Gizmos for Kids

Check out LEGO’s newest robot-building kit! It is really unbelievable!Features include: greatly improved functionality, 32-bit command center with large LCD, USB 2.0 and Bluetooth interfaces that allow robots to walk, talk and interact with their environment, Technic blocks (”studless legos”) that create a more human, less boxy look, intuitive GUI and drag-and-drop icons are PC- and Mac-friendly, redesigned touch and light sensors, new sound sensor and ultrasonic sensor, three motors redesigned for smoother, more reliable operation, 6-wire digital cables for more precise connections, and 5 main themes (8 different models) - Vehicle: Roverbot, Animal, Scorpio; Machine: Robotic Arm; Human: Humanoid; Gadgets: Clock, Music, Game and Movers.

The kit includes:
577 pieces
Quickstart Guide helps you build a robot ready for action within 30 minutes
Model-specific building instructions, tips and tricks, testing methods and programming options
Easy-to-use software
Test panel

For ages 10 and up.

Recommended price $249.99 at Amazon.com.

Being a new mom, I have recently noticed several things. Kids absolutely love bubbles. Kids also absolutely love Diego. What is the best of both worlds? It is the Nickelodeon Go Diego Go Motorized Bubble Machine by Little Kids.Now kids really can blow bubbles with Diego & Baby Jaguar! Fill up the bubble solution pond with bubbles and flip the switch on to start the bubbles flowing! But, don’t just sit back and watch…pick up the bubble wand to blow bubbles & join in the fun!

Recommended price $17.99 at Amazon.com.

Now here is a gaming system for the whole family! Nintendo’s Wii video game system (pronounced “we”) is designed to attract people, regardless of their age or video game experience, to sit down and play together–whether they’re in the same room or on different sides of the globe. The two Wii features Nintendo believes creates new levels of gaming are the built-in Wi-Fi access, supported by a new online gaming service, and Wii’s intuitive, wireless, motion-sensitive game controller.The system boasts 512 MB of internal flash memory, two USB 2.0 ports, and a slot for SD memory expansion, but the real revolution in this system is its controller, called the Wii Remote. Shaped like a TV remote, it’s been designed to be easily used by beginners and pros alike. Sensors determine the Wii Remote’s position is in 3-D space, which means that racing-game steering and a tennis swing, for example, are done through movements of your hand rather than by just your thumbs. What’s more, a tiny speaker built into the Wii Remote promises some interactive surround sound experiences. The controller also has a force feedback “Rumble” feature and an expansion port for use with accessories, such as the Nunchuck, which adds an analog thumbstick and trigger buttons. An adapter that fits over the Wii’s wee remote will be available for those who prefer the feel of a traditional controller. The Wii Remote communicates via the Bluetooth wireless standard. Up to four remotes can connect to Wii.

Recommended price from $479.95 at Amazon.com.

Let’s celebrate our return to Gizmoland with a bang! Or how about a tickle? What is the big toy for this Christmas season? T.M.X. Tickle Me Elmo, of course!Tickle Me Elmo comes with three interactive tickle spots on his chin, tummy and toe. The three different tickle spots trigger rounds of infectious laughter and movement. He slaps his belly, falls forward with his butt sticking out, stands back up again, topples backwards, and kicks his legs over his belly. Kids will absolutely love playing and tickling Elmo!

Recommended price $39.97 at Amazon.com.

The Geeks are excited to announce that after a couple month hiatus both Gizmos for Babies and Gizmos for Kids will be returning with new content for geek parents starting this week! The Geeks started both blogs to cover the various gizmos and really cool toys we really want to play with even as adults. Chief Gizmateer’s wife, the editor-in-chief of both blogs, and Chief Gizmateer recently traveled to China to adopt the cutest little girl with a big personality. As first time parents, we all of a sudden had an instant one year toddler with an unending energy source!

During our hiatus both blogs were picked up by Points North Magazine during October in a section called “All Points Bulletin”. Gizmos for Geeks was mentioned as well. We love the press!