Top Kid Tech Gifts for 2008 : Preschool: Thomas and Friends Talking Railway
By Linsey Knerl , published on November 10, 2008 at 1:40 AM
|
It’s a train that most kids already know about, but this Thomas and Friends Talking Railway from Learning Curve is unique! All the engines and cars in this new set feature Engine Recognition Technology, which allows the train destinations to “talk” to them! The cars themselves don’t use batteries, which is perfect for parents wanting to cut back. We loved that this set didn’t compromise solid construction in favor of the new electronic features. You can start small with a few cars, or build the biggest set for more conversation. The set starts at $149 and is available at Toys R Us.
|
|
Sponsored links
Sponsored links
*Sigh*
Stop buying this crap for kids `under 5.' These kids don't need these things nor really care. Give 'em sticks, a dog, rocks, maybe a bb gun or something. Get them a toy hammer. How about a baseball and glove. Don't begin their life as a sedentary mush ball. Start them running and developing. THEN give them gadgets after they've learned to be active so that they don't just turn into future cardiovascular and diabetes nightmares.
*Sigh*Stop buying this crap for kids `under 5.' These kids don't need these things nor really care. Give 'em sticks, a dog, rocks, maybe a bb gun or something. Get them a toy hammer. How about a baseball and glove. Don't begin their life as a sedentary mush ball. Start them running and developing. THEN give them gadgets after they've learned to be active so that they don't just turn into future cardiovascular and diabetes nightmares.
Thanks, Malveaux, for your keen social commentary. I, also, hope that parents don't limit their children's free time to technology and toys in lieu of physical play.
Rachel Rosmarin, Editor, Tom's Guide
Actually, my friend just got one and from what he said, it's hardly a sedentary toy. His daughter is about 2 years old and she uses her smart-e-bear as a teddy bear at night, but loves rocking out and dancing to the music during the day. She goes crazy dancing every time it plays "Five Little Monkeys".
The picture above may be a bit misleading, but the toy isn't tethered to a computer at all when the kid uses it, only when the parents want to change the music or settings.
I agree our kids need less screen time and more play time, but I wouldn't discount all gadgets as bad for them, especially ones that might make them get up and be active. Compared the video games and other screen-centric tech toys that are aimed at kids, I think this is a great alternative.
You can have your cake and eat it too, Malviaux! My goodness....get off your lecture horse.