campaign banner “Unleash Your Passion,” MGA Entertainment’s Bratz dolls (Cloe, Jade, Sasha, and Yasmin) will increase in size from their original 10-inch scale to a taller 12inch frame, allowing for a wider array of fashion design opportunities as well as enhanced articulation for added play. To help introduce the next generation of Bratz dolls, a special “Real Bratz” campaign will showcase girls that exemplify the dolls’ commitment to taking charge and seeking positive change. In addition to saluting “Real Bratz” girls who demonstrate such Bratz-defining characteristics as academic excellence and dedication to their friends, family, and community, the campaign will also honor women who are leaders in such fields as business, politics, and entertainment to help inspire and encourage today’s generation of girls to continue to move the world forward.

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Toy Fair 2013 asa produCTs

The Mobo Mini from Asa Products is a small luxury threewheeled cruiser for children ages 2.5–5. It increases physical activity while the steering system aids in key development for hand-eye coordination and muscle strength. It features sturdy 2-in-1 Mobo Tot material, a comfortable seat, and chainless chassis to prevent injuries to small fingers or snagged clothing. The Mobo Mini’s adjustable frame will also grow with a child. Also available is the 2-in-1 Mobo Tot cruiser for ages 2–5. It features an adjustable parental push bar that aids in the development of motor skills and hand-eye coordination. The detachable push bar is waist-high and features a comfortable foam grip. A foot rest with a gripping surface allows riders to avoid spinning when pushed. Customized decals, which are included, will allow children to express their creativity.

Beginagain Toys

BeginAgain Toys’ Earthworm Racers are for ages 18 months and up. Available this spring, the seven-inch long bendable, stretchable, twistable racers are made from eco-friendly hardwoods and non-toxic, child-safe stains. They are available in multiple colors. RubberNubber Vehicles, for ages 18 months and up, are mixed media vehicles that encourage kids to play actively and aid in the development of fine motor skills. They are RubberNubber Car made from eco-friendly rubber wood with child-safe wood stains and natural rubber. The tactile driver is made from natural rubber. The Green Ring Characters, for ages 6 months and up, feature dual materials for two stages of play. Pop the character ring off for soft teething and grabbing or snap them together for grabbing and fine motor play. They are made in the USA from GreenDot cornstarch bio resin and maple wood. They are 100 percent compostable. Green Ring Characters will be available in a range of colors and styles this summer.

Triple eighT

ComiCimages

Under a licensing agreement with Vamplets, LLC, Comic Images has produced a line of six plush characters for The Nightmare Nursery of Gloomvania. The diapered demons are 10 inches tall, have enormous heads, tiny bodies, and offer lots of opportunity for hair and fashion play.

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With the Wipeout Dry Erase Helmet from Triple Eight, kids can customize their own inspired designs on helmets that are certified for safety protection for roller sports, including biking, skateboarding, roller skating, and scooters. Made for ages 3–11, the Wipeout Dry Erase Helmet is available in black, white, pink, hot pink, neon green, and neon orange. It comes with five dry erase non-toxic markers in assorted neon colors and a stencil kit with eight shapes. These helmets comply with U.S. CPSC and ASTM safety standards for bike helmets, skateboarding, and trick roller skating.

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Toy Fair 2013 ZoobIes

Zoobies’ Sidekix is a new line of collectible plush toys that go from six-inch animals to soft balls with just a zip. They also have magnets inside, so they can latch onto metal things, and they come with a plastic clip to be clasped to backpacks. The new Sidekix line is based on the characters from Animal Jam, National Geographic’s online animal world for ages 5–11. Each Sidekix comes with a hangtag offering free memberships, tokens, and/or special website codes.

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Dragon-I Toys

Dragon-I Toys 2013 lineup includes a wide selection of kidfavorite brands, such as Moshi Monsters. Kids can build their own Moshi Monsters Glumps with the Blobimals Glumpimals set. The set comes with 60 grams of putty and plastic accessories. Once the Glump is built, watch it flatten overnight. Then, pick out accessories, roll the putty back up, and start all over again. The set is available in Bruiser, Fabio, Freakface, Mustachio, Pirate Pong, and Podge.

Playmates toys

Hearts For Hearts Girls is a charitable doll line and fashion collection for ages 6â&#x20AC;&#x201C;12 that features authentically dressed and lifelike dolls that represent girls from around the world. The line has expanded for 2013 to now include a doll named Shola, representing the country of Afghanistan, and Mosi, representing the Native American region in Arizona. New Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (TMNT) toys include Flingers Deluxe Action Figures that throw out projectiles, such as sewer lids, pizza pie discs, Bo Staffs, and Sais weapons. Kids load the different projectiles into the backpacks of each figure, roll the figures across a hard surface, and watch as the contents of the backpacks fling out. The figures include Leonardo, Michelangelo, Donatello, and Raphael. The Pop-Up Pizza Playset Anchovy Alley looks like a pizza box and opens to reveal a subway scene that stands 18 inches tall. The set includes a portable pizza oven that flings pizzas, floor traps, a sewer cover, and an abandoned subway tunnel. The playset is compatible with most Turtles basic action figures, sold separately. Both TMNT products are for ages 4 and up.

Pop-Up Pizza Playset Anchovy Alley

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Toy Fair 2013 Klutz

Klutz’s Make Clay Charms, for ages 8 and up, features simple step-by-step instructions for more than 30 different designs, including fruit, animals, sweets, monsters, and more. Make charms with the clay, bake them, add shine with Klutz’s specially formulated glaze, and then attach your creations to the included bracelet. With Star Wars Thumb Doodles, use the four inkpads (blue, black, green, and brown), black marker, and dual-tipped colored pencil (green and red) to make thumbprint versions of Star Wars characters. The kit includes step-by-step instructions to make Star Wars Clones and Battle Droids, Ewoks and Wookies, Jedi, and Jabba the Hutt. It will be available in March for ages 8 and up. Dot Jewelry comes with pre-cut paper pieces in assorted colors and coordinating patterns. Follow the step-by-step instructions to make everything from one-strand bracelets to statement necklaces. The exclusive two-in-one tool picks up dots and crimps the cord ends securely to finish each piece of jewelry. The Book of Impossible Objects, by Pat Murphy and the Scientists of Klutz Labs, demonstrates how typical objects can work like magic using science, from the mathematically amazing Möbius strip (a band of paper with only one side) to cardstock acrobats with balance to a color-changing spinning top.

international Playthings

Party animal

Party Animal’s NFL Teenymates are one-inch officially licensed NFL figures for kids and collectors ages 4 and up. Each foil bag pack comes with two random quarterbacks and two puzzle pieces. There are 32 NFL quarterbacks (plus three rare figures: a throwback quarterback, a metallic gold quarterback, and a glow-in-the-dark quarterback) and 35 double-sided puzzle pieces to collect. The double-sided puzzle pieces allow kids to put together either a collector’s mini poster featuring all 32 quarterbacks or a football field display.

International Playthings LLC (IPL) has partnered with the NICI Corporation to distribute its plush toys and accessories in the U.S. and Canada. IPL will introduce NICI’s White World winter collection to the U.S. for the holiday season. This collection features a polar bear, seal, and a wide range of complementing accessories. IPL will also launch the North American NICI website www.nici-world.com in October, which will feature the latest NICI products available throughout the year. IPL has added new themes to its Imaginetics line for ages 3 and up. Make a Monster contains one play board and two magnet sheets with 33 individual magnets. Day at the Beach contains one play board and two magnet sheets with 51 individual magnets. Construction contains one play board and one magnet sheet with 17 magnets. Treehouse, which features the owl family, contains one play board and one magnet sheet with 33 individual magnets. IPL’s mic-o-mic construction kits, for ages 5 and up, are designed for novice builders and collectors. With the Large Tow Truck kit (pictured), hook up smaller vehicles and tow them along. The kit has 78 parts, 21 clips, 38 pins, and an assembly tool. Large Truck is the most complex kit in the collection with 99 parts, 56 clips, 112 pins, and an assembly tool. Additional new kits in the line include Medium Sports Car, Medium Train, Medium Tractor, Medium Jet Plane, Small Tow Truck, Small Chopper, Small Dump Truck, and Small Jet Plane. All mic-o-mic kits include spare clips and pins. 90 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY 2013

GamewriGht

In Gamewright’s IOTA, players add cards to a grid, making sure that color, shape, and number are either all the same or all different across the line. As the grid expands so do the possibilities. This pocket-sized game comes with 66 cards and instructions. It is for two to four players ages 8 and up. In Monster Café, players play cards to seat hungry monsters around tables filled with such revolting refreshments as Roasted Roadkill, Boiled Brains, and Stinky Sock Stew. But the monsters are extremely picky eaters. Feed them what they fancy or else they may take a bite out of your score. Also make sure to avoid the lemon sorbet. The game comes with 76 cards and instructions in English and Spanish. Monster Café is for two to four players ages 8 and up. That’s It! is a fast-paced party game. Draw a topic card and then race to shout out answers until someone says the exact word written on the card. Get the most right to win. The game comes with 200 cards, 12 tokens, and instructions. It is for three or more players ages 10 and up.

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Toy Fair 2013 GrEEn toys

The Green Toys Rocket is a red and blue toy spacecraft that features a main booster, three auxiliary fin boosters, and two astronauts wearing molded spacesuits, helmets, and dual-tank backpacks. A large door flips down to double as a set of steps into the main cavity, while the detachable nose cone capsule has its own door that opens to reveal buttons, dials, and the signature Green Toys eight-track. It is for ages 2 and up. The Green Toys Ferry Boat is an eco-friendly teal and white, two-story vessel made for bathtub or pool time fun. Use the slide-out ramp to load up the ferry’s bottom level, which accommodates up to four Green Toys Mini Vehicles or Fastbacks. The open top deck features two small benches on each side as well as eleven windows looking down into the main level. It comes with two Mini Fastbacks and a detachable hull for easy cleaning. It is for ages 3 and up. The Green Toys Tractor features chunky, go-anywhere tires and a detachable rear trailer. Green Toys Tractor Metal axles and external coatings make it rust- and chip-proof.

ElEnco

With Elenco’s Snap Circuits Light, kids can create 175 different projects using 55 parts along with a colorful picture manual. Projects feature a strobe light, color-changing LED, and glow-in-the dark fans. Watch your iPod or other MP3 player play music through Snap Circuits Light. 92 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY 2013

lEarninG rEsourcEs

New to Learning Resources’ New Sprouts line is the Ring It Up! My Very Own Cash Register. It features a coin slide, pop-open cash drawer, and chunky buttons and includes five number coins. Hide-n-Go Fish is a play fish bowl featuring vinyl flaps over the opening so kids can’t see what they are fishing for. It includes nine toy fish in three different colors and sizes. The fish snap together like pop beads for fine motor practice and play. Ring It Up! Hide-n-Go Moo features a miniature barn that kids reach into to identify barnyard animals by touch. It also features vinyl flaps over the opening. Match the adult animals to the baby animals for extended play. It includes eight animals such as cows, ducks, horses, and pigs. Smart Snacks Shape Sorting Cupcakes encourages shape and color identification and helps build fine motor skills. The eight two-part cupcakes pull apart to reveal a circle, square, triangle, rectangle, oval, hexagon, star, and heart. Match the shapes to put them back together. Then match the shape to the pan bottom. All products are for ages 2 and up.

orb Factory

With Orb Factory’s Curiosity Kits Lava Rock Volcano, kids 6–13 can use plaster and paint to turn a domed base into a realistic volcano. Add a tube, funnel, and squeeze bottle to control the size and timing of the eruptions. Create the chemical mixture with vinegar and baking soda, then add fake gravel and red coloring to make foaming lava. Kids 5 and up can create a PlushCraft Purr-fect Pillow by following a simple numbered legend. Use the stylus to punch the pink and purple fabric and add the eyes and kitten nose. The kit contains glitter and standard fabric pieces.

Basic Fun

Basic Fun, in a licensed partnership with Fisher-Price, will relaunch the View-Master brand this fall. This toy has a 70-year history and will feature a fresh new look, smoother operation, and 3D images that are 50 percent larger and brighter. Licenses include Despicable Me 2, Star Wars, Spider-Man, Hello Kitty, and Discovery Kids. Basic Fun will also expand its line of Fisher-Price Classics with the addition of the Play Desk and The Puffalumps. Originally launched in 1972, the Fisher-Price Play Desk lets children play and learn using letters along with activity cards to spell and use first words. Chalk and an eraser are included. The Puffalumps, known as “lovable lumps of snuggly stuff,” was a popular toy line in the 1980s. The new Puffalumps collection will be available in both 16-inch and 10-inch sizes. Basic Fun, in partnership with Hasbro, is launching more electronic games including Simon. The classic electronic memory game is back with a sleeker look and enhanced features. Simon challenges one or more players to memorize the hypnotic lights and sound sequences. Mini Bop it! XT is the pocket-sized version of the game featuring all six of Bop it! XT’s commands: bop it, flick it, pull it, twist it, spin it, and shake it. There are four skill levels to unlock. New mini electronic board games feature Monopoly, Candy Land, and Trouble. These electronic takealong games combine real board games with electronics at a lower price point.

FEBRUARY 2013 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT 93

Toy Fair 2013 BRiaRpatch

Based on the Cartoon Network animated series Adventure Time, Briarpatch is introducing a lineup that includes games, puzzles, travel-sized games, and Wonder Tubes featuring the characters Jake, Finn, and Marceline. The Epic Gassy Jake Game adds an audible “gassy” twist to the game of hot potato. For The Jim Henson Company’s Pajanimals, Briarpatch will offer games and puzzles, including the Pajanimals My First Adventure Game and My Growth Chart Puzzle (pictured). The company continues its partnership for Nickelodeon’s Dora the Explorer and Bubble Guppies with the introduction of games and Wonder Tubes for both properties this year. Briarpatch will also introduce product featuring Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer in time for the holidays.

peaceaBle KinGdom

In Peaceable Kingdom’s cooperative game What’s It?, flip the doodle card, flip the timer, then guess what the pre-printed doodle looks like. If you guess like the other players, everyone wins. It is for two to six players ages 8 and up. In The Great Cheese Chase, players work together to move the three mice up the path and into the attic for a cheese party. But if the cat pounces on a mouse on the path, the mouse goes back to start and the climb up begins again. Get all three mice to the attic before the cat and everyone wins. It is for two to six players ages 5 and up. Buzz!–The Bizzy Buzzy Beat-The-Bear Board Game is a race to collect nectar drops and beat the bear to the hive. Roll the die, move your bears, and if you can do it before the bear gets to the hive, everyone wins. It is for two to four players ages 5 and up. Peaceable Kingdom’s Sticker Activity Poster Books are large posters that include themed stickers to create scenes. New styles include 3D Alien Attack. Use the 40 3-D stickers to decorate the poster scene then slide on the included 3-D glasses to see the scene in 3-D. With Glow-In-The-Dark Glowing Fairies, use the 70 glowin-the-dark stickers in the forest poster scene, then turn off the lights and watch the fairies fly. 94 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY 2013

R&R Games

R&R Games will launch Pluckin’ Pairs. In this game, players have 90 seconds to pluck five popular pairs from the random images on the table. Match other players’ pairings to gain points. The more you match, the more you score. It is

for ages 10 and up. Hey Froggy! is another new game for ages 10 and up. The frogs have gathered for a race at the old watering hole but with limited lily pads and plenty of frogs, they pile up on top of each other. To reach the finish line, move the right frogs to the top of the piles to match your cards. The more you match, the farther you jump. Eat flies to get more chances to jump. The first player across the finish line wins. In Spectaculum, players will determine the paths on which four travelling shows journey through an entire kingdom. With your money, sponsor entertainers with only one goal: gaining even more money. The game is for ages 8 and up. Another new game is Qin, based on colonizing Chinese hinterlands by finding provinces and absorbing remote villages into empires. Players also build pagodas as a sign of their authority. The first to build all his pagodas wins the game. Qin is for ages 8 and up.

Wooky EntErtainmEnt

Wooky Entertainment’s Design Masters is a line of sketchbook kits for car lovers. Kids 7 and up can create precision-technical drawings from detailed stencil sheets of car bodies and parts, such as mags, spoilers, bumpers, emblems, and more. The Ford Motor Company is a new licensee. New Design Masters small sketchbook kits include Ford Focus RS500, Ford Boss 302, and Ford Street Racer. Each kit contains 30 sketch pages, more than 35 stencils, three illustrated inspiration sheets, more than 140 stickers, and color instructions. Large sketchbook kits include Ford F-150 SVT Raptor and Ford GT. Each comes with 30 sketch pages, more than 50 stencils, two illustrated inspiration sheets, more than 250 stickers, and color instructions. Block Crayon is a creative brand for children 18 months and up that combines coloring and block building. New for 2013 is Block Crayon Color & Stow: Pony Stable. The kit features a stable-shaped tote with a pink and lavender color scheme and barn-shaped top with nubs that double as a sturdy building base for construction projects. The inside of the stable roof holds 15 feet of heavy-duty illustrated paper with pony and stable scenes. It comes with 10 sculpted block crayons. Artzooka kits, designed for children 5 and up, contain the necessary components to complete a range of creative projects as well as a challenge that can be accomplished using everyday household supplies. Among the new kits for 2013 are Surprise Match Box, which lets kids create their own mini puppets that double as secret compartments for tiny treasures. The kit includes three “match” boxes, a sticker sheet, a sheet of cardboard accessories, and instructions.

all things Equal

Following All Things Equal’s launch of the Awkward Family Photos board game, based on the popular website of the same name, the Awkward Family Photos Card Game combines creative, open-ended questions with all-new cringeworthy photos featuring funny family portraits, unfortunate hairstyles, weddings, holidays, and babies. If you know your fellow players well enough and can impress them with your answers, you’ll get the last laugh. Display your family’s awkwardness with the official Awkward Family Photos Picture Frame Kit. The frame is made in the USA from 100-percent recycled game boards. The kit includes a frame, stickered plaques, and more.

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FEBRUARY 2013 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT 95

Toy Fair 2013 sCholastiC

In conjunction with the 50th anniversary of Scholastic’s Clifford the Big Red Dog, partners will offer new Clifford product, including Douglas (two new Clifford Valentine’s Day plush), Andrews Blaine (bookmarks, book lights, and game pads), A&A Global Industries (plush and foam balls), and Young Scientists Club (three new Clifford science kits for ages 3 and up). Goosebumps will extend its reach with four new Halloween costumes and six masks from Gemmy, including the characters Slappy and Curly. The Young Scientists Club will release two new science kits for The Magic School Bus, including the Weather Lab kit and the Exploring the Wonders of Nature kit. Briarpatch is also releasing new games based on the I Spy seek-and-find franchise with I Spy Treasure Hunt, launching in August. Kids Station will release all-new Scholastic-branded educational science and 3-D paper science toys and kits. Douglas Clifford plush assortment

Fox Consumer ProduCts

Kidz BoP

Kidz Bop and Church & Dwight’s Arm & Hammer brand are teaming up to release a Kidz Bop-branded line of musical Toothtunes toothbrushes that feature Kidz Bop music. Product is expected to launch in mass market and drug stores this quarter. The latest album of the Kidz Bop audio series, Kidz Bop 23, was released last month. Kidz Bop and LeapFrog are expanding their relationship by distributing downloadable content though LeapFrog’s new digital app center. This follows a Target holiday exclusive—a co-branded Kidz Bop LeapPad 2. Imperial Toy will continue to offer the Kidz Bop Pop Star toy line throughout 2013. Sakar is expanding the brand into the youth electronic category with the launch of karaoke machines, headphones, earbuds, speakers, and docking stations. Product will continue to roll out in the U.S. and Canada throughout the year. Spotify launched the first-ever Spotify app created specifically for kids and families, Kidz Bop Boombox. Kidz Bop is curating all music playlists for the app, which includes three categories of music for different age groups including Preschool (ages 2–4), Kidz (ages 5–9), and The Boom (ages 10 and up).

Twentieth Century Fox Consumer Products (FCP) will expand product lines for its popular properties such as The Simpsons, New Girl, Sons of Anarchy, and for the upcoming 3-D CG action-adventure comedy Epic (from the creators of Ice Age and Rio). Epic’s master toy partner Dream International Limited will unveil an all-new toy line this month. Dream will capture many of Epic’s memorable characters through a line of detailed figures and plush that will hit shelves in May. Fox has also tapped Maisto to showcase diecast motorcycle models based on the FX series Sons of Anarchy. The models will be available at retail early this year, replicating the bikes featured on the show. For fans of the comedy series New Girl, Pressman Toy is launching the New Girl Trivia Board Game. In the game, two to six players answer trivia questions, fill in the blanks in a funny sing-along, and play multiple rounds to learn more about each other. 96 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY 2013

cJ ProDucts

CJ Products, manufacturer of Pillow Petsbranded products, is adding two new characters to its line of plush foldable stuffed animals. 18-inch Mike and Mike and Sully Pillow Pets Sulley from Disney/Pixar’s Monsters, Inc. are now available. To coincide with the rerelease of Finding Nemo in theaters and on Blu-Ray/DVD, Pillow Pets is also launching a Nemo foldable plush.

Discovery communications

Bendon Publishing will feature Discovery Communication’s Animal Planet coloring and activity books as well as flash cards. H.I.S. is also offering an Animal Planet-branded car seat, stroller toys, neck pillows, travel blankets, and bath toys. Poof-Slinky will feature Discovery Channel’s Mythbusters Science kits, which follow a trial-and-error handson format, allowing kids to “bust” myths related to everything from aviation to air pressure. Wonderforge will also feature Mythbusters: The Game.

FEBRUARY 2013 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT 97

Toy Fair 2013 educatIonaL InsIghts

Educational Insights’ Nancy B’s Science Club is a new line of science tools. Each comes with an 18plus page keepsake journal packed with kidfriendly activities. The line is supported by the Nancy B’s Science Club website and has partnered with famous scientists from around the world. Two products from the line include Moonscope and Skygazer’s Activity Journal and Crime Solver Scope and Forensic Moonscope Activity Journal. The Moonscope and Skygazer’s Activity Journal, now available, features a magnifying MoonScope with all-glass eyepieces, finder scope, moon filter, tripod with built-in red LED light to read in the dark, and a 22-page astronomy activities journal. Two AA batteries are required but not included. New to the GeoSafari line are GeoSafari Jr. Animal Eye Viewers. Choose from three different Animal Eye Viewers. Slip on the Shark Eye Viewer and use the rearview mirrors to get around. But look out for blind spots— sharks can’t see directly in front of themselves. Viewers are for ages 4 and up. Shelby’s Snack Shack Game is a number and counting game. Shelby buried bones on the beach and needs help collecting them. Help collect the most bones to win. But watch out—spin a sneaky seagull and lose bones or get sidetracked chewing a flip flop and miss a turn. It’s for two to four players ages 4 and up. It includes a colorful game board, one Shelby Squeezer, 40 Bones, four bowls, one double game spinner, and game guide. Even Steven’s Odd! is a two- to four-player, fastpaced, dice-rolling race. The first player to win 10 dice challenges wins the game. It includes 24 dice, 40 leveled challenge cards, four dice holders, and game guide. It is for ages 7 and up. 98 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY 2013

Insect Lore

Insect Lore’s new Bug Hedz are lightweight, high-quality face masks sporting larger-than-life bug features. The masks feature a soft, built-in swim goggle-style interior for comfort. The interior holds the mask away from kids’ faces, allowing plenty of air to circulate. The Velcro strap provides an adjustable fit for all sizes. They are available in three styles: Green Beetle, Red Ant, and Yellow Hornet (pictured).

FoLkmanIs

Folkmanis’ Alpaca puppet features an ultra-soft micro fiber plush body that feels like the fleece coat of an actual Alpaca. Sculpted fabric enhances the ethereal look of Folkmanis’ Sky Dragon puppet with a movable mouth, forelegs, and velvet wings. The Goose puppet features big blue eyes, a movable beak, and a twohanded wing design. The white body has feathery wings, long legs, and webbed feet. With the Monkey in Barrel puppet, pull the monkey down into the soft microfiber barrel and the barrel lid closes. Pop the monkey back out for a playful surprise. The Baby Sea Otter puppet is a flexible and easy-to-animate puppet. Make the otter groom its soft fur and whiskers for added fun. Feathery tan and grey plush mimic the soft feathers of the Screech Owl. With the hidden rod on the puppet, turn its head to fix its watchful eyes. Sky Dragon

Diggin Active

Diggin Activeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tough Sports line feaures soft foam balls designed to look tough and hard, such as the Destroyer Football that is armor-plated or the Rock Playground Ball that looks like a steel-strapped boulder. Also in the line is the Striker Iron Clad Soccer Ball. They are for ages 5 and up. The JumpSmart Jr. Electronic Trampoline is an indoor mini trampoline that features a five-in-one multi-game sound system. The five games included are bounce counting, silly sounds, musical statues, bounce along, and memory match. It features a sewn padded cover using a new Stretch Tech system for added safety. It is easy to assemble with no threading required. The webbing is reinforced and stitched to the bounce mat. The mat will be centrally aligned and bounce weight is equally distributed. Three AA batteries are required but not included. It for ages 1 and up and holds a maximum weight of 44 pounds.

JumpSmart Jr. Electronic Trampoline

FEBRUARY 2013 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT 99

Toy Fair 2013 aeromax

The Aeromax My 1st Career Gear line, for ages 3–5, will add four new products to the line starting next month, including My 1st Career Gear Zookeeper, which features a parrot peeking out of the top pocket and arm patches and pocket squares illustrating various roles of a zookeeper. A matching green safari hat to complete the look is sold separately. The My 1st Career Gear Builder (pictured) features a bright yellow top with orange stripes and details such as a tool belt, pencil, and name badge. A matching yellow construction helmet is sold separately. Also new to the line are My 1st Career Gear Pit Crew and Conductor costumes. Each detailed My 1st Career Gear shirt slips on easily and fastens at the front with a simple hook and loop closure. One size fits most.

pBS KidS

The haywire Group

The Haywire Group is turning its focus to the novelty and gift category with a new line of quirky games. For moustache and bacon lovers ages 6 and up, the Bucket of Moustaches and Bucket of Bacon games puts a twist on the classic barrel of monkeys game. Players take turns trying to make a chain of moustaches or bacon, and when the chain drops, their turn ends. Games come with 12 plastic moustaches or strips of bacon. Ha! Ha! Moustache and Everybody Loves Bacon! playing cards, for ages 6 and up, make up themed decks of 54 plasticcoated cards. The Everybody Loves Bacon! Deck features bacon-shaped cards.

Licensee Be Amazing Toys is expanding the PBS Kids science toy line with new products. The Growing Gators Science Kit lets kids utilize the superabsorbent polymer Water Jelly Crystals to make four gators grow up to 10 inches and then shrink back to their original size. The kit introduces children ages 4 and up to chemistry and contains 20 easy-to-follow experiments that use the scientific method. The Snow Explosions kit transforms the non-toxic chemical sodium polyacrylate into safe InstaSnow powder. Utilizing the chemical properties in Insta-Snow, this kit contains 20 easy-to-follow activities for ages 4 and up to conduct science experiments. It includes 40 grams of Insta-Snow, five grams of Fake Ice, a petri dish, plastic scoop, a baby soda bottle cap, cups, a pipette, instructions, and Young Scientist cards for added learning. Following the instructions with the help of a parent, kids can make snow, fake snowballs, colorful snow mountains, winter decorations, and more. The Test Tube Adventures kit transforms simple soda bottles into baby soda bottles. Using the baby soda bottles, the kit features 20 activities that use the scientific method to explore color, the environment, the science of soda bottles, and more. The kit, for ages 4 and up, comes complete with baby soda bottles, a baby soda bottle rack, styrofoam beads, fizzers, and Young Scientist cards. Kits include detailed explanations into the science behind each experiment, ideas for extending the experiment, and a “wow” factor surprise for kids to keep them engaged, guessing, and learning. Activities can be modified to meet each child’s abilities and backgrounds. The Young Scientist cards use simple words and illustrations to ensure a complete understanding of the experiment. 100 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY 2013

Hog Wild toyS

Hog Wild Toys will introduce Click Shots, a line of collectible vehicles that combine collectible coins with battle game play. The vehicles use patented clip-shot firing technology so kids can easily aim, click, and send their vehicles flying. To play, kids select their vehicle—the Cruncher. Players then put four collectible coins face down in front of them and take turns aiming and launching their Crunchers. When the Cruncher nears their opponent’s coins, the magnetic attraction captures the coin. If either player hits their opponent’s blowout coin the game is over and the player with the most coins wins.

Cuddle Barn

Click Shots Crunchers and coins

Talking and Poking Tom and Ben plush, for ages 3 and up, are the newest additions to Cuddle Barn’s app-inspired Talking Friends collection of plush characters. Updated with an all-new actionreaction component, Talking and Poking Tom and Ben combine talkback and “poke me” features. Tom and Ben repeat back messages spoken to them and react to the touch of a hand. Touch Tom’s tummy, forehead, feet, or tail or poke Ben’s forehead, jaw, tummy, or feet to hear each character howl or cry in Talking and their signature voice. Batteries are included. They will Poking Tom be available this fall. Now available for Valentine’s Day is Bikini Barb, a bikini-wearing plush gorilla that sings and dances to its own rendition of LMFAO’s “I’m Sexy and I Know It,” and Romeo, the plush critter who sings and dances to the classic song “Love Machine.” Romeo wears a black tuxedo and red tie and carries plush roses and chocolates. Batteries are included. Also available is the Mother Goose storytelling plush for ages 3 and up. Mother Goose reads five classic nursery rhymes: Jack & Jill, Hickory Dickory Dock, Little Bo Peep, Humpty Dumpty, and Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star. Mother Goose wears a blue hat and scarf with tiny glasses and holds a book of rhymes. Batteries are included.

Silverlit

Silverlit’s digital Monster RokLienz characters, featured on the Monster RokLienz app for iPad, let kids stage their own concerts, select costumes for their monsters, and pick a venue to perform, while also rocking out to a unique blend of music that kids can customize. The characters will be available as three-inch collectible electronic, music-making figures. When the figures come in contact with their digital counterparts, they will interact with a virtual band to play on the iPad in 4D Rock Mode. RokLienz collectibles work with or without an iDevice, but the combination of the figure on the iDevice unlocks new songs, new sets, new costumes, new band members, and new game power ups. The figures are also light-controlled and trigger the sensors with the ambient light in any room or by using the light from the iDevice. Eight RokLienz characters will launch this fall for ages 5 and up. Silverlit will also introduce the Mercedes Benz SLS AMG this fall. The vehicle brings the classic connection between driving and listening to music to toy form with an R/C radio. Using their own iTunes Library, kids 8 and up can play their favorite songs with two approaches in one car. Play music from an iDevice while you drive the vehicle or stream music through high quality speakers in the car as a display item. Unique Gull-wing doors open remotely from a smart device allowing the music to stream through internal speakers. Lights flash with the beat of the music for custom light shows or using pre-configured patterns. Full gesture control lets users have full control of the car with a simple tilt of the controller. It also features hobby-grade steering, variable speeds for real-feel racing, and Mercedes sound effects. Also available only on iPhone, force feedback delivers a rumble of the engine that increases as the car goes faster. The app is free Mercedes Benz for download with purchase. SLS AMG FEBRUARY 2013 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT 101

Toy Fair 2013 Bandai

Bandai will launch a line of Pac-Man toys this fall in support of Pac-Man and the Ghostly Adventures, premiering September 7 on Disney XD. Pac Panic Battle Spinner Action Figures will feature removable bases that transform figures into battling, spinning tops. They will be available as single packs or Good vs. Evil two-packs. The Pac Panic Battle Arena, sold separately, will include an exclusive Pac Panic Battle Spinner Action Figure. The Pac-Man and the Ghostly Adventures Talk’n Chomp’n Pac, a 12-inch feature plush, brings PacMan to life with signature phrases, sounds, and mouth-chomping action. All products currently in the line are for ages 4 and up. Bandai America and Saban Brands are celebrating the 20th anniversary of Power Rangers this year with the all-new Power Rangers Megaforce TV series and inspired toy line. Kids can harness the power of the Gosei, the ultimate symbol of good, and unlock the secrets of the cards with the Power Rangers Deluxe Gosei Morpher. Access superhuman strength, hi-tech weapons, and massive Zord vehicles by inserting special power cards into the Morpher. The Morpher features flashing lights and includes 10 cards that unlock 10 phrases and sounds. Collect additional cards to unlock more phrases or download the Power Rangers Card Scanner App on your smartphone for a deeper experience. With the 2013 Power Rangers Zord Builder collection, which includes Megazords, Zord Vehicles, and Zord Cycles, kids can build the same Zords and Megazords Deluxe Gosei from the series or an infinite number of their own Zord creMorpher ations using the system’s universal connection point. The Ben 10 Omni-Net Omnitrix features technology that enables it to interactively play with the latest media formats, including iPad, iPhone, Bandai’s Ben 10 website, or the included 40-minute DVD. Kids can use the Omnitrix to wirelessly control special features in the Ben 10 App or video game. It also reacts to the output of these media devices and comes to life to play 12 different alien voices or 20 sound effects as it vibrates and lights up. Emulate Ben 10 with the all-new Omnitrix Shuffle, which when shaken says 10 random alien voices. Attach the included alien mini figure to hear only that aliens’ voice when activated. To control the other nine voices, collect select basic figures containing a compatible mini figure. 102 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY 2013

Tiny love

Tiny Love’s Magical Night projection mobile is a crib mobile, projector, music box, and toddler nightlight all in one. It features a contemporary design in earth tones. For ages birth–5 months, the Magical Night mobile is a musical crib mobile that plays nine tunes in three musical categories for up to 30 continuous minutes. A rotating canopy features dangling animals. It also projects friendly animal images on the canopy. When baby learns to sit up, parents can remove the canopy and baby can still enjoy his favorite music while the music box projects the animal images on the ceiling. In the third stage, parents can remove the music box from the crib. The canopy can be reattached and the unit becomes a tabletop nightlight that projects stars on the ceiling.

Schylling

Schylling’s newest ride-on Bouncy Buggy helps little ones ages 18–36 months develop balance and coordination while enjoying bouncing fun. Bouncy Buggy adjusts by inflating and deflating air capacity to accommodate changes in weight. It’s made of strong, latex-free vinyl and is easily cleaned with soap and water. Use of a hand or foot pump (not included) is recommended for filling. It is available in three colors (red, blue, and pink) and averages 12 inches tall by 19 inches long when inflated.

Patch Products

Patch Products’ new Planet Sock Monkey plush doll line, for ages 8 and up, features six playful sock monkey characters—Ima Bananerd (nerd), Eaton Dedd (zombie), Long Sock Silver (pirate), Magenta Beetsch (punk girl), M.O.N.K. (hip hop musician), and Star Harmonkey (pop singer). Each 10-inch knit sock monkey is clothed in its signature style, features a unique accessory, and includes a collector’s pin. This series is available for a limited time. Patch Products created a new line of preschool toys called Mirari (the Latin word for wonder). The Mirari myPad is a 9.5-inch durable play tablet that features 20 colorful light-up images and 40 sounds and phrases activated by the arrow buttons. Pushing each button will activate two different sounds such as the sound of a train or the phrase, “Balls are round!” It is for ages 12 months and up. Busy Buddy is a 9.5inch toy featuring six removable shape-sorting and color-matching gears. Once all of the gears have been correctly placed, they will move around with the turn of the knob, encouraging hands-on exploration and discovery. Busy Buddy’s eyes also blink and its ears wiggle when the gears move. Additional toys in the Mirari line include the Roll & Return Ball, Wee Keys, Pop! Pop! Piano, Zig-Zag Xylo, and Drum-Dee-Dum. New games from Patch include Shizzle, Go Oink!, Chain Letters, Banana-pult, Dirty Jobs, and Flash & Furious. In the dice game Shizzle, toss a one-of-a-kind, multi-colored dice into the innovative Twist & Tumble Dice Cup, twist, and watch the dice tumble out. Each die has six different colors of pips and a face with each of the six ranks. The goal is to create a line of color or number matches to either gain points or make your opponents lose points. It is for ages 8 and up.

Pinypon Ski Lodge

Famosa

Famosa’s Pinypon Fairies assortment come apart to swap outfits, accessories, hairstyles, and wings to create a customized Pinypon Fairy. Each Pinypon Fairy comes with a magical unicorn friend. They will be available this spring. The Pinypon Snow Collection includes a Ski Chalet, a Car & Tow with Pinypon Friends & Pets in winter gear, and the Ski Lodge. The collection lets girls take Pinypon Friends on a ski adventure where they can ice skate, ski, ride a snow mobile, build a snowman, and warm up in the Ski Lodge. The collection also includes Fun in the Snow figures assortment and figures and pet gift set. The collection will launch this fall. Pinypon is for ages 3 and up. New in the Nenuco baby doll line for this fall are Happy Hiccups, Rock to Sleep, and Snow Baby. Happy Hiccups has hiccups that won’t go away. To make the hiccups go away, shout “Boo” or blow on Happy Hiccups to make the doll laugh. It is for ages 4 and up. Girls ages 3 and up can help Rock to Sleep go to bed by rocking the doll. A lullaby plays as the doll coos and its eyes blink closed. Rock to Sleep will then wake up and giggle and coo. Snow Baby, for ages 4 and up, includes a warm fuzzy pink hat and matching sunglasses for girls and their doll. It also comes with a handbag, cell phone, thermos, and girl-sized earmuffs. Put the “magic” glasses on Snow Baby, and watch as the doll’s skin changes colors to a tan. These dolls are all 16.5 inches tall. The Nancy Goes for a Stroll with Baby Sister Set features a 17-inch Nancy doll and baby sister doll. The set includes a stroller, with a secret storage compartment, that converts to a baby carrier. It also includes Nancy’s pet rabbit Princess, a backpack, hairbrush, mirror, and changing accessories. Little girls can help Nancy feed her baby sister with the feeding accessories or give Princess the rabbit some food. The Nancy Pink Sports Assortment includes Ballerina, Skier, and Equestrian dolls. Ballerina Nancy comes with a detailed pink leotard, dance skirt, tights, leg warmers, ballet slippers, and headband. With the Nancy World Travelers assortment, girls can pretend to shop with Nancy in London, walk the runway in New York, and enjoy a pastry in Paris. The doll comes with a secret diary with a key where Nancy can write about her trips.

FEBRUARY 2013 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT 103

Toy Fair 2013 The Bridge direcT

The Bridge Direct’s line of Flying Heroes, for ages 4 and up, features iconic superhero characters, including Batman, Superman, Spider-Man, Wolverine, Thor, Hulk, and Captain America. With a quick pull from the launcher, superheroes launch into the air and take flight. The line will be available this fall. With Looney Tunes Show Tornado Taz talking plush, kids ages 3 and up can activate Taz’s funny sayings and actions by squeezing the trigger points on Taz’s hand, foot, nose, and tongue. When both the foot and hand are squeezed together, Taz shakes and spins just like in the cartoons. The Bridge Direct is launching a new fashion doll line called Pinkie Cooper and the Jet Set Pets for ages 4 and up. Based on a concept from Carter Bryant, designer of the original Bratz, Pinkie Cooper takes girls on a globe-trotting adventure as she and her fashionable pals vacation and shop all over the world. The 2013 collection features dolls, pet figures, and fashion accessories. With Power Rangers Megaforce Battle Buddies, kids 3 and up can recreate their favorite Power Rangers battles. Each buddy features more than 10 battle sounds and Megaforce phrases. A collection of Smurf Shoulder Buddies wearable figures, for ages 4 and up, will feature favorite characters from the upcoming The Smurfs 2 film, hitting the screen this July. Each Smurfs Shoulder Buddies comes with a Smurftastic Collector’s Card as well as a Magical Coin to help it stay securely in place on shoulders, hats, backpacks, and more. The collection includes three characters: Classic Smurf, Smurfette, and Papa Smurf. For the second installment of The Hobbit, new moviebased figures and roleplay toys will be added to the current toy line. Figures will feaThe Hobbit figure assortment ture 12 points of articulation and replicate the facial features, clothing, weapons, and accessories of the film’s characters. New additions in the 3.75-inch series include Radagast, Bofur, Nori, Ori, Dori, Gloin, Oin, Bifur, Bombur, Azog, and Yazneg. In the six-inch scale, new figures include Azog, Bolg, and Radagast. An updated Sting Sword will also give young fans, ages 4 and up, a new way to recreate the film’s battle scenes. 104 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY 2013

Curvy Click Clack

PlanToys

PlanToys’ Curvy Click Clack will appeal to kids 3 and up as they watch the glass marbles ride the curves and wind down the tracks with a “click-clack” noise. The tracks feature speed bumps to keep the marbles on track, with grooves at the base to provide a place to hold them. Marbles are made in the U.S. of recycled lead-free glass. Children 2 and up can learn basic hand signs and improve their mathematic skills with the Hand Sign Number kit. Each block card has two sides featuring hand signs, grooved based numbers to encourage dragging and writing, and basic Braille numbers with dimple details. With bright colors and easy gripping, the block cards also help children with color blindness and partial blindness. Marble Run Deluxe, for ages 3 and up, is a colored 30-piece set featuring glass marbles that spiral and hop down the track made from PlanWood. Marbles are made in the U.S. of recycled lead-free glass. The Rocking Alligator, for ages 2 and up, features a stable rocker base with foot rests and handle bars.

Crayola

Crayola’s new Washable Sidewalk Chalk is the first sidewalk chalk featuring 48 classic Crayola crayon colors, including Carnation Pink, Sepia, Granny Smith Apple, and Scarlet. A new anti-roll shape prevents chalk from rolling away and the wide sides allow kids to draw thick lines. It’s now available in 12-, 16-, and 48-count varieties. It is for ages 4 and up. Crayola Outdoor Colored Bubbles Big Wand creates giant bubbles in bright colors such as purple pizzazz and fuchsia. The angled wand design maximizes the use of the bubble solution. The colored solution will leave temporary marks on skin, clothing, and outdoor surfaces. Color rubs off skin, can be laundered from clothing, and will spray away from most outdoor surfaces such as driveways and sidewalks. It’s available in a single 6.5-ounce bottle with wand or a two-pack, which includes two different colored 6.5-ounce bottles with wand. It is now available for ages 5 and up.

aurora

Aurora’s YooHoo & Friends plush line, which is based on animals (including rare and endangered animals), is expanding with more than 25 new styles. Each YooHoo & Friends makes a secret sound when squeezed and all new hangtags describe each YooHoo character in detail. Aurora’s all-new Gumdrops line features 12 characters named after sweet treats including Peanut Butter Bon Bon, Snickerdoodle, Lolly Pop, Fortune Cookie, Mud Pie, Apple Strudel, Whipped Cream, Popsicle, Caramel, Ginger Snap, Rainbow Jelly Drop, and Roly Poly Pudding. Each five-inch colorful character includes a custom hangtag and features signature glasses, big eyes and soft, shiny materials. The squeezably soft Sherbet Bunny collection is available in four colorful styles including Berry Orange, Cotton Candy, Lime Delight, and Berry Raspberry. They are 14 inches tall and bean filled. Aurora’s Miyoni line (pictured), which features the world’s most popular jungle and domestic animals, has all-new, realistic white and brown bunnies available in two sizes, eight- and 10-inches tall.

alex Toys

Alex Toy’s Très Chic line focuses on the trend of French fashion. With the Très Chic Charm Jewelry kit, girls 8 and up can make their own haute couture earrings, charm bracelets, and more, using pendant frames, metal charms, stickers, a chain necklace, tassels, ribbon, sticky gems, jewelry findings, and easy-to-follow instructions. Girls 6 and up can create outfits with the Très Chic Designer Look Book. It includes a 49-page hardcover scrapbook, scissors, sticky gems, stickers, stencils, glue stick, glitter glue, paper, frames and shapes, ribbons, and instructions. Additional items in the line include the Très Chic Create a Style Board, Très Chic Glitter & Glam Tattoos, and Très Chic Lacelets. Girls ages 6 and up can also indulge their inner divas with Alex’s Beauty & Spa Collections. With the Mix & Makeup Bubble Bath Gel, choose from six fizzy tints or add glitter to make your own colors of bubble bath gel. It comes with five cupcake-shaped bottles to store your gel creations and 60 stickers to decorate the bottles. Other new products in the line include Mix & Makeup Nail Sparkle, Super Mani Pedi Party, and Sparkle Tattoo Parlor Peace & Love and Cool Glam. New additions to the Dylan’s Candy Bar-branded line include Sweet Glitter Nails and Color & Sparkle Tattoos. With the Sweet Glitter Nails set, paint your nails, then add glitter and sweet stickers. Stick on the appliques and file to your nail shape. No drying time is required. Color & Sparkle Tattoos include more than 130 designs featuring cupcakes, candy, and lollipops. FEBRUARY 2013 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT 105

Toy Fair 2013 Cra-Z-arT

With Cra-Z-Art’s newest line of the Lite Brix Super Light Building System, set to hit retail this summer, girls 6 and up can use the light-up brick building sets to illuminate mini mansions, candy shops, salons, a fashion runway, ice cream shop sets, and more. Each set includes accessories and mini figures as well as LED light-up bricks that cycle through four colors, translucent pieces, and a battery pack. Connector pieces attach the Lite Brix to each other so the models can be built on different angles. Lite Brix are compatible with other major brick building systems. Three AA or AAA batteries are required but not included.

Tara Toy

Tara Toy is expanding its arts and crafts kits with Disney Junior’s Doc McStuffins and Sofia the First. With the Doc McStuffins Big Book of Boo-Boos Activity Set, kids can find and diagnose what is wrong with their own toys. The set includes a 30-page sparkly Book of Boo-Boos just like Doc’s, two self-inking stamps, three sheets of colorful stickers, and five markers. And with the Stick-On Styles Doctor Bag Activity, kids can design their own doctor bag with colorful stick-on fabric embellishments and characters. All stickers are made with sparkly details or fabric. The set includes a fabric doctor bag and more than 20 stickers. In the Sofia the First line, girls can use the included markers to design a tiara and necklace just like Sophia’s with the Color It! Tiara and Necklace kit. Or use the Color ’n Style Backpack Activity kit to color and design a Sofia the First backpack with markers and sparkly gem stickers.

106 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY 2013

SmarT ToyS

GameS

Smart Toys and Games, Inc., has launched its first cognitive-building game with Bunny PeekaBoo. Sturdy wooden blocks and rabbit characters help children develop spatial perception skills with this 3-D puzzle. The game also features 60 challenges to help prepare kids 2–5 for more complex singleplayer logic games. In the single-player logic game Vikings, players ages 6 and up rotate a variety of puzzle pieces built into the board to navigate ships out of the storm. It includes a game board, four Viking ships, nine rotating puzzle pieces, and a booklet with 48 challenges. The newest edition of the SmartGames IQ series is IQ Link. Players ages 8 and up work to fit 36 colorful, fun-shaped puzzle pieces into the 24 free spaces on the game board. This travel-sized game includes 120 challenges. The new Back 2 Back single-player logic game features a unique grid-shaped vertical puzzle game board. Players ages 7 and up attempt to fill both sides of the grid with 11 colorful, varied puzzle pieces. The game features a travel case and a booklet with 60 challenges. Tangoes Brainiac Edition is a more challenging version of Smart Toys and Games’ Tangoes. It includes two sets of playing pieces in green and red providing dozens of new puzzles and solutions. Players ages 7 and up can challenge friends or play alone to test their visual perception skills as they match the puzzle pieces to images on the cards. Also newly designed for 2013 is Tangoes Jr., designed specifically for preschoolers. It includes seven large magnetic pieces, 12 double-sided puzzle cards offering two levels of play, and a large playing surface to help young children build visual perception, problem solving, and teamwork skills. It comes with a booklet with 100 extra puzzles to challenge children who master the puzzle cards.

and

duneCraft

With DuneCraft’s new Notchsters 3-D puzzles, pop out the pieces and connect them with the included notches to build Rockin Dinos, Pretty Princesses, Sea Friends, Playful Pets, Mystical Magical Monsters, and Awesome Aliens. New Flower Fountains let kids grow more than 20 different kinds of wildflowers. The twopacks contain more than 3,000 seeds that sprout in a week. The LED Light Cubes, which include 15 micro LEDs, feature red lights to promote flowering and blue lights to foster foliage. Both lights work together for overall growth. The light cubes plug into any USB port. New styles include the Tropical Jungle and Carnivorous Creations.

Cloud

Cloud B’s Twilight Turtle Tunes is now available with a sound option using Bluetooth technology. Using a new free Twilight Turtle Tunes app provided by Cloud B, parents can choose from a preset library of melodies and sounds that can be mixed and matched to create Twilight Carz customized mixes to play through Twilight Pink Hearts Turtle Tunes’ speaker box. A premium app will offer the basics plus the option to access personal music libraries to create mixes. Via Bluetooth, the melody and twilight effect can be programmed for up to 24 hours. For those without access to Bluetooth, Twilight Turtle Tunes comes with one default melody that can be set for 45 minutes. Like the original, the new Twilight Turtle Tunes glows in blue, amber, and green and projects the constellations. In the Bluetooth version, the colors change every five seconds. It will be available this spring. The new Tranquil Crab glows in a sunset orange color as it plays a Hawaiian-themed jingle. It features a 23-minute sleep timer with auto shut-off. Three AAA batteries are required and included. With Twilight Carz, kids can play with the cars, which feature fully functioning wheels, during the day, then be lulled to sleep by the cars’ light projections at night. Projections are set to a 45-minute timer and ensure complete darkness during the child’s sleep. Models include Red Lightning (now available), which projects lightning bolts with illuminating headlights and taillights, and Pink Hearts (available this spring), which projects hearts and stars in blue and red LED colors. Three AAA batteries are included. Other new Cloud B characters include Tranquil Starfish, Firefly Frog, Glow Cuddles, and Disney Baby Dreamy Stars in Minnie Mouse and Dumbo versions.

Corolle

Corolle’s Babipouce Pink Happiness features a pillow-soft body and face delicately scented with vanilla for sensory appeal to captivate newborns. Babicorolle dolls are machine washable. The perfect first baby doll for ages 18 months and up, the 12-inch Bébé Calin Pink Star is dressed in soft pants, a patterned shirt, and sweater. It features a soft beanbag body. The 14-inch Coquette Blonde for ages 3 and up (pictured) features a printed dress, matching sweater, and pink Mary Janes. Coquette’s long blonde hair can be styled and shampooed for hair play. New to Les Chéries dolls line, Chloé au Palais Royal is dressed for a Parisian party, complete with a gold velvet dress, faux fur jacket, and leopard print flats and purse. Chloé is 13 inches tall and for ages 4 and up.

FEBRUARY 2013 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT 107

Toy Fair 2013 national sporting goods

National Sporting Goods’ YBike Evolve four-in-one trike transforms from a classic pedal trike to a three-wheel balance bike to a two-wheel balance bike to a two-wheel pedal bike. It is designed for ages 2–5 to develop balance and coordination. To change from one form to another, add or remove wheels and pedals and change a rear axle. The new YBike GLX three-wheeled scooter, GLX Pro for ages 3 and up, features neon colors, new wheels, new grips, and a new black anodized handlebar. Like the original GLX, the YBike GLX Pro offers the stability of three wheels but with added features such as an adjustable handle bar, new fiber reinforced riding deck, and dual core urethane wheels designed for ages 6–10. The new YBike Explorer, a three-wheeled pedal-powered go-kart, has been updated for 2013 along with a new black and green version added to the assortment. It is for ages 5 and up.

Kid ConstruCtions

Wearables by Kid Constructions has a new collection of the creative constructible toys with all-new accessories that bring the vehicles to life with sights and sounds. Featuring multiple die-cut corrugated pieces, Wearables offer construction play that transforms into roleplay as children create, construct, and wear their creations. Kids can become a firefighter when they step into their one-of-kind fire truck, featuring flashing lights, real-life sirens, and a sliding ladder. Sirens and lights are sold separately. Or kids can customize their own racecar, whimsical dragon featuring a three-foot wingspan, or a set of butterfly wings (available in a single or double pack). Wearables are for ages 5 and up and made in the U.S. of ecofriendly, biodegradable materials.

108 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY 2013

Dino Express

Wild republiC

Starting with four styles (the Shark Express, Big Cat Express, Dino Express, and Elephant Express), Wild Republic’s battery-operated animal trains are packaged as sets of three animals that chug around a snap-together train track. One larger-sized animal acts as the chief engine and pulls along two other smaller-sized replicas or species. Each set can be mixed and matched and added for an expanded animal-themed transportation play system. Wild Republic will unveil an expansion to its Audubon Bird line, licensed through the National Audubon Society, with new plush clasp purses. The purses will not feature the authentic birdcalls (provided by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology) of the original plush. The purses are also an extension to Wild Republic’s existing dogs, cats, dinosaurs, and other animal clasp purses. Last year, Wild Republic introduced all-new materials and fabrics to its Cuddlekins plush line. This year, it will add new species to the line along with new Cuddlekins Minis. New Cuddlekins species include a wolverine, wild boar, white alligator, binturong, lynx, cobra, iguana, three-toed sloth, orangutan, jellyfish, and more. The Sweet & Sassy line will introduce new patterned plush, adding hearts, peace signs, and poke-a-dot patterns to colorful frogs, chimps, dolphins, seals, owls, birds, and more. Wild Republic’s Nature Tubes themed miniature play figurines have also undergone a new design, featuring updated graphics and unique color palettes to better differentiate between the assortments of play pieces inside. The back of each tube’s packaging becomes a play mat for use with the figures. The packaging is reusable as a storage piece and a carrying case.

oregon ScientiFic

Oregon Scientific will introduce an upgraded version of the seven-inch Wi-Fi-enabled MEEP! Tablet, featuring an updated design, new features, upgraded hardware, new dedicated content, more robust community and educational elements, and more. New MEEP! accessories will also launch later this year. New to the Smart Globe line, the Smart Globe Horizon will feature cross-platform capabilities between the Globe and tablets.

Fremont Die

Fremont Die’s NFL Game Day offers board game play that teaches the rules of NFL football. The metallic game board resembles a realistic NFL field including hash marks, scoreboard, and fans in the stands. Players can customize the end zones to feature their favorite teams with magnetized logos from all 32 NFL teams. Game play is determined through the exchange of cards reflecting offense, defense, and special teams plays.

the Jim henSon company

TOMY International, Pajanimals’ global master toy licensee, will expand its product line in 2013 to include Snuggle Buddies; a Bedtime Routine Board, which helps little ones transition from play time to bedtime; and the Apollo Goodnight Projector, which features a spinning starry night light show and lullaby theme from the show. NCircle Entertainment, which holds home entertainment rights in the U.S. and Canada, is releasing new DVD titles including Pajanimals Playdate, which launched last month. Additional Pajanimals licensees with new product include Briarpatch (games/puzzles), Running Press (publishing), California Costumes (infant/toddler Halloween costumes), and more. Internationally, the series currently airs in Australia (ABC2’s Goodnight Block) and New Zealand (TV2 Network). The first DVD launched in October followed by the introduction of small and large plush assortment and a story mat (TOMY). Henson has licensed all episodes of the series to Disney for France, Italy, Benelux, Central and Eastern Europe, Israel, Turkey, the Middle East, Africa, and Latin America. TOMY will expand its distribution into these markets following the series’ launch in those territories. Acting as Dinosaur Train’s master toy licensee, TOMY will also expand the InterAction Figure line, which uses Smart Talk Technology to bring the show’s characters to life. InterAction Keenan will feature more than 40 dinosaur sounds and phrases that react and respond to other InterAction dinos and the new Extreme InterAction Sonny. Sonny features spinning neck action and says more than 50 dino sounds and phrases. Also new are collectible hatching eggs. Wind up the egg and the dinosaurs walk out. They are available as Buddy, Shiny, Tiny, and Spikey. Internationally, Dinosaur Train is expanding with new broadcast partners and licensing launches in key territories. Nickelodeon & Viacom Consumer Products signed on as the property’s UK merchandising agent. This spring TOMY will introduce its line of toys in the UK, and UK publishing partner Puffin will release a new line of books. Other recently appointed Dinosaur Train licensees include Shok ID (soft toys for France), Babel (publishing for Portugal), and iPlay (musical CDs for Portugal). Henson has also appointed licensing agent Megalicense for Russia and all of CIS, and C-Trade, Ltd., as the toy licensee for those regions. Licensing agency Lizenzwerft was also signed for Germany. Henson is celebrating Fraggle Rock’s 30th anniversary this year. Thirty brands, designers, and products will join the Dance Your Cares Away Fraggle Fun by offering unique products to commemorate the year, including Fraggle Rock String Dolls (Kamibashi), a Facebook game (Farmarama), a Fraggle Rock music app (Genera), and high-end Fraggle Rock collector OPUS book (Insight Editions). FEBRUARY 2013 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT 109

Toy Fair 2013 LittLe Kids

Little Kids will introduce Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (TMNT)themed bubble and water toys. The TMNT Bubble Solution with wand includes eight ounces of bubbles and features Leonardo, Raphael, Michelangelo, and Donatello. Blow tons of bubbles with the Giant Bubble Wand, which features Leonardo emerging from the sewer pipe. It includes six ounces of bubbles. The Bubble Launcher blasts bubbles into the air when kids pull the string located on Michelangelo’s back to launch the bubble wand from his pizza. It includes four ounces of bubbles. No batteries are required. TMNT water toys include the soft and squeezable water squirters, available in all characters, and the TMNT Shell Water Blaster, which allows kids to transform into their favorite turtle with a backpack design that easily slides on and adjusts. Pull back on the handle and pump to spray a steady stream of water more than 15 feet. Shells hold 33 ounces of water. TMNT toys are for ages 3 and up. Little Kids’ new bubble brand Fubbles will feature products such as the Fubbles No Spill Bubble Guitar. The guitar features three kid-friendly music buttons that play three different rhythms. The bubble feature can be turned on or off for play with or without bubbles. The sound can also be turned off. It includes four ounces of bubbles and requires four AA batteries. It’s for ages 3 and up.

haba

Haba’s newest line of educational-themed toys includes four peg games among a colorful catalog of activity games to encourage little fingers and curious minds to learn simple lessons through play. My First Play World City: Fire Brigade (pictured), for ages 18 months, is a 14-piece set featuring a fold-out fire station with handle. Chunky fire-themed play pieces are made of beechwood. Haba will also bring back the Götz doll line made of crafted vinyl play dolls and artist dolls. For spring, Haba will introduce the 13-inch Muffin doll and its counterparts eight-inch Mini Muffin and 16.5-inch Maxi Muffin. A second line of dolls, 13inch Aquinis, will feature a unique waterproof vinyl design. The dolls can also drink and use the potty. Cosy Aquinis are a softer version that can be cuddled and bathed. The line will also include the 18-inch standing, poseable Precious Day dolls.

110 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY 2013

Vtech

VTech’s new InnoTab 2S Wi-Fi Learning App Tablet, for ages 3–9, features a tilt sensor, photo viewer, video and MP3 player, e-reader, art studio, microphone, and more. It offers a secure wireless connection to VTech’s Learning Lodge Navigator where kids can browse and download hundreds of games, ebooks, music, videos, and apps. Children can pick their favorite content and send their wish list to mom or dad’s email. Parents can also track their child’s progress on a variety of educational milestones and lessons. Cartridges with licensed characters (sold separately) teach essential skills in reading, logic, and creativity. Switch & Go Dinos, for ages 3–8, transform from a dinosaur to a vehicle and back. In dinosaur mode, sound effect buttons emit realistic dinosaur sounds and phrases that provide facts about each dino. New dinos include Jagger the T-Rex, Blister the Velociraptor, and more. For ages 6–36 months, Cody the Smart Cub (pictured) and Cora the Smart Cub introduce everyday routines and phrases, such as morning greetings and bedtime music. Use VTech’s Learning Lodge Navigator to personalize the smart cub with baby’s name, favorite stories, and more or to download 130 melodies, 20 stories, and additional activities.

Hape

New additions will be added to the Hape collection for ages birth and up, including Hape signature bamboo toys, Quadrilla wooden marble runs, and Beleduc. Scoot-Around is a new foot-powered four-wheeler that keeps tiny feet in motion. Four new brightly colored Push Pull Toys, made with FSC-certified wood, will be added to the current collection, including Elephant, Zebra, Crocodile, and Giraffe. A new range of Qubes grab-and-go gifts, for ages 1 and up, will be packaged with a signature Hape corded handle. Options include dinosaur, jungle, farm, and under the sea figures as well as city planner blocks, numbers and colors, and lacing vehicles. There are five new Early Explorer toys, including a zoo-themed Watch Me Grow Chart, chunky Little Sailboat, Little Ship, and two new building sets. The colored wooden pieces are available in the 42-piece Basic Builder Set and the 62-piece Master Builder Set. Both include an ideas book. Sushi Selection

Four additions to Hape’s play food range include a set of crêpes, realistic sushi selection, homemade pizza with “toasted” felt pizza edges and a wood-handled pan, and a tea set for two. There are eight new Quadrilla marble run sets. Birch and rubber wood pieces fit together to create high-speed raceways for kids 4 and up.

Disney interactive

Disney Interactive’s new Disney Infinity video game will allow players to experience a combination of structured and open-world play starring characters from Walt Disney and Pixar Animation Studios. Players will place real-world interactive figures—characters, power discs, and landmark pieces—on a device called the Infinity Base to activate original story-driven adventures in the game worlds of Monsters University, Pirates of the Caribbean, and The Incredibles. As players advance through each adventure, they will collect characters, vehicles, upgrades, gadgets, and more. They can then choose to save them in their virtual Toy Box and use them to create one-ofa-kind Disney adventures featuring any combination of characters, environments, and items across franchises.

Uncle Milton

Uncle Milton’s In My Room offers new in-room experiences including Wild Walls, Wall Friends, and Light Show DJ. The Fireworks Light Show offers new lights, sounds, and firework-like experiences to light up the walls of any room. Uncle Milton will launch the new Marvel Science toy line, which brings the science of superheroes to life with scienceWild Wall Sharks based activities. New products will be added to existing lines including Star Wars Science, Nat Geo WILD, National Geographic, and John Deere. Uncle Milton’s Ant Farm will also add a full line of live habitat products. FEBRUARY 2013 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT 111

Toy Fair 2013 GoliaTh GameS

Don’t Panic, a popular party game in Australia, England, and France, will hit shelves in America in 2013. How fast can you name five things in an airport? How about eight rock stars? Flick the spinner to see how many items you have to name before the clock runs out. Pick your team wisely because you never know what category will come up next. Gooey Louie is the newest addition to Goliath’s skilland-action game line. Put your finger up Louie’s nose and try to pick a winner. If you pick the wrong gooey, Louie’s eyes will pop, he’ll flip his lid, and his brains fly out. Gooey Louie is for ages 5 and up. Wordsearch Jr. will launch this year as a sequel to the Wordsearch! game launched in 2011. There are three levels of play: matching patterns, words with pictures, and word-only challenges that grow with the child. Goliath is expanding its Domino Rally line with Crazy Factory and Fortress Attack, both of which contain new tricks and stunts. Also added for 2013 are four new low-priced sets that round out the line. Create a magical sci-fi show using your smartphone or iPod Touch with Holografx. Upload your picture and become part of the show by turning yourself into a hologram. This mix of new technology and the classic magic set comes with 20 tricks and 30 minutes of holographic illusions that you create.

112 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY 2013

ZinG ToyS

Zing’s Sky Ripperz are bungee-launched rockets that can fly more than 250 feet high. Attach the launcher to the launch hook, pull the tab, and let it soar with a flick of the wrist. The rocket makes a whistlescream sound as it flies. Sky Ripperz are for ages 8 and up. ZoomZooka is a blaster that shoots air and water. As a high-powered air launcher, it blasts rockets, a plane, and suction-cup darts more than 50 feet. As a quick-fill water blaster, it shoots a stream of water more than 50 feet. It is for ages 6 and up. Air Huntress Zing’s Z-Curve Bow is getting a Z-Curve Bow makeover. Decked out in pink, purple, and sparkles, the new Air Huntress offers the same high-performance play value in a flashy new appearance. As girls aspire to be the next Katniss Everdeen from The Hunger Games or Merida from Brave, the Air Huntress Z-Curve Bow offers a safe, realistic introduction to the sport of archery. The Air Huntress launches soft-foam ammo more than 125 feet. It comes with two far-flying foam ZArrows and one suction cup Zartz. Hook the ammo into the loading zone, line up the shot, and let go. It is for ages 8 and up.

U.S. GameS

In U.S. Games’ Sloop Card Game, players capture, build, and steal to collect the most cards. Every round brings new cards and combinations, and Special Action Cards and Supercharged Cards add strategy to Sloop. The game comes with 122 cards (10 of each numbered card plus two Wild Cards), six colored build markers, 12 numbered build counters, and illustrated instructions. The game is for two to six players, ages 8 and up.

WoWopoliS

Wowopolis’ Sushi Stax, for ages 7 and up, is a new fast-paced game that combines the fun of stacking with the challenge of using chopsticks. Players race to build and balance a variety of sushi towers using only chopsticks or tongs to lift each piece and following a variety of sushi stack configurations on the different cards. Sound It! Found It! Junior is a patent-pending two-in-one board game created by a team of game designers that includes a certified speech pathologist. Designed to entertain and educate kids ages 3 and up, the game features 72 cards and six giant scene boards. A player draws a card and other players guess what’s on it by imitating the sound it makes. Once the sound is identified, find the object that makes it in one of six preschool-friendly illustrated scenes, including Around the Farm, A Day at the Zoo, and Out on the Street.

Smart-trike

Smart-Trike’s all-new Smart-Trike 4-in-1 Dream features exclusive Touch Steering technology that enables parents to maneuver the trike safely and easily with the slightest touch. The Dream has built-in suspension, shock-absorbing wheels, extra seat padding, a handlebar clutch that converts the steering from parent-controlled steer to kidcontrolled steer, and fold-in pedals to prevent injury to baby’s feet during early riding stages. Accessories such as a play phone and bottle holder are also included. The Dream grows with a child through four life stages: parent-controlled trike (10 months), guided trike (18 months), training trike (24 months), and classic trike (30–36 months). Other Smart-Trikes include the Smart-Trike 4-in-1 Safari with Touch Steering in various colors and patterns, the Smart-Trike 4-in-1 Recliner Stroller, and the Smart-Trike 4-in-1 Elite.

ridemakerz

Ridemakerz will expand its line of Xtreme Customz with new body styles and stand-alone accessory kits for ages 5 and up. With Xtreme Customz starter kits, kids can build and customize their own 1:48th scale vehicle. New vehicles available this spring include Iron Man and Ford Mustang GT. Vehicles currently available include Spider-Man, Batman, Chevy Corvette C6RS, Dodge Viper GTS, Chevy Camaro SS, and Ridemakerz Street Patrol police car and Commander truck. Extreme Customz Swap Sets, two 1:48th scale vehicle kits, contain two bodies and two four-mode adjustable chassis plus two fourpiece sets of reversible rims, two four-piece sets of tires, two spoilers, two two-piece sets of side pipes, and two exclusive accessories. New vehicles in the set for spring include Batman and The Joker. Sets now available include Chevy Corvette C6RS and Dodge Viper GTS, Spider-Man and Venom, and Ridemakerz Street Patrol police car and Commander truck. Each kit includes a set of mix-and-match parts ranging from flame side pipes to bat wings to supercharged engines. All parts are interchangeable across body styles. Each Xtreme Customz vehicle also features a four-mode adjustable chassis so kids can customize the way they cruise. Choose from Race, Jacked, Lifted, and Off-Road. New accessory kits, available this spring, are Mix N Match parts ranging from flame side pipes to bat wings to supercharged engines. All parts are interchangeable across body styles and fit 1:48th scale vehicles. Themes include Street Cruisin’, Commander Strike, Flight Plan, Dragster Race, Turbo Race, and Muscle Race. Xtreme Customz XL kits include one 1:18th scale ride body along with two four-piece sets of rims, one four-piece set of tires, a spoiler, a two-piece set of side pipes, and engine. Vehicles in this set include Spider-Man, Chevy Corvette C6R, and Dodge Viper SRT10. XL accessories are not compatible with Xtreme Customz 1:48th scale Ridez. FEBRUARY 2013 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT 113

Toy Fair 2013 k’nEX

ThinkFun

ThinkFun’s newest games include Hello Sunshine!—Hide and Seek Learning Game. Children 18 months and up play hide and seek with Sunshine, a plush toy, while being introduced to positional concepts such as in, on top, below, next to, and more. The popular Swish game is now available for younger players. Kids 5 and up race to find “swishies,” two or more cards layered so that every shape fits into its matching outline. Mentally flip, rotate, and stack the transparent cards to make as many swishes as you can. In WordARound, players race to be the first to decipher and shout out the word on each WordARound card. If you’re the first, you win that card. Collect the most cards and win the game. It is for ages 10 and up.

Super Mario Cannon Building Set

The K’NEX Super Mario Cannon Building Set brings the game of Super Mario to life as Mario and Luigi battle Bullet Bill. The set includes buildable Mario and Luigi figures, a Bullet Bill figure and cannon with firing action, a warp pipe, finish flag panels, and a special elevator rod with multiple jump panels to move Mario and Luigi between the levels. Coins and a Star Coin are also included. It is for ages 8 and up. New to the K’NEX Thrill Rides series is the Phoenix Fury Coaster, featuring more than 20 feet of expansive track. Use more than 620 pieces to build an authentic-style roller coaster that spans more than 3.5 feet in length. Color-coded instructions are included along with alternate model instructions available for download. The coaster is for ages 9 and up. K’NEX teamed with Hasbro to update the classic Tinkertoy line for a new generation. With the Tinkertoy Transit Set, builders ages 3 and up can create a train, garage, bridge, and more. The set includes 150 durable, plastic pieces including spools, straight rods, bendable rods, wheels, eyes, two buildable figures, and more. The newly redesigned Tinkertoy pieces snap together and stay together for long-lasting play. A colorful guide provides a variety of ideas for all building skill levels. The set, which is now available, comes in a sturdy box with lid for easy storage and portability. The K’NEX Pac-Man Maze Assortment Series One, for ages 7 and up, includes mazes from Pac-World and the Netherworld. Each set comes with a character and element from the new TV show Pac-Man and the Ghostly Adventures, including Pac, Cylindria, Spiral, and Sir Cumference. The K’NEX Monster Jam construction line features buildable versions of the most popular Monster Jam trucks, such as Grave Digger, Maximum Destruction, Monster Mutt, Mohawk Warrior, and more. Sets also include accessories. They are for ages 5 and up. 114 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY 2013

PlayWoW

Pretty Princess Vanity

PlayWow’s Pretty Princess Vanity features a built-in mirror and three plastic beauty accessories as well as a pink and purple inflatable seat. It is for ages 3 and up. The Soft Sports Soccer Set features Lenny the Lion and bright colors. It can be used inside or outside. It includes one inflatable soccer ball and is for ages 1.5 and up. With the Jungle Book Giant Peek N’ Learn Tunnel, kids can go on adventures with Mowgli, Shere Khan, and Baloo. It includes three windows for peek-a-boo fun. It can be used inside or outside and comes with a pump to inflate the tunnel. It is for ages 3 and up.

Mega BlokS

With the MEGA Bloks Hot Wheels collection, new for fall 2013, boys can build and collect their favorite Hot Wheels vehicles, and even customize their own creations. The product line includes launchers and each set features a collectible Team Hot Wheels micro action figure. MEGA Bloks’ First Builders line will expand this fall with a broader range of products and a focus on introducing more girls products. MEGA Bloks First Builders Billy Beats Dancing Piano sounds just like a real piano with transparent keys that light up, move, and dance to the beat. It features a removable cap to store the blocks inside. MEGA Bloks First Builders Safari Train, available this spring, features real train sound effects. It also features five safari animals and a buildable train with four blocks. It is compatible with all First Builders toys and can be combined with Farm Pals. MEGA Bloks Classic and Pink Jeep Ride-Ons will launch this fall. The ride-ons make real mechanical sounds and include 10 Jeep-colored blocks that store under the seat. The Jeeps can also be used as push toys and walkers. MEGA Bloks Barbie launched in December. From the Build ‘n Style Fashion Boutique, complete with clothes and accessories, to the Build ’n Style Luxury Mansion featuring eight rooms to create and customize, MEGA Bloks Barbie lets girls build, design, and decorate each Barbie playset. Every set comes with a different MEGA Bloks Barbie mini-fashion figure. There are 19 minifashion figures to collect and each can be dressed and styled. Building on the success of The Smurfs and in anticipation of The Smurfs 2, hitting the screen this July, MEGA Bloks Smurfs will introduce new products including buildable Smurfs complemented by new artwork and packaging. Kids can also collect and combine Smurfette’s House, new for fall, with other Smurf playsets. MEGA Bloks Dora’s House comes with a large Dora duffle bag and Dora the Explorer and Boots mini figures. It will be available this fall.

Zydeco StudioS

Zydeco Studios’ Floppets are wearable characters you can attach to fingers, backpacks, flip flops, shoe laces, and more. Each Floppet has a versatile connector and Velcro tethers, which can be linked to other Floppets to create wristbands, rings, anklets, and necklaces. Charmlets is the newest line of Floppets, featuring a variety of designs including Skullettes and Cupcake Floppets. Also part of the assortment are hearts, unicorns, sweet treats, and more. FlopJox Floppets feature sports-themed characters including a baseball, basketball, hockey puck, football, soccer ball, and more. Munchkin Monsters is another new line, which features nine monster characters complete with antennas, ghoulish grins, and silly eyes. Charmlets

Playhut

Playhut will add more themes to its Mystixx fashion doll line in 2013 with Mystixx Zombies, Mystixx Grimm, new Mystixx Vampires, and Mystixx Mysfits. The 11-inch Mystixx dolls each come with two faces. With a turn of the head, the doll transforms from an everyday girl into a zombie, Grimm forest creature, or vampire. Each doll comes with two outfits, shoes, and accessories, including two interchangeable wigs. They are for ages 6 and up, launching this spring. Playhut will also introduce new mixand-match small three-inch dolls with its new collectible Mystixx Mysfits line. The dolls will feature hair, hats, heads, torsos, and legs that can pop off and be reconfigured. Two looks will be included for each doll. The line will also include the Mystixx Mysfits portable tin playset, which will include a unique Mysfits doll with extra hair and a sofa for the doll to lounge on. The line is for ages 4 and up, launching this fall. FEBRUARY 2013 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT 115

Toy Fair 2013 iNterActive tOy cONcepts

Interactive Toy Concepts’ Light Stars bring animation right into a child’s bedroom, allowing them to project and control their favorite characters on their walls. Power Rangers can do battle on the ceiling. Spider-Man can swing across the bedroom wall. Each Light Star features multiple moving animations that allow each character to perform signature moves. Wheelz are new adrenaline-fueled racers. This series of custom-designed treads ramp up to more than 500 scale MPH in your hand. Squeeze the hubs to get the RPMs, then put the rubber on the ground and watch your Wheelz take off. The HeliQuad Series are four-channel flying stunt-copters designed for precise control and stability. From mini indoor stunt flyers to outdoor quad control, the HeliQuad Series has something for every R/C flight enthusiast.

OhiO Art

Ohio Art’s nanoblock is a micro-sized building block nanoblock Big Ben system with its smallest pieces a mere four by four by five millimeters. The nanoverse is expanding with new additions to the sites-to-see series, mini figure assortments, and deluxe series. New sets include nanoblock Big Ben, nanoblock Chrysler Building, nanoblock Mustang, and Hello Kitty nanoblock. Each set is for ages 8 and up. Bottle Brainz perform stunts right before your eyes. Bottle Brainz have a secret compartment under the cap where kids find the brain and store secret items. Kids can also repurpose plastic bottle caps with the four stickers that come with each Bottle Brainz. Also included with each Bottle Brainz is a stunt cap, a brain eraser, and a carabiner. Bottle Brainz are for ages 4 and up.

116 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY 2013

NeAt-Oh!

The Neat-Oh! Barbie Clutch with Black Box has pink woven designs on the front and a dressing room for Barbie inside. Kids can also keep their Barbie dolls organized with the Barbie Fab Case. Both products are for ages 3 and up. The Picnic Lunch Box & Placemats replace brown lunch bags. There are six themes: cat, dog, pig, cow, zebra, and frog. Unzip the lunch box to find your lunch and a small placemat that lays flat and wipes clean with a damp cloth. New Neat-Oh! Hot Wheels ZipBins include the Drift Racer backpack that unzips into a two-lane drag strip with winding cityscape background. The backpack’s handle acts as the car’s spoiler. An authentic Hot Wheels car is included. The Jump Barbie Fab Case Case is a racing-themed case that provides storage for favorite Hot Wheels cars with a built-in pocket. The case zips shut to transport the cars wherever kids go. Cars are not included. Two LEGO Friends ZipBins include the Heartlake Wristlet, which provides six pockets for storing and carrying LEGO Friends figures, and the Heartlake Place Storage Case, which stores and carries toys and some completed LEGO Friends sets. Both items unzip to reveal a flat play surface. The LEGO Star Wars ZipBin Death Star Transforming Toybox includes pockets for up to six minifigures. It can hold 1,000 LEGO bricks and unzips into a flat surface for easy play. LEGO bricks are not included. The LEGO Chima ZipBin Battle Case unzips flat for both play and display with interior graphics. LEGO Chima toys are not included.

ZobMondo

Based on the PBS series, Zobmondo’s Peep and the Big Wide World Cooperative Game encourages players to work together to collect the most red, yellow, and blue objects for Chirp’s spring art show, which Raccoon keeps burying. The game is for ages 3 and up. In The Santa Claus Game, for ages 3 and up, kids get to play out the role of Santa and give away gifts while participating in various activities, such as singing a holiday song or twirling like a snowflake as they move around the game board. In Bucket Blast, buckets, beanbags, and water come together to create 15 party games in one. This versatile game, for ages 6 and up, keeps the action moving as players toss, run, balance, chase, strategize, and team up for points and laughs. GoZone Games are quick-to-learn, easy-toplay portable dice games based on sports such as golf, football, basketball, and racing. The games are for ages 6 and up. Don’t Make Me Laugh will have players ages 5 and up performing silly commands, such as “Act like an out of control sprinkler.” Players will act alone or sometimes collaborate as a group. In the end, everyone gives and receives special awards. Deal Breaker is a new party game that poses funny questions and scenarios about what could be the deal breaker to securing a second or third date, such as “You have been on a few good dates and realize that your partner’s hair isn’t real.” The game is for ages 16 and up.

Manhattan toy

Manhattan Toy has launched its imagine i CAN collection. The line features 28 separate arts & crafts kits, do-it-yourself costumes, puppet kits, games, and more. The line’s Make it Myself kits include Knitting Beginnings, which introduces kids 8 and up to knitting basics, such as casting on, simple stitches, binding off, and pom-pom making. Kids can make headbands, pom-pom rings, and an owl hat. Sweet Sew is a first sewing kit for ages 8 and up. It comes with simple patterns, pre-cut felt shapes, and a variety of beads. The supplies can then be stored in the portable storage tin. Other Make it Myself Kits include Finger Paint Fun, Pet Rock Pals, Creative Color Sticker Clings, Crafty Eraser Creations, and more.

WonderWorld

Wonderworld’s Handy Doctor Set offers kids the tools to recreate a doctor’s visit. The red doctor’s bag comes with an eco-friendly wooden stethoscope, tongue depressor, blood pressure pump, reflex hammer, and more. It is for ages 3 and up, available this spring. The Two-Way Flipper is the newest addition to Wonderworld’s line of Wonder Trix Tracks, which lets kids create their own marble racetracks using a special connecting system. The flipper attaches anywhere on the track to send marbles rolling in a different direction. It is for ages 3 and up, available this spring. For babies 1 and up learning to walk, the bright red Wonder Walker features Wonderworld’s patent safety components, storage space, and a painted bunny and bear on either side of the walker. It is available this spring. Ages 12–18 months can create their own jungle beats by themselves or with friends with the Fun Safari Collection. The collection includes the Safari Tambourine Set, Safari Duo Drum, and Safari Xylophone, which feature zebra, monkey, giraffe, and lion designs. Also part of the collection is the Safari Beads play gym, an enhanced version of the classic toy featuring vibrant colors and an animal theme. The collection is available this spring. New Smart Gear Balance Bikes for ages 2 and up launch this spring. The red Fire Rescue Bike features bold graphics while the Flower Power Bike has a floral theme with multi-colored pastel stripes. Smart Gear Balance Bikes feature Pneumatic rubber tires with extra-long tube valves as well as rubberized handle bar grips for easy steering. Cushioned leatherette seats give kids comfortable support as the spoke-less disk wheels prevent little feet from getting caught. Seats adjust to five height positions.

FEBRUARY 2013 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT 117

Toy Fair 2013 TCG

TCG continues its partnership with Fisher-Price. The I-Jig Interactive Jigsaw Puzzle System lets preschoolers make a puzzle, play games and music, learn animal names and sounds, and answer questions about the puzzle. Lil’ Snoopy’s Tippin’ Treats Game is an action-packed preschool game that motivates little ones to get up and move. The first one to get all three of Lil’ Snoopy’s bones in his bowl wins. The Corn Popper Pop ‘N Race Game teaches basic color and shapes concepts. The classic Chatter Phone Chat ‘N Match Game interacts with preschoolers as they learn numbers and animals. TCG is also introducing new playmats with the Fisher-Price and Hot Wheels licenses. With the Fisher-Price Little People Play Mat, kids can “drive” their Little People Wheelies car along the mat to iconic Fisher-Price locales such as the farm, zoo, and school. It includes three Little People Wheelies. The Hot Wheels Play Mat lets kids “race” their Hot Wheels cars along the mat through race scenery. It includes three Hot Wheels vehicles. Through a licensing agreement with Entertainment One Family, TCG will create, manufacture, and distribute a line of games and puzzles based on the preschool program Peppa Pig. Peppa Pig Tumble & Spin Memory Game is a fast-paced memory game where kids 3 and up spin Peppa Pig, listen to Peppa, and try to collect playing cards. The spinning Peppa Pig character has voice effects and plays the Peppa Pig theme song. With Magnetic Creations, kids ages 4 and up can mix and match more than 40 magnetic play pieces on three different backgrounds. The tin stores all of the pieces. Basic themes include Silly Faces, Fashion, Fairy, Weather, Horse & Stable, and Penguins. Licenses include Bratz, Build-A-Bear Workshop, Fisher-Price, Kung Fu Panda, Little Tikes, Madagascar 3, Marvel Super Hero Squad, Peppa Pig, Puss in Boots, and Spider-Man.

118 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY 2013

Playmobil

Playmobil’s Volcano with Tyrannosaurus lets kids pretend to dig for fossils at the prehistoric volcano. The set includes two figures, two dinosaurs, a volcano and landscape, rocks, trees and flowers, research tools, fossils, and other accessories. It is for ages 4–10. The Large Horse Farm with Paddock has everything kids need to house their champion horses. The fenced-in area allows the horses to graze outdoors, while the four stables provide shelter. The set also includes two figures, two horses, one foal, cats and kittens, hedgehogs, and prize ribbons. The farm comes with a gated entrance and indoor attic space for storing unused saddles, grooming tools, feed, and other accessories. The set is for ages 5–10. The Large Furnished Hotel has a lobby decorated with a check-in counter, safe, room keys, computer monitor, magazine rack, and more. The figures can travel upstairs in the functioning elevator, then use the key cards to enter one of two rooms. There is a crib with foldable sides and two bunk beds. Each room also includes two windows, a bed, a side table, a chair, a Large Furnished Hotel phone, a television, a clock, and a bathroom with shower and toilet. Room 102 also includes a balcony with lounge chair. The hotel café is furnished with a table, chairs, dishes, and silverware as well as a highchair. The hotel also has a game room with toys. The set includes eight figures, luggage, a surfboard, a skateboard, plants, and a large variety of additional accessories. The set can be upgraded with the Playmobil Luxury Hotel Suite, which is sold separately. The Large Furnished Hotel is for ages 4–10.

Cake made Pops REAL from not a CAKE & eatfreeze mix

The Ultimate Cake Pops Set is a Toy Of The Year Award Finalist!

Make

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cake p AL E from a RE CAK

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1/23/2013 8:58:19 AM

Toy Fair 2013 reeves

Reeves’ Breyer brand introduces new animals from the World of Tolo. These First Friends characters feature Tolo’s signature poseable, clicking arms, legs, and heads. The koala and kangaroo represent Australia. First Friends animals and figures are safe for teething. New in the Breyer Horse Crazy line are Horse Crazy Singles Horses, authentically sculpted horses reimagined in fanciful translucent and frosted colors with glittery manes and tails. There are six different styles. The Horse Crazy Truck and Trailer can hold three horses with room for food and gear. The hinged roof panel allows easy access to the inside. A matching pick-up truck features doors that open and close, a drop-down tailgate, and rolling wheels. Horses are not included.

smartLab toys

With SmartLab Toys’ Demolition Lab, kids can construct unlimited warehousetype buildings using more than 100 walls, spires, beams, panels, and more. Then, try to demolish these structures with strategically placed detonators, all while learning the science of power, force, momentum, and gravity. Expansion packs are also available. The kit is for ages 8 and up. The You-Build-It Headphones have pulsing lights that sync to the beat of music. Kids build the headphones with stereo speakers and learn about electricity, sound, and technology. No tools are required. It is for ages 8 and up. The That’s Gross Science Lab features a toilet bowl mixer with real flushing sounds and a lab journal packed with 30 experiments, including stinky bubbles, fake boogers, maggot-shaped squishies, and more. The kit is for ages 8 and up.

120 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY 2013

Horse Crazy Truck and Trailer

University Games

University Games’ A+ Active Line consists of three games that involve getting kids out of their seats and moving. Where’s My Lunch? involves kids collecting healthy foods, Step On It requires young children to walk around matching colors and shapes, and Make-a-Scene allows kids to stray from the traditional tabletop and play a game on the wall. Kids can feed The Very Hungry Caterpillar in Twirl and Toss. Players take turns throwing fruit at the Velcro caterpillar. The first one done feeding The Very Hungry Caterpillar is the winner. The Spanish-speaking population in America is continually growing, and includes a number of American students. For the first time, University Games has brought some Spanish games, originally from Mexico, to the United States. Everyone, no matter what language he or she speaks, will enjoy these vibrant and creative games, and students will enjoy a fun way to practice their Spanish skills outside of the classroom.

sAfAri Ltd.

Golden Dragon

New Safari Ltd. Arctic Bulk Bags feature Toob figures in 48-piece bags. Each bag contains four of each of the following figures: walrus, harp seal, arctic fox, husky, Inuit, caribou, beluga whale, igloo, snow hare, musher, polar bear, and orca. The hand-painted figures are 1.5- to three-inches tall and made for ages 3 and up. Other new Bulk Bags include Butterflies and Dino Babies. Safari Ltd. is expanding its line of dragon replicas for ages 4 and up with Golden Dragon, Thunder Dragon with Drake set, and Twilight Dragon. The Safari Ltd. Dragons can also be found in the new Dragons Designer Toob featuring six dragon miniature figures. This set includes the Forest Dragon, Ice Dragon, Midnight Moon Dragon, Mountain Dragon, Cloud Dragon, and Chinese Horned Dragon. These two-inch hand-painted figures are suitable for ages 3 and up. Additional new products will also be launched across other Safari Ltd. lines including Toobs, Good Luck Minis, Historical Collections, Incredible Creatures, Mythical Realms, Safariology, and more.

New AdveNtures

New Adventures’ AppVentures is a line of interactive playhouses for digital-savvy kids. The iDollhouse and iFirehouse lets kids transform an iPhone, iPad, or iPod Touch into an interactive toy. Each set has a playiDollhouse house, figures, and a carrying case. Just place the smart device into the dollhouse or firehouse and launch the app to begin the play. Kids can customize each room using the app menus at the top of the screen. Choose favorite colors to decorate the house, upload photos to hang on the walls, water the flowers and watch them grow, and choose a fire engine, then wash it. Each room is filled with activities from dress-up to dance party to practicing putting out a fire. Using your smart device’s camera, scan the dolls’ codes and watch the doll characters appear on the screen for virtual play. AppVentures is for ages 3 and up.

JAzwAres

Jazwares, Inc., will expand its licensed lines this year with toy lines for Yo Gabba Gabba! (master toy license) and So So Happy. Both lines will include figure and plush So So Happy Ozzie styles. As master toy licensee for Cartoon Network’s Adventure Time, Jazwares will also continue its growth pattern worldwide in 2013. Jazwares currently holds toy licenses for Lalaloopsy, One Direction, Plants vs. Zombies, Nicktoons, HannaBarbera, Regular Show, and Power Rangers.

srM eNtertAiNMeNt

SRM Entertainment has partnered with Tootsie Roll Industries to create a line of food activity toys based on its popular food brands. SRM Entertainment is introducing two new food activity toys: the Tootsie Roll Lollipop Factory and the Frozen Tootsie Pop Maker. Using your favorite Tootsie Rolls flavors, that you supply, the Tootsie Roll Lollipop Factory makes it easy for children to mold and create their own lollipops made from the best-selling tootsie roll candies. No heat is required. The Frozen Tootsie Pop Maker lets kids make a frozen pop version of the classic Tootsie Pop. Simply combine your Tootsie Roll candy with your favorite fruit juice and freeze them to make great tasting pops. You control the nutrition of the juice for endless customization.

Tootsie Roll Lollipop Factory

FEBRUARY 2013 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT 121

Toy Fair 2013 Family Games america

Family Games America will bring a popular British line of durable children’s garden kits to North America this year. The Little Pals line includes garden trowels and spades, wheelbarrows, watering cans, paint-your-own plant pots, garden markers, buckets, gardening gloves, and a variety of planting kits. Little Pals is for ages 5 and up.

teeboo

French toy maker Teeboo announced the addition of the 42inch horse Galoo and yellow lab Ruffoo to its Kidoo Pets interactive plush collection. Kidoo Pets are soft plush toys with interactive sound sensors. With nine interactive functions, the Kidoo Pets show children how to nurture, play, and love. The nurture functionalities encourage children to take care of their pet friends. The play functionalities demonstrate what pets don’t like. And the love functionalities encourage children to be patient and loving with their pet. Galoo comes with a saddle and a carrot, and Ruffoo comes with a bone. Galoo

adora

Adora is launching an all-new Adora for Butterfly 2013 with new brand extensions that include FlutterBaby 200 products with 70 new dolls and accessories, including FabFairies. These are soft micro plush dolls for ages birth and up. FlutterBabies are made of ultra soft microfiber plush with Gentle Touch vinyl faces. There are three FlutterBabies designs: Bumble Bee, Butterfly, and Lady Bug. The dolls’ shirts and wings are removable for mix-and-match play. Each doll is for ages birth and up. SnuggleTime Babies have removable flower hoodies that are made of ultra soft microfiber plush available in three colors. The dolls have a Gentle Touch vinyl head. They are also for ages birth and up. BathTime Babies have an exclusive QuikDri body that allows the dolls to quickly dry after being played with in water. Each BathTime Baby comes with its own washcloth and removable animal-themed bathrobe. When you take off the robe, you’ll see a swimsuit printed on the doll’s body. The dolls have open-and-close eyes and are for ages 1 and up. 122 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY 2013

Zometool

Zometool consists of primary-colored struts (sticks) that are shaped to fit into the holes of the Zomeball. Zometool System Kits are designed for open-ended play. Creator 1 is for ages 6 and up. It contains 246 parts (186 struts and 60 nodes) and comes in a sturdy case. Clear and colorful step-by-step instructions get kids started while also allowing kids to explore and build whatever they want. Zometool Project Kits are more specific, theme-based, kits. The Crazy Bubbles kit lets kids 6 and up make square bubbles, spiral bubbles, cubic bubbles, and more. The newest Zometool line is called The Design Series.

When registering use this REGISTRATION CODE: TFFEB

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Toy Fair 2013 ChiCCO

R/C Rocky Chicco’s R/C Rocky Truck Truck Playset Playset is a dump truck that can drive up the ramp and deliver three little rocks into the bin. The truck can also drive to the other side of the ramp, and the bin will tip the rocks into the empty truck. It features a four-way remote to drive the truck forward, reverse, left, and right. It is for ages 3 and up. Four AA and three AAA batteries are required but not included. The R/C Rocky Dozer Playset is a remotecontrol excavator that drives up the ramp and delivers three little rocks into the tube. When a child presses the red button on the back of the playset, the rocks will be tipped out of the tube. It features a four-way remote to drive the vehicle forward, reverse, left, and right. It is for ages 3 and up. Four AA and three AAA batteries are required but not included. Sky Rider is a ride-on designed to help children with their motor skills. It comes with a propeller that turns, a lever that moves up and down, and a compass that rotates while making a cracking sound. It also features two modes of use to follow a baby’s growth: walker and ride-on. There is a storage compartment under the seat to store a child’s belongings. Sky Rider is for ages 1 and up. Crawling Dog and Crawling Cat are animal characters designed to help babies develop gross motor skills and stimulate audio skills. When a baby pushes the dog or the cat, the animals move along and make a rattling sound. Crawling Dog and Crawling Cat are sold separately and for ages 6 months and up.

124 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY 2013

TOMY

Beginning in 2013, TOMY International will be the exclusive licensee and distributor for Pokémon in categories including figures, figure accessories, plush, and more. TOMY’s Pokémon line is anchored by products that integrate key play patterns for the brand, which include catching, training, and battling. Featured introductions include a range of figures, R/C characters, novelty, basic plush, and new battle playsets for Pokémon fans of all ages. Bring motion-controlled battling to life with TOMY’s Battroborg line of battling robots. Battroborg takes players center ring, with two-handed motion controlled nunchaku that dictate the robots’ every move. Kids can have oneon-one competitions or large battles of up to 10 robots in the 3-in-1 Battle Area. 2.4GHz Battroborgs register every hit and indicate when the ultimate battling champion has succeeded. Each Battroborgs comes with a 20minute quick-charger. Wild Stylz is a small doll line that features five fashionable dolls, each with a signature color and pet sidekick, thematic accessory sets, a deluxe accessory case, and two playsets: a photo studio and a salon. All the dolls have long highquality hair that is easy to brush, and the accessories are easy to use. TOMY debuts its complete line of Pajanimals toys, based on The Jim Henson Company’s TV series Pajanimals, which airs daily on Sprout during The Good Night Show and on Saturday mornings on NBC. Key 2013 items include Snuggle Buddies, a Routine Board to help little ones transition from play time to bedtime, and the Apollo Goodnight Projector featuring a spinning starry nightlight show and lullaby theme from the show. The Pajanimals line is for kids ages 1–6. TOMY has expanded both the classic Chuggington Wooden Railway and the Chuggington Die-Cast Railway systems for 2013. Die-Cast Railway introductions feature an exclusive, revolutionary track system that enables kids to build spiraling train layouts. The Chuggington Wooden Railway adds talking engines to its line. New items include a rescue-themed playset.

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Toy Fair 2013 WoWWee

WowWee’s ArtSee Studio takes children ages 3 and up on an interactive journey of color, sound, and motion. ArtSee Studio is a visual and innovative drawing kit, which can transform simple ArtSee Studio drawings and paintings on the iPad into animated games and activities. The free app is available for download in the App Store. Using the wide range of interactive ArtSee tools, including Stampee, kids can turn a blank canvas into an explosion of color, sound, movement, games, and activities. New Robots include Robosapien HD with new features such as mobile compatibility, a full range of dynamic motion, and highly interactive sensors. Robosapien HD is a multi-functional, thinking, feeling robot with attitude and intelligence. Other new robots include RoboMe and the crazy ZombieBot. The world of the classic fairytale princesses has been turned upside down in Once Upon a Zombie. The line of six fully articulated 11-inch dolls is based on a brand new property created by Toon Studio of Beverly Hills. Toon Studio says that through a nonassert agreement with Disney, it is allowed to use the names Snow White, Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, Little Mermaid, Rapunzel, and Belle. Sweet Secrets are eight collectible mini dolls that transform into rings. Each doll contains an iconic image that represents the magical worlds of the Gem Catcher app game. Soar over princess castles or tropical seas as you hunt for the mysterious Gem Creatures and traverse exciting levels. 126 TOYS & FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY 2013

KidS Preferred

Kids Preferred will have a new collection of toys from The World of Eric Carle. The Very Hungry Caterpillar Bath Gift Set comes with five colorful squirt toys, including one shaped like the caterpillar. It is for ages 3 and up. The World of Eric Carle Large Developmental Ladybug is inspired by Carle’s storybook The Grouchy Lady Bug. This soft toy offers education and activity through numbers, colors, textures, a button flower, a mirror, molded rings, and a jingle bell rattle. It is for ages The World of Eric Carle Large birth and up. Developmental Ladybug

Techno Source

Techno Source, a division of LF Products (a Li & Fung company), is introducing the new laser tag system Battle Lights. Techno Source says that Battle Lights is the first laser tag line featuring toys powered by real and kid-safe lasers. Laser Battle Systems, available in one-player and two-player sets, include laser blasters and laserreactive vests that register hits with a glowing mark as well as laserreactive sniper targets for pre-combat training or taking into the battlefield. Glowing battle damage fades from the vest within a few minutes so kids can keep on playing. With the Glow Crazy Clip ‘N Glow, kids use the Glow Crazy light pen to write, draw, and play games on the clipboard’s special glow surface. The glowing illustrations disappear minutes later. It comes with four stencil sheets. The pen and stencils clip to the board for easy storage and transportation. National Geographic celebrated its 125th anniversary on January 13, and Techno Source will introduce a second series of National Geographic 750- and 1,000-piece puzzles. Themes include World Travel, Natural Wonders, Monumental Marvels, and In the Wild. The puzzles include bonus content from the National Geographic Society Archives.

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1/23/2013 9:26:00 AM

Blue Orange Puts Colorful Spin on Games BY JENNIFER LYNCH

hen French natives Julien Mayot and Thierry Denoual founded Blue Orange Games in 2000, neither had experience in the toy industry, but what they did have was a clear mission. “The idea has always been to create better designed games while keeping [the game] concepts simple,” says Mayot. “That is the essence of Blue Orange.” This, along with the goal of creating games that are fast paced enough to compete with the thrill of video games, led to Gobblet. This fast tic-tac-toe style game is one that Denoual had been working on. After testing it with family and friends, they realized it was a winner. A few weeks after Blue Orange launched a small production of the game at local retailers around San Francisco, a San Francisco Chronicle reporter stumbled upon Gobblet in a store. That led to a full-page article hailing the game with a four-star rating. It was Gobblet’s (and Blue Orange’s) big break; 3,000 games were sold following the article and its first production sold out a few days later. What further led to the company’s success was an initial three-month-long road trip across the U.S. in Mayot’s Jeep. For Mayot and Denoual, it was the opportunity to not only bring in national sales but more importantly connect one-on-one with retailers. It’s a model for how Blue Orange conducts business and the road trip is now an annual tradition. Each year, Blue Orange’s team of “Game Gurus” takes a crosscountry trip, visiting each of its U.S. retailers. “We recognize that our retailers are our

Gobblet

spokespeople,” says Mayot. “The owners and their staff are passionate just like us. We believe in the importance of spending time playing games together. The foundation of this starts in toy stores around the country.” This philosophy is also embodied in the company’s unique name, derived from the poem “The Earth is Blue like an Orange” by Paul Eluard. “The idea symbolizes the type of company we wanted to create—one that produces real games that build face-to-face interaction and down-to-earth moments for busy families,” says Mayot. “The same way Eluard looked at the Earth and saw an orange, you can look at something like a game and see beyond the simple material object and appreciate the value and ideas behind it.” Just as the company values its retailers, it also values the opinions of its consumers. Most of its game ideas come from these two groups, which Mayot says is a main ingredient in the originality of its game offerings. In addition to originality, other factors Blue Orange considers when designing new games is the ease of play and an all-ages appeal. Spot It!, for example, meets the unique “high fun factor, educational value, and smart

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design” criteria Blue Orange has self-imposed. Part of its success has also been in its ability to adapt to different themes for different audiences, says Mayot. Since its launch in 2010, the game has been adapted to appeal to sports fans (Spot It! MLB and NHL), literary buffs (Spot It! Signature, a Barnes & Noble exclusive), road trippers (Spot It! on the Road), and more. In less than 15 years the Blue Orange product catalog has grown to more than 30 games sold in more than 3,000 specialty stores nationwide. With an outlook and company culture that continues to help Blue Orange thrive, 2013 looks to be a positive year. In addition to its game offerings, this year will mark the introduction of construction toys. “The more we see children playing on iPhones and tablets, the more motivated we are to bring tactile, socially engaging games to the market,” says Mayot. “This feeling is more alive than ever.”

Spot It! Party is the newest party edition of the classic game

The New Show for Gifts and Gadgets COMING TO DALLAS THIS SPRING! Play. Baby. Juvenile.

SAVE THE (PLAY) DATE

March 21-22, 2013 DALLAS MARKET CENTER

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Taking place during Dallas KidsWorld Market and attracting buyers from across the country.

www.dallasmarketcenter.com/pbj

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EVENTS OF

CALENDAR

Industry-Related Trade Shows MARCH 3–6

Australian Toy, Hobby, & Nursery Fair

toyfair.com.au

5–7

Playworld Middle East

21–22

PBJ Show

dallasmarketcenter.com/pbj

8–11

MIPTV

mipworld.com

27–30 30

Hong Kong Gifts & Premium Fair TIME TO PLAY SPRING SHOWCASE

7–10

10–13 25–28

APRIL 15–17 17–18

MAY 6–8 7–9

19–22

21–23 30–6/1

JUNE

Halloween & Attractions Show ToyFest West

Bologna Children’s Book Fair

London Book Fair

AUGUST 17–21

Bologna Fair Centre

Palais des Festivals Earls Court

St. Louis Dallas

Bologna Cannes

London

PlayCon

toyassociation.org

Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort & Spa

Scottsdale

All Baby & Child Spring Educational Conference

National Stationery Show Sweets & Snacks Expo BookExpo America

hkgiftspremiumfair.com TIMETOPLAYMAG.COM

allbabyandchildsec.com

Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre

THE ALTMAN BUILDING

South Point Hotel, Casino, & Spa

Hong Kong NEW YORK CITY

Las Vegas

nationalstationeryshow.com

Jacob Javits Convention Center

New York City

e3expo.com

Los Angeles Convention Center

Los Angeles

licensingexpo.com

Mandalay Bay Convention Center

Las Vegas

sweetsandsnacks.com bookexpoamerica.com

McCormick Place Jacob Javits Convention Center

originsgamefair.com

Comic-Con International

comic-con.org

San Diego Convention Center

San Diego

New York International Gift Fair

nyigf.org

Jacob Javits Convention Center

New York City

TIMETOPLAYMAG.COM

METROPOLITAN PAVILION

NEW YORK CITY

ASTRA Marketplace

TIME TO PLAY HOLIDAY SHOWCASE

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astramarketplace.org

Greater Columbus Convention Center

Chicago New York City

Origins Game Fair

SEPTEMBER 26

londonbookfair.co.uk

Las Vegas

Dallas Market Center

Dubai

Paris

Licensing International Expo

18–21

bookfair.bolognafiere.it

South Point Hotel

America’s Center

Halle Freyssinet

18–20

JULY

toyfestwest.com

Dubai Int’l Convention & Exhibition Centre

forumlicence.kazachok.com

Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3)

16–19

haashow.com

Melbourne

Kazachok Licensing Forum

11–13

12–16

playworldme.com

Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre

TBA

Columbus

Nashville

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