Hoberman Original Sphere Rainbow, Expanding and Contracting Geometric Ball Toy, Award-Winning STEM Fidget Toy for Kids and Adults, Ages 4+

Product Description

The Hoberman Sphere is the original award-winning geometric expanding/contracting ball. Made of linked plastic struts, each one is a marvel of mechanical engineering. Pull on any of the sphere's hubs and watch as it dramatically expands from 9.5 inches to 30 inches! Kids want to touch it, adults want to examine it, and everyone wants to play with it. Perfect for hands-on play and STEM-inspired learning, the Hoberman Sphere encourages curiosity about science, design, motion, and spatial relationships. Children can explore the mechanics of expansion and contraction while developing motor skills and creative thinking through interactive play. Whether used at home, in classrooms, in therapy settings, or as a unique office or bedroom display, the Rainbow Sphere delivers endless fascination and repeat play value. The lightweight yet durable construction makes it easy to expand, collapse, toss, and display. Its vibrant rainbow colors make it visually exciting for all ages, while the innovative design has made the Hoberman Sphere an internationally recognized classic for decades. Great for birthdays, holidays, classrooms, sensory play, and family game nights, The Original Hoberman Rainbow Sphere combines educational value, creativity, and unforgettable kinetic fun in one iconic toy.

Amazon.com

The Hoberman Sphere starts small and grows larger. And vice versa. Made of rainbow-colored plastic links, the sphere expands to 30 inches in diameter and contracts to a compact 9.5 inches. There's a hypnotic fascination in making the sphere expand and contract over and over again, but if kids want to do more with their sphere, a guide (included) lists some possibilities. How about trying the ballerina spin, the flip down, or the hot potato? The sphere can also be a fashion accessory. Think spiked hat or, even better, space helmet. Another option is to hang the sphere as a mobile. A pulley system is included, and a pull of the ring will cause the sphere to contract. Release the ring for expansion. Plenty of fun, the Hoberman Sphere might get kids thinking about mechanical engineering and some folding/unfolding projects of their own. Winner of the Parents' Choice Award. --Wendy Slotboom