Backboard magic slate is a type of writing board that is commonly used by children for drawing and writing. It consists of a thin, flat board made of plastic or cardboard, with a special surface that allows for writing with a stylus or any other pointed object. The magic slate has an interesting feature – it allows for erasing the written or drawn content by simply pulling up the thin plastic sheet that covers the writing surface. This makes it convenient for children to make changes to their drawings or practice writing without the need for erasers or messy chalk or ink. The backboard magic slate is portable and lightweight, making it easy for children to carry it around and use it wherever they want. It is also durable and long-lasting, with the ability to withstand rough handling by young children.
This unassuming toy has cut a strange, curving course through history. It traveled from the workplace to the toy box to the US Embassy in Moscow. It started with a utilitarian purpose, became a whimsical children’s toy, and then went back to work but this time in the high-stakes world of Cold War politics. The Magic Slate has been around since the Jazz Age, and like jazz, it is an American creation. Its inventor, R.A. Watkins came up with the idea in 1923, while working in a corset factory. He used a wax board and some leftover scraps of plastic. Watkins originally conceived of the device as a way to save paper. It was to be a reusable, erasable time sheet for use on the factory floor but Watkins took it home to his kids and learned where the real money was to be made. He patented the device and begin manufacturing the slates to sell as toys.
They provided a way to communicate silently while leaving behind no physical residue that could be reassembled and decoded if dispossessed of carelessly. This seal was found to be fitted with a hidden listening device and this revelation forced everyone working in the embassy to assume the whole place was wired for Soviet surveillance.
It is also durable and long-lasting, with the ability to withstand rough handling by young children. The magic slate is often used in educational settings to facilitate learning and creativity. It can be used by teachers to teach handwriting skills or to demonstrate mathematical problems.
Backboard magic slate
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Item Description
Original (but incomplete) packaging contains oversized 12x18.5" deluxe magic slate. Strathmore Co., 1940s. Packaging is worn but illustrated label is complete and still makes for nice display. Good/VG. Die-cut thick cardboard designed w/easel back. Front features images of Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck and Pluto. Back has repeated image of Mickey using this set. Missing stylus but comes w/set of eight double-sided "Drawing Cards/Tracing Cards," each 2.5x9.75" featuring character images of Mickey and Minnie Mouse, Bambi and Thumper, Donald, Goofy, Pinocchio, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. Cards have some scattered aging and are VF overall. Small tear at holder for these cards. Inked name at top. Magic slate has moderate wear w/right side missing 3" to 3.5" piece of clear plastic cover. Fine. Scarce.
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Vicky is good, Quality it is nice. On-time delivery.
Additionally, parents can use it to encourage their children to practice writing or drawing, helping them to develop their fine motor skills and creativity. Overall, the backboard magic slate is a simple yet versatile tool that can be used by children for various purposes. Its erasable surface and portability make it a convenient and practical choice for both educational and recreational activities..
Reviews for "Backboard Magic Slates as Educational Tools for Early Childhood Development"
1. Jessica - 2/5 stars - The "Backboard magic slate" was a huge disappointment for me. The concept of a magic slate board seemed exciting, but the execution fell flat. The board was very flimsy and the writing surface wasn't smooth at all, making it difficult to write or draw with any precision. The magnetic bar didn't erase the markings properly, leaving behind smudges and ghost images. Overall, I wouldn't recommend this product as it failed to deliver on its promises.
2. David - 1/5 stars - I regret purchasing the "Backboard magic slate". The quality was extremely poor, with the plastic frame cracking within a week of use. The marker that came with it dried up after just a couple of uses. Additionally, the magnetic bar didn't even erase the markings properly, leaving behind faint traces that were no longer erasable. It was a complete waste of money and I would advise others to stay away from this product.
3. Elizabeth - 2/5 stars - The "Backboard magic slate" was not worth the price. It seemed like a fun and interactive toy, but it lacked durability. The plastic frame and writing surface felt cheaply made, and it broke easily after a few accidental drops. Even when it was intact, the magnetic bar failed to fully erase the markings, resulting in a messy and unappealing look. There are definitely better options out there in terms of both quality and performance.
4. Jonathan - 3/5 stars - Although the "Backboard magic slate" was not the worst toy I've come across, it still left much to be desired. The writing surface wasn't very responsive, making it difficult to draw or write smoothly. The magnetic bar erased the markings adequately, but it required a bit of effort to completely clear the board. Overall, I wasn't impressed with this product and I feel there are better alternatives available in the market.