Dance Maker Electronic Dancing Mat "Dance Machine"

A cousin to that old-favorite Twister, Dance Maker encourages kids to follow a sequence of steps shown on an electronic display, which they mimic on a plastic floor mat. Turn on some music (not included), choose one of three speeds, watch the lights on the electronic dance maker, and then follow the matching steps on the touch-sensitive mat. After three minutes the Dance Maker tabulates a score, flashing "you're a pro" or "keep trying." Two 1.5-volt C batteries are required (not included) for the Dance Maker. The flashing lights and crinkly dance mat may grab children's attention initially, but after a few rounds they may move aside (the Dance Maker shuts off automatically) and stick to designing their own dance moves. --Amy Nevala