Toy Insider 2007 Holiday Gift Guide

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The Source for the Hottest Toys and Gifts for the Holidays

SEE INSIDE FOR DETAILS

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to the second annual edition of The Toy Insider!

Once again, our Toy Insider panel of experts has been hard at work locating, previewing and playing with the best and hottest toys and games for this year’s holiday season. We know how busy your lives are, juggling multiple roles in life. Therefore, we want to provide a guide that is comprehensive and easy to use and that provides the information you need to get a jump on the holiday shopping season.

We know the drill; we’re parents and gift-givers, just like you!

This year’s guide is jam-packed with a selection of toys for both genders and various age groups, so you should find exactly the right item for the children in your life. Each section includes a description of the developmental needs and interests for that specific age group to assist you in finding the perfect gift.

Our handy toy skill guide, located on the Hot 20 page, provides a list of icons that are matched to each toy, offering you even more assistance with age-appropriate gift giving.

At our websites, www.thetoyinsider.com and www.Redbookmag.com, you will find these products and even more selections, with expanded details on each toy and direct links to many of the manufacturer websites. There you can learn more about these and other products, and these sites will be “live” throughout the holiday season.

The last page of The Toy Insider is a checklist of all of the toys featured in the guide, which you and your child can use as a handy shopping wish list. Take this tear-out page with you when you visit your favorite retailer and shop with ease.

Be sure to enter The Toy Insider Sweepstakes to win a room full of many of these hot toys for the holidays!

Ten lucky runners-up will receive their choice of one of the toys in the gift guide. Visit www.Redbookmag.com for details.

As parents first and toy experts second, we know that toys and the gift of giving should be fun and entertaining.

We hope this holiday gift guide takes some of the stress out of your holiday shopping and brings a whole lot of joy to the children in your life.

Enjoy The Toy Insider, THE source for the hottest toys and gifts of this holiday season!

CO-PUBLISHERS EDITOR-IN-CHIEF TOY INSIDER PANEL PRODUCTION DIRECTOR CREATIVE DIRECTION

Jonathan Samet and Laurie Schacht Reyne Rice Reyne Rice, Jackie Breyer, Laurie Schacht Jonathan Samet Anthony Guardiola Mada Design Inc.

Adventure Publishing Group Inc. 286 5th Avenue, 3rd Floor New York, NY 10001 (212) 575-4510 PH (212) 575-4521 FX www.thetoyinsider.com

All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form is prohibited without prior written consent of Adventure Publishing LLC. All photographs, logos and artwork are the property of their respective owners.

ENTER TO WIN YOUR OWN ROOM FULL OF TOYS OR A PICK OF YOUR FAVORITE! No purchase necessary to enter or win. Toy Insider Sweepstakes sponsored by Adventure Publishing and Hearst Communications, Inc. Sweepstakes begins 12:01 a.m. October 1, 2007 and ends 11:59 p.m. December 1, 2007. Odds of winning will depend upon the total number of eligible entries received. Must be 18 years or older and a resident of the 50 United States, District of Columbia or Canada.

Void in Puerto Rico, Quebec Province and where prohibited by law. Sweepstakes subject to complete official rules, which are available at www.Redbookmag.com

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For more information, go to www.thetoyinsider.com or www.redbookmag.com

0-2 YEARS

Our Toy Insider staff of experts has

BRIGHTLINGS EXPLORATION STATION, 6–36 MOS Encourage your toddler to explore, push, pull, open, close, drop and spin. Includes lights, music, talking characters and learning songs. Three ways to learn: baby mode, toddler mode and music mode.

LEAPFROG, www.leapfrog.com

SIT-TO-STAND DANCING TOWER, 9 MOS+ Grow-with-me design keeps infants busy and toddlers active. Activity panel converts from sitting floor play to standing and dancing play with motion-activated dance pads and easy-to-grip handles. Teaches colors, sounds, animals and more. VTECH, www.vtechkids.com

SOUND BEGINNINGS GROOVE ’N GO MUSIC MAKER, 18 MOS+ Sound Beginnings product encourages learning through natural sounds and music. Kids can change the rhythm, melody, lights and sounds by stacking rings in different combinations. Music Maker character comes to life, swinging to the tunes. SHELCORE, www.shelcore.com

SPIN & EXPLORE GARDEN GYM, BIRTH+ Engages baby in tummy time play with a colorful and tactile play mat. Circular design encourages physical activity and developmental play. Strengthens baby’s upper and lower body muscles.

LAMAZE (RC2), www.learningcurve.com/lamaze

selected these as some of the Hottest Toys for this Holiday Season.

Your child may have individual needs or passions, so review each age segment and visit our website for even more great Holiday choices.

(Please note that all products are listed in alphabetical order).

3-5 YEARS

DISNEY PRINCESS ENCHANTED TALES INTERACTIVE THRONE, 3+ Royal treatment for your little princess! Press the magical scepter to activate twinkling crown and record your little girl’s name. Soft cushion seat and gold detailing.

CDI (JAKKS PACIFIC), www.cditoys.com

LITTLEST PET SHOP DISPLAY & PLAY ROUND & ROUND PET TOWN, 4+ Display your little girl’s Littlest Pet Shop collection. Includes two exclusive pets, a gondola, fancy salon and treat shop. Grow her town with additional stack ’n snap Pet Bakery and Pet Nook Playsets (sold separately). HASBRO, www.hasbro.com

PLAYMOBIL RESCUE HOSPITAL PLAYSET, 4+ The new Hospital was the No. 1 request by kids writing to Playmobil. Includes seven figurines, functional elevator, adjustable operating table with light, movable patients’ beds, reception area, children and baby wards and more.

PLAYMOBIL, www.playmobilusa.com

SMART CYCLE, 4+ Plug this kids’ exercise cycle into your TV and preschoolers can’t wait to start cycling. Cycling activates three modes of play: Learning Encounters/Arcade Games, The Big Race and Driving. Additional software available. FISHER-PRICE, www.fisherprice.com

TRANSFORMERS OPTIMUS PRIME VOICE CHANGER HELMET, 4+ Kids can imitate their favorite character, Optimus Prime, with built-in electronic phrases, or distort their voices to sound just like a Transformers robot. Easy-to-adjust straps for comfort fit. HASBRO, www.hasbro.com

WHIZ KID LEARNING SYSTEM, 3–7 Kids learn and discover with this interactive learning tool.

Includes cartridge-based content for portable play, or CD-ROM content for PC play. With up to 120 activities per title, watch your kids become Whiz Kids.

V-TECH, www.vtechkids.com

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6-8 YEARS

EYECLOPS BIONIC EYE, 6+ This simple-to-use, yet revolutionary handheld device encourages kids to explore and to view ordinary items magnified up to 200 times their original size. View on any TV screen.

JAKKS PACIFIC, www.jakkspacific.com

HANNAH MONTANA IN CONCERT STAGE, 8+ Join the concert with Hannah Montana. Realistic stage has illuminated runway, guitar, mic stand and 2 recorded songs. Includes hook-up for MP3 player and a real working microphone for sing-along role-play. (Doll sold separately). PLAY ALONG, www.playalongtoys.com

ICOASTER, 6+ Kids build iCoaster. 10 designs included.

Magnetic spheres speed along tracks to illuminate lights and sounds and perform stunts. Included “Sound FX Music Studio” adds background music with 10 beats and 20 sound tracks, or add your own MP3 music.

MEGA BRANDS, www.megabrands.com

KARITO KIDS, 6+ New, beautiful 18-inch fashion dolls include passports and chapter storybooks with each doll’s individual storyline. Kids select charities for real dollar donations. Online, girls earn World Currency to make donations to less-fortunate kids worldwide.

KIDS GIVE, www.karitokids.com

RUBIK’S REVOLUTION, 6+ A twist on the original, this electronic cube offers six built-in games that feature lights, sounds and voice effects. Individual or team play unlocks multi-level challenges.

TECHNO SOURCE, www.technosourcehk.com

9+ YEARS

TOY SKILL KEY Infant & Toddler Developmental Skills: Develop five senses, basic concepts, hand/eye coordination, active physical coordination, and early language skills.

Social and Emotional Intelligence Development: Develop art, music, language and social skills. Explore creative, imaginative play and role-playing.

AIR HOGS HAVOC HELI LASER BATTLE, 9+ Grab the radio-control remotes and battle helicopters with friends. Includes twin helicopters and two remotes.

Fly into position and control the air battle until your opponent’s helicopter goes into a wild tailspin dive!

SPIN MASTER, www.spinmaster.com

FASHION MAGAZINE EDITOR, 9+ Create your own Fashion ‘zine to share with friends! Kit includes digital camera, tripod, camera case, strap, USB cord, magazine creation software, backdrops, layout and photography guides, and tips for shooting fashion photography. FASHION ANGELS ENTERPRISES, www.fashionangelsenterprises.com

School Readiness Skills: Develop math, logic and spatial skills. Enhance language, reading and writing skills.

Discover science, nature and exploration.

Physical Skills: Develop balance and coordination, using large and small motor skills, exercise and body awareness.

Technology/Electronics: Enhance knowledge of computers, music, digital images, communications, internet, geography and world events.

Social Interaction/Parent/Child Interaction: Encourage and develop

MONSTER DINO, 9+ Construct your own motorized dinosaur. Uses Creator LEGO power system to move Dino’s head, roar and walk.

Can be re-built as a crawling crocodile or a walking spider. Glows in the dark.

LEGO, www.lego.com

POWER TOUR ELECTRIC GUITAR, 10+ Teaches kids to play 12 pre-loaded songs or plug in an MP3 player (not included).

Classic Gibson Guitar styling, uses touch sensors instead of strings. Includes strum bar, palm mute bar, whammy control, input/output jacks, multicolored LED lights and dual function knobs. TIGER ELECTRONICS, www.hasbro.com/tiger

close relationships through shared learning experiences.

Toys “R” Us Availability: Products with this icon are available at Toys-R-Us stores nationwide, and /or at toysrus.com.

For more information, go to www.thetoyinsider.com or www.redbookmag.com

AMERICAN IDOL TALENT CHALLENGE, 8+ Sing along with your favorite American Idol performers on TV using your DVD player. DVD has 12 songs, both with and without vocals, and a working microphone and mixer.

Karaoke–style screen text mode displays words.

KIDDESIGNS, www.kiddirect.com

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0-2 YEARS

ABBY CADABBY PLUSH DOLL, 18 MOS+ The newest character on Sesame Street and a fairy-intraining, Abby Cadabby focuses on literacy. Twelve-inch super-soft plush doll with yarn hair, wand and glittery dress.

GUND, www.gund.com

For more information, go to www.thetoyinsider.com or www.redbookmag.com

INFANTS & TODDLERS These products have been selected with your baby’s and toddler’s development in mind. Your amazing

AIR BABY UNBELIEVABLY SOFT BABY, BIRTH+ One hug shows how unbelievably soft this baby really is. Change her softness from firm and plump to soft and huggable with natural pillows of air.

Goldberger “Love It for Life” Lifetime Guarantee.

GOLDBERGER CO., www.goldbergertoy.com

little ones are quickly grasping and BABY DINO ROCKER, 12 MOS+ Soft padded plush Dino Rocker features a sturdy anti-tip hardwood construction. Textures and crinkles encourage touching. Bell in the tail jingles as it rocks. Gender-neutral design; holds up to 50 pounds.

INTERNATIONAL PLAYTHINGS, www.intplay.com

exploring their worlds, absorbing new information and new skills every day.

Toys are their tools for learning.

Parents and gift givers should choose a variety of different toys to stimulate their minds, their bodies and all five senses. Choose products that are

BABY GENIUS SING ’N ROCK PLUSH, 18 MOS+ Favorite Baby Genius characters Vinko, DJ and Frankie are soft plush interactive pals. They sing individually and, when paired together, can sing in unison with two or all three characters thanks to infrared technology.

CREATIVE INNOVATIONS AND SOURCING

tactile, colorful and that promote curiosity and movement. At this age, BIG BIG WORLD BONGO BOOGIE SNOOK, 18 MOS+ Snook boogies to the jungle bongo beat. Press Snook’s foot to wake him. Snook dances to three different songs, and encourages the child to play the bongo to keep him dancing.

FISHER-PRICE, www.fisherprice.com

parents are still a child’s favorite play partner, so select toys that encourage participation and interaction. Take an active role by providing opportunities for hand-eye coordination, motor skills, language recognition and nurturing. All of these early

CRAYOLA BEGINNINGS FIRST MARKS BUV, 18 MOS+ Child’s first palm-grasp markers promote motor skills and drawing confidence. Cute character markers have selfmoistening brush heads for no-mess drawing. “Beginnings Utility Vehicle” combines drawing, sorting, role-play and vehicle play, plus storage. CRAYOLA, www.crayola.com

development skills are what your little ones need to grow into balanced and

CUDDLE CUB WITH HEARTBEAT, BIRTH+ Soft, cuddly, plush bear, emits heartbeats and gentle vibrations for 2 minutes when it's hugged, helping comfort children. This beating/vibration simulates the feeling of being in the arms of a mother.

CLOUD B, www.cloudb.com

inquisitive toddlers.

I AM THE BOSS, 6–36 MOS Big blue dinosaur with 60 balls zipped up inside his tummy. Multiple play options for babies of different ages and stages of development.

Bright colors, tactile textures and reflective mirror.

OHIO ART, www.kskids.com

TOYS “R” US AVAILABILITY

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THE INCHWORM, 2+ Children can bounce up and down or push forward with their feet to ride The Inchworm. Ergonomic saddle with heart-handle offers children additional safety, while integrated footrest allows kids to take a break.

RADIO FLYER, www.radioflyer.com

KNOTWUD PUZZLES, 18 MOS+ A puzzle and 3-D playset in one toy. Looks like traditional wood, but is made of a durable, lightweight foam material. Pegs on puzzle pieces build fine motor skills.

CHILD GUIDANCE, www.jakkspacific.com

MADE FOR ME MP3 MUSIC PLAYER, BIRTH+ This MP3 player is designed for the nursery. Parents create playlists, select music from a pre-recorded library of classic lullabies, transfer tunes from the internet or CDs or record their own voice.

PLAYSKOOL (HASBRO), www.hasbro.com

MAINSTREET VILLAGE COMMUNITY HELPERS BONUS SET, 18 MOS+ Bonus set includes play mat and storybook, Firehouse, Police Station, Doctor’s Office, eleven characters and multiple play pieces. Doors open and close, vehicles have sounds and working features to stimulate role-playing.

STEP2, www.step2.com MELODIE SORBET, BIRTH+ Her soft plush cloth body and cheerfully painted face is framed with velour ponytails.

With long, easily manipulated limbs and colorful French fashions, this plush doll is destined to become a child’s favorite.

COROLLE, www.corolle.com

MUSICAL STACK ’N PLAY, 6–36 MOS A two-in-one electronic stacking toy and ball game that grows with baby’s needs over many months and several developmental stages. Bright colors, tactile fabrics, funnelshaped body and musical balls encourage discovery.

TINY LOVE, www.tinylove.com

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PLAYTIME PUPPETS, 18 MOS+ Adorable plush alligator hand puppet comes with two mini handpuppet friends for hours of make-believe friendship play between caregivers and kids. Also available in frog, cow, penguin and dog characters. AURORA WORLD, www.auroragift.com

“SING-ALONG SPIDER-MAN,” 18 MOS+ Spider-Man sings and dances to favorite childhood songs including “Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes,” “If You’re Happy and You Know It” and the “Amazing Spider-Man” theme song. Kids can sing along with included microphone with “echo” feature.

HASBRO, www.hasbro.com

RAIN FOREST JUMPEROO, 3 MOS+ Jumperoo’s colorful rainforest toys and fun music stimulate baby’s visual and auditory senses all around the rainforest—and overhead—with a rotating seat that helps baby explore them all. Three-position height adjustment ensures a custom fit. FISHER-PRICE, www.fisherprice.com

SING WITH ME KITTY BOOK, 6MOS+ In this interactive, bilingual speaking book, the kitty tells the story of its day through five amusing nursery rhymes with original melodies and rhythms. Pressing the buttons to activate the rhymes helps develop baby's coordination.

CHICCO, www.chiccousa.com

TONKA SCOOT ’N SCOOP 3IN-1 RIDE-ON, 9–36 MOS Playskool Tonka-tough truck converts from push toy to walker to ride-on vehicle. Features removable steering wheel for on-the-go driving fun. Toddlers sort or scoop up three colorful, shaped blocks with the dump truck. PLAYSKOOL (HASBRO), www.hasbro.com

WILD ANIMAL MAGIC SOUND BLOCKS (ERIC CARLE), 18 MOS+ Six magical sound blocks bring colorful Eric Carle illustrations to life. When kids pair together corresponding animal images, they are rewarded and delighted by the lively animal sounds that are activated.

SMALL WORLD TOYS, www.smallworldtoys.com

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3-5 YEARS

15TH ANNIVERSARY DELUXE DUAL DRIVE MEGAZORD, 3+ This Deluxe Megazord can transform into vehicles with lights and sounds, just like those on the Power Rangers TV series. Heads can be interchanged with other Megazords for never-before-seen creations. Celebrates 15 years of Power Rangers.

BANDAI, www.bandai.com

For more information, go to www.thetoyinsider.com or www.redbookmag.com

PRESCHOOL Preschoolers open their arms wide to explore the world around them. Their skills have moved beyond the basics

BABY SO REAL, 3+ True-to-life baby dolls have child-proportioned and weighted heads and bodies, detailed fingers and toes and beautiful baby clothes. Multi-cultural offerings promote diversity and uniqueness. Forty-eight styles are available.

ITOYS, www.irwintoy.com

and their personalities and BARBIE FAIRYTOPIA MAGIC OF THE RAINBOW ADVENTURE ELINA DOLL AND DVD GAME, 3+ The Elina fashion doll acts as a remote control to play the included DVD game. Girls fly Elina to different worlds of Fairytopia in the DVD game and capture magical gems to save Fairytopia.

MATTEL, www.mattel.com

preferences are starting to take form.

Encourage imaginative and creative activities with role-playing, reading and pretend play. Provide opportunities for active play, exercising their bodies and their spirit of adventure. Social and emotional skills

BARBIE WORLD TRAVELER SMART GLOBE, 3+ Music, cool sound effects, animation and the voice of Barbie bring world facts to life. This interactive touch globe introduces preschool children to animals, famous sites and food and clothing from around the world. Five fun game modes.

OREGON SCIENTIFIC, www.oregonscientific.com

are emerging, so music, arts & crafts, teamwork and language skills are all

BRIO NETWORK SYSTEM, 3+ BRIO Network reveals an original world of rail play featuring imaginary creatures who live inside your computer. These net-workers drive super-cool vehicles on wooden train tracks, respond to email messages and teach kids about the “net” with hands-on role-play.

BRIO, www.brio.knex.com

important tools to build self-esteem and to instill a sense of mastery over their expanding world. As their confidence grows, so does their curiosity. Some children are ready to start learning social-readiness skills such as colors, numbers and problem

CALICO CRITTERS BABY PLAY NURSERY SCHOOL, 3+ Nursery school activities for your Calico Critters collection include classroom play, a rooftop patio, pretend accessories and a wading pool. Includes two soft-flocked and irresistible Calico Critters babies.

INTERNATIONAL PLAYTHINGS, www.intplay.com

solving. Our role as caregivers has CARE BEARS 25TH ANNIVERSARY TENDERHEART BEAR WITH DVD, 4+ New, limited edition 25th Anniversary Care Bear features a beautiful white and silver bear with authentic Swarovski crystal eyes and sterling silver-plated accents. Packaged with a rare DVD containing the first Care Bears episode, The Land Without Feelings.

PLAY ALONG, www.playalongtoys.com

evolved into guiding them, as their abilities take shape and their imaginations soar.

CARNIVAL CLUBHOUSE SUPER FORT, 3+ Kids can build their own funhouse fort and play favorite carnival games. Colorful, easy-to-build panels and pieces provide hours of inventive play, both indoors and out.

Includes game tickets, game play pieces and accessories.

CRANIUM, www.cranium.com

TOYS “R” US AVAILABILITY

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CLICKSTART MY FIRST COMPUTER, 3-6 Safe computing experience helps little ones build preschool and basic computing skills through a series of engaging games. Console plugs into TV. Features child-sized wireless keyboard and mouse. Additional games featuring kids’ favorite characters sold separately.

LEAPFROG, www.leapfrog.com

DELUXE ACTION TRAIN TABLE, 3+ All-in-one multi-child train table provides hours of imaginative play. Compatible with most train sets including BRIO, Thomas & Friends, Hot Wheels, Matchbox and more.

Included lid provides surface flexibility and keeps set clean.

STEP2, www.step2.com

DORA THE EXPLORER BUILDABLE HOUSE, 3+ Build and rebuild Dora’s favorite hangout. Includes fun activity cards to encourage kids to create Dora and Diego adventures. Fully articulated Dora figure and multiple accessories total 48 pieces for construction and roleplay fun for preschoolers.

MEGA BRANDS, www.megabrands.com

DR. SEUSS THE CAT IN THE HAT, I CAN DO THAT! GAME, 3+ Can you… limbo under the trick-a-ma-stick… while balancing the fish… on your stomach? Hundreds of hilarious combinations offer loads of outof-your seat fun. Promotes reading development, physical activity and memory skills.

I CAN DO THAT GAMES, www.icandothatgames.com EASY-LINK INTERNET LAUNCHPAD, 3+ Parents simply connect the Easy-Link Launchpad to their computer via a USB cord.

Three included Easy-Link characters (Elmo, Wiggles and Fisher-Price) securely link kids to their favorite sites to play preschool-appropriate online games and activities.

FISHER-PRICE, www.fisherprice.com FIVE LITTLE MONKEYS JUMPING ON THE BED, 3+ Game introduces children to numbers and strategy while developing fine motor skills. The monkey’s bed randomly shakes, sending the colorful monkeys jumping, bringing laughter and learning to preschoolers as they practice counting skills.

UNIVERSITY GAMES, www.ugames.com

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GIGGLING ELMO HOT TOMATO GAME, 3+ Press Elmo Hot Tomato’s nose to make him giggle and shake. Players try to pass him to the next player before he stops! Use enclosed cards to learn colors, shapes and more.

CARDINAL GAMES, www.cardinalgames.com

I SPY 3-D SEEING DOUBLE GAME, 3+ Kids put on 3-D glasses and enter the magical world of I SPY. Kids read the rhyming cards and locate matching objects on the game board.

Hours of engaging fun for kids of all ages.

BRIARPATCH, www.briarpatch.com

INTERACTIVE LIA, 3+ 17-inch, beautifully realistic, multilingual baby doll communicates in four languages. Specific, gentle touches and tickles to Lia will result in endearing, realistic responses to little Mom’s affections.

COROLLE, www.corolleusa.com

LOLA’S PINK MILK GAME, 3+ Charlie and Lola try to collect pink milk cards without letting the pesky tigers drink them.

This adventurous game features Lola’s favorite drink, Pink Milk! Teaches preschoolers basic logic, patience and counting skills.

RIX PRODUCTS, www.marinagames.com

MATCHBOX MEGA RIG SHARK ADVENTURE, 3+ The versatile Mega Rig building system lets kids disconnect and recombine the Shark Ship vehicle to build 40 different vehicles. Each has wheels and floats so kids can play with the Shark Ship set on land or in water.

MATTEL, www.mattel.com

MIGHTY WORLD EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAYSET, 3+ The Emergency Response Set from Mighty World includes a team of five response technicians. The set features a full-function ambulance, a police car and a police motorcycle, all with lights and sounds, plus many other accessories.

INTERNATIONAL PLAYTHINGS, www.intplay.com

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POKÉMON DIAMOND & PEARL ULTIMATE POKÉDEX, 3+ A handheld, interactive virtual encyclopedia of Pokémon! For the first time ever, all 430+ Pokémon characters will be displayed with their individual Pokédex description. Includes five interactive games in the base control unit.

JAKKS PACIFIC, www.jakkspacific.com

REMARKABLES, 3+ Remarkables coloring storybooks feature washable fabric. Children color, wash and color again! Ten-page book comes with four washable markers for hours of fun with all of your child’s favorite characters from Disney, Nickelodeon, Sesame Street and Marvel.

SENARIO, www.senario.com

SPIDER-MAN III ULTIMATE WEB BLASTER, 3+ Spider-Man fans will enjoy role-playing with water, web fluid, projectile launchers or the foam dart blaster.

The amazing web blaster creates spiral webs with special web fluid. One can of web fluid is included; refills available separately.

HASBRO, www.hasbro.com

SQUAWKERS MCCAW, FURREAL FRIENDS PARROT, 4+ Just like a real parrot, Squawkers McCaw can repeat words, be “taught” to speak, respond to touch, make sassy sounds and even dance. Uses innovative animatronics and voice recognition and has programmable features.

HASBRO, www.hasbro.com/tiger

TRANSFORMERS ACTIVITY STATION, 3+ This active playset engages kids with 48 activities in eight different learning modes. Features a QWERTY keyboard and Smartchip technology to adjust the levels of learning based on your child’s performance.

KIDDESIGNS, www.kiddirect.com

TROOP GROOVY GIRLS, 4+ Soft dolls include reversible sashes (for both Brownies and Junior Girl Scouts) and messenger bags to match their outfits. Craft kits, patch stickers and other troop fashions sold separately.

MANHATTAN TOY, www.groovygirls.com

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6-8 YEARS

AQUADOTS SUPER STUDIO, 6+ AquaDots are fun, colorful beads that magically join in water.

The AquaDots Super Studio has everything you need for the AquaDots experience. The built-in dryer completes your creations quickly and easily. Fun, creative and mess free.

SPIN MASTER, www.spinmaster.com

GRADE SCHOOL sense of self are the hallmarks of grade-schoolers. Their home life has

BARBIEGIRLS.COM MP3 PLAYER, 6+ The Barbie Girl device is more than just an MP3 techcessory. It opens the door to the first global, virtual online world designed exclusively for girls and unlocks secret codes, pets and more online.

MATTEL, www.barbiegirls.com

expanded into a broader community BELLA SARA TRADING CARDS, 6+ Join this joyful world of horses, with positive messages to empower girls! Beautiful horse cards to collect, to trade with friends and to play card games. Enter your horses online and nurture them in their very own stables. Kid-safe site.

HIDDEN CITY GAMES, www.hiddencitygames.com or www.bellasara.com

of school, friends and teammates.

Most kids are willing to try new experiences as they explore their choices and expand their abilities.

As a significant influence in your kids’ lives, you can encourage them to seek out and pursue their passions.

BE-BRATZ.COM DOLLS, 6+ With Be-Bratz.com, YOU get to create and become a new Bratz character online! Necklace becomes a USB key to unlock your Bratz character. Create and customize your online personality and chat with other Bratz online.

MGA ENTERTAINMENT, www.be-bratz.com

Toys and games can develop an appreciation for science, the arts, COLOR ME MESSENGER BAG, 7+ Girls can customize their bag for personal style. The bag measures 14” by 11” by 4”, big enough for schoolbooks and binders. Includes six permanent markers in a cool pouch.

ALEX TOYS, www.alextoys.com

strategic and mind-stimulating activities and for caring and giving back to their community.

Certain toys can also satisfy kids’ ever-present quest for anything to do with pop-culture and being “in the know.” Kid-safe websites are a new

COLOR SCHEME GAME, 6+ Create colorful art with this visually appealing new strategy game. The winning player successfully overlaps primary color tiles to create a row of three secondary colors. Two-player game with swivel base.

EDUCATIONAL INSIGHTS, www.educationalinsights.com

approach to playing and learning that also teach basic computer skills and

FLIPPIN’ FROGS GAME, 6+ Unique launchers spring your frogs toward the rotating tree to see who stays and who falls. After the big POP, see how many frogs drop! Capturing the most frogs in the tree wins that round. Includes electronic frog sounds.

MATTEL, www.mattel.com

computer etiquette.

HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL II DVD BOARD GAME, 6+ Based on High School Musical 2. Now the kids are working at a country club! Game lets you play along, sing along, and dance along. CD can also be downloaded to your MP3 player for fun on-the-go.

CARDINAL GAMES, www.cardinalgames.com

TOYS “R” US AVAILABILITY

For more information, go to www.thetoyinsider.com or www.redbookmag.com

Independence and an evolving

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HYPER DASH, 6+ A fast-paced electronic game that challenges the body and the mind. Promotes listening, memory, math and coordination skills. Can be played indoors or outdoors, solo, in pairs or in teams. Uses unique RFID technology to enhance game play. WILD PLANET, www.wildplanet.com

MARS MISSION BASE COMMAND, 6+ Mars Mission sends kids’ imaginations to outer space. Build this sprawling command base for the space specialists as they gather crystal energy into the space shuttle.

Fend off the aliens using the airpowered rockets in the Alien Transport System.

LEGO, www.lego.com

NERF N-STRIKE DISK SHOT, 6+ Disk launching system—just like traditional skeet shooting, but with a NERF foam twist!

With three built-in difficulty levels, NERF enthusiasts will enjoy getting ready to launch, aim and test their blasting skills.

HASBRO, www.hasbro.com/nerf

NET JET GAMING SYSTEM, 6+ Closed system includes two main components: a kid-tested controller that plugs into a personal computer’s USB port and a game key that slides into the controller and activates content. Kid-safe online portal with no advertising or pop-ups.

HASBRO, www.hasbro.com/tiger/netjet

ONLY HEARTS HORSE AND PONY CLUB, 6+ Positive messaging for girls to follow their hearts. Wholesome dolls and horses are soft and posable, with hair that can be combed. Collection includes six horses, six riding dolls, outfits, a stable and a corral. Each sold separately. ONLY HEARTS CLUB, www.onlyheartsclub.com

SERPENT’S SPIRAL COASTER, 6+ Giant coaster features K’NEX micro parts for intricate building. Measuring over five feet tall, the building set includes 38 feet of winding, writhing track. Uses a motorized chain lift to carry cars to the top of the ride.

K’NEX, www.knex.com

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SPIDER-MAN III ACTION COMMAND SPIDER-MAN, 6+ Spider-Man comes to life with animated movements, voice and web-slinging sound effects. Maneuver him forward, backward or spin 360° with the infrared controller. Program up to 15 commands to create more than 1,000 action sequences. THINKWAY TOYS, www.thinkwaytoys.com

TAMAGOTCHI PC PACK, 6+ Unique accessory pack has voice-activation software. Kids can tell their desktop Tamagotchi buddy to fetch email, dance on-screen and more. Includes mousepad and a CD-ROM disk filled with wallpapers, printable graphics, games and more.

BANDAI, www.bandai.com or www.TamagotchiTown.com

TRANSFORMERS ULTIMATE BUMBLEBEE, 6+ This impressively styled Chevrolet Camaro Concept car is more than meets the eye, as it changes into the beloved Autobots character, which stands 14 inches tall.

Bumblebee will come to life with robot animatronics action in both car and robot modes.

HASBRO, www.hasbro.com/transformers

TRIPLE TRIUMPH, 6+ New 3-D strategy game where players match, stack and race around the board to win!

Match up the sides of the colorful pyramids—the more sides players match, the more they score. Block opponents and plot strategy, with endless combinations.

CRANIUM, www.cranium.com

VIDEO JOURNAL, 8+ Affordable digital camera equipped with an electronic scrapbooking feature. Encourages girls to customize their online diaries and record and store photo images alongside their journaling. Pages can be formatted to fit Password Journal. RADICA, www.radicagames.com/girltech

WEBKINZ, 6+ Cuddly plush pets have an activation code that unlocks new virtual play online at the Webkinz website. Nurture your pets online at this popular kid-safe site after activating them with the special code on their tags.

GANZ, www.webkinz.com

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9+ YEARS

TWEENS This tech-savvy group is comfortable with the digital world.

These kids are willing to explore skills involving computers, digital cameras and creating their own movies, but don’t underestimate them. They also tend to be very inquisitive and adept with their hands. Creating and designing are ways that they can customize their world and express their individuality. Most tweens actively participate in social activities, since their peers are ever-important in their lives.

Parents and caregivers are still key role models for this group, so involve these kids in game playing, radio-control racing and trivia challenges. Explore their sense of fun and adventure, and continue to be present and involved in their passions. By providing opportunities for family involvement, kids learn communications skills and will appreciate your efforts to be engaged in their lives.

ATC2K ACTION HELMET CAMERA, 9+ The ultimate waterproof and all-terrain digital video camera. Outdoor enthusiasts will attach this shock-proof, hands-free camera to their helmet, arm, leg, bike and more! Plug directly into a TV for an instant replay. Works with most video editing software. PC and Mac compatible.

OREGON SCIENTIFIC, www.oregonscientific.com

BIG BRAIN ACADEMY, 9+ Based on the bestselling Nintendo DS game, Big Brain Academy, this board game provides mind-flexing exercises for all ages. Players challenge their brains in five categories: Analyze, Think, Identify, Compute, and Memorize. BrainO-Meter balance scale weighs each player’s chips.

UNIVERSITY GAMES, www.ugames.com

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iALBUM, 9+ Upload your photos from an SD memory card or memory stick directly to your iPod, without the need for a computer hook-up. Quick and easy way to share photos.

SAKAR INTERNATIONAL, www.sakar.com

LIGHTCAST, 9+ An interactive music light show that syncs to your music! Connect it to your iPod, MP3 player, home stereo system or computer to activate multicolored lights that pulse in response to each song. Four distinct modes: Smooth, Flow, Vibe and Pulse.

FARM FRESH, www.farmfreshstuff.com

PLEO, 9+ This rare Camarasaurus dinosaur is a new breed of emoto-tronic pet. Pleo can be trained to express emotions and develops a personality over time, based on your interactions with it.

Incredibly advanced robotic pet.

UGOBE, https://store.ugobe.com/store

PRINCESA QUINCEAÑERA, 9+ These authentically costumed porcelain dolls are designed to celebrate the aspirations of young Hispanic girls, particularly dreams of their long-anticipated Quinceañera event, a traditional 15th birthday celebration.

BRASS KEY, www.brass-key.com

RIP ROAR CREATION STATION, 9+ The Creation Station allows kids to film, edit, create and share amazing videos so they can display their creativity to the world. Includes a digital video camera, green screen, integrated software, and one-click uploads.

TOY QUEST, www.toyquest.com

SCENE IT! DELUXE MOVIE 2ND EDITION, 9+ New content updates this award-winning DVD-based game that combines a cool, interactive board game with Hollywood trivia and the visual excitement of DVDs. Players move along the board, challenging each other and racing the clock.

SCREENLIFE, www.screenlifegames.com

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SNIPE-IT, 9+ Social gaming at its best. Be the last player to buzz in with the correct answer before the random timer runs out.

Be the first player to race around the board to press finish and win the game.

IMAGINATION ENTERTAINMENT, www.imaginationgames.com

SPYKEE, THE SPY ROBOT, 9+ Advanced motorized robot comes equipped with WiFi card, video camera, microphone, loudspeaker, IR auto-parking recharge system, lights and optical fibers.

Has snapshot, sound and video recording features and can be programmed with Bluetooth devices.

NIKKO-AMERICA, www.nikkoamerica.com

STAR WARS MULTI-TROOP TRANSPORT, 9+ The LEGO MTT allows Star Wars fans and builders to create their very own army of droids and roll into action. Opening the hatches of the MTT reveals a hidden storage rack that deploys a legion of battle droids. Droid carrier vehicle included.

LEGO, www.lego.com

U.B.FUNKEYS, 9+ Combine collecting with connecting! 42 unique U.B.Funkeys players each unlock a new zone and new games when connected to the hub and a computer. Players can customize their “crib” and post it online for friends to see.

RADICA GAMES, www.radicagames.com

UGLY DOLLS, 9+ Unique plush characters have vulnerable expressions and personality cards. Tweens and teens connect with their storylines and emotional appeal. Comes in a variety of sizes, from clip-on characters to large, 24-inch, pillow-sized plush.

PRETTY UGLY, www.uglydolls.com

VEXPLORER, 14+ With more than 300 parts, the Vexplorer allows users to create, experiment and play with endless combinations of radio-controlled robotic activity. This robotic design is endorsed by NASA, FIRST and Carnegie Mellon.

REVELL MONOGRAM, www.revell.com

WIZARDOLOGY, 9+ Inspired by The New York Times’ bestselling book, Wizardology, this game will guide kids through a land of mystique with spells, potions and other magical journeys on their quest to become a Master Wizard.

SABABA TOYS, www.sababatoys.com

XPV R.A.D. ROBOT, 8+ The XPV R.A.D. (Robotic Air Defense) is a radio-controlled robot that travels on land and flies in the air! R.A.D.’s unmistakable styling challenges radio-control fans to master ground control and flight skills.

JAKKS PACIFIC, www.jakkspacific.com

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Your

Shopping Guide for the Top Hot Toys DISNEY PRINCESS ENCHANTED TALES INTERACTIVE THRONE

iCOASTER

AIR BABY UNBELIEVABLY SOFT BABY

DORA THE EXPLORER BUILDABLE HOUSE

KARITO KIDS

BABY DINO ROCKER

DR. SEUSS THE CAT IN THE HAT, I CAN DO THAT! GAME

MARS MISSION BASE COMMAND

BABY GENIUS INTERACTIVE SING N ROCK PLUSH

EASY-LINK INTERNET LAUNCHPAD

NERF N-STRIKE DISK SHOT

BIG BIG WORLD BONGO BOOGIE SNOOK

FIVE LITTLE MONKEYS JUMPING ON THE BED

NET JET GAMING SYSTEM

BRIGHTLINGS EXPLORATION STATION

GIGGLING ELMO HOT TOMATO GAME

ONLY HEARTS HORSE AND PONY CLUB

CRAYOLA BEGINNINGS FIRST MARKS BUV

I SPY 3-D SEEING DOUBLE GAME

RUBIK’S REVOLUTION

CUDDLE CUB, WITH HEARTBEAT

INTERACTIVE LIA

SERPENT’S SPIRAL COASTER

I AM THE BOSS, THE BLUE DINOSAUR

LITTLEST PET SHOP DISPLAY & PLAY ROUND & ROUND PET TOWN

SPIDER-MAN III ACTION COMMAND SPIDER-MAN

INCHWORM RIDE-ON

LOLA’S PINK MILK GAME

TAMAGOTCHI PC PACK

KNOTWUD PUZZLES

MATCHBOX MEGA RIG SHARK ADVENTURE

TRANSFORMERS ULTIMATE BUMBLEBEE

MADE FOR ME: MP3 MUSIC PLAYER

MIGHTY WORLD EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAYSET

TRIPLE TRIUMPH

MAINSTREET VILLAGE: COMMUNITY HELPERS

PLAYMOBIL RESCUE HOSPITAL PLAYSET

VIDEO JOURNAL

MELODIE SORBET

POKÉMON DIAMOND & PEARL ULTIMATE POKÉDEX

WEBKINZ

MUSICAL STACK N PLAY

REMARKABLES

AIR HOGS HAVOC HELI LASER BATTLE

PLAYTIME PUPPETS

SMART CYCLE

ATC2K ACTION HELMET CAMERA

RAIN FOREST JUMPEROO

SPIDER-MAN III ULTIMATE WEB BLASTER

BIG BRAIN ACADEMY

SING WITH ME KITTY BOOK

SQUAWKERS MCCAW, FURREAL FRIENDS PARROT

FASHION MAGAZINE EDITOR

SING-ALONG SPIDER-MAN

TRANSFORMERS ACTIVITY STATION

iALBUM

SIT-TO-STAND DANCING TOWER

TRANSFORMERS OPTIMUS PRIME VOICE CHANGER HELMET

LIGHTCAST

SOUND BEGINNINGS GROOVE N GO MUSIC MAKER

TROOP GROOVY GIRLS

MONSTER DINO

SPIN & EXPLORE GARDEN

WHIZ KID LEARNING SYSTEM

PLEO

TONKA SCOOT N SCOOP 3-IN-1 RIDE-ON

AMERICAN IDOL TALENT CHALLENGE

POWER TOUR ELECTRIC GUITAR

WILD ANIMAL MAGIC SOUND BLOCKS (ERIC CARLE)

AQUADOTS SUPER STUDIO

PRINCESA QUINCEAÑERA

15TH ANNIVERSARY DELUXE DUAL DRIVE MEGAZORD

BARBIEGIRLS.COM MP3 PLAYER

RIP ROAR CREATION STATION

BABY SO REAL

BELLA SARA TRADING CARDS

SCENE-IT! DELUXE MOVIE 2ND EDITION

BARBIE FAIRYTOPIA MAGIC OF THE RAINBOW ADVENTURE ELINA DOLL AND DVD GAME

BRATZ BE-BRATZ.COM DOLLS

SNIPE-IT

BARBIE WORLD TRAVELER SMART GLOBE

COLOR ME MESSENGER BAG

SPYKEE, THE SPY ROBOT

BRIO NETWORK SYSTEM

COLOR SCHEME GAME

STAR WARS MULTI-TROOP TRANSPORT

CALICO CRITTERS BABY PLAY NURSERY SCHOOL

EYECLOPS BIONIC EYE

U.B.FUNKEYS

CARE BEARS 25TH ANNIVERSARY TENDERHEART BEAR WITH DVD

FLIPPIN’ FROGS GAME

UGLY DOLLS

CARNIVAL CLUBHOUSE SUPER FORT

HANNAH MONTANA IN CONCERT STAGE

VEXPLORER

CLICKSTART MY FIRST COMPUTER

HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL II DVD BOARD GAME

WIZARDOLOGY

DELUXE ACTION TRAIN TABLE

HYPER DASH

XPV R.A.D. ROBOT

If this page is missing, go to www.thetoyinsider.com or www.redbookmag.com

ABBY CADABBY PLUSH DOLL