State-of-the-art ‘Rocco’ rocking horse harnesses child’s energy

Do you wish you could siphon off some of your toddler’s hyperactivity and put it to good use? Then look no further.

The Rocco is a state-of-the-art rocking horse that uses energy generated by rocking to power a pair of torches that double as the horse’s ears.

Odd concept? Well yes, but it is a new green initiative by American designers that has been entered into the Greener Gadgets design competition in New York.

Makers hope the toy, which is made from 100% recycled plastic, will “teach children about energy generation and conservation through play”.

And the benefits don’t end there. Once your rocking tot has had his work-out the ear-torches can be used as a nightlight to help him drift into a well-earned sleep.

Perhaps this toy will combat two modern dangers at once — reducing pollution and kicking childhood obesity into touch.

The Rocco is just a prototype at present but could soon be coming to a toyshop near you.

This article was first published in Horse & Hound (29 April, ’10)

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