Rock-Shaped Bouncing Balls
3.2
5
44
48
Favorite with kids
My husband teaches fifth grade and he uses a system of handing out tickets towards rewards. We purchase many small objects from Oriental Trade, from balls to stuffed animals. The rock-shaped bouncing balls are one of the kids' favorites. They like the unique shape, the colors and the texture. We make sure that his prize chest always has the rock-shaped bouncing balls in it.
February 20, 2009
Balls That Look Like Rocks - What's Not to Like?
These were purchased to be used and then kept by students as part of an elementary school social studies activity. These were used as an example of bauxite (from which aluminum is derived) and rubber. If you're not familiar with bauxite, look up a photo and you'll see the resemblance. The students loved them, and the balls were unique enough that each student was able to pick one out and then remember which one it was. Out of 24 purchased, only 1 was a bit of a dud - while it still bounced, it had an area that was somewhat gelatinous - devoid of the particles - that was a relatively dead spot when bounced.
November 25, 2012
How different!
My son got one of these at a carnival, I had never seen one like it. It did end up getting lost in a lake, had to replace. Unique to say the least. Each time you bounce it, goes a different way due to the uneven surface. Bought 12 and have had several mom's ask me for one. Great idea for school carnivals.
October 5, 2012
Good surprise for low income kids
It's all about context. No, these aren't a good party favor for teens. If you are a teacher in an affluent area, you will need to buy each student a Mercedes to avoid the eye-roll.
I, however, teach poor kids. These serve as incentives for "contest winners" and "most improved" kids. They don't get a lot of stuff. They think it's neat.
Right now I teach 5th graders. When I taught 8th grade, I offered a "New Year" gift to each student before the break. I needed to keep it cheap, because I had 140 students. I had an assortment out on my desk, which I continually replenished from under my desk till all the kids had a choice. 8th grade gang members thought these were great. They asked me what "that's supposed to be" and I said, A rock. But it bounces. They tried it, they liked it, they even said thank you. It was touching to see the little boy come out of these partially-hardened young people.
So it comes down to who your recipients are, and how spoiled they are. It is easier to find things girls like, so I favor getting a supply of these to keep a healthy supply of items boys or young men (who are not spoiled) seem to appreciate.
October 27, 2011
Fun for geology party
These bouncy balls were fun & inexpensive and worked great for our geology themed birthday party!
July 16, 2011
Nice Alternative to Normal "Less Fun" Favors!
I got these for a classroom party. I think the price is great for the quantity you get and it's nice to have something a little different to put in goody bags. I do agree with some of the other reviews in that these don't look exactly like rocks, however they are still neat to hand out nevertheless.
January 30, 2011
Exercise toy
I've gotten these several times for various reasons. Mostly because I have discovered that they make an excellent workout and play toy. Since they bounce any direction when thrown its a great training toy for reflex and running. Plus their look is fun and different. Kids can have hours of fun playing outside chasing them or hiding/finding them plus they make unique gifts to give at parties or as presents. I highly recommend them!
December 8, 2010
Rock? What rock?
Bought these for Halloween party because my daughter said they would go over well with the other teens. They didn't. When I got them, I was highly disappointed in them. They no more looked like a rock and a car does. They looked more like a wad of chewing gum with dirt and beads stuck in it. Rocks normally don't have bright blue in them.
November 4, 2010
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