Holiday Toy Guide

Find our complete list of the 100 Hottest Holiday Toys, plus games, books and more at www.sandiegofamily.com/for-the-kids/kid-tested-toy-product-review. Find our round-up of Holiday Toys for Kids of All Abilities at www.SNRFSD.org.

American Girl Claudie Doll & Book $115; 8+

AmericanGirl.com

Claudie Wells, AG’s newest historical character, is growing up during the 1920s Harlem Renaissance.

The 18-inch doll includes signature outfit and Meet

Claudie book. Her hat, silver pendant, Baby Ruth candy bar, purse and journal are sold separately ($36 for the accessories set).

furReal Cinnamon, My Stylin’ Pony $89.99; 4+ Hasbro.com

With more than 80 sounds and reactions, caring for Cinnamon makes kids feel like they have a real pet. She blinks, moves her ears, head and neck, and responds affectionately with loving noises and kissing sounds. Kids love to snuggle with Cinnamon in nighttime mode.

Jurassic World: Dominion Dinosaur Dig -- Blue, T.Rex and Amber $19.95; 6+ ThamesandKosmos.com

Excavate a mosquito in amber, a small plastic dinosaur and plastic skeleton pieces from plaster. “I love that [the guide book] explains how paleontologists do their work, how fossils are formed and what amber is,” says mom Jacque.

The Magical World of Disney Trivia $39.99; 6+ Playmonster.com

Covering everything from Steamboat Willie to Encanto, this trivia game takes players on a journey through time. “It’s the ultimate game for my Disneyloving family,” says mom

Linda. “Questions cover all Disney movies, TV shows, cartoons, etc. No one knows everything but everyone knows something.”

Bluey Ultimate Lights & Sounds Playhouse $89.99; 3+ Amazon.com

Bluey fans love this new playset featuring characters and accessories that bring the magical world of Bluey to life. Press the octopus to access 50 phrases and sounds. “It’s the perfect size for little ones,” says mom Lisa. “The carrying handle makes it easy to take on an overnight to Mimi’s house.”

Scoot Pro Drone $39.99; 8+ Force1rc.com

Operate this indoor mini drone with hand motions! Features LED lights, 360-degree flight design and a motion sensor. “It’s like something out of Star Wars,” says dad Tony. “We like making it change directions with our hands. It’s fun and futuristic.”

Ball Pit Bundle $255; 6 mo.–5 yr. Littlebigplayroom.com

Create hours of fun for up to three little ones. Features modern colors for designforward parents (several choices). “This gorgeous ball pit looks nice in our home!” says mom Tina. “It’s well-made and the soft sides make it easy to climb in/out.” Includes 200 balls.

Paint by Sticker Kids: Holly Jolly Christmas $10.99; 5–9 Workman.com

A mess-free version of a fun, classic “paint” book. Lots of small stickers encourages focus and concentration while keeping kids entertained for hours.

LOL Surprise OMG House of Surprises $229.99; 4+ Target.com

Standing 4 ft. tall, this awesome wooden dollhouse features four stories, 10 rooms and dozens of surprises. Includes rooftop patio with light-up firepit, movie theater, working elevator, spiral pool slide, drive-thru, spinning rooms and more. “There are so many details in this house!” says mom Mindi. “Hours of fun for my girls (ages 6 & 8).”

Step 2 Rain Showers Splash Tub $129.99; 2+ Target.com

If there’s anywhere kids can enjoy yearround water play, it’s San Diego! This charming splash table offers a rainfall feature, tipping bucket, water chute and more. “This is a great outdoor toy that’s large enough for my kids to play together,” says mom Melanie.

Christmas Steaming Train Set $129.99; 3+ Brio.us

This set features a battery-operated steaming train (safe-to-touch steam), cargo crane, Santa figurine, North Pole station and more. “It’s a perfect train set for the holidays,” says mom Karen. “My son (age 4) watches Santa’s train go around the tree—the steam adds a touch of magic.”

Find more holiday themed books, craft and activity books at www.sandiegofamily.com/ for-the-kids/book-multimediareviews

Tappin’ Colors 2-in-1 Xylophone $24.99; 18 mo.+ LeapFrog.com

Musical exploration, education and play at its best! “It teaches numbers, colors, music and rhythm,” says Sandy. “My grandson loves how the keys light up.”

16 • SanDiegofamily.com • December 2022