Abstract: A set of crayons each having at least one characterizing physical property which differs from other crayons in the set such as color, size, shape, or fragrance have identifying terminations corresponding to the physical property. A universal decoder is provided in a sound emitting device which is adapted to produce an audible tone or message that corresponds to a physical property. Preferably the sound emitting device will include an integrated circuit, microprocessor and speaker components. The sound emitting device may be integral with the crayon. Preferably, the sound emitting device is separable from the crayons and may be physically or electrically coupled to a crayon by the user when a crayon is selected. Alternatively, a sound emitting device is provided which is operational when remote from a selected crayon.

Abstract: A donut shaped soap body has a special effect cartridge which emits sound and light triggered by movement of the soap bar or by wetting of the soap bar. The special effect cartridge has a sealed chamber and light support for backlighting an image and an open acoustic chamber for housing a miniature loudspeaker.

Abstract: A donut shaped soap body has a special effect cartridge which emits sound and light triggered by movement of the soap bar or by wetting of the soap bar. The special effect cartridge has a sealed chamber and light support for backlighting an image and an open acoustic chamber for housing a miniature loudspeaker.

Abstract: An illuminated soap bar including a soap body and an electronic circuit incorporated into the soap body. The circuit has the following: a pair of spaced-apart probes electrically exposed for contact with a conductive medium; at least one light source for emitting light visible externally of the body; and a power supply for supplying electrical current to the light source. The electronic circuit is designed to allow electrical current to flow to and illuminate the light source when the probes are in contact with a conductive medium which defines a conductive path between the probes.

Abstract: An interactive toy programmed to respond in different ways to mechanical stimulation depending on the level and kind of applied stimulation. The toy includes a body and an electronic circuit coupled to the body which electronic circuit may be connected to a power source for supplying electric current to the circuit. The circuit includes a sensor arranged in association with the body, which sensor is responsive to mechanical stimulation to produce a signal dependent on the nature and degree of the mechanical stimulation. A signal recognition and processing device is coupled to the sensor, which device is for processing the signal to produce a command. An output device is, in turn, coupled to the signal recognition and processing device, which output device is for carrying out a programmed response in response to the command. The sensor is an elastomeric variable resistor composition including an elastomer in which are embedded conductive particles.