Smithsonian® Renews, Expands Master Toy License with NSI International, Inc.®

NEW YORK, Oct. 4, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- NSI International, Inc. and the Smithsonian Institution announce the renewal of their long-standing licensing agreement for science-based toys, as well as expansion into a new line of crafts kits for kids.

In addition to continuing with core science SKUs, the NSI product team has worked extensively with Smithsonian paleontologists, geologists, astronomers, and more to develop new, engaging experiences for kids. The goal of the new program is to create amazing experiences that connect kids to their love of learning, and celebrate what is special about the Smithsonian.

New product releases include the Galaxies Planetarium, featuring images from so deep into space, they could only be captured by the Chandra telescope, run by the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory. This amazing new product also projects the stars of the northern sky onto your ceiling and walls -- effectively turning your bedroom into both a planetarium, and a deep space observatory.

The expansion into craft kits will offer additional ways for kids to experience the vast stories told across the Smithsonian's 19 museums and National Zoo, and to express their own unique connections to those stories through art. "NSI is very excited to expand our Smithsonian master toy license into the craft category," says Brian Waldman SVP, NSI. "By giving kids the tools they need to create their own 'masterpieces,' it's almost like they're making their own mini-museums at home."

"We're looking forward to continuing this partnership, and to all the new ways in which we can bring the museums' most exciting experiences to life for kids and families at home," said Carol LeBlanc, Vice President, Smithsonian Enterprises.

About Smithsonian Institution:

Founded in 1846, the Smithsonian is the world's largest museum and research complex, consisting of 19 museums and galleries, the National Zoological Park and nine research facilities. There are 6,000 Smithsonian employees and 6,500 volunteers. In 2010, there were approximately 30 million visits to the Smithsonian, with 188 million visits to the Smithsonian websites. There are 137 million objects, works of art and specimens at the Smithsonian.

About NSI International, Inc.:

NSI International Inc. is a global marketer and manufacturer of creative toy and consumer products including Smithsonian® Science kits, Magic Rocks™ and its own craft and activity brands. NSI's products can be found in thousands of retail locations in more than 30 countries around the globe.

CONTACT:
NSI International Inc.
Brian Waldman
(212) 993-6228 ext. 1009
[email protected]

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SOURCE NSI International, Inc.