tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-44708738604283458782024-03-05T17:47:24.947-08:00Professor PlayFair's Toys and Science for Kids of All AgesProfessor PlayFair says: "It's smart to have fun - it's fun to be smart!" Professor PlayFair's blog is brought you by PlayFair Toys of Boulder, Colorado - "The Planet's Only Toy Store Run by a (Slightly Eccentric) Science Professor!". We share our thoughts on toys of all kinds and why they are so much fun, books, the environment, sustainable living, and anything else we feel like saying today!Professor PlayFairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12387278882156375961noreply@blogger.comBlogger27125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4470873860428345878.post-87235305344022535932010-04-11T20:21:00.000-07:002010-04-11T20:27:24.717-07:00Play on Words GameI really liked the look of this game, and it was surprising how many words I could come up with in just one minute. But I often end up modifying game rules to suit myself, and Play on Words by Winning Moves was no exception. It's easily modified to fit a wide variety of players and situations.<div><br /></div><div><br /><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><object width="480" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/EiZrvdDGWkU&hl=en_US&fs=1&color1=0x402061&color2=0x9461ca"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/EiZrvdDGWkU&hl=en_US&fs=1&color1=0x402061&color2=0x9461ca" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object></div><br /><div>There's a special offer on this item at PlayFair Toys through April 18, 2010, so if you're watching before that, head over to the <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/secret.html">Clever Clubhouse</a> page to see what that's about. Otherwise check out Play on Words at <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/product/Play-on-Words-Game">www.playfairtoys.com</a>.</div>Professor PlayFairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12387278882156375961noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4470873860428345878.post-72478587974238925062010-04-06T20:56:00.000-07:002010-04-06T21:09:28.639-07:00Patchwork and Patchword Games hit just the right combination of strategy and luckDan Weaver, CEO and game creator of KnightWeaver Games, has hit a sweet spot in the world of gaming with two related card games - Patchwork and Patchword. It's that combination of luck, skill, and purely random events that happen when there are enough people playing to make the future unpredictable.<br /><br />Both games are played with cards that have different fronts and backs - letters in the case of Patchword, and designs in the case of Patchwork. In both games, players make sets (or spell words) by swapping, flipping, and trading cards. The following videos feature an interview with Dan about how the games were developed, and then how to play each game.<br /><br />You can purchase <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/product/Patchwork-Game">Patchwork</a> and <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/product/Patchword-Game">Patchword</a> at <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/brand/knightweaver-games">PlayFair Toys</a>.<div><br /></div><div>Here's the video of Dan talking about how he came up with the game ideas:</div><div><br /><object width="480" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/yLKplCA88AQ&hl=en_US&fs=1&color1=0x402061&color2=0x9461ca"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/yLKplCA88AQ&hl=en_US&fs=1&color1=0x402061&color2=0x9461ca" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object></div><div><br />Here's how to play Patchwork:</div><div><br /></div><div><object width="480" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/vollEtETr08&hl=en_US&fs=1&color1=0x402061&color2=0x9461ca"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/vollEtETr08&hl=en_US&fs=1&color1=0x402061&color2=0x9461ca" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>And here's how to play its cousin PatchWord:</div><div><br /></div><div><object width="480" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/9f8G1wBQOaY&hl=en_US&fs=1&color1=0x402061&color2=0x9461ca"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/9f8G1wBQOaY&hl=en_US&fs=1&color1=0x402061&color2=0x9461ca" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>So if you're looking for something new and different, these games are both very addicting and loads of fun.</div>Professor PlayFairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12387278882156375961noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4470873860428345878.post-90683006433117739182010-03-20T11:03:00.000-07:002010-03-20T11:04:02.955-07:00I want to know - what do you like to do with your time?<!-- Altering or removing this link is a breach of the Vizu Terms and Conditions --><div style="font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:9px;height:20px;text-align:center;width:160px;margin:0;padding:0;letter-spacing:-.5px"><a href="http://www.vizu.com" target="_blank"><span style="color:#999;text-decoration:underline;font-size:9px;">Online Surveys</span></a><span style="color:#999;"> & </span><a href="http://answers.vizu.com/market-research.htm" target="_blank"><span style="color:#999;text-decoration:underline;font-size:9px;">Market Research</span></a></div><embed src="http://wp.vizu.com/vizu_poll.swf" quality="high" scale="noscale" wmode="transparent" bgcolor="#ffffff" width="160" height="745" name="vizu_poll" align="middle" allowScriptAccess="always" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" FlashVars="js=false&pid=204211&ad=false&vizu=true&links=true&mainBG=000000&questionText=FFFFFF&answerZoneBG=EEEEEE&answerItemBG=FFFFFF&answerText=000000&voteBG=C8C8C8&voteText=000000"></embed>Professor PlayFairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12387278882156375961noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4470873860428345878.post-35508613734281772232010-03-15T09:24:00.001-07:002010-03-15T09:37:14.501-07:00And the winner is...<div>Our GREAT QUESTION CONTEST generated lots of fun questions. Judging was definitely a challenge! I give the nod to Diane Scott for her son's question:</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Mom, if there were dinosaurs, and now there are people, what will come next?</b></div><div><br /></div><div>What, indeed?! It made me laugh, it made me think, and it made me really glad that we have children in this world. We need fresh thinking.</div><div><br /></div><div>Here are the other entries:</div><div><br /></div><div>What if there were no more rhetorical questions?</div><div>Why do doctors call what they do 'practice'?</div><div>Mommy, how far is infinity? (I used to hear this one a lot!)</div><div>What were they doing standing by that tree in the first place? (in reference to Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden)</div><div>What's in your fridge? (at a job interview)</div><div>Are dogs ticklish?</div><div>Is Darth Vader ticklish?</div><div>Who decided to have a National Question Day, and why?</div><div>Why is it when a nurse is about to draw blood or insert an IV they say "a little poke" ??</div><div>Why spoil such a great question with an answer?</div><div><br /></div><div>Thanks to everyone who participated. And now for my next question - what contest will I think up next?</div><div><br /></div><div>Be sure to stay a fan of <a href="http://www.facebook.com/playfairtoys">PlayFair Toys on Facebook</a>, and you might be the next winner.</div>Professor PlayFairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12387278882156375961noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4470873860428345878.post-60849460138913840602010-03-13T16:03:00.001-08:002010-03-13T16:10:37.023-08:00What do existentialism, dinosaurs, The Bible, and job interviews have in common?What do existentialism, dinosaurs, The Bible, and job interviews have in common?<div><br /></div><div>Hmm... Good question?</div><div><br /></div><div>They are all entries in our <b>GREAT QUESTION CONTEST</b>, ending at Midnight, March 14th, 2010. </div><div><br /></div><div>It's super easy to enter, not to mention fun:</div><div><br /></div><div><ol><li>Go to <a href="http://www.facebook.com/playfairtoys">www.facebook.com/playfairtoys</a></li><li>If you are not already, become our fan</li><li>Post your idea of a great/interesting question to our wall. </li><li>We'll select the best of the best as the winner after the contest ends, in our sole discretion.</li></ol><div>The prize will be a gift card to PlayFair Toys/www.playfairtoys.com, equal to the number of contest entries.</div><div><br /></div><div>So be sure to pass this along to your friends - the more who enter, the bigger the prize.</div><div><br /></div><div>How hard can it be? Don't you just love questions?</div><div><br /></div><div>Why don't you head on over to <a href="http://www.facebook.com/playfairtoys">www.facebook.com/playfairtoys</a> right now and post a question?</div></div>Professor PlayFairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12387278882156375961noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4470873860428345878.post-60341613129167936162010-03-10T18:28:00.000-08:002010-03-11T12:31:20.108-08:00What makes a great question?Although occasionally great discoveries come from pure serendipity or luck, usually they start with great questions. It is through asking questions and questioning "just the way it is" that we move forward, as individuals and as a society. I recently saw something indicating that Sunday, March 14 is National Question Day. Knowing that it is also the birthday of one of the greatest questioners ever - Albert Einstein - I decided to hold "The Great Question Contest" of 2010.<div><br /></div><div>I'll tell you more about the contest at the end of this post. But first - here's a question - "What makes a great question?" I'm not sure I can tell you. I know only that we know it when we hear it. I have a personal "favorite great question". It came from my son.<div><div><br /></div><div>When he was 4 years old, my son, now 17, announced one day, in no uncertain terms, "God holds buildings together." Not wanting to take the wind out of his sails or question his clear authority in the matter, I asked where he'd learned that - from someone at preschool. I then told him that, at least in my experience, that nails and glue had a lot to do with it.</div><div><br /></div><div>For the next several days, he carefully examined many buildings. "You're right!" he stated, with apparent surprise, after making one particularly careful inspection. Satisfied that the matter had ended, I heard nothing more for several days.</div><div><br /></div><div>Then a few days later, driving along, a high voice piped up from the back seat, "So what holds the nails together?"</div><div><br /></div><div>In this proud mama's opinion, <i>that </i>is definitely a great question. </div><div><br /></div><div>I'm inviting all of PlayFair Toys' Facebook Fans to post their own favorite "great questions" to our Facebook wall, from now through Midnight on Sunday, March 14 - National Question Day. </div><div><br /></div><div>Here's all you have to do:</div><div><ol><li>Head on over to <a href="http://www.facebook.com/playfairtoys">PlayFair Toys' Facebook Page</a>.</li><li>If you're not already a fan, become one.</li><li>Post your "most interesting question" to our wall.</li><li>Whoever posts the most interesting question by midnight, March 14th will win a PlayFair Toys gift certificate equal in value to the number of entrants (50 questions posted = $50 GC, 100 questions = $100 GC etc).</li></ol></div><div>So post away! Question. Share. Maybe you'll even get an answer! You can access our Facebook Fan page at <a href="http://www.facebook.com/playfairtoys">www.facebook.com/playfairtoys</a>.</div></div></div>Professor PlayFairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12387278882156375961noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4470873860428345878.post-4650385700492254362010-03-10T12:20:00.000-08:002010-03-10T12:33:46.306-08:00Think a lot - it's good for you!Eat your vegetables, wear sunscreen, look both ways before crossing the street, and ... you should probably also use your brain as often as possible. That one act alone could save your life and do the most possible to insure a great future.<div><br /></div><div>A Boulder-based game company, <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/brand/Think-a-Lot-Toys">Think-a-Lot Toys</a>, was founded on this very premise. Their signature game, <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/product/Think-ets-Game">Think-Ets</a>, is an open-ended storytelling game that truly has no end to the creative ways in which it can be used.</div><div><br /></div><div>I like it so much that I have decided to offer the travel version as PlayFair Toys' FREE GIFT WITH PURCHASE for March 2010. This video explains how the game works and as well as how to participate in the free gift program:</div><div><br /><object width="480" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/aM-L_8nbSyk&hl=en_US&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/aM-L_8nbSyk&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object></div><div><br /></div><div>PlayFair Toys is committed to bringing you toys that bring out the genius in you. I want to share this very kind video testimonial by Randy Compton, CEO of Think-a-Lot Toys and creator of Think-Ets:</div><div><br /><br /></div><div><object width="480" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/pWB4Nl90t2o&hl=en_US&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/pWB4Nl90t2o&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object></div><div><br /></div><div>I feel sure that once you try this <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/product/Think-ets-Game">Travel Edition of Think-Ets</a> that you'll want different pouches or another version to give to your friends as a gift. <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/product/Think-ets-Game">Think-Ets</a> embodies the spirit of magical, educational fun that underlies everything that we do for your talented, creative children at <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/">PlayFair Toys</a>!</div>Professor PlayFairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12387278882156375961noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4470873860428345878.post-71825804025063056232009-11-23T06:37:00.001-08:002009-11-23T06:37:51.593-08:00reBlog from dadomatic.com: Dad-O-Matic<p>I found this fascinating quote today:</p><br /><blockquote class="zemanta-reblog-quote" style="margin: 1em 3em;"><br /><p>If you are a parent, you should have no trouble looking for things to be thankful for this holiday season. You need look no further than your children. While parenthood is full of stress, challenges and worries, it is also rich with rewards. Yet, with all the hustle and bustle of a home full of kids, it is easy to take for granted some of the true blessings of being a parent. Thus, with Thanksgiving a few days away, as a reminder to myself, here are…<span class="attribution zemanta-reblog-cite" style="text-align: right; display: block; width: 100%; padding-top: 1em; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 1em; padding-left: 0px;">dadomatic.com, <a href="http://dadomatic.com/ten-reasons-to-be-thankful-for-your-kids-at-thanksgiving/?dsq=23876094">Dad-O-Matic</a>, Nov 2009</span></p><br /></blockquote><br /><p>You should read the whole article.</p>Professor PlayFairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12387278882156375961noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4470873860428345878.post-14783282160659449222009-05-22T08:12:00.000-07:002009-05-22T08:57:46.337-07:00It All Began with a Toy PianoToday I'm what kids call a "grownup", although I love to believe that, if you showed me the picture that the Little Prince drew, and I was not already in the know, I'd be certain that it was a boa constrictor that swallowed an elephant, and not merely a hat. Of course, I've spent much of my life fascinated by creatures such as boa constrictors and elephants and have always been rather bored by hats, at least the ordinary kind that exist only to serve the very ordinary purpose of protecting one's head from the elements. Because I try, in my heart, to remain a kid always and forever. And so I will share a secret about myself that may not be obvious to the world, looking at me as a company leader, ex-professor, writer, mom, and more.<br /><br />I <span style="font-style: italic;">love</span> music. I <span style="font-style: italic;">play </span>music. I have, in my house, one grand piano, one electronic grand piano (so that I can play without waking anyone), 2 keyboards, a harp, and about 5 guitars (I believe that we are losing track of the guitar numbers as my son now has begun this process of collecting and playing musical instruments, too). And yes, I play them all. I'm not really all that good at it, which is why it remains a hobby. I have never had the fortitude or patience to memorize a long piece of music, or heck, even a very short one. I'd rather move on to the next piece, trying each one, enjoying it for what it is and never worrying about perfection. I did actually play in a band once, and was even paid for a performance! It was at the Tanana Valley State Fair, and I immediately blew my earnings at a tent near the stage that was filled with rhythm instruments from around the world. Oh, guess I forgot to list those above! I have baskets of them.<br /><br />This lifelong love affair with music began the day that my mother brought home a very small toy electric organ, all of 2 octaves, with numbered keys and a songbook to match. It was like unlocking a code. I had already been in the habit of gravitating toward any piano in sight (alas our house was instrument free at this point), the neighbors of my grandparents in Chapel Hill were happy to let my plunk away for hours on end, and work out the tune to simple songs - "On Top of Old Smoky", "Twinkle Twinkle", "Chopsticks", and so on. It wasn't so much "playing by ear", although as I worked at it I did develop some skill in that arena, as trial and error. As I spent long hours doing this, I did begin to develop an intuitive feel for notes, scales, and more.<br /><br />But now, here in our own house, was a "real" organ! And the sounds it made were magical, because it included buttons that would play a chord, and of course with the wondrous, easy-to-read music that was included, I could make sounds like I'd never done before. I began to collect music whenever and wherever I could, and would run to my mother asking her to help me unlock those parts that were not obvious - accidentals, and the ultimate magic of understanding how rhythm was coded. After years of lobbying we finally got our very own spinet, and there was no stopping me. On my own, I discovered the Circle of Fifths, the various types of scales and their relationships to one another, and was heavily drawn to the genius of Bach, Beethoven, Mozart, and Chopin above the simple folk and nursery songs I'd started with. Somewhere along the way guitars caught my eye, once again starting with begged and borrowed instruments, and so my musical adventure broadened further.<br /><br />So when I heard that the <a href="http://www.toypiano.com/">Schoenhut Toy Piano Company</a> was looking for a kid who wanted to help them give away 100 My First Pianos, I knew that I wanted to be part of this. I understand the power of music. I know that even a small toy piano, keyboard, or other instruments can give children a lifetime gift of awe and joy that comes from making their own music.<br /><br />So I added my own challenge to their challenge: If a Colorado kid wins the contest, <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com">PlayFair Toys</a> will donate 2 Schoenhut Toy Grands and award the winner a $100 gift certificate to spend at PlayFair Toys. <a href="http://playfairtoys.blogspot.com/#pianos">Read all about the contest, which ends June 15, 2009, and my challenge here</a>.<br /><br />Never underestimate the power of the right toy at the right time. It's now well established that children who have certain types of music education in early childhood have better math skills than those who do not. I think that is all fine and good, I am pretty darn decent at math myself, but fundamentally, to me, music is about joy. So whether you wish to help spread some joy around, improve math skills, or simply help kids in need get a very fun toy, I urge you to spread the word about this exciting challenge. Please spread the links about this challenge to anyone who may wish to know about it. The contest is simple to enter and runs for a very short time.<br /><br />Here's to music for everyone!<br /><br />Professor PlayFairProfessor PlayFairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12387278882156375961noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4470873860428345878.post-81804743800493773562009-04-19T09:40:00.000-07:002009-04-19T09:52:33.032-07:00Natural and Unnatural Wood - the Greenwashing of ToysParents and all consumers are currently being presented with a glut of "environmentally friendly" products. This is a huge growth market, and one that isn't going away (thank goodness!).<br /><br />The "green", "eco-friendly", and "environmentally friendly" labels that are being batted about are something of a 2-edged sword, however. On the one hand, it is about time that we face the realities of the non-sustainable lifestyle that has driven our society for decades. We have developed a transportation system and infrastructure that is dependent on fuels that are in limited supply. We have used our atmosphere essentially as a garbage can for the refuse of our cheap energy usage, and we are now facing the reality of rapid climate change that threatens almost every aspect of our world. But the cutting side of this sword is that as environmentally friendly products move into the mainstream there will be many claims made that are simply not true. Natural does not necessarily equate with either safe or environmentally friendly.<br /><br />Toys are a particular hot button in this area, because the lead paint and toy safety recalls of 2007 went a long way to raise consciousness about how environmental concerns are no longer limited just to one political viewpoint - they go right to the heart of health, safety, and our lifestyle. How can parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles - all of us who love our children and buy toys for them - sort this out?<br /><br />An example of this is a well-known national toy retailer chain that released a new line of "green toys" right before Earth Day 2008. Here was their big claim - they are made of "natural wood". Oh wow! How exciting! NATURAL WOOD! That would be as opposed to unnatural wood, which is presumably not environmentally friendly.<br /><br />BUZZER! Someone ring the "wrong answer" buzzer! I do not dispute that the wood in these products is natural. As I sit here, I can see my yard filled with trees made of all natural wood. Yup, definitely a natural product. For that matter, oil is a natural product! Natural gas is a natural product. It's also true that, in general, "wood" is a product that is replaceable - chop a tree down and another will eventually grow in its place. But there is the fly in this ointment - what happens when that tree is chopped down? And just how long is eventually - just how quickly will that tree be replaced? And what else happens when that tree is harvested? Are there secondary impacts? The answer is, of course, "it depends."<br /><br />There is lots of wood on the market that is being harvested in a most unsustainable fashion. For example, many tropical woods are harvested in a way that destroys the forest and soil on which they grew. The impacts of this are profound and so long lasting that they are essentially permanent. Not only will those tracts no longer produce trees, but meanwhile many other species decline or go extinct along with this habitat destruction. It's killing the goose that laid the golden egg. But it's not only tropical woods that are potentially a problem. Large tracts of northern forests are also being clear cut in a fashion that prohibits or greatly slows their replacement. These northern forests serve an important role as storage locations for carbon, and therefore an important role in mitigating global warming.<br /><br />Unfortunately for the consumer, and anyone else who is trying to sort this out, there are no easy answers. The northern pines that are often used for making many products may be harvested and replanted sustainably. And there are tropical woods that are excellent choices. Rubberwood is considered the most environmentally friendly wood on the market today. A member of the maple family, rubberwood is grown on plantations, and its sap used for making rubber. As the trees age, eventually they stop producing sap. Harvesting the trees for their wood at that point means that they are used in every stage of their life. So choosing toys made of rubberwood, such as those by Imagiplay of Boulder, Colorado, is a great choice. PlayFair Toys carries Imagiplay's products in our retail stores, but at this time we do not have them available for sale online.<br /><br />Bamboo is another good choice. Actually a grass that hardens into a strong wood when dried, bamboo is an environmentally friendly wood primarily because it grows so quickly and therefore replenishes itself. A lovely example of the use of bamboo in toys is the <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/brand/bamboo-collection-creative">Bamboo Collection Creative</a>, a set of games and activities made of stained bamboo, both lovely to look at as well as educational and pleasing to the touch.<br /><br />Yet another approach is that used by <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/brand/blue-orange-games">Blue Orange Games</a> of San Francisco. They pledge to plant two trees for every one that is harvested to make their engaging, creative, all wooden games.<br /><br />And finally, there is "unnatural wood", which might, in the end, be the friendliest to the environment of all. <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/brand/sprig-toys">Sprig Toys</a> of Ft. Collins, Colorado, introduced a new product line in late 2008 that is made of "Sprigwood", which they describe as "a durable, child-safe, bio-composite material made from recycled wood and reclaimed plastic." Reusing two different products to create something new is the kind of innovative thinking required to continue our lives on this planet of ours. I am very excited about Sprig Toys, and as promised last Earth Day, we now have them available online and in our store!<br /><br />So there you go. <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/">PlayFair Toys</a> and Professor PlayFair recommend that you consider unnatural wood as a safe, environmentally friendly alternative for your child's toys.<br /><br />With that - it's almost Earth Day 2009. Here in Boulder, the sun is shining, the sky is blue, and the 100% natural trees in my yard are just about ready to burst their buds. Why not do something with your family that will celebrate these ordinary miracles and assure their continuing existence? Plant a tree, walk to the park, turn your garden, and appreciate all that you have.<br /><br />Professor PlayFair<br /><br />PS - Drop by PlayFair Toys this week and pick up a free Ecohouse courtesy of <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/brand/plan-toys">Plan Toys</a>, constructed of recycled paper.Professor PlayFairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12387278882156375961noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4470873860428345878.post-18556048215778845702009-04-15T15:46:00.000-07:002009-04-15T15:50:52.804-07:00Play Notes Now! A Day of Family MusicWhen: Saturday April 18, 10-3<br />Where: PlayFair Toys, 2550 Arapahoe Ave, Boulder<br />Who: Everyone is invited to this FREE event<br /><br />Don't miss this very special event co-sponsored by the <a href="http://www.rmcma.org/">Rocky Mountain Center for Musical Arts</a>. We'll have games, puzzles, and giveaways all day long, ending with a drawing for 4 FREE TICKETS to see Dan Zanes & Friends at the Boulder Theater, April 25.<br /><br />Highlights of the day include:<br />10 AM - Kids guitar demonstration/presentation by James Cline<br />11 AM – Drumming and drumming circle by Danny Schade<br />12 PM – Instrument Petting Zoo – meet the orchestra!<br /><br />This perfectly free event is for all ages. We are thrilled to support the arts in our community. Please show your support for local business and for community arts by dropping by on Saturday!<br /><br />Free Eco House to the first 50 customers, courtesy of <a href="http://www.plantoys.com/">Plan Toys</a>. Thank you, Plan Toys, for providing this free Earth Day activity and for being a model company!Professor PlayFairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12387278882156375961noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4470873860428345878.post-61649464778944168002009-04-06T10:37:00.000-07:002009-04-06T10:55:06.955-07:00Maybe the best defense really is a good offenseWe've all met them - the people who move through life with a "best defense is a good offense" approach. And we all know that they are, well, offensive! You never quite know what these folks will come up with, because their goal in life seems to be keeping the rest of us confused or at the very least at a safe distance from them.<br /><br />So why this topic? Have I decided to become one of the offensive ones? No - definitely not! But I realized recently that the current economic crisis has put me into a defensive mode. Much of my focus has been on battening down the hatches and defending the territory. And that just isn't going to work, plus it's really dark down there, and I need to see! I realized that taking a defensive posture just won't get me anywhere at all.<br /><br />I was listening to an interview with <a href="http://www.furtherperformancegroup.com/terrinorvell.asp">Terri Norvell</a> yesterday, and she used the phrase "forward focus." And it struck me that this is where we all need to go.<br /><br />I do like football, I loved playing and watching sports in high school, so I like these offense versus defense metaphors. And although I'm not saying that any good team doesn't need defense, I also realize that the best you can do by focusing on defense is either to tie the game or win by luck. Without a great offense, to really make the score, we're sunk.<br /><br />This is where our children are our greatest teachers. Their goals are completely forward focused. The baby longs to make things happen - first to control her arms, then to move, then to walk. They want to go to school, they want to run, to ride a bike. As teens, the things they want to do can scare us a bit, but they so want to become adults. Our children don't spend time looking back or worrying about how maybe it wasn't such a good idea to learn to climb out of the crib at only 8 months old. No - our children are 100% focused on moving forward, on scoring points, on winning the game.<br /><br />I don't know if a great offense is truly a good defense or not, and I certainly don't advocate being offensive as a posture! But I do know that the snow is melting, the sky is blue, the grass is greening up, and today is the first day of the rest of my life, however long that may be. May it be joyous and filled with good things, those things I want for myself, for those I love, and for this magnificent world we live in. I hope that this post brought you a springtime smile and a desire to look forward to today, tomorrow, and the rest of our glorious lives.Professor PlayFairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12387278882156375961noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4470873860428345878.post-20083471636218680992009-04-04T19:25:00.000-07:002009-04-04T19:39:20.412-07:00Concert was great!Madelyn and Ernie's free concert at PlayFair Toys was great! Check out Madelyn's classes and camps at <a href="http://www.musicwithmadelyn.com">Music with Madelyn</a>.Professor PlayFairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12387278882156375961noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4470873860428345878.post-55194719883551509472009-03-31T08:08:00.000-07:002009-03-31T08:37:33.839-07:00The Power of MusicThere is so much happening in April (besides a few more days of snow...), there's never a reason to be bored. It's National Poetry Month and the Month of the Young Child. Earth Day happens on the 22nd, and Easter's only 11 days away. Not to mention Straw Hat Month, Kite Month, and Fresh Florida Tomato Month!<br /><br />But forgetting the tomatoes for a moment, lets talk about music and poetry. I recently attended the annual fundraising dinner for the <a href="http://www.rmcma.org/" track="on" linktype="link">Rocky Mountain Center for Musical Arts</a> (RMCMA), a community based music school in Lafayette. Besides meeting some wonderful people, I came away thinking about the role of music in our lives.<br /><br />The RMCMA event reminded me of how what a powerful force music is in bringing people together. There was a teenage opera singer, a law firm that played and wrote rock and roll together, and a community jazz ensemble with a big band sound. All this from... where? Where does music come from? Music is so pervasive in our lives, with media ever present, that it's easy to take for granted. Music is based on math, but what is astounding is that organized sound can cause our brains to react in a way that creates - joy! Pure joy!<br /><br />Music is fundamentally part of life. Certain species - whales and birds - incorporate music into their mating behavior. Humans often do the same thing, but in a slightly different way - we often use external music rather than singing ourselves (often for good reason!). The touching of our emotions by music is fundamentally a human, or even just an animal, trait. But with our giant brain capacities, we have taken music to new levels and complexities that expand infinitely.<br /><br />From mothers singing lullabies to their babies to families singing together to orchestras to whale song, music brings us together with each other and bonds us as humans. It always amazes me how we can spend hours, even days, together creating and enjoying music. In tribute to the glory of music in our lives, <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/">PlayFair Toys</a> and the <a href="http://www.rmcma.org/">Rocky Mountain Center for Musical Arts</a> bring you Play Notes Now! A Day of Family Music, on Saturday April 18th. There will be live music, an instrument petting zoo, poetry readings, musical games and puzzles, and more, from 10 am to 2 pm. This incredibly fun day of musical activities is for everyone, whether you are an ardent music fan, a prodigy, or think that you can't play a note (a misconception - everyone can play at least one note!), there will be something here for you.<br /><br />As much as I am a biologist by training, and therefore appreciate and understand that fundamentally this is all about my neurons, in my heart I believe that music is proof that there are, indeed, miracles.Professor PlayFairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12387278882156375961noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4470873860428345878.post-44088907364223121252009-01-22T11:38:00.000-08:002009-01-22T14:55:55.441-08:00PlayFair's Free Family Fun in 2009OK, so New Year's was 3 weeks ago, but for me, the inauguration was truly the start of a new beginning. So, let's move on to the resolutions, shall we?<br /><br />Although obviously I can't read your collective minds, I'll bet that many of you have one or both of these on your list: (1) finally get the house organized, and (2) remember that my time with my family is both short and precious, so remember to enjoy it and make time for it. Probably some of you also have vowed to lose a few or more pounds, or to stick to your budget.<br /><br />I can't help you with the pounds thing, but PlayFair has been making a few resolutions of our own, and we want to help you with the organization and the family fun part, all at a price that will fit into absolutely any budget (that would be free).<br /><br /><a name="freefun">All through 2009</a>, we're bringing you free concerts, free art lessons, free movement classes, storytelling, and even free seminars on all sorts of things, including how to organize your house (or your garage or...), how to play with your children in ways that promote learning, and other useful and fun things. We'll be singing, dancing, and celebrating the birthdays of famous scientists, poets, authors, and more. We're kicking this all off on Valentine's Day with a free concert. Details will follow shortly.<br /><br />In order to make sure that you don't miss out on any of the fun, make sure that you are <a href="http://visitor.constantcontact.com/d.jsp?m=1102083305258&p=oi" target="_blank">signed up for our email newsletter</a>. That's the first place that events will be announced.<br /><br />Meanwhile, if you've got a talent, a profession, or a business that is potentially of interest to our customers, let us know. We are actively seeking community partners that want to be part of this fun series. You should be willing to offer something free that can be done in our store. You'll get free marketing and promotion and the opportunity to let people know what you are doing. Don't worry if you're not sure if the fit is right. <a href="mailto:profplayfair@playfairtoys.com">Email me</a> and let me know what you're thinking - I'd love to see if we can fit you in.Professor PlayFairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12387278882156375961noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4470873860428345878.post-1085157829139887582008-12-04T09:09:00.000-08:002008-12-04T16:12:18.428-08:00Construction Toys As Family Activities<a name="construct">When</a> you think of family activities within the home, often the first picture that comes to mind is games. And make no mistake, games are powerful ways to keep families together, and to help children learn important life lessons.<br /><br />But today I want to talk about another activity that families can do together, no matter the size. And these involve the extensive group of toys known as "construction sets". Let's see - how many can I name? <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/brand/infinitoy">Zoob</a>, <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/brand/lego">Legos</a>, <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/brand/k-nex">K'Nex</a>, <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/brand/lincoln-logs">Lincoln Logs</a>, <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/brand/quadrilla">Quadrilla</a>, <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/search?sSearch=frigits">Frigits</a>, <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/product/Puzzibits-Megamix-1250-pc-Set">Puzzibits</a>, <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/brand/imagibility">Wedgits</a>, and <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/brand/keva-planks">Keva Planks</a>. That was without taking a breath. There are many others. It takes me back to sitting on the floor with my dad (who has now been revealed as an ultra-cool dad because he was so often down there with us, playing and inventing new games) and seeing how many ways we could stack the Lincoln Logs.<br /><br />All of these sets and more offer great opportunities for group play and for adult-child interaction. Children's brains can often go places their fingers cannot, or they may miss a key detail. And that's where you can be an important part of the system. Construction sets are also great ways for siblings of different ages to play together.<br /><br />With so many types of sets to choose on, there is definitely one for your family or interest. There are two that you may not have heard of. The first is called <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/brand/quadrilla">Quadrilla</a>, and it's almost become a classic in its own time. Quadrilla is a wooden marble run "system". I call it a system because it's infinitely expandable. You start with a set that lets you create a marble run. But these are no simple marble runs! For one thing, they combine wood with spirals, a difficult and fascinating combination. The wood is beautiful to look at and to touch, and the sculptures are amazing. It's science meets art and mechanics. Fabulous. This is an heirloom-quality toy.<br /><br />The second one is something you either remember from earlier times or never have heard of. But few people seem to know that this fun toy is available now. These are the <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/brand/bridge-street-toys">Girder and Panel building sets</a> by Bridge Street Toys. This toy was originally manufactured by Kenner in the 1950s. Using plastic pieces that are miniature versions of the girders that are used to create skyscrapers. Each set has the pieces to create one particular building, but you can combine them and mix and match as you want. Creating a city or a skyscraper together would be a great family activity that everyone can participate in.<br /><br />Whatever you choose, I hope that you build many happy family memories this year. Our families always grow and change, and yours will never be the same as it is now. So spend time together this year, and cherish each moment and each stage.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">"Turn around and you're two. Turn around and you're four. Turn around and you're a young girl, going out of my door." --Harry Belafonte</span>Professor PlayFairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12387278882156375961noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4470873860428345878.post-87439492247202166462008-11-24T17:32:00.000-08:002008-11-24T18:09:34.937-08:00World Discovery Box - A "Toy" for a Lifetime<a name="starthere"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqXxX67uXm8IiOfRgrQhyphenhyphenvahFClieHQh2kVHiX_3limZp9ropV_BxicF9XdKmO2uaVo5TpArJW5HhJakyLiR5cLEaWHTBwG1dAdi9P8ADpgz40-Sf2SkMH88kBIm4DVbBZd28uKg8zsYs/s1600-h/11026.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqXxX67uXm8IiOfRgrQhyphenhyphenvahFClieHQh2kVHiX_3limZp9ropV_BxicF9XdKmO2uaVo5TpArJW5HhJakyLiR5cLEaWHTBwG1dAdi9P8ADpgz40-Sf2SkMH88kBIm4DVbBZd28uKg8zsYs/s320/11026.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5272409923935293010" /></a><br />The natural world</a>, starting with our own backyards, is filled with wonders that encourage and deserve further discovery. A butterfly, an interesting rock, a shell on the beach - these are the treasures that many children love to collect, to study, to ponder. Now there's a product that encourages children to protect and save their treasures. The World Discovery Box is a furniture-quality box of varnished wood with either 18 or 9 drawers. The full-size version is 29" wide, 10.5" tall, and just over 10" deep. The drawers slide in and out easily, and are well sanded and pleasing to touch.<br /><br />But here is the best part. The World Discovery Box is not just a box - it comes with treasures from around the world to fill your drawers - insects in resin, rocks, shells, and more - a miniature natural history museum for your home or your classroom. <br /><br />There are so many different ways that you can "play with" or enjoy this product. Think of collecting at least one treasure from every family trip. Play a memory game. Arrange and rearrange your specimens. This is truly a gift for the whole family. It is lovely enough to have a place anywhere in your home. The beauty of the box is striking. I have it stored in a special place in my office, and everyone who walks in asks where they can get one.<br /><br />That part I can help with. You can purchase the World Discovery Box at PlayFair Toys in Boulder or at <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/product/World-Discovery-Box">www.playfairtoys.com</a>. At the time of this writing, this is the only retail location that carries this new product. The prices that we currently offer are likely to change substantially after the new year, so there is also an opportunity now to purchase this striking product at a great price.<br /><br />The story of the World Discovery Box begins in the depths of the Smithsonian Institution, where a young physical anthropologist brings her baby in to work with her. As he grows, he discovers the wonder of the many drawers. As he grows, his parents encourage his exploration of the world, and one day his father decides to build him a case for his treasures. As friends and family see the case, they want their own. Visitors are always drawn to the Discovery Box, wanting to see what is new, to explore its many drawers. And soon the lightbulb goes off, and a product is born. Now this remarkable new product is available for your family as well.Professor PlayFairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12387278882156375961noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4470873860428345878.post-38065813327599123852008-10-22T13:45:00.001-07:002008-10-22T13:48:14.108-07:00Cute customer spottedOne of our beloved customers was spotted on the information highway, having fun in our book section:<br /><br /><a href="http://juliamacmonagle.blogspot.com/2008/10/toy-store.html">http://juliamacmonagle.blogspot.com/2008/10/toy-store.html</a><br /><br />Just wanted to share such a sweet face!Professor PlayFairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12387278882156375961noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4470873860428345878.post-35957554188175114722008-02-18T17:38:00.001-08:002008-03-13T13:52:10.375-07:00Examples of Science Fair ProjectsWe've started a fun new section at PlayFair Toys - <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/examples-of-science-fair-experiments.html">examples of science fair projects</a>. Our hope is to give you some ideas that might work, and we also welcome your own ideas, what worked, what didn't, why did you like it, why not.<br /><br />This one's a great science experiment for kindergarden kids, or slightly older. Answer the question, "Will a bean seed grow faster if it is cut through the cotyledon or down the middle (between the cotyledons)?" A cotyledon is a "seed leaf". It's that first leaf that comes out when a seed sprouts. If you look closely at a bean, you'll notice that it has two halves that are identical, and if you tap it lightly it will split down the middle into these halves. These are the two cotyledons.<br /><br />This experiment or science fair project is fun because it involves a saw! I suggest using at least 6 beans for each treatment, in case some of your beans don't sprout at all. Your treatments will be: (1) split the bean into its two cotyledons, (2) saw the bean across the cotyledons, so that you have two halves, each with a part of one of the two original cotyledons, and (3) just leave the bean as it is.<br /><br />With a parent or teacher helping (very important!), saw your beans as noted. You need to keep your beans moist in order for them to sprout. The easiest way to do this is to place them between two pieces of moist paper towel inside a closed plastic bag. Write the treatment on the bag! Then check them each day, and note how many days have gone by. Once your seeds have sprouted, take them out of the plastic bag, and place them in a small pot with potting soil, but keep them moist and warm. Each day measure all the seeds (now the sprouts) in each treatment.<br /><br />What do you think will happen?<br /><br />And if you've got a fun idea that you don't mind sharing, then send it in. If we like it, we'll post it here and give you credit. Just shoot us an <a href="mailto:ProfPlayFair@playfairtoys.com">email</a> with your idea, addressed to Professor PlayFair, and with the subject line: <a href="mailto:ProfPlayFair@playfairtoys.com?subject=Examples%20of%20science%20fair%20projects">Science Fair Experiment Example</a>. Also if you try any of our example science fair experiments or science experiments, we'd love to hear what happened. Please email the Professor and let her know what you discovered!Professor PlayFairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12387278882156375961noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4470873860428345878.post-27232490733499912062008-02-16T10:01:00.000-08:002008-02-16T10:03:49.360-08:00Goodbye Longmont, Hello Boulder!The sun shines brightly<br />On my shiny white backyard<br />Green will soon be here<br /><br />What would our world be like without seasons? Even growing up in Florida, where winter was a mere suggestion, I was aware of seasons, of changing patterns in light, temperature, and growth. I've spent my adult life in Colorado and Alaska, where the seasons are dramatic and beautiful. They make me feel so much a part of this earth - a reminder that I am one small piece of a large system that is very connected. Now that Valentine's Day is past, although winter still holds us firmly in her grasp, I know that spring is not that far away.<br /><br />Now we will start to see robins. Soon we will be able to buy strawberries that have flavor again. And one day, in the next few weeks, I'll be out walking and I'll see, in some spot that gets just a bit more warmth than others, the very first flowers popping out, diminutive species grown from bulbs, here to let us know that the cycle of life is still going on. A college roommate once told me, "Everything always changes. That's how we know we are alive." Although it's a simple statement, it's always struck me as a very profound one. There are times when we mourn change, but it is very much a defining part of our nature.<br /><br />And so I am writing to let you know that, at the end of business today, February 16, 2008, PlayFair Toys will close the doors of our Twin Peaks Mall location in Longmont, Colorado, and not open them again. And yes, there is some sadness about this. We have staff there who have been with us for years who will be moving on. There are customers who have found in our store a refuge, a place to come with their children, a place filled with wonder and fun. We are glad that we were able to be there for you, in your community, and we enjoyed every one of you.<br /><br />Yet this is not all sorrow, no, not at all! In fact, this is actually quite good news. Because it means that we can fully focus our attention on our strongest location, our Boulder toy store, and make it even better than ever. Because what we are, what we have always been about, is a destination business. Our Boulder store survived being the only remaining retail business on the Crossroads mall property as it was torn down and redeveloped into 29th Street. That was not a fun time for us, but it was always heartening to see how our customers found us even when construction made that difficult. In 2007, I began studying the concept of destination business, the idea that there are certain businesses where the phrase "location, location, location" is not the success driver at all, but rather the businesses themselves are so exciting, so unique, that people will seek them out. PlayFair Toys withstood that test, and it made me realize that, instead of trying to expand into multiple locations, I needed to really work on strengthening that uniqueness at our "Flagship" store.<br /><br />2008 is PlayFair Toys' 26th year in business in Boulder. The Longmont location was an experiment of sorts. If you've been to Twin Peaks lately, you'll understand that this decision is a necessity for a small, locally-owned business. But the hard times at the mall represent a great opportunity for us and for you, our faithful customers. We have some amazing new plans for 2008 that we're not quite ready to announce, but that will make the store even more intriguing than ever.<br /><br />Meanwhile - goodbye Twin Peaks, hello Boulder! We are more than worth the drive. And to further entice you to visit, I make this very special offer. Come into our Boulder store, and tell us that you read this blog and want to take advantage of our "Hello Boulder T-shirt deal!". This lets you purchase our unique, cannot-buy-them-anywhere-but-PlayFair, 100% heavyweight cotton t-shirts with the professor's wild and silly grin on the front, for only $8! Yes, only $8 for a cotton shirt, designed and printed right here in Boulder County. These normally sell for $16.95, still a great deal, but we are giving you this special opportunity only through March 15, 2008, as a way of thanking you for reading this and for being a part of our lives. Remember, just say that you want the "Hello Boulder T-shirt deal!". We currently have shirts available in natural fibers with red ink, deep purple with white ink (not coincidentally just perfect for Boulder High School students and families), and deep red with white ink (also not coincidentally just perfect for Fairview High School students and families).<br /><br />With appreciation,<br /><br />Marilyn Walker, Owner<br />PlayFair Toys<br />Boulder, ColoradoProfessor PlayFairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12387278882156375961noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4470873860428345878.post-37684892871557527732008-02-15T07:41:00.001-08:002008-03-13T13:54:00.775-07:00New toys for the winter blahs and the coming spring at PlayFair Toys in Boulder, Colorado"Eeyore was saying to himself, 'This writing business. Pencils and what-not. Over-rated, if you ask me. Silly stuff. Nothing in it.'"<br />--A.A. Milne, <em>Winnie the Pooh</em><br /><br />Unlike poor Eeyore, for some of us writing goes beyond a chore and into the realm of a "must". We write not because we can, we write because we must. That, dear reader, is me. So why all the months of quiet fingers? Although for most of you I am sure that Christmas is a distant memory, for those of us in the toy business it just ended yesterday. I am still catching up on my sleep! I was spurred back to action by listening to an interview about blogging, and about how only certain people truly have the constitution to do this, because it takes a real passion for the subject. And I realized then that I do indeed have a passion for this, and it's time to let you know, once again, what is happening in the world of PlayFair Toys.<br /><br />Our PlayFair elves are plenty busy these days restocking the warehouse. With Valentine's Day behind us, we look forward to the coming spring, and getting ourselves and our children active again. Just to get started, here are some of the many things that have come in recently:<br /><br />I'll start with the best - Professor PlayFair T-shirts! You've asked for them in different colors, and we are happy to have them now in deep purple and deep red, ranging in size from a child's 2-4 to adult XL. Get them while they're available! Tell us what colors you'd most like to see.<br /><br />Art supplies from <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/brand/alex">Alex</a>, just about anything you want, from paper to scissors, to kits. Also the very popular magnetic tabletop easels are back. These are great for travel, so you might think about taking one on your spring break trip. Also the <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/product/car-valet">Alex Car Valet</a> is back in, perfect for that long trip or just keeping them occupied while you toodle around town.<br /><br />Arts and Crafts kits of all kinds - these are some favorites for birthday party giving. Whether it's painting or sculpture or sewing or woodcraft - we've got a kit for every kid on your list.<br /><br />Have you tried Brain Noodles yet? Think super-jumbo pipe cleaners in wild colors, and get crazy with sculpture!<br /><br />Lots and lots of books... See <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/reading.html">What We're Reading</a> for some great suggestions, but we really recommend that you come into the store to browse our selection.<br /><br />Finally back in are <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/category/Marble-Runs-and-Marble-Building-Toys-for-Kids">Marble Runs </a>by <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/brand/quercetti">Quercetti</a> and <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/brand/galt">Galt</a>, also <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/search?sSearch=zoob">Zoob</a>. We have new themed wooden blocks set from Haba, imported from Germany.<br /><br />Our doll selection is back to normal with loads of new shipments from <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/brand/corolle">Corolle</a>, <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/category/Calico-Critters-of-Cloverleaf-Corners">Calico Critters</a> (we carry the entire line), plus many Ryan's Room doll house furniture sets and doll families (finally!). We are very happy to announce that Small World, the maker of <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/category/Ryans-Room-Dolls-and-Toys">Ryan's Room</a>, is back in the saddle after a rocky 2007. We missed Ryan's Room and are thrilled to be stocking it again. Calico Critters have new introductions for spring. <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/product/Stephanie-Sunny-Bunny-s-Amazing-Train-Ride">Stephanie Sunny-Bunny's Amazing Train Ride</a> has been very popular, and it would make a great Easter gift for under $20.<br /><br />Our fantasy and occupational costumes are restocked, including the ever popular firefighter costume - the kids love it that it comes with a "real" fire hose! Also stand-out tutus for that little ballerina, and musical skirts, including the Chicken Dance Skirt! What a hoot!<br /><br />We are well stocked on wooden furniture from <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/brand/kidkraft">KidKraft</a>, and we also just got in the popular Blue <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/product/creative-center-art-table">Creative Art Center</a> table from Alex, as well the My Cafe Table, which has a matching tin tea set. It's perfect for a corner of the nursery, kitchen, or family room.<br /><br />Classic games are in - pickup sticks, jacks, marbles, chinese checkers, and more, plus we have new games in every day. <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/product/egg-spoon-race-game">Egg and Spoon Race</a> has been a spring favorite the last few years - you can now play this popular outdoor party game with no mess thanks to plastic eggs!<br /><br />Our infant and toddler area is now full with old favorites and new introductions from Lamaze, <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/brand/melissa-doug">Melissa & Doug</a>, <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/brand/earlyears">Earlyears</a>, <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/brand/manhattan-toy">Manhattan</a>, <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/brand/gund">Gund</a>, <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/brand/haba">Haba</a>, and others. We have infant and toddler toys made in the US, Germany, Italy, and Thailand. For those who love music, the <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/brand/neurosmith">Neurosmith</a> toys are now well stocked, in a wide array of prices.<br /><br />Cook up fun with pretend kitchens and food. My favorites are the <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/product/Cookin-Up-Fun-Kitchen">Cookin Up Fun Kitchen</a>, a nice-size play kitchen for under $100, hard to find, and the new Retro Bakeware set from Schylling. It will take you back to your own childhood and a simpler time. We have some very fun new surprises coming into this part of the store this spring - keep your eyes peeled for retro kitchen miniatures that are a playtime delight.<br /><br />Trucks! Lots and lots of trucks from <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/brand/bruder">Bruder</a> (made in Germany, indestructible and loaded with detail), <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/brand/wow-usa">WOW</a> (from England, toddler appeal and plenty to do), <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/brand/mighty-world">Mighty World</a> play sets, and the popular Grizzly Ranger Rescue set is now back in stock for a very limited time. We have learned that the manufacturer will not be continuing this wonderful set that is just "Oh so Boulder!"<br /><br />Playmobil has some great new themes out this spring including <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/category/Playmobil-Fairies">fairies</a>, <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/category/Playmobil-Dinosaurs">dinosaurs</a>, and a <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/category/Playmobil-Pony-Ranch">pony ranch</a>. We have the first pieces of these in now and will be getting more over the spring. We are now extremely well stocked in <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/category/Playmobil">Playmobil</a> and have the popular <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/category/Playmobil-Airport">airport</a> pieces back in. Also we now carry Playmobil 1-2-3 for toddlers, an excellent recommendation for those of you looking for toddler toys that are not made in China.<br /><br />Easter basket stuffers and plush - wind up chicks, bright music boxes, spring-themed thumb toys and more. Be sure to ask about the <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/product/Musical-Duck-Puppet">musical duck puppet</a> from <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/brand/schylling">Schylling</a> - it's a riot!<br /><br />After a long dry spell we have the <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/product/tune-in-violin">Tune In Violin</a> back, but it is literally flying out the door. Although this will be reordered, if you have a virtuouso who's been waiting (it was out of stock for over 6 months, very sad), now's the time.<br /><br />Also we have a great new <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/product/Electronic-Keyboard">keyboard</a> for under $20, perfect for starting with a serious instrument and very little investment.<br /><br />We have restocked <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/category/Puppets">puppets</a> and have plenty of <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/search?sSearch=bunny+rabbits">bunny rabbits</a> for spring.<br /><br />Unicycles are back! We had no unicycles in 2007, a sad state of affairs. We now have both a 16" and 18" wheel unicycle in stock, bright red as before, and great fun. These are easier to learn to ride than you might think (well, for children at least!). My son learned at age 8, on this same model we carrry, and now at age 15 he has just purchased his first adult unicycle.<br /><br />Also we have plenty of <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/category/Riding-Toys-">tricycles, wagons, scooters</a>, and so on for spring.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/category/Science-for-Kids">Science</a>! Our science shelves are starting to get refilled. A brand new product that I'm very excited about is the mega-screen microscope, which shows the magnified item on a large screen. With spring arriving children should find lots of interesting small things to investigate.<br /><br />Tired children will be contented children, so keep them busy with plenty of <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/category/Active-Play-Sports">physical activity</a>. We have balance boards for young ones as well as full wooden boards that can take up to adult weight. Jump ropes, paddle ball, t-ball, zip lines, bop bags, golf...<br /><br />Our party favor/gag gift/just for fun area always has something new. Recent shipments include Jacob's ladder, wind-up home appliances (who says you can't afford a new toaster?!), racing pens - come in and have fun playing with all of them.<br /><br />Sand, water, bath - new toys for indoors and out. The new <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/product/AquaTrax-Water-Port-N-Lock">AquaTrax Deluxe Water Play System</a> from <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/brand/international-playthings">International Playthings</a> replaces product we have had before from Galt and Brio - open ended water play systems that let children explore building locks, dams, and more. This is one of my favorites of this year's new products.<br /><br />In the train section there are lots of new Thomas the Tank Engine characters, as well as plenty of sets, including starter-priced sets.<br /><br />That's only a sampling of all the shipments that have arrived in the last few weeks.<br /><br />Other great spring ideas are insect study, we have loads of great stuff including nets, wooden hutches for study, even ways to listen to the noises these fascinating small creatures make.<br /><br />That's enough for now. Come visit us at <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/boulder-toy-store.html">1690 28th Street in Boulder</a>, at the corner of Canyon and 28th. Not in Boulder? Of course we are always here for you at <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/">http://www.playfairtoys.com/</a>.<br /><br />--Professor PlayFairProfessor PlayFairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12387278882156375961noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4470873860428345878.post-1175097449160179532007-11-19T06:37:00.000-08:002007-11-19T06:43:48.247-08:00Smart Kids Deserve an Education, TooDeborah Robson and Judy Fort Brenneman, co-authors of High IQ Kids, will be signing copies of the book and answering questions at Boulder's PlayFair Toys on Friday, November 23rd, from 5-6:30 PM. This landmark book is the first ever collection of information and stories on profoundly gifted children. These children often struggle getting help in school, and they challenge both their educators and their parents. PlayFair Toys is located at the west gateway of Boulder's 29th Street center, at the corner of 28th and Canyon. Information is also available at <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/">www.playfairtoys.com</a>.Professor PlayFairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12387278882156375961noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4470873860428345878.post-755421885534742042007-11-10T05:15:00.001-08:002007-11-11T07:35:58.050-08:00Buying American Made Toys is About More Than SafetyYesterday, November 9, we started what is definitely a big project for a small company - listing all the toys we can find that are <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/category/Toys-Made-in-the-USA">Made in the USA</a>. We carry toys made all over the world, and I am certain that there are excellent toys made in every country. But the movement of more and more toy factories to China has always pained me deeply and personally. 80% of the toys sold in the US are now made in China. There is so much more to this story than toy safety. It's time to talk about it.<br /><br />The recent toy recalls have had little <em>direct</em> impact on us (the total toys from our shelves was less than a dozen pieces, and I am not talking 12 different types of toys I mean less than 12 <em>total</em>, all various Thomas Train pieces), but they have had an indirect impact in terms of customer confidence. Although our best customers know they can count on us for great information, those who have not shopped with us before may be afraid to even walk in the door of a toy store these days. When the first recalls were announced, an article in our local paper quoted a consumer saying that they were going to cruise the toy aisles at Target, turning over boxes at one at a time. What's wrong with this picture?<br /><br />The move toward the current dominance of Chinese-made toys in American stores has been driven by big box stores such as Target, Wal-Mart, Toys R Us, and others that have touted the values of everyone having more cheap stuff - lots and lots of stuff. Although Target has positioned itself as being an "upscale" discount store by being a cut or two above Wal-Mart, and although they do apparently manage to pay a living wage to their employees, in the end they fundamentally have the same business model - buy stuff made as cheaply as possible and encourage people to buy mass quantities of it.<br /><br />The layers of issues that exist with this situation are many. First, there is the mass marketing of toys that are basically offensive. Barbie, for heaven's sake, is quite the role model for young girls! (I hope you can recognize the sarcasm in that last comment.) But that's a personal opinion, and not a hard fact. Barbie is a very thin crust on what has been happening to the toy industry for a while.<br /><br />Toys are a huge industry - US industry sales in 2006 were $22.3 billion. If that number sounds large consider this - the US population is currently 300 million people - that is only $74/person, or $270 per person age 19 and younger. It's a big country, and it's a big industry, with $1.3 billion spent on television advertising aimed at children. Who is spending that $1.3 billion? You can bet that it's not small US toy manufacturers with 10-100 employees.<br /><br />I have watched many companies that prided themselves on being purely US or European made move some or all of their production to China, because without doing so they felt that they simply could not compete in this somewhat brutal marketplace. And I know that all of these companies, many of whom I know personally, all of whom I have spoken with, are maintaining a high degree of control over the manufacturing process there. However they will now be hurt by the practices of larger companies that have not maintained such good controls.<br /><br />The debates going on are extraordinarily confusing for the consumer, and even so for me, a toy store owner. It seems that everyone is jumping on the bandwagon with an opinion, informed or otherwise. The Democrats (and for the record, I am a strong Democratic supporter) are having a political heyday with this one. I have heard two very disturbing and alarmist comments from leading Democratic politicians about toy safety. Moving away from the sound bites that they are forced to live within, what is the real story here?<br /><br />The leader of the drive toward lots of cheap toys is definitely Wal-Mart, who is now the number one toy seller in the country. More than one out of very $4 spent on toys is spent at Wal-Mart. Wal-Mart works hard to influence and control its suppliers, and the bigger they get, the more clout they have. But it is somewhat ironic that really, Wal-Mart just does what other mass marketers do, only better - seek to dominate marketplaces by using deep pockets to undercut competition.<br /><br />Maybe it's time to ask ourselves what we are really paying for these less expensive toys. It costs more to produce goods in the US than in China for a multitude of reasons. Labor costs are higher here because we have legislation that guarantees workers at least a very minimal wage (I will not go so far as to call it a living wage). Other protections that US workers have include limiting the maximum number of hours someone can be required to work at a particular job. Why are we supporting an economy that does not insist upon these same rights? Where do the materials come from that are in these toys?<br /><br />There is much more here than toy safety. There are human rights issue, environmental issues, and macroeconomic issues around balance of trade and our own economic well being. An extensive and well written discussion of the truth about Chinese-made toys was written by one of our suppliers, Vermont-based <a href="http://www.maplelandmark.com/imports.shtml">Maple Landmark</a>. I highly recommend this article to anyone interested in this issue.<br /><br />Another issue is the cost of transport - not from a purely economic standpoint (clearly these toys can be transported across the globe and still sold cheaply), but from an energy and CO2 emissions standpoint. We are running out of fossil fuels. They will not last forever. Should we be using the precious resources left to move toys across the globe, when the exact same toys could be manufactured locally? Have we figured out the real costs to this lifestyle?<br /><br />There are no easy answers to living in this day and age. <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/">PlayFair Toys</a> does sell toys made in China. Although we have not assessed it on a percentage basis, my guess is that when we do, we'll learn that most of the toys we carry are made in China. PlayFair Toys does not carry Mattel or Fisher Price products, the manufacturers associated with the largest recalls.<br /><br />I care deeply about the safety of your children. I know that you do, too. I encourage you to ask questions and to look at the overall picture. There have always been toy recalls, thanks to stringest legislation intended to protect US consumers. US-made toys have been recalled in the past, for all sorts of reasons. But nothing has ever happened on this scale before. And therefore this really is a different sort of recall.<br /><br />There is never any guarantee of the absolute safety of every product in every product in every situation. However buying American-made toys is about more than safety, and that's why we are working to get this information to you in a timely fashion. We hope that you have a wonderful, safe, happy holiday season. We are your partners in helping you select toys.Professor PlayFairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12387278882156375961noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4470873860428345878.post-84813469557376507482007-10-30T20:08:00.000-07:002007-10-30T20:13:54.025-07:00Great Scot! They've named a street after me!OK, well, it's not really a street, just a <a href="http://living.scotsman.com/index.cfm?id=1729902007">set of steps</a> in the city of Edinburgh, Scotland. And the truth is that once again it's named after one of the "other" Professor PlayFairs - Professor William PlayFair. Still, it's quite thrilling to see the historic PlayFair Steps. Glad to see that we have roots that stretch so far back!Professor PlayFairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12387278882156375961noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4470873860428345878.post-16187523691365841042007-10-05T18:57:00.000-07:002007-10-06T17:18:16.478-07:00The Vanishing Arctic<em>Tundra </em>is the name given to the vast expanses of land without trees that exist in the northernmost areas of the world. I love the tundra. I've spent much of my life in this land of wild beauty. I used to study the ways in which the tiny arctic plants were changing as our climate warmed. Although from one year to the next they appeared to be pretty much the same, the data and measurements that my students and I collected told another tale - things were changing, and fast.<br /><br />Now our beautiful is north is truly in peril, as the climate is warming so quickly that the even the arctic ocean ice is disappearing. This is more than just sad. This is a tragedy that will impact us in ways we have not yet imagined. Polar bears, one of the most majestic (and OK, sure, having worked in their world for a while I can say that they are definitely <em>SCARY</em>, too) and beloved animals of the earth, are truly in peril. Do you understand why this is? Because polar bears live, basically, on the ice. Although they sometimes come ashore for awhile, to rest, or some even may live along the coast, their main food source are the seals and fish that live under the ice. <br /><br />This is not so independent of you, dear reader, as you may think! Here's a story for you:<br /><br />This is a house. This a kid who lives in the house. This is the light that lights up the house where the kid lives. This is the the electric switch that turns on the light that lights up the house where the kid lives. This is the coal (made of an element called "carbon") that generates the electricity that flows through the switch that turns on the light that lights up the house where the kid lives. These are the carbon dioxide molecules that escape when the coal burns that generates the electricity that flows through the switch that turns on the light that lights up the house where the kid lives. This is the atmosphere that accumulates the carbon dioxide molecules that escape when the coal burns that generates the electricity that flows through the switch that turns on the light that lights up the house where the kid lives. This is the heat that is trapped in the atmosphere that accumulates the carbon dioxide molecules that escape when the coal burns that generates the electricity that flows through the switch that turns on the light that lights up the house where the kid lives. This is the arctic ice that melts from the heat that is trapped in the atmosphere that accumulates the carbon dioxide molecules that escape when the coal burns that generates the electricity that flows through the switch that turns on the light that lights up the house where the kid lives. These are the polar bears that (used to?) live on the arctic ice that melts from the heat that is trapped in the atmosphere that accumulates the carbon dioxide molecules that escape when the coal burns that generates the electricity that flows through the switch that turns on the light that lights up the house where the kid lives. <br /><br />So you see - maybe you and those polar bears are not so far apart, after all. Think about that the next time you think it's just too hard to turn off that light switch.<br /><br />Here's a fabulous new book to read, and I promise that it isn't about anything so sad as polar bears in peril. Jan Brett, the amazingly gifted children's author and illustrator, serves up a scrumptious treat with <a href="http://www.playfairtoys.com/product/The-Three-Snow-Bears1">The Three Snow Bears</a>, a retelling of the classic Goldilocks tale set, where else, but on an ice floe, in the Arctic Ocean.<br /><br />With that, Professor PlayFair is done for the day.Professor PlayFairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12387278882156375961noreply@blogger.com0