Hexbug Aquabot
© 2013 Innovation First, Inc.
About the size of a bass lure, these self-propelled robotic fish look just like Robo Fish; which were developed in New Zealand (http://amzn.to/13ft2cH). Each fish is powered by two button-cell batteries (included). The silicon rubbery tails can be pulled off and swapped on different fish. The tail motion is randomized by a small internal computer, which provides a lifelike swimming motion to the fish. There is no on or off switch. Instead, you touch each side of the fish, on two capacitive sensors if you want the fish to swim out of water. The sensors also can be triggered by water; which is why the fish is only on when the fish is wet. Available in five colors and made from translucent plastic so you can see the inner workings, a design element meant "to get kids thinking about the science." For $5 extra, you can get the plastic fishbowl.
$10, Smart Toy
Teaches: a robotic toy for water play