About the awards

The criteria for judging are based on the Science Museum's unique approach used to develop its famous interactive galleries, such as Launchpad and The Garden, and to select products for the Science Museum Store and own-branded range.

The Science Museum has inspired and delighted generations of children and adults by encouraging learning through interaction and play. It is famous all over the world for its collection of over 300,000 objects, hands-on galleries and exhibitions, drama characters, science shows, IMAX 3D Cinema screenings, simulators and tours which help bring alive the past, present and future of scientific ingenuity.

The Science Museum Smart Toy of the Year Awards are also a natural extension to the Science Museum Store and the licensed range which specialises in educational and innovative products for both adults and kids.

Previous winners - 2006

SMart Game Category and overall Smart Toy Winner: Polarity

A game of strategy and skill where players balance their magnetic playing pieces in the magnetic fields of pieces already in play. Magnetism forms part of the foundation of many aspects of science and is part of Key Stage 2 of the National Curriculum. Target age 10+, RRP £19.99 (Esdevium Games Ltd)

SMart Puzzle Category: The Kaleidoscope Classic

Invented by a mathematician and psychologist over 20 years, Kaleidoscope Classic was originally intended to build self esteem and aid concentration and spatial awareness, encouraging children to apply memory, logic, patience and persistence. The aim of the game is to recreate one of the 101 challenges using all 18 unique pieces. Some puzzles have over 20 billion solutions! Target age 6+, RRP £19.99 (Brain-ed Ltd)

SMart Kit Category: Horrible Science - Space, Stars and Slimy Aliens

A well-priced science kit which includes a make-your-own planetarium, slimy alien and other simple experiments. It also includes a booklet with facts and figures about space. Target age 8+, RRP £9.99 (James Galt Ltd)

SMart Play Category: Tumba

A strategy game where players must stack and carefully balance coloured blocks on a plinth. Target age 8+, RRP £9.99 (Flair Leisure)

Our SMart Product Category: Science Museum Erupting Volcano Kit

Kids can make and erupt their own volcano, while the accompanying fact sheet explains the science behind volcanic eruptions in a clear and concise way. Target age 10+, RRP £14.99 (David Halsall International) (NB: This category was not eligible to win the overall award)