November 2006
| Building toys Here’s the list of tested building toys, in order of kids' preference |
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LEGO MINDSTORMS NXT: $250 |
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| What it is: An advanced, computer-controlled Lego robot that can be configured into many different machines. Hardware includes touch,
sound, light, and ultrasonic sensors, as well as several servo motors. It can be programmed with or without a PC to perform
different operations. It can even be controlled with a Bluetooth-capable phone. For ages: 10 and up What's cool about it: It is the most advanced construction set we have ever seen. The program is based on LabVIEW software, so a suitable student can experience real-life programming fundamentals of automated control. What's not so cool: Even though it is recommended for ages 10 and up, the testers who were 10 couldn't figure it out. It's also the most expensive Lego set we've ever tested. What the kid testers said: A 13-year-old tester liked it because he could program it to do whatever he wanted. He spent more than six hours building it and learning how to use it. He said, "Everything is cool about it." Other comments: Visit the Lego Mindstorms Web site for free downloads to get the most out of the Mindstorms NXT. |
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LEGO SpongeBob and Plankton's Adventure: $30 |
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| What it is: Build and control a SpongeBob that shoots plastic pieces from its mouth. Contains 445 pieces, most of them small. For ages: 7 to 12 years What's cool about it: If your kid loves Legos and is looking for something new to build, then this may be for you. What's not so cool: It can be intimidating; many kids gave up quickly when they saw all of the small pieces. (We checked--it can be done!) What the kid testers said: Testers didn't want to put in the time to build the complete model. One kid said, "I've done things like this before; it's difficult." Other kids thought it was good because you can build SpongeBob or use your imagination and build whatever you want. Other comments: Many small pieces, so think twice about having this toy in your house if you have children under 3 years old. |
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VTECH V. FLASH CD LEARNING SYSTEM with Wacky Race on Jumpin' Bean Island: $100 |
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| What it is: Video game system focused on learning. They call it "edutainment"--a claim that an educational curriculum is woven seamlessly
into game-play, so that while kids are having fun finishing the race or saving the world, they're also learning. Also plays
music CDs. For ages: 6 and up What's cool about it: Incorporates video game-style play with many different curriculums in each V. Disc. Each game focuses on a different discipline, such as math, spelling, or encyclopedia knowledge. The games include increasing levels of difficulty, so kids can progress as they learn. What's not so cool: Most kids didn't play with it for very long. What the kid testers said: "It's kind of boring and needs better graphics." Other comments: Requires additional remote for two-player action. Additional games sold separately. |
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