With the Scribble Press app and an iPad, kids can now create and share their own books.  Using the app’s 50 story templates, over 500 drawing tools (markers, stamps, multitude of colors), book layout tool, stickers collection, and their own photos, kids write and illustrate stories.  Books are private unless you elect to share them in the public gallery.  (Books are vetted to be sure they’re kid-safe before they are added to the public gallery.)  Soon, Scribble Press will add the option to have printed copies made of these books -  great gifts for grandparents and parents!  And for your peace of mind: “Scribble Press is a member of Moms with Apps, a collaborative group of family-friendly developers seeking to promote quality apps for kids and families.”  The app is free.  There’s no information yet about the cost of printed books.

Filed in categories: iPhone, iPad, iPod related, News

Tagged: iPad app, Kids

Kids Can Create Books with Scribble Press, and They’ll Soon Be Able to Order Printed Copies originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on January 13, 2012 at 9:00 am.

How do you add a little flash to brushing your teeth?  Why, with a Firefly Toothbrush, that’s how!

Getting kids to brush for the dentist-recommended two minutes has always been a challenge.  The Firefly Toothbrush lights up and blinks for one minute, making teeth brushing fun so kids will do it longer.

The premise is simple:  The Firefly Toothbrush contains a blinking LED in the handle that turns on once you squeeze the bottom.  What’s more fun than things that light up?

The toothbrushes come in a wide variety of age ranges (4-24 mos, 2-4 years, 5-7 years, 8+ years) including character brushes, such as Hello Kitty, Hot Wheels, Barbie, Spider-Man.  You can actually test out the toothbrush blinking from the opening on the bottom of the package.

The clever packaging lets you try out the blinking bit by squeezing the bottom tip

I was sent a small, non-character based assortment to try out.  Since I have a 5 year-old son, I thought I’d try out the smaller kid version, which measures just under 6 inches long.

Squeeze the soft, rubbery tip to turn on the flashing LED

Once you turn it on, the LED starts flashing for one minute (or two, depending on model).  Because it’s on a timer, kids can’t “cheat” and turn it off again.  It also doesn’t seem to reset the timer, either.  It just goes for one minute and turns off.  Did you start on your top teeth?  When the blinking stops, you work on the bottom row.

All smiles

The toothbrush is designed for 200 uses, or 3 months, according to Firefly.  Just as well – the batteries in the handle are not replaceable.  I tried pulling the end cap off, but it seems if I did, I probably wouldn’t be able to put it back together without damaging it.  Besides, if the batteries run out, it’s probably time to replace your toothbrush anyway.

Filed in categories: Health Related Gadgets, Kid Gadgets, Reviews

Tagged: Kids, toothbrush

Firefly Toothbrush Review originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on January 6, 2012 at 11:00 am.

I saw a news report recently that said kids as young as 6 were requesting electronic devices for Christmas.  When they’re still tiny, you can distract your kid with the pretend device that let’s them hear the kitty say “meow”, but eventually, they’re going to want a real device.  Some MP3 players have built-in volume-limiting methods, but not all players do.  These MyPhones headphones from Griffin are sized to fit kids, but they were designed by music lovers to sound great at any level.  The MyPhones have “30 mm drivers in a custom designed shell for great sound” and a “built-in, always-on sound-control circuit to cap peak volume levels at 85 decibels”.  (That’s the maximum level recommended by auditory health organizations.)  MyPhones are white with swappable inserts for a custom look: blue robot with circuit board design, pink panda with bamboo, or stars on an orange background.  The normal price is $39.99, but Griffin is selling them for $29.99 right now.

Filed in categories: Audio, Video, TV Gear, Kid Gadgets, News

Tagged: Headphones and earbuds, Kids

Griffin Headphones Help You Protect Your Child’s Hearing originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on November 22, 2011 at 1:00 pm.

Back in December of last year, I showed you a wooden knife kit by Garrett Wade that helps show kids how pocket knives work. I have an alternative kit that is less expensive, requires no tools for assembly and has nicer looking chunky parts. It’s Nathan’s Knife Kit from Klecker Knives. Klecker’s website even has a Hall of Fame area where they post pictures of kids with the knives they’ve made. This would make a great afternoon project with your kids… or even yourself

Filed in categories: Do-It-Yourself, Kid Gadgets, News

Tagged: Kids, Kit, Pocket Knife

Wooden Pocket Knife Kit Teaches Knife Mechanics to Kids originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on September 20, 2011 at 1:00 pm.

I don’t have kids, but apparently toddlers absolutely love to play with iPhones, iPads and iPod Touch devices. And the one thing that they love to do is press the Home button. Unfortunately, doing so will pop them right out of the application and back to the icon view. In order to avoid frustrated babies, there’s a sticker called the BubCap that covers the home button and is stiff enough that little fingers can’t press it hard enough to activate the home button below it. Adults however won’t have that problem. BubCaps are available in standard or ultra (thicker) version 4 packs for $5.

Filed in categories: iPhone, iPad, iPod related, Kid Gadgets

Tagged: iPad, iPhone, Kids, Spotlight Gadgets

Protect your iPhone and iPad from crazy button pressing infants originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on January 30, 2011 at 3:58 pm.

Sony has just announced a remote control for kids. The RM-KZ1 is splash proof and features locked down battery and programming compartments. It allows parents to control channel availability by programming up to seven “favorites” buttons. It also has a “volume limiting” feature that does not allow volume to be changed +/- 3 steps within 30 seconds. The RM-KZ1 can control up to two components (TV – Sat/Cable). Itl is currently available at Target Stores and online at both www.target.com for $14.99

Filed in categories: Audio, Video, TV Gear, Kid Gadgets, News

Tagged: Kids, Remote, Spotlight Gadgets, TV

Sony Introduces New Universal Children’s Remote Control originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on October 20, 2010 at 2:30 pm.

Designed for kids ages 8 and up, the iSafe backpack has a built in security system, which is powered by batteries and can be activated by the wearer pulling on a cord. Once the cord is pulled, the bag sounds off as loud as a car alarm and can run up to 2 continuous hours on a fresh set of batteries. The alarm system only adds about .5 lbs to the backpack, which is available in boys and girls styles for $59.99.

Filed in categories: Kid Gadgets, News

Tagged: Backpack, Kids, Security, Spotlight Gadgets

Keep your kids iSafe with an alarm enabled backpack originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on September 25, 2010 at 9:03 pm.

Toshiba and Best Buy have teamed up to create a full sized laptop just for kids ages 5-10. Besides featuring an Intel Celeron processor, 13.3-inch diagonal HD display, built-in DVD drive and Webcam, the L635 has a cleanable keyboard and a no-gloss Dura-cross textured finish that helps resist fingerprints. It also comes loaded with special software like KidZui, Net Nanny to keep the child safe on the web. Pre-loaded kid-friendly video games and movies have been been included too. Pricing hasn’t been announced, but the Toshiba Satellite L635 Kids’ PC will be available exclusively at Best Buy beginning Sept. 26, 2010. I’m curious how it compares to the Intel Classmate that I reviewed last year?

Filed in categories: Kid Gadgets, Laptops and Gear, News

Tagged: Kids, Laptop, Spotlight Gadgets

Toshiba Satellite L635 – A Kid-worthy Laptop originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on September 23, 2010 at 6:05 pm.

LOOPZ from Mattel looks like a cross between a Simon game for the 21st century and a fun new musical instrument similar to one that I saw at the International Toy Fair this past February. First of all it’s a memory game that challenges you to repeat patterns of light and music by waving your hands through the matching loops. Other modes allow you to create your own music. Check out the fun video demoing the music playing feature. LOOPZ is available now at Target and Toys “R” Us for $29.99.

Filed in categories: Kid Gadgets, Musical Gear, News

Tagged: Games, Kids, Musical instruments, Spotlight Gadgets

LOOPZ – Mattel’s New Game / Musical Instrument originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on July 7, 2010 at 1:46 pm.

Manufacturer installed vehicle DVD systems are a terrific option to entertain the little ones, especially on those long road trips that often occur in the warm weather months of spring and summer.  A common accessory of these systems are wireless headphones.  No wires to get tangled and irritate the kids. I have reviewed the Kidz Gear Wired Headphones. Let’s see how the wireless version stacks up.

Generally most vehicles only come with two sets of headphones and often those do not fit on small heads.  So if you need an extra pair or a set to fit those tiny heads, you can turn to the Kidz Gear Wireless Headphones for Kids.

SPECIFICATIONS AND FEATURES:

• Frequency Range:  20-20,000 Hz
• Carrier Frequency:  Right 2.8 MHz, Left 2.3 MHz
• Power source:  2 AAA Batteries (not included)
• Impedance:  32 ohms
• Effective Operating Range:  8 meters
• Volume control on ear-cup
• Power On/Off on ear-cup
• Automatic power off
• Automatic muting
• Comfort padding
• Guaranteed to work with all DVD system installed  in vehicles including:  Ford, GM, Cadillac, Audi, Nissan, Mercedes Benz, Honda, Dodge, Toyota, Lincoln, BMW, Acura, Volkswagen, Chevrolet, Land Rover, Lexus, Mitsubishi, Volvo
• Can be used in home with additional Kidz Gear IR Wireless Transmitter (Not included)
• Warranty:  90 days
• Custom designed fit for children 2 yrs. and older
• Foldable for easy portability
• Light weight and comfortable
• Award winning:  iParenting Media Award, Preferred Choice Award, Seal of Excellence Award

IN THE BOX:

• A pair of wireless headphones
• Sheet with operating instructions and limited warranty
• Coupon for 35% off on Kidz Gear Wireless IR Transmitter

Kidz Gear packages their product nicely in a simplistic, yet colorful parcel.  The transparent half of the front, allows you to actually see one of the headphone ear cups.

The headphones seem to be well constructed, which is critical since they are designed for kids.  The fact they currently have survived 4 weeks of use (abuse) by my 4 and 7 year old daughters is a good indication of their durability.

These headphones appear more grown up than the wired version.  I like the sleek appearance from the simple, yet glossy black coating.

Appropriately sized for small children with ear cups 2 1/4″ in diameter (side to side).  Comfort is provided via a 1/2″ of padding circling the audio ear port.  Both kids have worn these for spans of 90 minutes without complaint.

The versatile dual hinged ear cup design that I admired in the wired headphones are also encorporated in these.  Each cup swivels up and down as little as approximately 30-degrees and as much as approximately 160-degrees.  The ability to swivel the cups help with the ability to fit different sizes, plus it helps fold the device for storage.

Dual arcs connect the ear cups.  Using two arcs promotes stability, keeping the headphones on the child’s head, which is not always easy.

The headphones are powered by 2 AAA batteries and feature an On/Off switch plus utilize an automatic power off to conserve battery life.  Over the course of a month of fairly frequent use (estimate once every three days for an average of 30 minutes) during this review, we had to replace the batteries once and that was towards the end.

In terms of initial set-up, it was very simplistic.  We have a 2008 Honda Odyssey minivan with a built-in dvd entertainment system and I just jumped into the middle row and turned them on.  That was it.  I was able to listen through the built-in wireless transmitter.

If you purchased the optional IR Transmitter for an additional $14.99, you can utilize the wireless headphones at home with your entertainment system, television or directly plugged into your iPod or other audio device accessible via a 3.5mm jack.  Just as in the van, set-up was very simplistic.

Sound quality I thought was better than adequate, especially for the price and the intended audience.  I serious doubt any kid is going to argue with the sound quality.

In conclusion, I was very pleased with the Kidz Gear Wireless Headphones.  The functionality available is impressive and well worth the $29.99 cost.

If you have little ones, I would highly recommend purchasing this headphones.

Filed in categories: Audio, Video, TV Gear, Kid Gadgets, Reviews

Tagged: Headphones, Kids

Kidz Gear (Wireless) Headphones for Kids Review originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on May 22, 2010 at 2:00 pm.

Barbie Samsung X170 laptop. Photo courtesy of Tech Tickler

If you remember, a few months back, I broke the  “big tech” story on The Gadgeteer with Mattel’s new offering of Software Engineer Barbie.  She had all the nerdly accouterments and stylish outfit to boot.  Mattel’s intention (?!) was to “empower” young girls and motivate them towards exciting careers in computer technology.  However, I will reiterate that Software Engineer Barbie was the adult’s favorite pick.  The favored career by the actual demographic targeted by Mattel( i.e. young girls) was  News Anchor Barbie.  Better clothes, more makeup, and let’s face it, in this  economy, better pay.

Mattel isn’t giving up.  And neither are the geeks, married to non geeks,  who are determined to see at least one of their children in a laptop by age five.    That’s the situation in my household.  My husband is a software engineer.  I’m the practical, aspiring writer and accidental housewife with the biting wit.  He wants any children we might be blessed with in laptops and Bluetooth headsets (Blueteeth?) by age five.  I say no.  Mattel just made a case for my husband should we ever have a daughter.  Enter the  Samsung   X170 Barbie Special Edition laptop.  It’s nicely spruced up with a Core 2 Duo CPU ,4GB of RAM and 500GB of storage.  The X170’s stock battery is being advertised as being able to last for up to 9 hours . Available in pink or black with the iconic Barbie logo, it’s aimed at and for girls with lots of Barbie avatars and purported “bloatware”.

Would I get one for my daughter if I had a daughter?  Good question.

[Via Engadget]

Filed in categories: Kid Gadgets, Laptops and Gear, News

Tagged: Barbie by Mattel, Kids, Laptop

Barbie Goes Geek Follow Up originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on May 10, 2010 at 1:00 pm.

Spring and Summer will be here before we know it (yes, my fingers are crossed in hope of sooner rather than later) and with warmer weather comes an increase in travel.  Whether it is a 12-hour drive south for spring break or a 30 minute drive to a local water park or beach, when the kids are not happy, it can feel like the longest drive of your life.

There are numerous was to keep your kids content, including DVD players and digital audio players, but after hearing that Alvin & the Chipmunks song for the twentieth time you might begin to lose your sanity.  One way to give the best of both worlds is to use headphones.

The fine people at Kidz Gear provided me two headphone options to test out.  This review will focus on the wired headphones from Kidz Gear.

SPECIFICATIONS:

• Frequency Range:  20-20,000 Hz
• Sensitivity:  108 dB
• Max Power Input:  100mW
• 3.5 mm Jack
• Impedance:  32 ohms
• Cord Length:  1.2 m
• Warranty:  90 days
• Custom designed fit for children 2 yrs. and older
• Foldable for easy portability
• Built-in independent safe volume control
• Light weight and comfortable
• Award winning:  iParenting Media Award, Preferred Choice Award, Seal of Excellence Award

IN THE BOX:

• A pair of wired headphones
• Instruction sheet

The product is nicely packaged in a simplistic, yet colorful parcel.  The package is transparent on half of the front, allowing you to actually see one of the headphone ear cups.

My initial concern with any product for kids is durability.  Basically, will the product survive the beating my two young girls can dish out?  Although the product seems to be manufactured primarily of plastic, the headphones seem to be well constructed.  The design and finish look of high standard, definitely higher than the $16.99 cost.

Each ear cup is appropriately sized for little ears with a 2 1/4″ diameter (side to side) with a 1/2″ of padding circling the audio ear port.  Comfort had to be a huge concern for engineering.  If the headphones are not comfortable, kids will not wear them and parents will not be happy with the purchase.  In terms of comfort, the cups are nicely designed and both my girls never complained.

The ear cups have two hinge points that allow each cup to swivel up and down as little as approximately 30-degrees and as much as approximately 160-degrees.

The hinge points combined with 9 settings placed approximately 1/4″ apart that allow you to move each cup up and down provide a great deal of flexibility in terms of fitting multiple head sizes.  This flexibility allows the headphones to fit my 4-year old daughter’s head and my huge melon head.  Although to be honest, they were not too comfortable on my head.

A dual arc style is utilized to connect the two ear cups.  The dual arc helps  keep the headphones on a child’s head.  The arc has a maximum distance of 5 1/2″ (side to side) when not in use.

The 3.5 input jack is connected to the phones via a nearly 4′ long cord.  More than enough length for a majority of uses.

An independent volume control is located just below the cord splitter.  The back of the volume control has a slide clip which allows users to put the controller on a shirt, child seat harness or a seatbelt.

This allows the user to turn the volume up or down regardless of the master volume of the audio device the headphones are connected.  A great feature to increase the users ability to control the volume function via the headphones.  This means that if you have two kids and two sets of headphones connected to one port via a splitter, each child can control the volume to their liking.

The negative of the independent volume control is that it allows your children to turn the volume to an unsafe level possibly causing some serious hearing damage.  Kids are inquisitive and they are going to play with that volume control without considering the consequences.

The Kidz Gear Headphones are great in the fact that they offer a set of headphones specifically designed for children at a reasonable price.  The flexibility in adjusting the ear cups in multiple directions, the comfortable padding and the independent volume control makes it a terrific option to add to your travel accessories for the Spring/Summer travel.

My only concern is the fact that kids can turn the volume to an unsafe level and damage their hearing.  The volume control is a positive in providing versatility but a negative in terms of safety.  That one negative would not be enough to stop me from purchasing these great headphones for my children.

POST PUBLISHED REVIEW UPDATE (5-May-2010):

After this review was published, it came to my attention that I did not receive a volume limiting device included with all wired headphones from the manufacturer.  The mistake was quickly fixed by Kidz Gear and I received the limiter in the mail.

The volume limiter is very simplistic.  A small conduit cable in which you plug the headphones into and then plug the limiter into the iPod or other device.

The difference with the volume limiter is significant.  The upper volume range might still be to high for small ears for a long duration but it is atleast cut by 25% if not 50%. 

Having tested the volume limiter and the fact that Kidz Gear, recognizes the need, includes it with all wired headphones, I would have no hesitation in recommending these headphones.

Filed in categories: Audio, Video, TV Gear, Kid Gadgets, Reviews

Tagged: audio gear, Headphones, Kids

Kidz Gear (Wired) Headphones for Kids Review originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on April 28, 2010 at 12:58 pm.

The My Child ID is a small USB flash memory keychain device that securely stores, organizes and manages your child’s vital information, medical information (medications, allergies, physicians, etc.) and emergency contact information. It also stores images that can be shown in a slide show on its 1.4in LCD. It is a proactive tool for parents, law enforcement and emergency responders to safeguard children by helping to reduce the time it takes to gather accurate information when time is critical – from potential hours to minutes. It syncs with the company’s state Law Enforcement Alerting Portals (L.E.A.P.) to issue immediate emergency alerts. AmberAlert.com relies on revenue generated from the sale of the My Child ID ($39.95) in order to provide L.E.A.P. technology, along with service, support, training and maintenance, to State Law Enforcement Agencies at no cost.

Filed in categories: Home Tech, News

Tagged: Kids, Spotlight Gadgets

My Child ID – Child information storage device originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on December 9, 2009 at 10:56 am.

When I was a little kid, the most technological thing I ever got for Christmas was a Blip game. These days almost every toy is techie in some way. Mattel has even taken the completely non-techie activity of nail painting and turned it into a geek toy for girls. The Barbie Doll’d Up Nails Digital Nail Printer interfaces with a PC to let your 8yr or older little girl create her own custom nail decals that paint right on her fingers. She can even import her own images. You can one for $149.99 from Toys “R” Us.

Filed in categories: Geek Toys, News

Tagged: Kids, Printer, Spotlight Gadgets

Barbie Doll’d Up Nails Digital Nail Printer originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on December 6, 2009 at 12:50 pm.

When I was a kid, the closest thing that I had for an electronic homework helper was a Texas Instruments calculator.  As you are probably aware, those days are long gone.  Families today have countless options for electronic tutoring; ranging in price, complexity and effectiveness.

Today I am reviewing one of such option.  LeapFrog’s FLY Fusion Pentop Computer, a digital pen that is targeted for children ages 8 and older.  It captures your handwriting, digitizes your notes, plays music and is basically loaded with educational and enterntaining software.  So let’s see how it stacks up.

Included in the box:

• Fly Fusion Pentop Computer
• Fly Fusion Installation CD
• Fly Fusion Notebook
• Fly World Application
• Rechargeable Battery
• Memory Expansion Slot
• 13 FLY Fusion Games
• USB Cable
• $10 FLYbucks Coupon
• Quick Start Guide
• Reference Card

Included software and accessories:

• FastComp Math:  Basics
• FLY Fusion Music Studio
• Spanish Translator
• MP3 Player
• 13 FLY Fusion Games
• FLY Notes
• Scheduler

PC Requirements:

• Supported operating systems:  Windows XP and Vista
• Pentium III 500 MHz processor (recommend 700 MHz or higher)
• Monitor resolution of at least 1024 x 768
• Available USB port
• 512 MB RAM
• 300 MB free disk space
• Internet connection
• Microsoft Internet Explorer version 6 or higher
• CD reader

The FLY Fusion Pen looks like a pen on growth hormones.  It measures approximately 6.75″ in length and has a circumference fo 3.2″.  The fat pen style takes some getting use to, especially if you normally use a small pen.   Here you can see it next to a standard Sharpie.

The device is colored in shades of grey, which gives the device the allure of metal.  In fact, the pen’s body feels like it is molded from composite hard plastic.  While the plastic feels fairly sturdy, it does fail the creak test.

There is not much to the actual pen itself.  An earbud jack, protected by a rubber flap, is on one-side.  The mini-USB port is on the top of the pen.

Directly above the USB port, the top 1/2″ of the pen is removable and it slides off to expose a memory expansion slot.  The pen comes with 64 MB memory and you can purchase 64 MB of additional memory for $29.99.  The extra memory may be necessary for extra songs, games and/or homework help.

The power can be turned on/off  by pressing the LED light, which is located on the front-face of the pen.

The LED light serves as an indicator to what the pen is doing.  When the device is connected to a computer:

• Off:  The pentop computer is off and fully charged.
• Green:  The pentop computer is on and fully charged.
• Yellow:  The pentop computer is on and charging.
• Red:  The pentop computer is off and charging.
• Blinking:  The pentop computer is transferring data.

When the device is not connected to a computer:

• Off:  The pentop computer is off.
• Green: The pentop computer is on.
• Blinking Green:  The pentop computer is on and recording.

At the bottom of the FLY Fusion Pentop Computer, is a retractable, proprietary ballpoint pen tip.  Simply twist the end to expose and retract the tip.  It is a bit odd to twist the writing tip end to expose the pen.  Most pens that I use expose/retract the pen via a click on the opposite end of the pen.  Refills can be purchased for $7.99 (pack of two) and can be in the traditional blue or in a packet of red and green ink.

Image from FLY Fusion Pentop User Manual

Directly below the pen tip is a small window, which conceals the optical camera that is used to track the movement of the pen.  It is important to note the location of this because you must consider it when holding the pen.  If you block the optical camera, the pen will not work correctly.

The user manual provides visual example of way to correctly hold the pen and…………..

Image from FLY Fusion Pentop User Manual

………….ways to not hold the device.

Image from FLY Fusion Pentop User Manual

I admit that I had to practice using the pen a few times to get use to not blocking the optical camera’s view.  This probaby depends on your typical writing grip.  Maybe my small and chubby fingers are to blame.

Software installation is straightforward, utilizing the included CD software.  The process includes nice graphics to show the progress and prompts you when complete to setup the your pentop.

The actual device setup is just as easy.  The last step in the process is to create a Pentop Profile which requires you to enter a username, password, select a secret question and answer to complete the process.

Ok with the software setup done, it is time to move on to the notebook, which is included.  To activate the notebook you must tap on the blue “Notebook Activation” dot which is located on the bottom right portion of the notebook’s front.  Upon activation, the device makes a shrill noise, almost letting you know it is time to open the notebook.

Upon opening the notebook, you immediately realize that this is not an ordinary notebook and you start to better understand the functionality of this device.  The backside of the front cover is a full of options.  There are so many options that the notebook needs a fold-out flap on the front cover to have enough space.

The inside of the back cover is also full of many printed options.

After perusing the options, I thinks it would be best to start in the “Getting Started” section, which is located inside the front cover, close to the spiral binder.  You find two options in that section, “Fly Tour” and “How To Use Fly Notes”.  Both sections are good at getting you familiar with the device.  Of course, being a male, I naturally skipped this section.

Directly below “Getting Started” is the “System Panel” section and the “Calculator”.  The “System Panel” has the following options:   ”Memory Status”, “Fly Note Memory Status”, “Battery Status” and “Time and Date”.  Tapping the pen on any of these options results in a verbal announcement of the analogous data.

Image from FLY Fusion Pentop User Manual

The “Calculator” has all the functions of a basic calculator.  When complete, you have to hit the “Announce” button to get the results.  Call me old fashion but I like to see my results on a display.

The entire bottom portion of the inside front cover is devoted to the “Scheduler & Settings”.  After initially setting the date and time, you can use this feature to set reminders and alarms.  You even have the ability to set different alarm tones.

The fold-out flap is where you can find the “Control Panel”, which has numerous miscellaneous sections and features, such as volume and MP3 controls.  You can load your favorite tunes on the FLY Fusion Pentop Computer and use the “MP3 Controls” section to navigate through your tune library.

The inside of the back cover unveils a completely different set of features, the FLY Fusion Music Studio.  This segment of the notebook is partitioned into 3 sections:  1) “Synthesizer”, 2) “Rhythm Box” and 3) “Digital Recorder”.  Imagine your very own tricked electronic synthesizer with a digital recorder.  That is what you will find inside the back cover.

Ok, we covered the controls located on the front and back covers, now let’s move to the meat of this notebook, the paper.  At a quick first glance, it appears as normal paper but this is definitely not normal.  This is FLY Paper, and not the sticky stuff that you hang from your ceiling to capture insects.

The 48-pages of the notebook, have the standard multiple horizontal lines with the one vertical line on the left-side.  The lines are perforated along the binding, allow each page to be easily removed.  Under close examination, you will find tons of microscopic dots covering the entire page.

Writing on the FLP Paper, the FLY Fusion Pentop’s optical camera tracks the devices movement as you write, then once you plug it into your PC via the USB cable it uploads the pen’s data.  Once uploaded, you can view an electronic depiction of your words and drawings.  At this point, you have options such as printing, saving, opening or emailing as a text or an image.

Besides the proper technique for holding the FLY Fusion Pentop Computer, which I covered above, there are also four rules to follow:

1. Leave space between words and between lines.
2. Don’t write too close to the edge of a page.
3. Don’t cover the camera with your finger.  Remember it is down near the writing tip, so watch how you hold the Pentop Computer
4. Don’t run your letters together.

These rules seem pretty straight-forward when reading them in the user manual but like most rules in life, they are harder to practice then read.  Here is my first attempt.  FYI:  I was attempting to write “This is Ryan”.

After some more practice, this is my second attempt of record.  I think that I improved.

All is all, the FLY Fusion Pentop Computer is an impressive gadget with more options then I could possibly cover in this review.  It has the ability to download, for a fee, additional software to further expand the functionality in this device.

The product’s specifications state it is for ages 8 and up.  Now my kids are not quite 8 yet and I am always amazed at how fast they pick up on new things, especially technology but I think it would be a stretch for most kids below the age of 8.  I let my 6-year old play with it for a while and she needed my assistance.  That said, her favorite part was the FLY Fusion Music Studio located inside the back cover of the notebook.

Please do not get FLY Fusion Pentop Computer mislabeled as simply a toy for children.  It has plenty of fun options but it also has lots of educational functionality to exercise the mind and serve as a homework helper.  While the cost of $79.99 initially seemed high to me, after a few minutes of tickering with the product you understand that the expense is very reasonable.

Image from FLY Fusion Pentop Web Page

In conclusion, I would definitely recommend the FLY Fusion Pentop Computer.  The educational and entertainment functionality available in the product make it a great gadget for households with children.  It would make a great gift for that special little someone this holiday season.

Filed in categories: Kid Gadgets, Reviews

Tagged: Educational, Kids

LeapFrog Fly Fusion Pentop Computer Review originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on November 28, 2009 at 12:29 pm.

Tikatok is an online book community where kids write, illustrate and publish their very own books. The site provides easy-to-use Web tools so that any child can become a published author and turn his story ideas into real books and incorporate his very own artwork as illustrations. Children can then take their book and share it online with friends, embed it in a blog, post it to a Book Club, or publish it as a real, professionally-bound hard or soft-cover book to give as a present or keep on their bookshelves. Registering and creating books online is free; ordering printed copies is approximately $20.

Filed in categories: Uncategorized

Tagged: Books, Kids, Spotlight Gadgets, Writing

Does your child have an idea for a book? originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on September 24, 2009 at 12:02 pm.

Here’s a great MP3 player for toddlers.  It’s easy to use for both parent and child, it has an external speaker and it’s durable.  I had been searching for a music player just like this, it’s like the SweetPea Toy Company read my mind.

I purchased the SweetPea3 MP3 player for my three year old daughter in January 2009.  I was looking for a MP3 player with an external speaker and the ability to add any songs I want to it.  I only found one other MP3 player with an external speaker, the Sansa Shaker by SanDisk.  I got to try one that my co-worker purchased for her daughter and I think it is a neat machine, but it’s a little complicated for a toddler.

There are all sorts of reviews raving about this product; their fan page on FaceBook has nothing but positive comments. Here are a few reasons I like the SweetPea3 MP3 player.

1. It has an external speaker.
2. The volume control is in the Settings Menu so that the child cannot change it.  For what it is, the speaker quality is good too, the music does not sound not distorted or tinny.
3. It has a headphone jack which has its own independent volume setting in the Settings Menu.
4. There are only three buttons on the unit.  My three year old can turn it on and off and change the songs and even my nine month old twins seem to enjoy pushing the buttons and changing the songs.
5. Plays MP3 or WMA format  (it does not play licensed music from subscription services or music purchased from iTunes)
6. Compatible with both PC and Macintosh computers.

Song 7 is playing

Speaker level goes up to 10

Turns off after 20 minutes (or whatever you program it for)

Additionally, there are three play lists in the Setting Menu.  I have dedicated one to audio books, one to everyday music and one I have relegated as a junk folder (songs to be organized at a later date). There’s also an auto off feature that can be adjusted from 5 – 120 minutes (see photo above).

The player connects to your computer using an USB cable and music is easily copied to the player by drag and drop.  If you want to move a file to Play list 3, drag and drop it there.  Very simple.

Here’s my only “complaint”, the player is fairly expensive for a fixed 1 GB MP3 player.  The cost is $59.95 + $9.95 shipping, plus a currency conversion fee (~5%) from your credit card if you reside in the US (the company is in Canada). So the grand total is $70.00+ for a 1 GB MP3 player.  By comparison, the Sansa Shaker is around $25.00 and it takes a removable SD card.

I highly recommend the SweetPea3 MP3 player.  Sometimes a good product is worth the price and this is one of those times.  I’m just hoping that my twin boys will share their sister’s when she outgrows it.  Otherwise I’m going to have to buy another one.

Filed in categories: Audio, Video, TV Gear, Kid Gadgets

Tagged: Kids, MP3

SweetPea3 MP3 Player for Toddlers Review originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on August 26, 2009 at 5:30 pm.

Recently I had a chance to play with- er, I mean, let my preschool-aged son play- with this odd blue thing called the Bilibo Imagination Toy from ThinkGeek.

ThinkGeek’s site had a line that got my attention, which read, “the parents were like ‘What? It’s just a plastic bowl with holes in it. It doesn’t even use batteries!’ Kids just grok it.”  The funny thing is, I saw the Bilibo Imagination Toy and I could instantly relate.  My imagination was already running wild!  This thing looked seriously cool.

• For ages 2 years – 7 years
• Winner of the Dr. Toy 10 Best Active Products Award and 100 Best Children’s Products Award and many others.
• Dimensions: 39x39x22cm
• Weight: 800g
• Material is a high density polyethylene that is resistant to shock at low temperatures and is non-toxic

Unpacked, this thing resembled an otherworldly chips and dip bowl… with “eyes”.

I was confident that I would be able to get lots of great action shots of my son playing with the Bilibo Imagination Toy.  Turns out he could care less!  This was the ONLY photo I could get of him near the thing, and it was 0.001 seconds after I placed it on his head in an effort to get a “helmet” shot.  This was like, take 12.Sadly, the Bilibo Imagination Toy was a “miss” for my son.  But I like it!  Except I don’t have a use for it as an adult.  Chips and salsa anyone?

Filed in categories: Kid Gadgets

Tagged: Kids, Preschool

What is The Bilibo Imagination Toy? originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on August 21, 2009 at 10:08 pm.

Hogwild Beetle Spoons and Sporks have a wacky design that allows the folded wings to rotate 180 degrees from the closed position to the extended and ready-to-use position. They are dishwasher safe and come with an individual travel case that slides neatly into backpacks, lunch boxes or picnic baskets. They just might help you bribe your kids to eat their veggies… maybe.

Filed in categories: Kid Gadgets

Tagged: Cooking, Kids

Crazy folding spoons for kids originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on July 14, 2009 at 6:41 am.

Do you feel a draft? Did we forget to close the door?

Ever since I was a kid geek, I wanted to be an astronaut.  What’s better than flying around space in a rocket?  Watching your kid play with a toy version!

When given a chance to review some “kid” items from ThinkGeek, I jumped at the iPlay Lift-Off Rocket.

Here are the features from the ThinkGeek website:

• For ages 18 months and up
• Has On/Off switch and volume control
• Cockpit compartment with room for two astronauts
• Kitchen compartment with a murphy bed that folds and has a toilet underneath
• A Stow away dune buggy in the cargo hold and can store figures
• Has a handle for easy and convenient transporting
• Press button to see engines light up and plays realistic rocket sounds
• Operates on 2 “AA” Batteries (included)
• The Rocket is approx. 16″ high

Comes With

• Alien
• Moon Crater
• Dune Buggy
• Space Dog
• Two Astronauts

The kit comes in one of those newfangled toy packages where every single bit is tied down with impenetrable metal twistie-ties.  Being impatient, I ended up using a very kid-unfriendly knife to free the toys from the box.

The figures (astronauts, dog, alien) are simple, one-piece semi-soft plastic toys.  No posable limbs, but nothing to break off, either.

The yellow “moon crater” and dune buggy fits all the figures, EXCEPT the dog.  I guess in space things are just not dog-friendly yet!

The cockpit fits two astronauts.  Won’t fit the dog or alien (yes I tried).  I noticed the hatch detaches from the hinge out if you tug hard enough.  I thought that was odd at first until I came upon the dune buggy hatch (see below).

The middle compartment houses the kitchen/bedroom/toilet.  It’s rather well apportioned with a bed that folds up to reveal a toilet (complete with toilet paper roll and reading material on a shelf).  I’m sure the toilet comes in handy after drinking all that coffee from the pretend coffee maker on the counter.  The bed has a small divot for a helmeted astronaut.

The lowest compartment is a garage for the dune buggy.  The hatch conveniently serves as a ramp, complete with wheel grooves.

In a major design flaw, I noticed a seated astronaut can’t simply drive into the bay, without risking head trauma.

Like the cockpit hatch, the garage “door/ramp” also detaches easily.  This time, I noticed a spring-loaded ball-and-socket hinge that makes replacing the door a snap.  I am guessing these removable doors are intended to prevent permanent damage with heavy-handed kids (or adults) who might try tearing off the hatches.   Nothing is worse than being in space and not having any doors!

There is a button on the convenient handle which creates “background space noises” when held horizontally, and a “countdown” when the rocket is upright in launch position.  Red lights at the rocket “thrusters” flash in unison to the sounds.  A three-way switch on the rocket allows you to set to volume, or off completely.

Click for movie of the iPlay Lift-Off Rocket in action (.mov file)

(In the clip, my son is actually making supplementary “whooshing” sounds as the rocket flies.)

You'll have to wait your turn to play!

My son was actually scared of the rocket when I made the mistake of demonstrating the sound of the countdown.  I think it startled him.  Now he calls it “scary” but yet at times, is perfectly content playing with it at Grandmas’ house.  I guess rockets and Grandmas go together somehow.

Filed in categories: Kid Gadgets

Tagged: Kids, Rockets

iPlay Lift-Off Rocket Review originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on May 19, 2009 at 7:38 am.