The Summer’s Top Tech Toys on NBC Chicago

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May 26th, 2019 |

Toy Insider’s Chief Toy Officer Laurie Schacht stopped by NBC Chicago’s Tech Trends to show off the hottest tech toys of the spring and summer. For more on the items featured in this segment, check out the product notes below, and for the complete rundown of the best toys of the spring and summer, be sure to check our complete Toy Insider Spring and Summer Gift Guide.

500 PIECE ILLUMINATED JIGSAW PUZZLE (CRA-Z-ART)

  • This is the 500-piece jigsaw puzzle that illuminates with 20 LEDs.
  • When assembled it forms an image of the Dennis Lewan painting “Beary Patch Park”, the second in the artist’s “City of Bears” series.
  • It displays a local festival in a town owned and operated by bears, featuring whimsical business names such as “Fuzzy Wuzzy’s Flower Shop”, “Ted E. Bear Toys”, and a “Bear-B-Cue” stand.
  • The puzzle’s built-in lights are positioned along the “Beariss” Wheel, “Bearousel”, and popcorn stand.
  • Age: 10+
  • MSRP: $29.95
  • Available: Hammacher Schlemmer

ARTIE 3000 (EDUCATIONAL INSIGHTS)

  • Kids are in control with Artie, the WiFi-enabled coding and drawing robot.
  • Kids tell Artie what to draw using drag and drop programming on a Mac, PC, or tablet.
  • With Artie, they will learn basic programming, geometry, and math while creating colorful designs.
  • Artie can draw in four modes of play: pre-programmed shapes, games, art for coloring, and freeform coding.
  • The robot comes with three project cards, a drag and drop visual, a built-in programming interface, and four washable colored markers.
  • Age: 7+
  • MSRP: $69.99
  • Available: Amazon, Educationalinsights.com

ARCADE1UP (ARCADE1UP)

  • Arcade1Up machines stand at just under 4 feet, each housing different classic arcade games, which come with immersive full-color hi-resolution displays and sounds.
  • The cabinets also have an original joystick and control buttons.
  • Additional add-ons include a stool and riser– fully equipping users for endless hours of gaming!
  • The current lineup of cabinets includes six existing titles, but four new titles will be added in 2019.
  • Each cabinet has 2-4 different games in each.
  • Mortal Kombat II, Space Invaders Golden Tee, Karate Champ, and Final Fight will join the collection this year.
  • Age: 14+
  • MSRP: $299
  • Available: Walmart

RIDEAMALS SCOUT, RIDE & PLAY PONY (PACIFIC CYCLE)

  • Combines interactive play with battery-powered riding fun: feed, brush, walk, ride, and dance with your pony pal!
  • Over 100 unique sounds and movements.
  • Apple, carrot, and brush (included) add to the playtime fun.
  • Two forward speeds, one reverse.
  • Power Trax rubber traction strips keep the ride smooth and steady.
  • Direct Connect system makes charging easy; 12V battery and charger included.
  • Age: 3-7
  • MSRP: $398
  • Available: Walmart

Bill Reese has been production director at The Toy Insider since 2014. A former editor at Playbill and graduate of SUNY–Purchase, he spends most weekends rooting for the New York Red Bulls pro soccer team and staring adoringly at his baby boy Jonah.

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