Best Christmas Toys for 2011

HOTTEST CHRISTMAS TOYS FOR 2011

Get your kids what they want this year!

Introduction
If you're a parent, you know the horrible pressure there is to get your kids the
right presents during the holiday seasons. As adults, we all think that you
should be happy for getting anything... But, I think you know just as well as I do
that children won't react that way.

It's the happiest time of the year for many kids. They are out of school. In many
parts of the world it's snowing. Best of all, the thought of getting exactly what
they want on Christmas morning makes every child smile for the last couple
months of the year.

If you need to know the top 25 Christmas toys of 2011, you've come to the right
place. This ebook is here to give all those parents that are struggling to find that
perfect gift your child really really wants. The toys in this book are all award
nominations at the very least and each category has the winner of the year.

These toys are chosen due to product sales and overall child rating. Just to make
it easier for those parents on the run... like myself... I have the ebook broken into
5 categories. Infants/Toddler toys, preschooler toys, boys toys, girls toys, and
specialty toys.

Each toy has a description and a couple reviews about that product. All of this
information was found through Amazon, Walmart.com, and some popular toy
blogs. This information is to give you a better idea of what you will be buying
your kids.

If you are interested in purchasing one of the top 25 toys, click the title link for
that toy. You will be brought to Amazon.com. This website will have the
product for purchase and more information about the product just in case you
haven't completely made up your mind.

Let's get to the toys...

Buy Amazon Gift Certificates for the Holidays!


Top 5 Toys For Infants and Toddlers

1. Playskool Musical Activity Ball and Gear Center

Whirling, twirling, musical fun is on the way with this exciting MUSICAL GEAR
CENTER set! Your little one can push this button to activate the music and motion that
will keep both his eyes and ears engaged. As he drops the ball onto the track, he'll watch
with delight as it falls down the tube and then spins at the bottom. He'll love spinning
the gears on the side to turn the friendly face around and around--and when he gets
older, you can remove the gears so he can stack them and take his fun to "new heights"!
The active play, twirling fun and happy music just goes on and on!

Features:

Exciting and engaging ball-drop and turning gear set lets baby activate the
action to get the balls rolling, gears twirling and music playing.

Gears can be removed for stacking fun as baby grows older!

Balls fit other EXPLORE 'N GROW ball sets. Gears fit other EXPLORE 'N
GROW gears sets. Each sold separately.

Set includes activity center base, ball arch, two balls, five gears and
instructions.

What's in the Box

Set includes activity center base, ball arch, two balls, five gears and instructions.

Customer Reviews:
“Overall, this toy is pretty fun for a baby. I've played with my friend's 14 month-old with this toy and it
kept her occupied for a good 15 minutes. She had a lot of fun figuring out where to put the balls and
got excited anticipating them to pop out; also she had fun taking the gears off and putting them back on
and turning them. The balls are large enough that she can't fit them in her mouth and there's a little slot
for the balls to stay in when you're not using them (so they don't get lost). It's pretty sturdy as she was
being a bit rough with it and didn't fall apart. The music is not totally annoying, so that's a plus too. “
“Durable and easy to assemble are the highlights of this Playskool toy. Otherwise, it's had it's 5 minutes
of fame in our home, and likely will be stashed away while my young sons play with other toys they
find more amusing. My boys are 8 months and 2 years old. The 2 year old likes to run around with the
balls best, and finds the rest of toy less than engaging. My 8 month old has been amused with the music
playing, and may become interested in turning the gears--that is if the toy even still interests him in the
near future. The gears turn well and they stack easily, but they don't DO anything. Turning the gears
doesn't make the music turn on, or make the balls drop. The balls must be manually dropped down, and
all they do is drop. When they drop, they don't cause the music to turn on, either. Only pushing down
the red smiley face on the right corner makes the music go. If pushed far enough down, the gears will
also turn. If the gears played more of a role in causing the music to play or the balls to roll, I probably
would have rated this toy better. As it is, the elements are not related to each other at all. “


2. Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Learn & Move Music Station

Get baby moving, playing and learning with so much variety—and so much fun. The
Learn and Move Music Station easily connects to your TV, with five interactive worlds
to discover on two levels. Baby can press the colorful piano keys or move the monkey,
puppy and kitty to explore plenty of active learning. C’mon, let’s play. Teaches: Letters,
A - Z, numbers, counting, colors, shapes, opposites, animals, first words, greetings, body
parts, music and more. Requires 3 AA and 3 C batteries, not included.

Customer Reviews:

“We took this toy out of the box and had it up and running in five minutes. Our intention was for our 11
month son to practice standing, but also have something lean on if needed. He loves our real piano, so
we thought it would be perfect.

It is solidly built, and has great sound when used in stand-alone mode. Keeps my little guy interested
for quite a while. The tv interaction has very smooth and almost un-noticeable transitions. For example
the color keys will change the background color of the screen, while the animation stays the same.

However, my 3 year old daughter noticed immediately how the keys changed the colors, and she could
change the animations using the trumpet slide or guitar roller to make slight changes in the animations
and music. I had a hard time keeping her away from it so that my son could use it!

I had to put some strips of velcro on the rear legs, because when used in the upright setting, it tends to
slide all over the floor and my little guy would topple over. It surprises me that they diddnt think of
this. After that slight modification it has worked hours without any incident. “

“We love this toy! Have not had any problems with it. After reading reviews, we expected lag time
when connected to the TV but did not experience that. We consider the TV connection a "bonus" that
we will use when our daughter gets older- playing with the toy "as is" is plenty to entertain her for now
(she is 8 months, I know a little young for this, but we thought it looked so fun- and we like that it can
grow with her and she can use it when she is able to stand). Overall, she loves to play with it and we
like the music and activities it provides. The price was a little high, but when you consider that it will
last for many months, I think it's worth it. “


3. LEGO Duplo Learning

This Lego set brings the same top quality fun that all other Lego products have
done in the past. Perfect for ages 2+. Overall it's a nice set with a lot of pieces,

but it all depends on what you're wanting to do with Legos.

This set is great for novelty pieces, like the double-decker four peg pieces which
each have a number or corresponding number of items. They would be great fun
for playing little number games with. This set also contains one cute little person
who can be made to attach standing, or laying, or sitting on any Lego piece, and
his pal, a dalmation dog. There is a single window, and a little standard Lego car.
The white fence is a great novelty piece too.

For anyone new to Legos, or who is balking at the $25 price tag, I think it is
worth mentioning that the ABS plastic used by Lego is quite safe and durable,
and that many basic Lego bricks are still manufactured in European countries,
which is pretty outstanding when you consider how big the company is.

I wouldn't pass up this set. The possibility for games with numbers is cool, the
novel pieces are nice, and there are a few basics like the car.

Customer Reviews:

“I originally got my son the duplo box of 71. We had fun, but it was hard to make more than
one thing at a time and hard to make a good house.
This set was the perfect compliment to it and filled up the rest of the 71 box.
I love the pictures and numbers and so does my son.
The cute additions (dog, flowers, fence, window, boy) are great for imaginative play, and it's
nice to have an extra train car to hook up to the other one from the 71 box. “

“when i purchased this lego for my almost 2 years old baby, i didn't think it would be this nice. the
pieces are big enough for his age, and he loves the little dog and man, and the car, which is nice to find
all in one box. It has great educational potential, since it allows to match the numbers with their
correspondent amount of little fun figures. Colors are great, it looks pretty durable, and i hope my little
one will enjoy it for a long time. “


4. Fisher-Price Lil' Zoomers Spinnin' Sounds Speedway

Ready, set, spin. Baby will love the put-and-take fun of placing two cool race cars
on the ramp. They roll down and around on the swirling, light-up raceway, then,
surprise. The spinning action sends each car out to the exit ramp and under the
spinning flag. Or baby can pull the gearshift to start the fun. Zooming speedway
sounds, lively music and five flashing lights ramp up the excitement, with a
winner every time.

This toy includes a race car setting. It's fun and interactive for your toddler. The
age recommendation is 6 months to 3 years.

Customer Review:

“I bought this on a whim for my 5-month old newphew. It was easy to put together - after we got it out
of the box - and soon we were up and running. The first few times he just sat back and took it in, but
once he figured out what was going on, he couldn't get enough. In fact, when the cars would stop
spinning and come out the other side, he would cry until another one got started. He's played with it
several times in the last week or so and gets just as excited. “


5. LeapFrog My Own Leaptop

The Leaptop takes the spirit of a real laptop computer and infuses it with an
appealing, kid-friendly design. This durable and organically-shaped plastic case
opens like a laptop. The Leaptop's lightweight and convenient handle makes it a
travel-friendly toy.
Above the large alphabet pad, you'll find the E-mail, Music Playlist, and Blog
function buttons. Around the LED screen, you'll see computer-like icons
displaying all of the Leaptop's interactive features. Kids will love switching
between the Animal, Music, and Alphabet modes, which are accessed with the
moveable mouse switch.
Each Leaptop has one of two puppy hosts, Violet or Scout. Depending on which
Leaptop version you buy, one of these adorable puppies will accompany your
child through all of the activities. Kids will even have access to Violet or Scout's
personal blog by pressing the Blog button.

An Introduction to Letters, Animals, Music, and More
The Leaptop's three play modes and three function buttons will help your child
learn the basics while having fun. Alphabet mode teaches letters and phonics;
Music mode turns the alphabet pad into a music sampling machine, so your
child can contribute musical animal noises and funny audio effects to songs; and
Animal mode teaches kids to identify animals and their sounds.
The Email, Music Playlist, and Blog functions help children build vocabulary,

and practice listening and reading skills. And they'll enjoy receiving emails and
singing along with Leaptop's preset and downloadable songs. With the Leaptop,
you'll be confident that your child is exposed to activities that help develop
essential skills.
Personalize the Leaptop Online

You'll want to personalize your child's Leaptop by connecting it to your
computer with the included USB cable. After connecting to the Leapfrog Web
site, you can create a parent account that allows you to customize this toy laptop
by creating a profile for your child.
You'll also be able to select songs for the Music Playlist and set up personalized
emails from Scout or Violet and other friends and relatives in your child's life.
Additional Scout and Violet downloads are available for purchase, and printable
coloring sheets are available for free.

Customer Reviews:

“I have three boys, ages 3,5, and 6. They are all in various stages of learning to read...they all enjoy
this, but my three year old cannot get enough of it. He jealously guards it, keeping it away from the
other two kids, and he arried it around with him...he has learned his alphabet, and now he is learning
the sounds the alphabet makes. I thought this would be an OK toy at best, but it has been a huge
success story in my house...so much so, that I had to order two more so that hte other boys would have
a chance to play with it as well! Even my 6 year old really likes it. Another good product from leap
frog. I'm not sure how long this will last though, and I'm worried that my very rough boys will break it.
We have had it about 3 weeks or so and it has survived, but I worry about the screen. Anyway, great
toy, inexpensive enough that I will probably even buy another one if it does break! THat is how much
my boys like it. “

“We got the leaptop for my 20 month old after finding that most of the other toy laptops were
for older toddlers and had a possible choking hazard. This is just right for my son. He had no
trouble figuring it out and really loves the music. My only wish is that there was a selection for
numbers, but otherwise this is a great toy for young toddlers who like music and letters. “


Top 5 Toys For Preschoolers

1. Fisher-Price Disney's Dance Star Mickey

Now kids can get up and dance as their fun-loving pal Mickey Mouse comes to
life right before their eyes. The new, innovative Dance Star Mickey walks, talks,
and dances his way into kids' hearts, topping off his skills with an "out of this
world" grand finale to one of his signature dances. With one press of Mickey's
foot, Dance Star Mickey comes to life for a fun interactive experience that
encourages kids to get up, get active and dance. Grooving to six different songs
with styles including, disco, Latin techno, and the Moonwalk, Dance Star Mickey
is also packed with interactive games that will have children and parents
laughing and dancing along.

Customer Reviews:

“Dance Star Mickey is simply the must own toy for the holiday season in 2010. If you have the money
or if you love Mickey Mouse, you will not find a better toy. It's so worth it. The motion is absolutely
breath taking. There are six different dances including a cool moonwalk and 2 interactive games called
Freeze and Mickey Says. My favorite part: When Mickey talks and sings his mouth opens and closes
with each word. It's completely in-synch. I'm not afraid to admit it but Mickey has cooler moves than
me.
The folks at Fisher-Price have outdone themselves.

The only problem with it is that it is powered by batteries but these are included. If your Mickey stops
in the middle of the song, his batteries probably ran out. I've found to conserve the battery it's best to
switch Mickey off with the switch located under his foot when done playing. Also the moonwalk works
best on a hard slippery floor. He actually does slide smoothly across the floor thanks to the wheels
underneath the toy's feet.

There is no way to describe how amazing this toy is until you see it for yourself. No matter what your
age Dance Star Mickey will make you smile. Even after reading how amazing it was, it still blew me
away. Very few products do that. “

2. Fisher-Price iXL 6-in-1 Learning System

Intuitive and Kid-Friendly Technology

Made of rugged plastic that will survive all kinds of crazy play, the iXL is similar
to popular hand-held game players, but is designed for the use of younger
children. The device opens like a book to reveal an LCD touch screen that
displays all the action. Your kid will navigate through the activities by touching
the tethered stylus to the screen.
The iXL is extremely intuitive and uncomplicated. The stylus has a holster and is
tethered to the device by a sturdy nylon string, so your child will never lose it. Opposite
the screen is a speaker with volume control, an Action button that allows you to make
choices in certain modes, and a Home button that returns you to the Main Menu
whenever you wish.

Easy Set Up
To turn the piece on, you or your child will simply press the Power button positioned on
the side of the device. All elements of interaction--from the generous buttons and stylus,
to the iXL's hearty casing--are practical for children's use.
After unpacking the iXL, you'll get it ready for play by inserting four AA batteries then
completing a quick calibration of the touch screen. You'll want to install the software for
this toy via the accompanying CD-ROM to access additional features, software updates,
and customizations. Additional iXL features include an SD slot for memory expansion,
built-in memory of up to 150 MB, and a standard headphone jack for those long car
rides or flights.
An Interactive Learning Experience
The iXL will keep curious kids busy, entertained, and learning with its six preloaded
activities. Your child will practice reading and comprehension with the Digital Reader,
which includes an interactive 15-page story available in either the reading or interacting
mode. For kids who love action, the Game Player features a three-level arcade game that
promotes counting and learning about sequences and numbers.
Future young writers can practice the alphabet and their penmanship in the Notepad
mode, while young artists will flex their creativity with the Art Studio's digital tools. The
iXL includes an MP3 Player with five preloaded kid's songs and a Photo Viewer with
three sample images that can be embellished and manipulated.
Software Downloads Expand Features
You'll get the most from the iXL by loading the software onto your PC and attaching the
device to your computer with the accompanying USB cable. Although with high-speed
cable internet software may take up to 30 minutes to download, once you completed this
you can transfer files to increase playing options, including additional software for
purchase that will add new stories and games for your child to play.
Navigating the software is simple and intuitive. You can create up to five profiles for the
iXL, so this device can be enjoyed by the whole family. Add images or music files to the
library and transfer them to the iXL. The software also gives you access to other fun and
free extras, such as printable activity sheets for your child or the whole family, craft and
party ideas, and other activity suggestions categorized by age.

Customer Reviews:

“Pluses: My 4 year old son was immediately engrossed with this toy and was able to use it very little
assistance; we now limit his time on this device so he'll do other activities. This is a good learning tool
for younger children. Various themes are offered: counting, spelling, music, and coloring (can select
from a palette of 16 colors); it does offer diverse entertainment. It should be ideal for a long car or
airplane trip (small size is good). Family photographs can be downloaded and then drawn upon. There
are up to 6 user accounts for different youngsters that can be created, but I do not consider this as a toy

that can be easily shared; other than there are games for two players.

Minuses: 1) Children learn fast and its hard to believe any educational software suited for a 3/4 year old
is going to challenge a 6/7 year old (which is the upper age range). The current software available
seems good for about 3-5 year olds. The included software only has counting up to 20; video game up
to only 10; the reading and vocabulary are little more advanced. There are other CD titles released, but
I'm unsure that these really address the educational level for older children. 2) The transfer speed to
down load optional software titles from a CD is very slow. It took about 30 minutes to download the
Batman CD; this is about 30 minutes for 42MB of data. I'm guessing a 256MB flash memory that is
about 10 years old is being employed in this unit. You just need to be patient when downloading any
items (CD, photos, music). 3) The screen space for writing words is small; children are asked to write
their name on the screen, but names longer than 4 letters need to be crammed into the space allotted.
The major intent is to trace a single letter or number and then, in this scenario, the writing space is
adequate.

Other Info: As noted above the unit most likely has a 256MB flash memory installed; initially about
65MB is used (this includes the monkey: games, book, spelling, numbers, etc.) and about 160MB is
free. So you should be able to add 4 games ($$$), but most likely not 5 ... especially if you have
downloaded some music and/or photos into the unit. The unit seems a little heavy after loaded with
batteries (not included) ... so smaller hands may have a harder time grasping and not dropping this toy
(it does appear to be durable). “

3. Playmobil My Take Along Puppet Theater

This fun play along station is perfect for the puppet shows and story telling.
Action figures, dolls, and character puppets all work great with the Playmobil
scene.

Customer Review:

“I purchased this take along for my 4.5 year old for Christmas. I couldn't find any reviews but I couldn't
resist when I saw it at the kids toy store. The other playmobil sets seemed to have too many small
pieces. My son has been pleased with it. He spent some time playing with the little figures. Very nice
details. It doesn't have too many small pieces. Just the right amount. This is a great way to introduce
children to theater/performance...etc. Also, the story included on the playmobil website is very helpful.
It can be downloaded from their website...
The only thing is that the little musical device doesn't have a great sound quality, but that couldn't have
been from the batteries I have placed.

Overall, I would recommend this product to anyone age 4 and up. The take along feature is a plus. My
son loved the idea of having it as a "suitcase".

4. The Sing-A-Ma-Jigs

Your kids won't be able to resist the Sing-A-Ma-Jig, a whimsical and unique
creature that loves to sing in its own jibber-jabber language. Alone, Sing-A-Ma-
Jigs sing their favorite songs and notes, but in groups, they can interact and
harmonize perfectly. Kids 36 months to 6 years old will be delighted to see these
quirky creatures' mouths opening wide for each note.

A Whimsical Singing Creature

Each spirited and well-made Sing-A-Ma-Jig is constructed with thick, soft fabric
and comes in a colorful print T-shirt with a Velcro tab that makes changing easy.

Kids will love these creatures' fun and cuddly shape and will be eager to collect
these otherworldly singers.
Each creature has its own unique colors, ear shape, and singing pitch. The Sing-
A-Ma-Jig's mouth, which opens wide whenever it sings, is as entertaining as its
singing. Your kids will be delighted to see the little teeth and tongue inside the
moveable mouth.
Customer Reviews:
“I wanted not to like these things, because they're weird looking, but I find myself playing with them
every chance I get. Each differently colored animal, when you squeeze them emits an "Ohhhh" sound
of a different pitch. Together, they harmonize. Each time you squeeze them, there is a different note
sounded. You really need more than one to get the fun effect. I was thinking these would be perfect for
grandparents to give to sets of grandchildren (or nieces/nephews/siblings/whatever) so they could be
played with together. They don't do anything else, but what they DO is really fun. I'm not sure why.
You'll be disappointed with just one, though, because you can't hear the harmony. “

“I'm not even a little kid and I find these toys so adorable. I got this hot pink toy at CVS
yesterday. My mom, my sister and I were going to go see a movie, and we stopped at CVS real
quick. I'd seen the Sing-A-Mi-Jig on TV and I tried squeezing it's belly. So cute! Soon each of
us had a toy in our hands and we were harmonizing in the middle of the aile. If you squeeze
it's hand twice then press it's belly it'll sing. This one sings A Tiskit A Tasket. Took me a few
minutes to find out what song it was. Each one sings only one song, but I know that one will
sing Oh He's A Jolly Good Fellow, and another one It's Raining It's Pouring.
So much fun! “

5. Tonka Chuck's Stunt Park

Zip, zoom, turn and even flip-- perform all kinds of stunts with your CHUCK
THE DUMP TRUCK vehicle and this fun electronic play set. Press the TONKA

plate to activate your vehicle's motor and send him racing down the mountain to
do his flip flop stunt or set him up for his daring two-wheeled hanging stunt.
Turn the handle to raise the scoop and help Chuck get to the next level. This
little daredevil just loves to show off with you. Vehicle can drive on or off the
track. So bring him with you to sit down and read from his storybook and plan
your next big daring feat! Playset requires 2 "AA" batteries (included). Vehicle
requires 2 "AA" batteries (NOT included). Works with other Power Playard
systems like Boomer's Flippin' Fire Rescue, Rowdy's Trash Crash, and Handy's
Hangtime Bridge. Other sets sold separately. Age 3+

Customer Reviews:
“My little boy loves this sooooo much! So much going on, with hidden surprises and challenges. And,
he REALLY loves even more now that he sees Tonka Chuck the Truck on his new TV show (HUB -
Discovery Kids). He can now reenact scenes from the show. He loves to watch Chuck motorize through
all the different ramps and obstacles, and he can customize the track.....so he can get creative. My son
freaked when he opened this gift! “

“I just had to review this toy. It is very cute and actually takes some thinking ahead for the
little one to make sure the track is in the right place before the Chuck dump truck comes
along. IF the track is not in the right place Chuck the dump truck will just keep on moving
straight and off course. This takes some practice for a little one to figure out, but he/she will
get that the track has to be lined up right (the yellow loose track pieces that is). Anyway, I had
to review this because the stunt ramp comes with batteries so the kids hear a noise when the
blue ramp is lifted... but... the entire Stunt Park will not work unless you have 2 AA batteries
for the Chuck the dump truck. So, I would hate for anyone to put this toy together and think it
will work since they give you batteries for the un-needed ramp part and not the very needed
dump truck. It is really a neat toy. I could not give 5 stars just because of the battery thing...
seems a bit dishonest to have batteries for the ramp so you think you have all that is needed
but then notice 2 AA are needed to get the thing to operate at all. So, I wanted to give a heads
up! True, all you would have to do is read the box and see you need 2 AA... but still. “


Top 5 Toys For Boys
1. Air Hogs Hawk Eye Channel A

Take to the skies and record videos from a bird’s eye view with the Air Hogs
Hawk Eye radio control video camera helicopter. This silver helicopter is a great
way to play spy and record up to five minutes of video or hundreds of pictures.

Customer Reviews:
“Indestructible?!?! This thing went IN my pool and completely submerged, while running. The rotor
was actually running under-water. I took it out, turned it off, let it try for about 12 hours and it came
right back to life! If anything it's flying better now! This is a tough little device. I've crash landed it
about 15 times and it is still fine. 5 Stars for surviving the water.... come on!!!

The downsides to this type of R/C Heli are well known: IR control has known issues, 4 "axis"
directional control is limiting and makes it hard to get the heli to do "exactly" what you want.. basically
you can not control forward/backward motion in this type of Heli.

You can control it fairly well if you trim it (often) and learn how it likes to fly. I'd say it's more
controllable than the Havocs I've tried but similar overall.

It's a fun toy. It flys and takes pictures and video all via remote control. The fact that this thing sells for
around 50 bucks is pretty amazing. I'm sure a $500 or $5000 version would be really incredible but
then I wouldn't be buying/flying it so I'm pretty happy overall. “

“My experience has been very good! I bought mine at Target. It does take a long time to charge, about
40-45 minutes, but then I get about 10 minutes flight time with no crashes without running the Camera.
Folks should take note, taking pictures or running the video camera will shorten the battery life, so
make sure you don't accidently turn it on. I have crashed and crashed and crashed this thing. It is still in
the same shape it was when I pulled it out of the box. In my opinion, it is better and a lot easier to fly
than the other models, e.g. The Jackal. I have already recommended this to my friends for their kids
Christmas gift.

Another note folks should know about, the chopper itsself uses a USB cord to charge it, so you need a
Laptop, PC, Play Station, X-Box or simliar USB compatiable divice available to charge it. “

2. Hot Wheels R/C Stealth Rides Batmobile Tumbler

Miniature RC Racing Car Folds into the Transmitter/Carrying Case
The innovative foldable design of this RC racing car is the first of its kind. Kids
will love carrying this pocket-sized car around, and you'll appreciate how simple
it is to store and maintain.
Modeled after the Batmobile, this car features a transformation button on the rear
window. When the button is pushed, the vehicle's sides fold down, allowing you to slip
the car into the slim carrying compartment which doubles as the transmitter.
While you're removing the car from the case press the transformation button and this
speedy racer will spring back into shape. The transmitter's two buttons allow for
intuitive, multi-directional movement.
A Lightning-Fast RC Racer for Indoor Play
The foldable RC Stealth Rides Racing Car features incredible, agile movement. It
performs best indoors on hard surfaces, where it's protected from direct sun. This RC
racer has a shorter driving range than other RC vehicles, so tell kids to stay close to their

cars while they play.
Kids will love getting together and racing their RC Stealth Rides vehicles. Much like a
TV remote, this RC vehicle relies on infrared signals to operate, so playing with two
vehicles simultaneously requires that they be set to different channels. Setting up a race
between two cars is easy--check the backside of the transmitters and cars, and switch
one set to channel three, and the other to channel four.
If the car and transmitter remain idle, the power will automatically shut off. Teach kids
to set the channels to zero after they're finished with the big race.
What's in the Box
RC Stealth Rides Racing Car with AG13 (LF44) batteries, three extra AG13 (LF44)
batteries, and instructions.

Customer Reviews:

“Item arrived within delivery window and in good condition. It appears very close in detail to the
movie vehicle. It requires channel selection on the case/remote and vehicle itself, with an on/off switch.
Once it is turned on and placed on a flat surface, it is actually faster than it appears. The kids love this
item. In terms of its durability, remember that it does "fold" flat when pressed on the top "vertex" above
the cockpit and requires a bit of force to get it to lock in place. Once locked in "flat" position, it
actually retains that shape until you press the release button. The controls take some getting used to in
terms of turning left or right but other than that it is a nice pocket replica of the movie vehicle and great
for table top obstacle courses or racing. We are happy with the purchase. “

“My son loves this toy, so much so, his brother had to go out to buy one with Christmas money... “

3. Nerf N-Strike Stampede ECS

Fully-Automatic Blasting Power

The fully automated Nerf N-Strike Stampede ECS has the ability to launch an
astounding three darts per second. Your child can either squeeze the trigger once
to let a single dart fly, or hold the trigger down and have the Stampede launch
Nerf darts in rapid-fire succession. With three extended 18-dart clips, a quick-
reload 6-dart clip, and 60 Clip System darts, the Stampede is ready to reload and
keep the foam flying.
Pop-Out Bipod and Blast Shield Fire Up the Fun
The Stampede's accessories can be configured for all kinds of action adventures. Kids
can bunker down for an ambush with the pop-out bipod. Simply snap on the bipod to
support the barrel, hold the target in the pin sight, then take a shot.
The Stampede boasts a 30-foot firing range, so the backyard or basement can be covered
in soft Nerf darts in no time. When the battle heats up, the Stampede's blast shield
attaches quickly to fend off return "fire".
Designed for Realistic, Active Play
Weighing nearly 5 pounds and built of thick, durable plastic, the Stampede has the heft
of a genuine article. Nevertheless, it's easy to hold and operate--even in the heat of
battle--thanks to the trigger handle and two additional carrying handles integrated into
the Stampede's stock.
What's in the Box
The N-Strike Stampede blaster with pop-out bipod and blast shield, three extended 18-
round clips, quick-reload 6-dart clip, 60 Clip System darts, and directions.

Customer Reviews:
“I obtained this gun for my son. However, I am 50-years-old and even I think this thing is cool. My 13-
year-old son thinks it is really, freaking cool. His 11-year-old sister does not think it is quite as cool for
some odd reason...hmmm.

Anyway, my son has several Nerf guns. This one definitely has a higher rate of fire power than any
other he has. He also has a Nerf gun called a "long-shot" (or some such thing). The long-shot can shoot
a bit farther than this gun, but you have to pump it every time you shoot. So, in an outside battle when
distances are greater, the long-shot pump may have a slight advantage. But inside, or in any shorter
distance battle, the Stampede will be the gun of choice.

Really, this thing is a lot of fun. My son and his 6-year-old sister are playing with it right now. There
are dozens of Nerf darts laying around all over the living room. The 6-year-old has poor aim, so this
causes all sorts of mayhem.

But fun is fun, and they are having plenty of fun. It is amazing how quickly they can fire 60 darts all
over the place.

The only downside to this gun is it uses batteries, so every once in a while I will have to replace the six
D-cells (which do not come with the gun). So this adds some cost. Also, the original buying cost is

higher than other Nerf guns. But it does have 4 magazines and 60 darts included. So that adds some
value. And watching my kids play with this thing makes it appear that if you figure the cost per hour of
time played with the gun, the cost will end up being fairly low. The gun also seems to be well built and
sturdy.

In any case, it is very fun and worth having for kids that like Nerf guns...or for the dads that battle it out
with kids. “

4. Real Construction Deluxe Tool Workshop

The Real Construction Deluxe Tool Set makes a great gift with over 120 pieces of
tools, nails, screws and kid wood. With real sawing, cutting and nailing build
anything you can imagine, or use the included project book. Real Construction
Deluxe Tool Set includes: Includes Saw, Hammer, Screw Driver, Hole Borer,
Small Detail Saw, Nails, Screws and Multiple Pieces of Kid Wood.

Customer Reviews:
“This is a great toy. My son got it for his eighth birthday and he has enjoyed it so far. However, it
doesn't really come with an instruction manual. Instead there is a book that shows pictures of what the
pieces look like. You have to guess the sizes of the pieces and how to cut them. If you just want to 'cut
the wood' it's great, but if you actually want to make something, good luck. “

“Real Construction Deluxe Tool Set" is a charming junior carpentry set that includes
everything you would expect to find with this kind of toy, including a saw, hammer, screw
driver, hole borer, small detail saw, nails, screws, and assorted planks of "Kid Wood"
(basically a type of plastic Styrofoam). The kid-friendly plastic tools are able to cut and
manipulate the "kid wood" just as real tools would with real wood.

With a little effort, your child will be able to build his own toys, furniture, accessories, etc. I

gave this to my 6 year old nephew a week ago, and he loves it, having already built a truck, a
plane, a box, among other things. When the wood runs out (and it will), you can always order
more bundled refill packs (sold right here on Amazon.com).

While its true that a more descriptive manual would have been nice, the included "project
manual" has enough ideas to get kids started. In fact, after an initial glance at the book, my
nephew has barely used the manual, except for some occasional quick inspiration as to what
to build next.

Also, keep in mind that this toy is definitely not geared towards the average child under six,
and not just due to the small pieces (or lack of detailed instructions); while a five-year-old
may seem close in age to a six-year-old chronologically, on average there is a fairly big
cognitive difference between the two age sets. In other words, when compared with a six-year-
old, the average five-year-old will have a far more difficult time conceptualizing, organizing
and building the more complex structures that this toy set is capable of.

In all, this is a great toy set, one that encourages and challenges a child's creative thinking and
other cognitive skills in a way that is sadly lacking in today's Disney-fied era of prefabricated
toy merchandising. Only the lack of a more detailed set of instructions holds this toy back
from a five-star review... but if my six-year-old nephew can overcome that obstacle, then
chances are so can yours. Highly recommended. “

5. Spy Net: Secret Mission Video Watch

The ultimate spy tool, packed with high tech spy features. Includes: real working
video camera and microphone to record video, audio and even photos; full color
1.4" TFT screen to watch recorded videos and live playback; onboard memory to
store your evidence and files; upload and download video missions from
SpyNetHQ.com. Rechargeable battery and USB cable, included. Ages 8+.

Customer Review:

“Let me say this is one amazing product. I at first thought it was just some high tech watch that perhaps
did a few things extra but was I ever wrong. This watch is amazing.

Here are some of the features I found right off:

It takes photos, both in real time or you can use the time elapse feature
It has a lie detector built in, we used this feature right away and it was really fun
It is a video camera and you can take video or record voice without anyone knowing it
It has a full screen, easy to see and easy to operate
It tells time in many different time zones
It can be connected to your computer by USB and you can download missions
It has a built in voice changer that is a lot of fun to use
It also has several add on features that can be purchased separately that we plan to look into in the
future

And that my friend is just the beginning of this wonderful watch.

My granddaughter and I had a blast with it for several hours. We recorded everyone, took pictures,
videoed, it was great fun. We than decided we wanted to download a mission. Understand, you do not
have to download missions or interact with the website to enjoy this product. It's totally up to you . If
you decide to download missions it will probably require adult help and/ or someone familiar with
computers. I am well versed with computers and I still had to call customer service for a couple of
quick solutions. I was delighted when a real person answered the phone(with no waiting)! She was very
courteous and knowledgeable. Within a few minutes we were back on track and completing our first
mission. The missions are clear good quality videos with easy to follow instructions.

I have not had it long enough to tell you how durable it is, however it appears to be very well made.

I am very impressed with this product, it is definitely top-notch in fun and entertainment. My 11 year
old granddaughter used the product with ease and loves it. Of course understand Grandma's can have
just as much fun with it as well, and I am living proof of that. Amazing product, well worth your
money. Enjoy! “


Top 5 Toys For Girls

1. Barbie Video Girl Doll

A Real Working Camera and Stylish Barbie in One
With Video Girl Barbie, your child can play filmmaker by shooting real videos.
Barbie's necklace features a camera lens that shoots from her point of view. You
can watch the recordings in real time and play them back on the color LCD
screen that's conveniently located on her back.
Barbie's controls allow up to 25 minutes of recording at a time. You can scroll through
your clips and delete what you don't want to use. With the USB cable, you can even
transfer clips to your computer. Barbie's playback mode doesn't include audio, but you'll
be able to see and hear the clips when you transfer them to your computer.
Barbie comes out of the box in denim jeans, a trendy print hoodie with shimmery pink
fabric, and matching pink ankle boots. You can hold her while you're recording, or use
her jointed knees, elbows, and hands to pose and point her toward your film set.
Whether she's documenting her birthday party or filming a dramatic epic starring her
favorite Barbie dolls, your child will love the creative possibilities of Video Girl Barbie
Doll.
Video Girl Editing Software Includes Fun, Preloaded Extras
Plug Barbie into your Windows machine with the USB cable and download the free
exclusive editing software that allows you to turn your clips into movies with music,
sound effects, graphics, and transitions. The software comes preloaded with soundtrack
music that fits most any genre--from romance and action, to comedy and drama. Kids

will love integrating the Barbie-themed transitions, opening screens, and closing credits
screens into their films.
With Video Girl editing software, you can even connect Barbie to your computer for live
video display. The software is intuitive and easy to use, but younger children may need
help learning the tools. After your child is done editing her film, she can save the file
and share it with her friends.
What's in the Box
Video Girl Barbie Doll with video camera inside, USB cable, instruction manual.

Customer Reviews:

“We purchased this for our daughter's 7th birthday. She loves it! The video quality is surprisingly good for something that
fits inside a Barbie doll! The audio isn't bad either. You do need quite a bit of light for recording, but we were able to record
things inside the house with light just from open blinds. The editing software is a little tricky to figure out, but I was able to
"produce" a 2 minute video with intros, transitions, sounds, and credits in about 30 minutes. I don't have any prior
experience with editing software, and I'm sure it will get much quicker now that I've figured out how to do it. I don't think
my daughter will be able to edit any videos herself, but I would rather help her anyway. Overall, I think this is a great
product, and I would definitely recommend others buy this if they are thinking about it. “

“I'm not sure other reviewers appreciate how brilliant this is. It's a working video camera that shoots video akin to the
quality you'd find from high end digital cameras a few years ago, all from a tiny camera embedded in a Barbie doll's chest!

The potential is fantastic, tapping into a new way for children to tell their stories and engage in imaginary play. Imagine
getting a Barbie's Eye View of her dream house or her date with Ken. It adds another layer of possibilities to make these
playworlds come alive for those participating in them.

Some reviewers are concerned, but I wonder if they're the same reviewers who would just as easily give their pre-teen or
young teenage children phones with working video cameras. It's just as difficult to tell what they're doing with those phones
and who they're sharing photos and videos with. That doesn't mean these devices should be banned. It means parents and
caretakers need to teach their children what's appropriate. Little girls could set Barbie's hair on fire too, but most parents
would say they've instilled enough of a sense of right and wrong in their kids to make sure that doesn't happen.

As for educational value, it's tremendous. Children - boys and girls alike - need to have a working familiarity with
technology today. Transferring videos with the hot pink (hot pink!) USB cable is fairly easy, but also takes a bit of
technological prowess. It takes a little more learning to figure out how to upload such videos to YouTube, Facebook, or
anywhere else. You can do this with Barbie's software, or with other programs like Picasa (that works great for me). There
are some drawbacks, such as sound quality that is subpar to the video quality and battery casing that requires a screwdriver,
but still, this is a $45 toy and video camera hybrid, so it's impressive for what it is.

All in all, I'm impressed with the new direction toys are heading in. I'm sure it's scary for those whose most sophisticated
toy growing up was a Slinky. In her own way though, Barbie Video Girl will inspire young girls and empower them to
embrace technology, learn from it, and expand their storytelling horizons.“


2. FurReal GoGo My Walkin' Pup

Looks, Barks, and Pants Like the Real Thing
Modeled after a Bichon Frise dog, GoGo is soft to the touch and proportioned
close to the real thing. Her ears have a crinkle-style texture and closely resemble
a Bichon's after a trip to the groomer. In other words, GoGo is a cutie.
Pet GoGo on the head and she will bark with enthusiasm. Pet her on the side, and she'll
turn to meet you. GoGo's tail wags and she gives off a high-pitched bark. Her head tilts,
raises and lowers, and her body wiggles.
Her actions are startlingly life-like, so much so that while our testers were taking a break
from playing with her, GoGo stood before the lunch counter, barking and panting as if
she wanted a treat like any real dog would. She even sheds, so beware!
Remote-Controlled Dog Wants to Go, Go, Go!
GoGo is aptly named. With the big-buttoned remote control that doubles as a leash and
fits comfortably in a young child's hand, you can turn on the pup and she's raring to go.
Set her to "try" mode, and GoGo will respond to sound or motion--she'll also bark, but
she won't move. Set GoGo to "on" mode, and she practically tugs at her leash to go for a
walk.
The leash controls GoGo's movements. Press the forward arrow, and she walks at a kid's
pace; press the left and right arrow buttons, and she negotiates corners. Once GoGo
starts moving, she doesn't want to come back. Don't worry, though--her motor is not too
strong, so kids can easily rein her in when it's time to go home.
Even while in the "on" mode, GoGo remains both sound and motion activated, so any
activity on your walk will make her respond like a real pet. Be careful--if you cough or

sneeze in GoGo's presence, she could take off on her own!
Built to Walk on Smooth, Dry Surfaces
GoGo is designed with four rubber wheels--one beneath each paw--that are hidden by
fur. Each of the front wheels rotates on a cam lobe, and GoGo's knees are jointed, so her
front legs appear to bend as if she's extending her forepaws to walk.

Customer Reviews:

“GoGo the walking pup is cute and is quite a bit of fun. It responds to being pet in a way that makes
you want to pet it more. We have seen some people react to it as if it was a real dog, trying to call him
and rubbing him on his neck. If you ignore GoGo it will whine for attention but then go to sleep after a
little while. If you move near one of its sensors it will wake up and bark for attention. My son, who is
autistic, enjoys playing with him and petting him and even trying to feed him. He has been a little
rough with GoGo and GoGo has endured the abuse without any problems. I think the long term
enjoyment of GoGo is probably limited because GoGo really can only do so much. But don't be
surprised if you find yourself petting GoGo while he is sitting on your lap and you're watching TV. “

“I looked on the product page before this arrived to see what kind of batteries it would need. I
didn't see any mention of this, so I was pleased it came with a set of batteries. It does require 4
"C" batteries, if you want to have extras on hand.

I was glad that my tester was here when this cute pup arrived. My grandson is 3years, 1
month. The recommended age begins at 4. This is probably a pretty good recommendation.
While a younger child will be interested, there are things they just won't be able to do. For
example, for it to do a half-turn, you need to hold down the forward button at the same time
as either the left turn button or the right turn button. I also hope the leash controls are sturdy
because it has been dropped several times as well as being used to drag the dog.

This dog wasn't just built for walking using the remote control. If you pet her on the head, she
will make excited noises while moving her head up and down and wagging her tail. There are
even sensors on the sides. This dog might even whine to beg you to pet a little longer! If you
stop playing for about a minute, the dog will go into "daydreaming" mode and won't move or
make sounds. Activate any sensor and it will wake up. They recommend using the off position
for the switch on the bottom to save on battery usage. While on the subject of sensors, the dog
will stop moving when you pick it up. If it won't move forward, you should check to see if the
"pickup" switch is turned on. It's on the right rear wheel.

I think my grandson is having a good time with this pup. He just "walked" it until it's in front
of my dog's food and told it to eat! He's really into imaginary play and this will add to that. He
walks his dogs with his dad frequently. “


3. Justin Bieber Singing Dolls

Home videos made him an online phenomenon, and now hes an international
superstar! Justin Bieber dominates the charts and captures girls hearts with his
catchy songs and signature style. Now you can collect these JB figures featuring
songs and outfits from his top music videos! Each figure plays a 30-second clip
of the featured song and comes in an outfit Justin really wore in the video. Also
includes a cool mini fan magazine for you!

Customer Review:

“This Justin Bieber doll is a very sturdy doll. I can't see anybody breaking theirs any time soon. The
clothes are made of cotton I think, but what was surprising is that the jeans are actually made of denim,
and not some fake-feeling fabric. Justin has the following points of articulation: neck, shoulders,
elbows, legs, knees, and feet. Foot articulation was kind of surprising, but I'm really glad they included
it, as it allows him to be posed in some dancing poses. Only complaint here is that the sunglasses
included look massive compared to his head, but still manage to look cool somehow. This is a great
doll for fans, children, collectors, or people who just want the clothes. Also, I really love his jacket. To
get the doll off of demo mode, there is a switch underneath his right arm that has "On, Off, and Demo".
Flick the switch to "On", and it'll play 30 seconds of "Baby". “


4. Monster High Draculaura Doll

Monster High Doll Draculaura with Count Fabulous Pet Bat Draculaura, is one
of the coolest ghouls in school with her trendy fashions, accessories and scary
cute pet bat. And she has a very famous scary cool parents as well. Draculaura is
the daughter of Dracula. Doll is fully articulated so she can be posed in many
different ways. Includes 1 doll, pet bat, accessory, diary, brush, and doll stand.

Customer Reviews:

“Yes, they do have small parts, and yes they are fragile but it's easy to put their hands, arms, whatever
falls off back in place... it snaps in. So don't let that stop you from getting these dolls. They are
wonderful and fun and different and hey they're supposed to be monsters so if a random arm or
whatever comes off it's no big deal. It is easy to put back together again. “

“I love this doll! I bought it for my daughter 2 days ago & she adores her. I am so glad someone has
come up with a doll for girls who are not into the pretty-princess thing. I plan to buy all Monster High
dolls etc.
The doll box clearly states age 6+ for this doll,so don't give her to babies or wild-ones that will pull her
apart. Our doll does not come apart easily. We had to pull HARD to detatch her hand. It snapped tightly
into place,so don't worry about the dropsies stated in an earlier review. Super posibility makes these
dolls super fun for young imaginations. Give Monster High a chance. I don't think you will be
disappointed. “


5. Blip Squinkies Cupcake Surprise Bakeshop

Come along to the world of squinkies where you will find a soft and squishy
surprise! Watch the gumball machine transform into a bake shop as you open
the flaps on the side. Enjoy countless hours of fun playing in this cup cake
surprise bake shop! Fill the cupcake with all your favorite Squinkies. Then,
insert your coins into the slot and turn the dial for a super Squinkie surprise.

Customer Reviews:

“Excellent, Excellent toy. My daughter loves it. She even carries some of the squinkies off to the
shower with her. She likes the "tiny" factor of the toy. I would not recommend this for small children
who would put it in their mouthes; but it's great for her age-range.

You're able to put the toy-filled balls into the cupcake top, put one of the toy coins in the slot, and
dispense it like a gum-ball machine. It is really clever; and my daughter has played with it for hours-
on-end.

Even though it does not rank high on the educational value; it enables her to use her imagination.

Great toy, and I would recommend it. “

“Love this toy however I was very disapointed to see how much Amazon is charging for this as well as
the Gumball Surprise Playhouse. They are just under $20 at Walmart and Target. Yes, they sell quickly
but considering the price it's worth waiting for. I believe Toys R US also sells both for just under $20. I
love Amazon and buy a lot from them however this is disappointing. “


Top 5 Specialty Toys For 2011

1. Playmobil 5923 Figure Set Furnished School Set

Learning is fun with the Playmobil School. This playset lets you use your
imagination as you explore the joys of education. Play the role of teacher or
student as you explore the multi-level building. With plenty of room for different
classrooms, you can learn about science, art and more. The school comes
furnished with a classroom, science room, art and music room and all the
accessories you need to explore these subjects. Adjust the time on the clock to
keep everyone on schedule or write on the chalkboard to illustrate your lessons.
The set includes 10 figures for a full class

Customer Reviews:

“My 6 year-old daughter requested this from Santa. At first, I was concerned about the high
cost of the toy but then she reminded me that "Santa doesn't buy them, he makes them!" so of
course, she found this set under the Christmas tree this year. My husband is still assembling it
as I type - I would say that it takes about 2.5-3 hrs of assembly and your child will definitely
need your assistance! I have to say that given its build quality, and number of figures and
accessories, it is a "great deal" when compared to LEGO or other Playmobil sets. The attention
to detail is impeccable- the globe spins and you can even write on the chalkboard and erase it.
I am certain that it will provide hours and hours of creative play. The building itself is huge-
you will not be able to put it on their bedside table so make sure you have room for them to set
this up in. But I "highly" recommend it ! “

“I purchased this set for my 4 year old daughter for her birthday. She already had a smaller "take along"
sized set that she really enjoyed. Her eyes lit up when she saw this full sized version. There are so
many pieces (this can get a little hairy when it comes time to pick up!) and so many different ways for
her to play. I forsee this toy providing many hours of enjoyment and imaginative play. “

2. Hexbug Nano Habitat Set

Hexbug Nano Habitat Set. Reconfigurable set lets you create a variety of Nano
homes. Go buggy with Hexbug Nano--the micro-robotic creature that acts like a
real bug! Habitat Set includes 2 extremely rare Nanos and everything you need
to make them a happy home: 4 easy-connect curved pieces, 3 easy-connect
straight pieces and 3 easy-connect hexagon pieces. Configure the pieces any way
you like, then turn your Nanos loose to play! Real fun with real science. Nanos
may look like bugs, but theyre actually very cool little robots that use the physics
of vibration to propel themselves along and explore their environment. Learn
about the science of micro-robotics as you watch them run and skitter, flip over
and pop back on their feet... all in their own special habitat, custom-made by
you! 1"-long Nanos include batteries. Assembled habitat is 17" w x 14" l x 2" h.
Nanos use 1 AG13 button cell battery each (sold separately for $3). The Hexbug
Nano Habitat Set from Brookstone is home-sweet-home for Nanos! Order yours
today. Warning: Choking hazard--small parts. Not for children under 3 years.

Customer Reviews:

“We got this as a last minute gift for our son's 6th B-day. I was talked into it by another mother who
was there to purchase more "bugs" for her kids. She was right, this was an excellent toy for my son. He
spends lots of time setting it up and fighting the little bugs against his sister's. I would purchase this
again. “

“We bought the Hexbug Nano Habitat and two additional Hexbug Nanos for my 6 year old son for
Christmas. We were looking for one last gift and the reviews of this product spurred us to make the
purchase. Four days after Christmas, and this is still the hit of the day. He has been building and
rebuilding their habitat and watching them go, all while laughing and sliding around on the floor and

narrating their adventures. He's even begun to try to find his own ways to expand their world. The
track, while appearing very simple, is actually fairly durable and can be connected in a variety of
different ways. Even with a set of straight track for expansion, he can usually find a new way to
connect all of the pieces in just a few minutes entirely on his own.

They've also been amusing for the adults in the household to play with and watch. They appear
incredibly sentient for something so simply constructed. You can even bet on which bug is the toughest
or fastest or smartest and wait for them to run into each other going down one o the pathways.

I can't yet attest to how long the batteries run, but after 3-4 days of fairly heavy usage, they appear to
still be going strong. “

3. Creativity for Kids Shrinky Dink Deluxe

Make 60 Shrinky Dinks with genuine Shrinky Dink Film and an awesome array
of ideas and accessories. A complete Shrinky Dinks fun factory with oodles of
supplies. Includes 10 sheets of pre-printed Shrink film, charm bracelets, beads,
greeting cards, gift tags, jewelry, cord, hair clips and keys chains plus 8 color
pencils, sharpener, and hole punch. Color bake and watch them shrink. Quick
and clever craft perfect for parties, play and rainy days.

Customer Reviews:
“I am very impressed with this set. First of all, Shrinky Dinks are just as awesome as I remember them
being 25 years ago. Although they are even more fun now, playing with them with your own kids and
watching my 3 year old looking through the window of the oven as they begin to shrink. We played
with them together for almost 2 hours!!! The kit comes with everything, right down to the hole puncher
needed to make the dinks into necklaces etc. Everything is right there. Super great Kid. Worth the
money and will provide hours of fun! “

“I LOVE this shrinky dink kit. I have purchased/am purchasing it for every girls' birthday this year. My
5-yr old really likes to color the patterns in and then watch them shrink in the oven. I also like the
accompanying supplies to make necklaces, barrettes, keychains, gift tags, etc. It's a great value for the
price. If you have a child that enjoys arts and crafts, put this at the top of your list. All gift recipients (5
yr olds) have told me that it is their favorite thing to make.

One thing that I must stress is follow the instructions EXACTLY! Preheat your cookie sheet in the
oven. Use babypowder on the foil. Watch the shrink dinks shrink. Do not use a toaster oven; you will
not get the best results. I know this as a friend of mine used a toaster oven and didn't follow the rest of
the instructions - the shrinky dinks didn't turn out very well. “

4. ThinkFun Solitaire Chess

Everyone knows the best part of Chess is capturing your opponent's pieces.
Solitaire Chess makes the best part the whole point. Players get 10 pieces, two
each of the Knight, Rook, Pawn and Bishop, one each of the King and Queen,
and 40 challenges. Set pieces on the board according to the challenge cards, and
proceed to capture each one, but only by using the same moves allowed in
traditional Chess. Players have to capture a piece with every move, so the game
is fast-paced and always exciting. Ages 8 to Adult.

Customer Reviews:

“I have purchased numerous ThinkFun games. Our favorites include all versions of Rush Hour,
Sudoku, Clever Castle, Zingo, S'Match, and Chocolate Fix. I've tried a few others which we like, but
those are my favorite. This is a new one to add to the favorite list! Having spent the summer learning
how to play Chess, I am very excited that we can use the rules of the chess pieces to solve logic
puzzles. It is really, really well done! The goal of each card is to have the chess pieces capture the other

pieces until only one is left standing. The game is set up in a grid, so that you can look up the answers
in the order at which you need to move the pieces. Ex. A2 moves to B4, etc. etc. The chess pieces are in
a sliding drawer underneath the case which holds the challenge cards. Just beware, the cards are
difficult to get out at first. It took some effort to slide them out. “

“As a non-chess player, I was intrigued by this game's promise to challenge experienced chess players
while also teaching novices the basic rules of the game. WOW! What a fantastic way to learn the rules
of chess! Early challenges help new players get used to the various moves each chess token can make,
and there's a handy reference provided just in case. By challenge 4 I felt comfortable remembering the
chess moves and was on a roll! Each of the 60 puzzles challenges you to eliminate all but one piece,
kind of like a peg solitaire game, and you need to plan moves carefully or you'll be stranded and need
to reset. Great brain exercise in strategy and planning.

I would recommend this game to any game lover, whether a chess newbie or someone who has been
playing for years - it is a blast, and the packaging design allows it to pack all together and travel easily,
I'll take this on my next trip! “

5. UglyDoll Classic Uppy

From the creative minds of two artists emerge the Uglydoll family. What started
as a drawing of a playful orange character known as Wage has turned into a
whole new world of fun. The award-winning Uglydoll plush characters are
available in a variety of styles each with their own distinct personalities. Uglydoll
characters inspire creativity while reminding us that we are all unique in our
own special way. These are the dolls that not only girls are seen carrying but
boys as well. They are the dolls that many boys are willing to nap with, be seen
on the streets with and take to camp. Uglies are neither superheros nor stuffed
animals. Each has their face hand-sewn which gives them all a slightly different
look. Bop 'n Beep is blue on one side and green on the other side.

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bring you the real information on the best Christmas gifts of 2011. Use this information how
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Best Christmas Toys for 2011

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Best Christmas Toys for 2011