As a parent/auntie/big cousin, you are officially designated as a Santa/holiday helper. This guide will help you choose the perfect gift for the little one in your life. We even have quotes from kids who’ve tried out the toys!
Zoobles
Know where “Petogonia,” “Seagonia,” and “Azoozia” are on on a Zoobles map? It’s a sure bet your little girls will this Christmas. Zoobles are collectable colorful spheres that ‘pop’ open when placed on their magnetized ‘Happitat.’ Hundreds of new Zooble characters, themes and play sets to collect. “I like them because they’re small and pop up and make sounds,” says Allesse, 7. “I also like that they have little habitats to sleep in.” The site, www.zoobles.com Retails from $9.99 and up; ages 4 years and up.
Happy Hamster Wheel Runner
Seeing this little toy reminded me of Chip, my childhood hamster–that is, minus the poop and smelly cage. What’s great about Happy Hamster with Wheel Runner is that unlike real hamsters, you can actually hold them without fear of having your pinky mistaken for a carrot. Happy Hamster runs it’s little AAA-battery heart out inside his spinning exercise wheel. Ages 5 and up. Purchase at Five Below, www.fivebelow.com. As the name suggests, prices are $5 and under on all items.
Cradle Rock
Lull your little sweetie with tunes from the king of pop, Michael Jackson with Cradle Rock, a series of children’s lullaby albums produced and created by Brash Music and Tree Top Records. Cradle Rock uses vibraphones, glockenspiels and mellotrons to turn iconic songs and albums into naptime-friendly listening material. It’s like elevator music for babies. I’ll never listen to “Billy Jean” the same way again…ever.
Cradle Rock is available on digital distribution services like iTunes ($9.99) and at music retail outlets across the United States ($11.98). Go to http://www.brashmusic.com for more information.
Photo by Edward Schulz
How the Grinch Stole Christmas
What’s Christmas without The Grinch? (perhaps you know one personally?) How the Grinch Stole Christmas is the classic Dr. Seuss book of the little green man whose heart is two sizes too small, as he and his sidekick Max plot to prevent Christmas in Who-ville. Available exclusively at Kohl’s; $5.00.
Sugee Lip Gloss & Nail Polish
Makes a great stocking stuffer, but just might contribute to a collection compulsion. Girlie-girls can wear them around their neck, click to a backpack, or wear them like charms. Available at Toys R Us.
Grasshopper Preschool Prep Kit
Designed by an occupational therapist to teach kids age 3-5 key skills (learning ABCs, cutting with scissors, etc.) – through 100% play, so it’s learning in disguise as fun. Here’s a plus: it travels well, lessoning the likelihood for meltdowns in the car, plane or train to Grandma’s house. Retails for $29.95. Purchase at www.grasshopperkits.com.
My First Disney Princess
At last, a brown Disney princess! Baby Tiana is a 12-inch soft bodied Disney Princess Baby doll dressed in an adorable onesie in her signature color and a tiara. Ages 2+, retails for $12.95 at http://www.disneystore.com
Infantino: A Day at the Fair 3-D Puzzle
This is a toddler’s puzzle? Thank the lawd I’m a writer because my spacial abilities leave something to be desired. I needed all four kids plus the hubby to put this together, but it was cool family fun just the same. Best deal: Toys R Us. Retails for $9.99. Ages 3-6.
Elmo Mini Game Pack
Great way to organize games during those long car rides to Grandma’s. The Elmo Mini Game Pack carries portable game systems, games and accessories. It features multiple compartments and mesh pockets for storage. Retails at Walmart for $15.99.
Hide and Seek Safari Jr.
The cutest way to play hide-and-seek with your baby. Hide the lion, then press the red button on the wand and lion roars, cluing your little one that they are getting warmer. Available at www.rnrgames.com for $34.95; ages 2 and up.
