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.