Hooplah and hurrahs greeted the grand opening of the new Bibby and Harold Alfond Children’s Garden at Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens. It’s a no-tech, elegant space with opportunities for both activity and quiet play. Here, giggly fun mixes in with the satisfaction of digging in the dirt. Kids can climb on a bear, get sprayed by whales, and hear dragons roar. Imagination takes flight through reading, and discovery leads to learning. There’s one surprise after another, a trademark of the designer, landscape architect Herb Schaal of AECOM, Inc.

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Lionel’s G-Gauge battery powered sets are ready-to-run right out of the box. Track and batteries are included. You can run these trains using conventional C batteries (included) or a 9.6 volt rechargeable battery (not included). It’s your choice. And for ease of use, these “larger scale” trains are powered by an easy-to-operate RC controller (with two AA batteries included). Highly detailed with authentic train sounds (including bell and whistle), these “larger scale”, battery operated train sets are designed perfectly for children ages four and up. Lionel’s Pennsylvania Flyer freight set features a highly-detailed steam locomotive and a colorful assortment of cars. Easy-to-assemble G-Gauge track creates a 55” x 72” oval. Set includes: G-Gauge steam locomotive; one gondola with removable crates; one cupola caboose; 12 curved and 4 straight track pieces; RC remote controller; 6 C batteries; 2 AA batteries.

Features: Highly-detailed G-Gauge steam locomotive; Authentic train sounds, including bell and whistle; Working headlight; Freight cars feature fixed knuckle couplers; Remote control features clearly marked buttons that allow the user to make the train go forward and backwards, to sound the whistle, and to ring the bell.

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Kids will really dig this versatile construction vehicle! The fully-functional backhoe has stabilizer legs and can slide back and forth, swivel and extend to dig in the sand or dirt. Spin the seat around and the front loader can be raised and lowered. Features: Constructed out of fade-resistant, high-quality ABS plastic, with no glue or screws; Realistic details and functions encourage imaginative play; Great for use indoors and outdoors.

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Busy Gears encourages hands-on exploration and discovery with electronic gears that go round ‘n round, flashing lights and happy songs! The interchangeable gears can also be stacked, sorted and re-arranged. With an automatic shut-off. Features: 11 interchangeable gears fit on brightly colored post; Turn it on to set it all in motion; Complete with fun music; Sounds and flashing lights; Convenient carry handle makes it easy to take on the go.

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Built to stimulate baby at 2 different points in development, the Sunny Stroll Arch Baby Stroller Toy from Tiny Love Toys providing an easy change for parents as baby grows. From ages 0-3 months baby will enjoy batting and reaching for the hanging objects to help promote visual and mental recognition and perception. After age 3 months, baby will improve manual dexterity as he or she manipulates and experiences the play value of the dangling objects.

Features: Features a rattling and crinkling butterfly ball, a flower mirror, a sun prism, a baby activated propeller, and a flexible arch with angle adjustment; Attaches to most strollers and baby carriers with clip.

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LeapFrog Enterprises announced the Leapster Explorer Learning Experience. Leapster Explorer, delivering more than 40 different learning and play experiences by year-end, offers an unprecedented combination of handheld and online play for four- to nine-year-old kids. Featuring a hi-res, finger-touch screen, Leapster Explorer supports downloadable Leaplet™ Learning Apps, like e-Books and videos, and a click-in camera accessory, for high-tech, kid-tough learning and play. And Leapster Explorer players can access even more learning fun online in LeapWorld™, for a total mobile learning experience that offers kids new discoveries every time they play. Leapster Explorer Learning Experience is currently available for pre-order from leapfrog.com and all major retailers and will be on shelves July 15, MSRP $69.99, in green or pink. Cartridge games are MSRP $24.99, and a pack of two Leaplet Learning App download cards is MSRP $14.99

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Product Description: Create one of seven shapes. This is fun…squared. Flip and fold the tiles to create one of seven possible shapes. The first puzzle is a warm up and each one is more challenging than the last. You’ve truly mastered Cubigami once you can solve puzzle number seven. Highlights: It’s fun squared; Create 7 shapes with one puzzle; Solve the puzzle by creating one of the 7 shapes, or design your own; Great for younger children; Makes a fun, compact travel toy.

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Product Description: The planets must be rotated in such a way that each side of the pyramid is the same color. Watch out. A planet can only be rotated if it is in the right position in relation to the other planets. Planets can lock and release each other. Work your way around the planets until you reach your goal. Planet 3D puzzle set contains 4 colored balls in housing.

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Twilight Turtle, the first and only plush constellation nightlight, gently transforms nurseries and bedrooms into a starry night sky that comforts and calms children and adults alike. From within his plastic shell, Twilight Turtle projects a complete starry night sky onto the walls and ceiling of any room. Twilight comes with three soothing color options blue, green, and amber to create magical, tranquil environments that are ideal for helping children of all ages fall asleep easier. Measuring 14 inches head to tail and stands 5 inches high, the Twilight Turtle includes a battery saving time out function, push button reactivation, easy color selection, and 3 AAA batteries. Price: $36.99.

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