by kellie abrahamson kabrahamson1@aol.com
The last thing a kid wants to open on Christmas morning is a box full of tube socks. Instead of going the practical route why not give them one of the hottest new toys of the season? Come on, Mom! All the other kids will have them!!
By Fisher-Price · Retail price: $39.99 (if you can find it!)
The Lowdown: After literally months of secrecy, Fisher Price unveiled the newest version of their hit toy Tickle Me Elmo on September 19 sending parents into a buying frenzy. Since then, the new doll; which laughs hysterically, rolling around on the ground and begging for the tickler to stop; just won’t stay on store shelves, leaving shoppers to track him down on online retailers like Ebay and Amazon. Here Elmo can be purchased for anywhere between $80 and $111.
By Fisher Price · Retail price: $69.99
The Lowdown: Mommy and Daddy have a digital camera and now Junior can have one too. This sturdy digital camera can stand up to toddler abuse like no other and is super easy to operate. The photo quality could be better (640x480 resolution), but because of its durable design, the Kid-Tough Digital Camera will make a pretty good first camera for your little shutterbug. I’ve personally seen this gadget in the major chain stores in mass quantities so you should have no trouble tracking one down.
By Playmates Toys, Inc. · Retail Price: $99.99
The Lowdown: She listens! She talks! She shows emotion! She’s Amazing Allysen! The 20 inch doll is basically a little blonde (or, if you decide to buy the ethnic version, brunette) robot who is programmed to recognize your child’s voice, remember her favorite things and even play games. The little wonder knows more than 100 words and speaks and “acts” like a 10 year old girl. Allysen and “Party Packs” with things like cheerleading, slumber parties and tea time (all sold separately, of course) can be found at the usual toy retailers.
By Wherify · Retail Price: $129.99
The Lowdown: It was only a matter of time. Cell phone users are getting younger and younger and here is a phone made just for kids and their parents (and apparently seniors, according to the website, but that’s another article!). With this nifty little gadget, which comes in five different colors, kids get the freedom of going mobile while parents get peace of mind thanks to a state-of-the-art GPS system that allows you to track your kid via the Internet. Another parental bonus is that they choose who their child can not call and, because it doesn’t have a text messaging feature or the ability to download games, kids can run up an enormous bill. Check the manufacturer’s web site, www.wherify.com, for more info and where to buy.
By Tyco R/C · Retail price: $99.99
The Lowdown: Tech toys are big this year and this one is no exception. The N.S.E.C.T. (which stands for “New Science of Experimental Combat Technology”) is a spider-like robot with the ability to maneuver over obstacles and even protect it’s self, if necessary (or if your child wants to hit the right button!). The intimidating looking toy features a grasping claw and a concealed suction cup cannon hidden under its wings. As an added bonus, kids can log onto the N.S.E.C.T. Force website (www.nsectforce.com) where they can play games, watch special training films and participate in contests. The site will also point you in the direction of the nearest store where N.S.E.C.T. is sold.
By Ganz · Retail price: $10.00
The Lowdown: My four-year-old is doing Secret Santa at the studio where she takes piano lessons and Webkinz are on everyone’s list. Remember NeoPets? This is something very similar except you have to physically “adopt” a Webkinz plushy at a local retailer. Once you take it home, log onto the Webkinz website (www.webkinz.com) and punch in the unique “secret code” that came with your stuffed friend. Now you have a year’s subscription to Webkinz World where you can play with a virtual version of your new pet. This toy can’t be found everywhere so be sure to log into the website for a store locator.
By Mattel · Retail price: $54.99
The Lowdown: What toy list would be complete without Barbie? This doll is a little different. The 15’ interactive dancing doll is based on the film Barbie in “The 12 Dancing Princesses” and will dance to music, teach your child new steps and copy her movements thanks to special bracelets and shoe accessories with motion sensors. This Barbie is quite the battery hog, taking a total of 10 batteries, but if your little girl loves ballet, it’s all worth it!
By Hasbro · Retail Price: $39.99
The Lowdown: Is your teen into Project Runway? If so, this is a must-have. Hook the game up to a TV and you get to be a fashion designer. Create the looks, pick the models and present your line to the judges in Paris, New York, Milan and Tokyo all without leaving your living room! The game is cool and educational, with players having to stay within a certain budget and think in terms of business. All the usual suspects sell Designer’s World so you should have no problems picking up this one.
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