During the course of the year, I come across lots of toys. Many of the toys are mainstream toys which usually are fairly predictable. However, sometimes, a toy comes along which is rather unique. It stands apart from the rest. I've found that unique toys make excellent gifts as they are always remembered. Here's a list of the unique toys of 2008 which I'm sure you will enjoy reading as much as I enjoyed putting it together.
1. Kits ‘n Kaboodle – Warm Whiskers
Noodlehead
Warm Whiskers are a line of plush toys which double up as pillows. But wait, these are not ordinary pillows. They are stuffed with herbs like buckwheat and lavender. The unique part about these furry stuffed animals is that you can microwave them and apply them to achy areas to experience some relief. You can also freeze them and they act as cold packs. I loved the feel of these soft plushies - they are beautifully made.
2. Jack in the Box Sock Monkey from Schylling Associates
Schylling Associates
The Jack in the Box Sock Monkey from Schylling Associates is actually a classic toy. The reason I included it in this unique toys list is because you rarely come across this type of toy nowadays. I found the Jack in the Box Sock Monkey a nice low-tech way to have some fun. You have to simply crank the handle and hear the music play, until you are rewarded (or surprised) with the Sock Monkey popping up out of the box.
3. Flatsy the Doll from Schylling Associates
Schylling
Flatsy the doll is another classic toy which is a remake of the popular Flatsy doll from back in the '60's. She is flat just like her name. You also get a few hair accessories with the doll including hair clips, a brush and some rubber bands. I found the Flatsy doll an ideal companion for "on the go" quick trips as she is compact and small.
4. OkieDog Fropper
OkieDog
The Fropper is basically a kids' bike with a difference. It has a unique spring loaded seat which allows kids to bounce on it as well as move around. The wheels are very smooth, making moving the Fropper around a piece of cake for a young child. The Fropper is vibrantly colored and very attractive to look at. Kids will enjoy bouncing on this unique ride-on as well as propelling themselves forward.
5. Uberstix
Uberstix
Uberstix are flexible building tools which are pretty unique. They can be used in conjunction with recyclable materials like mineral water bottles, straws, popsicle sticks and much more. They can easily connect to Lego bricks, K'Nex pieces etc so that building is easier and unrestricted. Kids can really use their imaginations to come up with anything under the sun with these Uberstix. I personally got to try out a beautiful sailboat made from Uberstix and old plastic bottles. I was amazed at the simple elegance of the construction. The best part about the sailboat was that it actually floated. This is a really unique toy indeed.
