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Thames & Kosmos Teaches Robotics to Young Engineers
mart Car Robotics, from THAMES & KOSMOS, allows kids ages 10 and up to explore automotive technology with a futuristic car. Kids can construct the car and then use their tablet or smartphone to control the car’s motorized wheels and steer it in any direction. On the device, they can watch the car as it drives through an augmented reality (AR) cityscape. By spreading the AR code cards and pointing the camera at them, kids can build a vitural city. Through the app, they can script a simple program that instructs their car to automatically follow a predetermined course. In addition to the smart car, seven other models can be built with this kit. The special Bluetooth Low Energy interface results in long-lasting battery life. With the Gyrobot, kids ages 8 and up can build seven motorized models that explore the powers of the gyroscope, including a robot that can balance on two linear wheels and move along a tightrope. Kids will learn about the physical science principles that keep the robot balanced. By building different models, they can experiment with and learn about the importance of gyroscopic devices. Models include the gyroscopic robot, a balancing personal vehicle, a gyro horizon (or artificial horizon), a gyrocompass, a balancing game, a tightrope walker, and a flight simulator. At the core of these models is a unique motor-driven gyroscope, a rapidly spinning wheel mounted so that its axle can move in any direction. Because of the laws of physics, the gyroscope reacts to external forces differently than a nonspinning wheel would—it resists forces in certain directions.
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Gyrobot
Rubbabu Offers a Sack of Learning
he Sack of Learning, from RUBBABU, features the 26 letters of the alphabet made of 100-percent natural rubber foam filling, along with a smooth cotton-lycra covering and cotton piping. These colorful letters each represent a different animal or insect: for example, B is for bee, D is for XCLUSIVE dalmation, and H is for harlequin duck. The letters are also large and soft to encourage tactile exploration and motor skills. As with all Rubbabu toys, Sack of Learning is biodegradable and sustainable, and uses an eco-friendly manufacturing process. Rubbabu will also show off soft, plush, pthalate-free sports toys made of natural rubber. The Bat and Ball Set features a wide, cushioned bat with a firm handle, as well as a larger-sized red ball for easy batting practice. “Hug me” is stitched on the handle of the bat. The set is suitable for kids ages 2 and up. The Mitt & Ball features a ruby red mitt made of cloth with a plush finish and a sky blue-colored natural rubber ball that is weighted and grooved to provide a tactile grip for budding pitchers. The ball is soft enough to make tossing and throwing easy and safe. “Hug me!” directions are embroidered in the mitt in the event of snuggle breaks. It is suitable for kids ages 2 and up. The Golf set is made of soft, sturdy, and safe natural rubber and nylon sourced from Switzerland. The set has two clubs, two balls, a putting cup with a flag, and a rolling caddy bag on wheels so little golfers can pull their bag along to the next green. It is designed for kids ages 3 and up.
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Sack of Learning
SPECIALTY TOYS & GIFTS
S8
FEBRUARY 2014