Boochie
A fun twist on bocce, this game is played by throwing a multi-sided ball and having players throw their bean balls and hoops to land the closest to the target ball. A wrist-mounted scorekeeper gives directions on"how” to throw (standing on one leg, rolling it off your head, tossing with eyes closed, etc.). Gamewright, $34.99; www.gamewright.com; ages 8 and up.
Air Hogs Zero Gravity Micro
This amazing remote-control car can drive up a wall or even on a ceiling. High-speed air flowing under the car creates a suction effect, while the remote control directs the car forward, backward or in circles. Spin Master, $29.99; www.spinmaster.com; ages 8 and up.
ArtLab Car Design Studio
Choose from six acetate car bodies and accessorize them with spoilers, rims, etc. Place your design on the mini light table, trace and color. Use the instructional book to help learn shading techniques and hints to create an awesome auto. SmartLab Toys, $22.99; www.smartlabtoys.com; ages 7 and up.
Uberstix Scavenger SeriesPirate Ship& UFO/Landshark& Dragster
These ingeniously designed building pieces require children to incorporate recyclable household items—such as plastic bottles, Popsicle sticks, straws and paper clips—into their structures to build a pirate ship or UFO. The Uberstix also work well with other major building systems, such as LEGO or K’NEX. Children get to unleash their imaginations and explore ways to play with more than one toy or brand at a time. Uberstix, $14.99 each; www.uberstix.com; ages 7 and up.
EyeClops Night Vision
Become a super sleuth and find anybody or anything in the dark. This hands-free headset, worn like goggles, uses infrared technology and an LCD screen to reveal details in total darkness up to 50 feet away. Jakks Pacific, $79.99; www.jakks.com; ages 8 and up.
