Feb 132013
 

These days, it’s difficult to associate the word “web” with anything other than the Internet. But back in the day, if you were a boy, the mere mention of that word led to thoughts of creepy, crawling things and, of course, Spider-Man. Having just returned from Toy Fair, we are happy to report that the comic book hero is still alive and well, and maintaining his presence on toy store shelves. In fact, come this summer, we think boys everywhere will be clamoring for the latest Spidey incarnation: Uncle Milton’s Spider-Man Web Creator Lab. Part of the Marvel Science brand, this play set will help kids fashion their own webs that can be sticky or stretchy. (Arachnophobics need not apply.) Since the next Spider-Man movie won’t be out for another year, this play lab will help kids get their Spidey fix. Other sets in the Marvel Science line include Iron Man’s Arc Reactor Lab and another starring the Incredible Hulk who breaks out of his vault and grows when placed in water. And you thought bath time at your house was a bit dramatic…

In a Nutshell: Superheroes and science go hand in hand with this new line of Marvel Comics-inspired playsets. The entire collection will be available this August.

Uncle Milton - Marvel Science - Spider-Man Web Creator Lab

 

 

 

 

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Sep 192012
 

As the first leaves over our pond slowly begin to show hints of red, I’ve been noticing more of the local wildlife anticipating the coming change in seasons. Squirrels that have scampered playfully these last few months are suddenly scampering to gather nuts (yes, already!), while the Canadian geese have returned to claim their share of the pond waters. It won’t be long before all the trees are dressed in a rich palette of reds, oranges and yellows and, dare I say, the first snowflakes decide to fall. Because my family delights in watching these changes in nature take place, we try to do our part in caring for our fellow “friends”–and that includes those of the feathered variety. If you think birdwatching/bird-feeding is…well, for the birds, then consider a creative way to keep your child interested and engaged in their care-taking. We’ve become quite enamored with Wild Birds Unlimited’ line of novelty bird feeders. Their whimsical collection of specially shaped bird food cylinders, including Preston the Penguin, Hoot the Owl and Buttons the Snowman, are bound to catch the eye of any budding bird lover. Simply remove the feeders from their packaging, pick an ideal viewing spot for outdoor display and await your backyard visitors. Each cylinder is packed with a variety of seeds and dried fruits like peanuts, black oil sunflower and safflower to attract the most discriminating diners. Not only will the birds appreciate the sustenance for the cold winter months, but you may wind up cultivating a future orinthologist. Or birds of a feather, as they call them in my family.

In a Nutshell: Nature becomes front and center for kids with these limited-edition bird feeders in an array of entertaining styles.

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Aug 082012
 

My 8-year-old’s best friend went on an African safari earlier this year, and truly had a chance to explore the wild. While a trip to the Bronx Zoo is as close to the animals as our family will probably get, there are still plenty of entertaining and educational ways to experience the wonders of the animal kingdom without leaving home. Uncle Milton’s new Nat Geo Wild line of puzzles, toys and games spotlight the many inhabitants that make up our jungles, oceans, rainforests and other natural surroundings. We got our paws on the African Safari Dominoes, featuring up-close-and-personal photography so lifelike, you’ll almost feel like the animals are right there with you. Not only does this game have an easy-to-follow format (think regular domino rules, minus the dots), but it comes packaged in a portable metal tin, making it ideal for summer travel. Other highlights in the line include a bug vacuum in the likeness of an ant eater and puzzles featuring the most darling baby animals. So, if you can’t make it to the zoo before school starts up, break out the Nat Geo games and have yourselves a wild time! Uncle Milton’s Nat Geo Wild line is currently available at Barnes & Noble stores.

In a Nutshell: Go on a safari during playtime, and learn a thing or two about the vast world that we share with creatures great and small. No passport required.

 

 

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Dec 192011
 

I must confess: I am a weather geek. Nothing gives me quite a thrill as the words “five-day forecast.” Just ask my husband. He says I refer to rain as “precip” (do I really?), and that I smile when I hear the weather man say, “High pressure will dominate.” Naturally, when we had children, I hope to spread my love of all things weather and eventually cultivate my own little storm chasers. What better way than with a kid-friendly weather station? If you’re looking for a last-minute holiday gift for a kid who’s more at home outdoors than in, we predict you’ll love the Storm Chaser Portable Weather Pod. Part of the Backyard Safari Outfitters collection, this handy gadget goes wherever the wind takes you to figure out the forecast. A built-in anemometer measures wind speed, while a weather vane tells you the direction it’s blowing. Trying to find out just how much rain, sleet or snow is headed your way–or whether Santa’s ride will be a smooth one this Christmas Eve? Set this baby up outside on a flat surface (it has three extendable legs) and see how much precip collects in the pull-out water gauge. No matter if it’s a White Christmas or a wet one, you’re bound to have a budding meteorologist on your hands.

In a Nutshell: The forecast calls for holiday toys that go the distance. This toy is one that keeps kids engaged, no matter the weather.

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