The Best Advice on Children's Products

Dr. Toy’s Alumni

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Dr. Toy’s Alumni is a new lifetime distinction that includes an exclusive, coveted Seal of Excellence signifying stand-out creators of children’s products: the very best designers and entrepreneurs who consistently release brilliant products that inspire, educate, and give hope to children and parents alike. This seal can be used on products, in media advertising and on the Internet.

Limited to a maximum of 30 outstanding companies, Dr. Toy’s Alumni shines the light on the top one percent high-quality educational toy manufacturers and retailers in the industry. Dr. Toy is currently accepting applications for its prestigious Dr. Toy’s Alumni program. Following is a list of current Dr. Toy’s Alumni members.

If you would like to place your company in consideration for Dr. Toy’s Alumni distinction, please learn more here.

Alex Toys Alumni

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Alex Toys
251 Union Street
Northvale,  NJ  07647
USA
Phone: 800.666.ALEX
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Biography:
ALEX's mission is to provide children with quality creative products that foster personal expression and build self-esteem. Over the years, ALEX has grown and today produces over 1,000 items in expanded categories of toys: imaginative and dramatic play, fashion and jewelry, whimsical children’s furniture, Rub A Dub® and Tub Tunes® bath toys, ALEX Little Hands® preschool products and ALEX Jr.®, developmental, plush and bath toys for baby.[embed]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NR30PcyQlGw[/embed]

B.Dazzle Inc. Alumni

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b. dazzle, inc.
500 Meyer Lane
Redondo Beach,  CA  90278
Phone: 310.374.3000
Work Fax: 310.318.6692
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Biography:
b. dazzle, inc. is the manufacturer of award winning Scramble Squares® 9-piece brain teaser puzzles and Color 'n Seek® hidden pictures art activities for All ages of children, teens, adults and senior citizens, from 4 to 104! Founded in 1993 by Kathie Gavin, b. dazzle introduced its first products, four Scramble Squares® puzzles and four Color 'n Seek® 2-poster flat packs, in January, 1994. Our high value, low cost, made in the USA mind stimulating activities have received a tremendous response from the market and the trade media from the time that they were first introduced. A buyers' survey by GIFTBEAT of a national network of gift buyers, in its February, 1996 issue, ranked b. dazzle, inc. among the top 5 puzzle and game companies, based upon a rating of the gift stores' top three selling items! Both Scramble Squares® and Color 'n Seek® have been winners of The Great American Toy Test. [embed]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fu0ANWtH5T8[/embed]

Baby Buzz'r International, LLC Alumni

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Phone: 801.495.2229
Work Fax: 801.572.2984
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Biography:
Greetings fellow caregivers and friends! Many years ago, after the birth of my first son, I was frustrated with a fussy and wiggly baby who seemed to be in constant motion. I tried everything to calm and distract him. Nothing worked, and my wife and I both felt stressed and worn out. My pager had a vibrating mode, and I discovered that when he played with it, he amazingly became calmer, happier, and content! I searched every local toy and baby store for a 'vibrating rattle,' but I couldn't find one. Yikes! I knew other caregivers needed this, so I invented the Baby Buzz'r®! Call it a toy, a medical device, whatever... it is a lifesaver, time saver, and sanity saver for everyone! [embed]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VSedOePLPGU[/embed]

Bag-O-Loot, LLC Alumni

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Bag-O-Loot, LLC
P.O. Box 1084
Laconia,  NH  03247
USA
Phone: 855-355-4263
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Biography:
Bag-O-Loot is a rummy-type game with two twists: stealing cards from other players, and bluffing. It is a perfect balance of strategy, luck, interaction, and excitement. Each player is dealt seven cards. During your turn you can start new sets (called collections) by laying two matching cards face up in front of you; you can build on your existing collections; and you can steal collections from other players. You can also make one Bag-O-Loot per turn by completing a set of five cards. The specialized playing cards are packaged in a gold draw string bag that is great for travel.

[embed]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aFvEgf23fzQ[/embed]

Boikido Alumni

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Boikido | Gorgeous Products Inc.
P.O. Box 6306
Vernon Hills,  IL  60061
USA
Phone: (847) 984-6158
Work Fax: (847) 847-1157
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Notes
Based in France, the award winning Boikido wooden toy line champions active, self-driven play for kids in lieu of more passive, electronic toys and games. Our fresh approach to an old classic offers parents and young kids a wide variety of musical, educational and developmental toys, along with an eco-friendly range, painted in whimsical colors and patterns unlike what’s in the marketplace today.

Launched in 2003, Boikido was created to meet the growing needs of parents and gift givers seeking toys and games that actively help develop imagination and cognition, toys that stimulate and engage children.

The company also decided to take a new approach to traditional wooden toys by giving them a unique look and brand image that is more suitable to the needs of the modern parent. Our designers create colorful and imaginative toys that are educational and at the same time fun for children. The colors are more up-to-date, and the toys have creative themes and characters that really appeal to kids’ imaginations. All Boikido toys are tested with children and are very safe, meeting or exceeding U.S. and European safety standards.

And to further show our commitment to meeting the needs of modern toy purchasers, Boikido also has an environmentally responsible line, Boikido ECO-FRIENDLY, toys made of Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified wood, non-toxic water based paints and recycled cardboard packaging printed with soy bean ink. Our eco-friendly line of wooden toys also feature whimsical designs and characters, but with the special focus of sustaining our environment while maintaining a high level of social awareness.

Cepia LLC Alumni

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Cepia LLC
121 Hunter Avenue, Suite 103
St. Louis,  MO  63124
USA
Phone: 1-800-225-9319
Work Fax: 1-314-725-4919
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Biography:
Founded in 2002, Cepia LLC is a privately held company headquartered in St. Louis, MO. Combining kid-friendly technology and innovative creative; the company’s fundamental philosophy is to transform simplistic ideas into magical experiences for kids. Cepia LLC launched into the industry with the toy phenomenon and winner of 2010 “Toy of the Year” awards in seven different countries: ZhuZhu Pets®. Cepia LLC’s other toy enterprises include: Xia-Xia™, Glo-E®, and DaGeDar®. All Cepia LLC toys are sold globally through national chain retail outlets and independent toy stores. For more information, please visit cepiallc.com, zhuniverse.com, dagedar.com, and xia-xiapets.com. [embed]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qsH6AB4QwzI[/embed]

Discover With Dr. Cool Alumni

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Discover With Dr. Cool
711 Beach St
Ashland,  OR  97520
Phone: (855) 4DR COOL (437-2665)
Biography:
The Discover with Dr. Cool science line is all about the thrill of adventure—something we believe drives all scientific discoveries.  Our mission is to show kids the cooler side of science with our unique series of earth science kits.   Each kit offers an exciting hands-on experience that will inspire young learners with the wonders of the natural world.   Whether they’re cracking open geodes, peering into ancient amber, examining real bugs, or uncovering fossils like a real palaeontologist—all the Discover with Dr. Cool kits are so much fun that kids won’t even realize they’re learning![embed]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MBRscMHBlOQ[/embed]

FirstBIKE™ Company Inc., The Alumni

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The FirstBIKE™ Company Inc.
105 Church Street
Millersburg,  PA  17061
USA
Phone: 1-855-MY-1-BIKE
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Biography:
The FirstBIKE™ Story: Ralf Coerschulte, an avid German cyclist, product designer,, and father of three, developed FirstBIKE with one goal: to build the best balance bike for younger children, allowing them to learn to ride a bike intuitively and without stress. After years of fine-tuning and testing, he succeeded in creating an unparalleled product that is deemed to be the safest on the market in terms of features supporting a child’s physical development. FirstBIKE has also proven to be a great helper when it comes to the development of a child’s self-confidence, sense of independence, and enjoyment of learning.

Education and Development: FirstBIKE™ gives children a head start. Experts agree that through the development of balance, gross motor skills, and a sense of independence, children are given the confidence they need for further success, both socially and in the classroom. FirstBIKE supports the development of balance and provides a no-stress method of learning to ride a bike.

Highest Quality Materials and Safety: FirstBIKE is durable, lightweight, comfortable, and safe. The high-tech, injection-molded GFT™ composite frame doesn't scratch, splinter, swell, or rust like wood or metal. The frame is flexible allowing for shock-absorption and protection of your child’s spine. The special saddle-shaped, tools-free adjustable seat ensures a child does not slip off when riding downhill (unlike common pedal bike saddles used on other balance bikes). A steering limiter also helps young riders ride smoother and helps prevent rough falls. The hand-controlled, rear drum SafetyStop™ brake ensures very gentle and gradual braking; the braking power can be adjusted (unlike the commonly used rear V-brake, this unique drum brake is also safe for little fingers). There are no sharp edges or protruding screws.

Growth: FirstBIKE grows with your child until they're ready for pedals (suggested age: 22 months - 5 years old). The innovative LowKit™ lowering adapter allows children to ride from as young as 22 months. FirstBIKE eliminates the need for training wheels which are counterproductive and do not support proper posture or spinal development. Comfortable, lightweight, and maneuverable, FirstBIKE ensures your child can travel long distances (even over rough terrain) without getting tired. The bike has a limited lifetime warranty.

Award Winning and Above Standard Certifications: Winner of toy awards across Europe and the United States, FirstBIKE has also passed above standard product and safety testing. [embed]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yB7ntnei6PQ[/embed]

Folkmanis Puppets Alumni

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Folkmanis Puppets
1219 Park Ave
Emeryville,  CA  94608
Phone: 800.654.8922
Phone: 510.658.7677
Work Fax: 510.654.7756
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Biography:
Folkmanis® Puppets believes imagination is the key to a healthy childhood, encouraging play and discovery to develop the skills necessary in life. The company has been making the most innovative and engaging specialty puppets in the world since 1976, delighting imaginations and winning nearly every industry, child development, and kid-tested award, many repeatedly. [embed]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R7Boylf1gs8[/embed]

Gibout Toys Alumni

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Gibout Toys
Eagan,  MN  55123
USA
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Biography:
Our Vision. Gibout Toys started with a vision to create unique toys that fuel the imagination. A passion to provide high-quality toys that will grow with your child, rather than become yesterday’s passing fad. We care a great deal about the environment, and are a strong advocate for protecting it. That's why we specialize in toys that are made of renewable wood, plant-based rubber, water-based paints and have a low production impact on the environment. We go to great lengths to provide toys without toxic paints, plastics, or other harmful chemicals, regardless of where they are manufactured.

About the founder: With a new baby in tow, Cheri Citrowske was struggling to find unique products to fill her nursery. She was looking for something fun to stack in the corner. Specifically, a larger, softer version of classic wooden, building blocks. When her search proved fruitless, she decided to make the blocks herself. “What started as nursery décor turned into my daughter’s favorite toy – eight years later, they are still the most popular toys at our house.” They are fun for any age. Whether you have a child that’s just learning to walk and looking for something soft to pull up on, or an active four-year-old who is constantly tearing apart the couch cushions to build forts. They are a one-size-fits-all toy that grows with your child. The hardest part is deciding which pattern to get. We are proud to say that all of our plush blocks are assembled locally, in the United States. Mix, match and make!“We’re excited to introduce a toy that inspires creativity, is safe for any age and, perhaps best of all, adds room aesthetic instead of clutter,” said Cheri Citrowske, president of Gibout Toys. “Gibout Toys is truly a long-time dream realized.”

Jay @ Play Alumni

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Jay @ Play | Seat Pets
Browns Wharf, 40R Merrimac Street, Suite 202E
Newburyport,  MA  01950
USA
Phone: 888.481.0235
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Biography:
Jay@Play International offers solution-based products that have been lauded by the toy industry, bloggers and the press. Established in 2004, Jay@Play is a Hong Kong-based company with a showroom in New York City. Their products are distributed internationally through companies that promote all of their brands on television. Following the worldwide success of its Little Miss Muffin and Happy Nappers product lines, Jay@Play introduced CuddleUppets and Shamzees in 2012. New products for 2013 will include SeatPets, I Luv Shmoozees and Tummy Stuffers. Jay@Play International is a subsidiary of Jay Franco & Sons, Inc., an industry leader in the home-furnishing category.

[embed]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vZE7IFuuYCQ[/embed]

LaQ USA, Inc. Alumni

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LaQ USA, Inc.
1293 North Plano Road
Richardson,  TX  75081
USA
Phone: 9722319131
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Biography:
LaQ is a new type of toy block that can create flat, 2 dimensional, 3 dimensional, and spherical models from just 7 types of blocks, available in 10 different colors. The base parts are square and triangle shaped pieces. These base parts are connected by 5 types of cleverly angled joint parts. Children and adults will enjoy the fun snap! and click! There is an infinite possibility to what can be created from LaQ.

Beginners can start out by simply enjoying connecting the parts. The SNAP! and CLICK! sound LaQ makes when connecting the parts is addicting fun for children as well as adults.

Beginners can start out with flat models, creating various colorful patterns.Once a child learns how adding an angled joint will make the model 2 dimensional, a flat model of an animal can become realistic by making it 2 dimensional and 3 dimensional.

There are many construction toy blocks which have dolls and special parts as options, but LaQ offers an infinite possibility of creation from just 2 base parts and 5 joint parts. LaQ is a very simple, yet highly creative construction toy which can CREATE SPHERICAL MODELS FROM BLOCKS! LaQ is used in nursing homes and medical facilities to aid in rehabilitation, and is considered to be an ideal toy block for improving manual skills and prevent dementia.

LaQ's parent company is Yoshiritsu. The company philosophy of YOSHIRITSU CO., LTD. is to value the spirituality of Japanese tradition while respecting harmonious balance with different cultures. Ancient Japanese culture paid high respect to the balance with nature, people and the spiritual world. In modern times we see a struggle with these balances on a global level. The balance with nature has changed as we can see from the serious environmental crisis the world faces. The balance of the Eastern and Western Powers is being tested as to whether mankind can elevate to a world of peace, or face conflict and destruction from negligence and prejudice and disrespect.

Our philosophy and quest is to produce innovative original products that have no boundaries in culture or age. We hope that children and families around the world will enjoy our household products and toys. Our hopes are to reach out to children in every country around the world with our educational toys and become a part of their education and growth. Our wish is for a world where all children can experience the joys and freedom to play with a good toy, and to simply, enjoy the riches of childhood.

Our experiences as a child are a part of who we become, and how we play a role in our society. We believe that a good toy is not simply an object to “play” with, but has a much deeper value.

All products made by YOSHIRITSU CO., LTD. are the result of our company philosophy dedicated to contribute to a world with safe, educational toys for children, and a world of fair trade.

[embed]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gx1bjhf_RQY[/embed]

Metamorphic Toys Inc. Alumni

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Metamorphic Toys, Inc.
3929 Williston Road
Minnetonka,  MN  55345
USA
Phone: 952-938-5698
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Biography:
Metamorphic Toys designs toys that encourage creative expression and imaginative interactive play while reinforcing environmental responsibility. All Metamorphic Toys are made in the U.S.A. using materials that are kind to the environment, safe for kids and 100% recyclable.

Dave Berglund on the Inspiration for Metamorphic Toys.

“The most emotional revelation for me as a parent was watching how my child lived through her imagination and creativity,” says Berglund, who left his job as a commercial playground designer for 10 years to become a stay-at-home dad. “Her unbridled joy and curiosity for everything in her world was amazing. I didn’t want the toys she played with to suck that out of her. So I decided to do something about it in an eco-friendly way.”

[embed]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AA4eFh_6BGI[/embed]

Non-Trivia Quest Alumni

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Non-Trivia Quest LLC (formally Non-Trivial Quest LLC)
2415 San Ramon Valley Blvd.
San Ramon,  CA  94583
USA
Phone: Please call 925-804-6063 to place order.
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Biography:
Non-Trivial Quest is a new educational family board game that will be available for sale April 2, 2011. Samples are being distributed now for product evaluation, rating, and awards. Advertising and listing is in process through the game media.

Company Overview The game is the brainchild of Douglas Arduini, the inventor and developer. He started working on the idea in 1987 and finally finished the game in 2010 with the help of his Daughters Debbie and Shari after he retired as an electronic engineer. His inspiration was the need for a game to learn important things that we need to know in our everyday lives in today’s world, including what we wish we were taught in school or had learned in life earlier to make our lives better. He saw a need for an educational game of non-trivia for all of the important and valuable things that we need to know and learn in our lives in today’s complicated and competing world, versus trivia which is in most other games on the market.

Description The objective of the game is to be educational as well as fun, exciting, and entertaining as it stimulates our memory, thinking, awareness, and discussion while playing and competing with family and friends. The game includes 300 Question & Answer cards within 6 subject categories. The game is quite unique and has a patent pending and is trademarked and copyrighted. Non-Trivial Quest LLC is a California Corporation established in 2010 to develop, manufacture, and sell the family board game Non-Trivial Quest.

General Information We will be introducing this unique board game through trade shows, game media magazines, catalogs, and blogs, with distribution planned through distributors and sales representatives, plus on our Web site to order direct. We have 5,000 games of the First Edition USA Version arriving at the end of March 2011.

Mission The objective of the game is to be educational as well as fun, exciting, and entertaining as it stimulates our memory, thinking, awareness, and discussion while playing and competing with family and friends.

OWI Robotics Alumni

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OWI, Inc.
17141 Kingsview Avenue
Carson,  CA  90808
USA
Phone: 310.515.6800
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Biography:
In 1980, OWI Incorporated, was looking for a way to expand its consumer product lines and bring its extensive technology background to the educational community. RobotiKits™ and OWIKits® were developed to affordably introduce students to robotics, science, and solar technology. The kits are available in five difficultly levels--ranging from beginners with no experience up to advanced circuit board soldering and mechanical assembly-- challenging builders from grade school to adult. In conjunction with educators, OWI Inc. has developed a fully structured teaching curriculum with modules tailored to the kit’s unique electronic and mechanical features. OWI Inc. is a leading supplier of robotic, aluminum bug kits, building and solar kits to schools, science clubs, science education centers and science camps. The kits are available at hobby, educational, toy and museum stores nationwide.[embed]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CuWVfewJCRE[/embed]

Preschool Prep Company Alumni

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P.O. Box 1159
Danville,  CA  94526
USA
Phone: 1-866-451-5600
Phone: 1-925-743-1400
Work Fax: 1-925-886-4843
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Biography:
Preschool Prep Company™ was formed to research and develop tools that would help educate children in their early years. One two-month study and thousands of hours of research and development later, Preschool Prep Company™ brings to the market a line of products that help young children master letters, numbers, shapes and colors before they are even able to speak. The company is dedicated to helping children develop a strong foundation with which to learn how to read. Preschool Prep Series™ products provide a set of vital tools for children to use when they are ready. All products are designed to teach toddlers and babies during an opportune window of time when they are learning to talk.[embed]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pyfgpJuCBnw[/embed]

Rubbabu Inc. Alumni

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Rubbabu Inc.
105-501 Silverside Road
Wilmington,  DE  19809
USA
Phone: 732.428.5544
Work Fax: 732 428 5530
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Biography:
Rubbabu's hand made natural foam toys in simple shapes and bright colors are loved by kids and parents alike. Soft and safe for even the youngest children, tactile and bendable, they offer endless play value and learning. Rubbabu toys encourage imaginative play. They are strong and durable, one of those toys that become a child’s favorite companion for many years.[embed]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qjrk5ldudWU[/embed]

Schoenhut Piano Alumni

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Schoenhut Piano Company Inc.
6480-B US 1 North
St. Augustine,  FL  32095
USA
Phone: 888.414.2739
Phone: 904.810.1945
Work Fax: 904.823.9213
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Biography:
Our initial introduction to Schoenhut® toy pianos was a case of love at first sight. Since 1996 when we joined forces with Len's brother Frank Trinca in the operation of Schoenhut Piano Company, the thrill of designing, manufacturing, and marketing these precious little instruments has not wavered. We traveled back and forth for five years between our home in St. Augustine, Florida and the Schoenhut factory in Rochester, New York. When a spacious warehouse facility in St. Augustine became available, after much discussion the three of us agreed to relocate the business. Frank would serve as a consultant and help at trade shows, while we would concentrate on expanding the business. Along with many of Albert Schoenhut's original designs, we began offering new styles and colors each year. All prototypes are designed and hand-built by Len.

Recently introduced are Piano Pals that "grow with your child," as well as mid-sized 49-key stringed pianos. The stringed pianos incorporate perfect pitch and true piano sound, the only piano of its kind in the world. We also have a patent pending on another revolutionary, state-of-the-art toy piano. Although Albert designed musical instruments with children in mind, we were delighted to discover that many professional musicians regard Schoenhut toy pianos as serious concert instruments. John Cage started the ball rolling in 1948 when he composed "Suite for Toy Piano." Since then, interest has skyrocketed. This trend gives a new perspective about Schoenhut and attests to the high quality of our products.

For several years, a staff of craftsmen (numbering 20 to 36, depending on the season) hand-built all Schoenhut toy pianos and other musical products at our factory in Florida. As the business grew, so did our exposure. Competitors began manufacturing slightly altered copies of Schoenhut toy pianos in China. Unfortunately, the majority of retailers demanded "lower costs" over "made in the USA." To stay in business and remain competitive, most Schoenhut toy pianos are now manufactured at our facilities overseas. Many Schoenhut products are still made here in the USA, such as thumb pianos, psalteries, and harps, with other musical instruments soon to follow. Our promise to you is 100% customer satisfaction.

We are proud of Schoenhut's reputation for safe toys and high quality products, trademarks of the company since 1872. It is extremely rewarding to provide musical instruments for relaxation and entertainment. We have met thousands of interesting people at trade shows, concerts, media events, and during tours of our factory. There is always a new story ... for example, a pet learning to play a toy piano, details of how a child's introduction to music later resulted in a successful career, or pictures of vintage Schoenhut pianos that have been in families for over a century. We love hearing when a special needs child is inspired by one of our musical instruments. Nothing makes us happier than finding a good home for a Schoenhut toy. As we tell anyone who has a question about Schoenhut, we are just a phone call or email away. [embed]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vhdMUxf_flQ[/embed]

Songwaves Alumni

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Visit Website
Biography:
Songs that make you smile!

Thames & Kosmos Alumni

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Thames & Kosmos, LLC
301 Friendship St.
Providence,  RI  02903
Phone: 800.587.2872
Phone: 401.459.6787
Work Fax: 401.459.6775
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Biography:
Thames & Kosmos (T&K) was founded in 2001 with the mission of improving informal science education by publishing high-quality science and technology related educational products for children of all ages. T&K places an emphasis on teaching concepts and skills through hands-on modeling of real-world devices and processes, and by offering comprehensive, meaningful reading materials for a rich learning experience. T&K is headquartered in Providence, RI. [embed]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eHe0nfyHGwg[/embed]

The Learning Journey International Alumni

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The Learning Journey International, L.L.C.
24435 North 20th Drive
Phoenix,  AZ  85085
USA
Phone: 877.839.3969
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Biography:
The Learning Journey has been designing and manufacturing an exclusive line of award-winning children's interactive educational products. All products at The Learning Journey encourage learning and develop confidence as they enhance a child's potential. All products build on the skills necessary for children to be prepared for school and beyond.

The Learning Journey opened its doors in 1995 and is now in numerous international markets with products in multiple languages, including a large range of bilingual products. As The Learning Journey manufactures and distributes its own exclusive product line, our products offer excellent value for your money while at the same time offering you high educational value. With The Learning Journey's complete range of interactive products, children have fun while learning and parents and educators know they have the right quality educational products for their children.

At The Learning Journey we... (1) Incorporate the latest educational research in the development of our products, (2) Support the National Curriculum, (3) Offer great values at affordable prices, (4) Teach a comprehensive range of skill sets introduced to children at the appropriate age in their early lives, (5) Offer an exciting award winning product line in four fun categories.

The Learning Journey has one mission - To provide an opportunity to offer every parent affordable, high quality educational materials to ensure a successful start in school for their children. We now invite you to check out our website and our online store to learn more about the exciting products and all that The Learning Journey has to offer.[embed]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eHuS2OiKFUs[/embed]

TravelKiddy Alumni

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TravelKiddy
2600 Cherryridge Road
Cherry Hills Village,  CO  80113
USA
Phone: 303-513-8504
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Biography:
The mission of TravelKiddy is Amusing Kids Here, There and Everywhere! In keeping with that spirit, we offer a full array of travel toys, challenging games, and, of course, activity kits. It all began with an activity kit. TravelKiddy activity kits were born out of necessity. Living in Hong Kong, we were faced with a long flight every time we wanted to leave the island - including a 27 hour journey to visit friends and family in the United States. Determined to make it tolerable, I began making activity kits for our kids. After numerous requests from friends, fellow travelers, and even flight attendants, I decided to create them for others.

What's a TravelKiddy? In short, A TravelKiddy is an adventure in a bag. A bundle of toys, activities and crafts that are carefully selected to challenge and engage kids for extended periods of quiet play. Our kits are designed to:

  • Encourage creativity
  • Develop fine motor skills
  • Spark the imagination and
  • Foster learning
And, we have discovered the need to keep kids busy and happy expands beyond travel - restaurants, churches and doctors waiting rooms are just a few of the places where we find ourselves trying to keep kids quiet and entertained. We have created a variety of activity kits and stock a plethora of products to meet these needs!

All our products are kid tested, parent approved, travel ready and most are TSA friendly.

WABA Fun LLC Alumni

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WABA Fun LLC
13654 Xavier Lane
Broomfield,  CO  80023
USA
Phone: 303.410.7172
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Biography:
Our Philosophy

We believe toys should be fun. Fun to play with, certainly, but also fun to return to again and again. Our toys may not be the flashiest or have built-in touch screens, but they are open-ended to permit children the chance to be their most creative and develop problem solving skills and self-confidence.

Our Story

David McCloskey has been a dedicated kid-at-heart throughout his technology-focused career, but he always kept his toys in the play room. Until now. In 2003, David looked into the void and saw an idea and he put his career as a computer game producer behind him to launch his new vision. (Officially, he was a victim of an opportunely-timed corporate restructuring. What else was he to do with all that time on his hands?)

For David, the void was the wide-open empty spaces between Tinkertoy rods and connectors. His (now patented) innovation literally filled in the gaps. He created safe, durable foam panels that popped into those spaces, adding a new surface that gives children even greater imaginative possibilities. He added fun characters so someone could fly the plane or pilot the ship that his children had just created. And he designed step-by-step visual instructions in 3-D so young builders could easily recreate even the most monstrously complex constructions without even having to read. Numerous connector modifications later, along with a vibrant new color palate and some engineering playtime, and Superstructs construction sets were born.

At the same time David was launching his vision, Jeffrey Barnett was looking to help make a big improvement in the lives of young children. Jeffrey had discovered, as many people do while working for large corporations, that the people who could really benefit from using a specific product where also the people least-likely to actually know about or get their hands on that product.

In Jeffrey’s case, the key product was called Deltasand, made by a small manufacturer in Sweden. Deltasand is a unique mixture of sand and polymers that made it act and feel like wet beach sand, but is completely dry. He saw how product would be fantasticfor fine-motor skill development and how its play pattern was completely open-ended. Children could perform specific exercises or make whatever they wanted and develop their own problem-solving skills.

In the blink of an eye, Jeffrey saw how Occupational Therapists could use Deltasand with children with special needs.

Having researched the company and discovering their origins in Sweden, Jeffrey believed that a European company would never do business with his proposed start-up company in the US...until 3 months later while waiting for an elevator in New Orleans. Jeffrey shared the elevator with Jonas Model, the inventor of Deltasand and founder of Delta of Sweden. One quick elevator ride, a dinner invite, and a few months later Delta of North America, LLC was born.

The following year, while attending an Occupational Therapy conference in Colorado, Jeffrey met David and an instant friendship started. It took some time, but they both realized they could do a better job of servicing their customers and getting their products to those who needed them most by joining companies.

WABA Fun now has offices in Loveland, Colorado and in Halmstad, Sweden. Its products have won over 20 toy industry awards are sold in over 50 countries worldwide.

X Plus Products, Inc. Alumni

Photo of X Plus Products, Inc.
X Plus Products, Inc.
P.O. Box 693
Gotha,  FL  34734
USA
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Biography:
X Plus Products, Inc. is a manufacturing company that manufactures and distributes board games. Its two primary products are Commander-In-Chief and Po-Rum-Bo plus related products.

Our company is based on the belief that our customers' needs are of the utmost importance. Our entire team is committed to meeting those needs. As a result, we continually expect a high percentage of our business to come from repeat customers and referrals.

We would welcome the opportunity to earn your trust and deliver you the best service in the industry.

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