SPECIAL HOLIDAY SUPPLEMENT
The Source for the Hottest Toys and Gifts for the Holidays
SEE INSIDE FOR DETAILS
SPECIAL HOLIDAY SUPPLEMENT
We are so excited to bring you the seventh annual Toy Insider, your holiday gift guide to the best toys for the kids in your life. The Toy Insider panel of experts has been scouring the aisles for the best and hottest toys for the holiday season. We know how busy life can be—we’re parents too! To make your holiday shopping a little easier, we’ve created a comprehensive guide to provide you with the information you need to get a jumpstart on your holiday toy shopping. This year’s guide is packed with a brand new selection of toys for children of all ages. Because all kids are unique, we’ve included a handy skill key, located on the Hot 20 page, to offer you even more assistance in finding just the right gifts for the kids on your shopping list. The following pages contain some of our favorite toys for the holidays, but you’ll find many more great toys if you visit our website, www.thetoyinsider.com. On our website, we’ve included an expanded selection of the best toys of the season, with direct links to the manufacturers’ websites. We have added tips, trends, and blog entries from our panel of toy experts. You can also watch videos of Toy Insider Mom Laurie Schacht talking about and demonstrating many of our selections. On our website, you will find a checklist of all the toys featured here. You can use the checklist to sit down with your children and create their holiday wish list, making your shopping experience that much easier. As parents first and toy experts second, we know that gift giving should be fun and bring joy to the children in your life. Enjoy the Toy Insider, THE source for the hottest toys and gifts of the holiday season, and be sure to visit www.thetoyinsider.com for even more great toys and gifts! Scan this QR code to enter our sweepstakes. You could win a room full of toys! Get the free mobile app for your phone at http://gettag.mobi.
CO-PUBLISHERS EDITOR-IN-CHIEF CO-EDITOR TOY INSIDER PANEL PRODUCTION DIRECTOR CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Jonathan Samet and Laurie Schacht Jackie Breyer Reyne Rice Reyne Rice, Jackie Breyer, Laurie Schacht, Jonathan Samet Anthony K. Guardiola Anthony K. Guardiola
Adventure Publishing Group Inc. 307 7th Avenue Suite 1601 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 Toy Insider LLC. All photographs, logos, and artwork are the property of their respective owners.
ENTER FOR A CHANCE TO WIN YOUR OWN ROOM FULL OF TOYS OR A PICK OF YOUR FAVORITE! NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. “Room Full of Toys” Sweepstakes. Sponsored by The Toy Insider LLC. To enter between 12:01 am (ET), October 10, 2012 and 11:59 pm (ET) December 12, 2012 either (i) Download, only once, the Microsoft Tag application onto your smart phone by either visiting http://gettag.mobi using your mobile internet browser or sending a link to your mobile phone from the Microsoft Tag website at www.microsoft.com/tag by taking a picture of the WD Tag on the The Toy Insider page using the Microsoft Tag application on your mobile smart phone. Once you have properly taken a picture of the WD Tag, you will be directly linked to the mobile website to enter the sweepstakes. PLEASE NOTE THAT YOUR ENTRY WILL NOT BE COMPLETED UNTIL YOU HAVE VISITED THE MOBILE WEBSITE TO ENTER YOUR CONTACT INFORMATION. Important Notice: You may be charged for visiting the mobile website in accordance with the terms of your service agreement with your carrier; or (ii) Visit WomansDay.com/TheToyInsider, and complete and submit the entry form pursuant to the on-screen instructions. Odds of winning depend upon the total number of eligible entries received. Sweepstakes open to legal residents of the 50 United States and the District of Columbia, ages 18 years of age or older at the time of entry. Void in Puerto Rico and where prohibited by law. For complete rules go www.WomansDay.com/TheToyInsider.
SPECIAL HOLIDAY SUPPLEMENT
0-2 YEARS
For more information, go to www.thetoyinsider.com
Our Toy Insider panel of experts has
BRIGHT STARTS HAVING A BALL 5-IN-1 SPORTS ZONE, 1+ This game zone is slam-dunk fun with five sports in one compact toy. Including baseball, basketball, golf, soccer, and hockey, this toy features 360 degrees of play. Action-packed with lights, sounds, and music! KIDS II, www.kidsii.com
CRUISE & GROOVE BALLAPALOOZA, 6 MOS+ Exciting ramp play, lights, and move-to-the-beat music encourage baby to move and groove. Great for babies and toddlers at all stages of development, with many ways to play and engage. Comes with eight balls. FISHER-PRICE, www.fisherprice.com
LIL’ PRINCESS 3 STORY ENCHANTED CASTLE, 1+ Little ones can design and build a beautiful palace that is the perfect place for a magical ball! Princess Ivy and her pony Chestnut can twirl and dance the night away on the spinning platform and balcony. MEGA BRANDS, www.megabloks.com
ROCKTIVITY SIT TO STAND MUSIC SKOOL, 6 MOS+ In music mode, tots can create rockin’ songs with the built-in instruments, lights, and sounds. Learning mode teaches simple concepts through music, including shapes, colors, numbers, letters, and opposites, in English or Spanish. PLAYSKOOL, www.playskool.com
selected these as some of the hottest toys for this holiday season. Your child may have individual needs and passions, so please review each age segment and visit our website, www.thetoyinsider.com, for even more great holiday gifts that will appeal to your child.
3-5 YEARS
BATMAN THE DARK KNIGHT RISES U-COMMAND BAT-POD, 4+ Featuring light-up wheels and sound effects. Front wheel pivots right and left for turning and drifting action! Send commands or a preprogrammed action to the Batmobile using the infrared remote control and it will carry out your commands. THINKWAY TOYS, www.thinkwaytoys.com
CHUGGINGTON DIE-CAST RAILWAY WILSON’S WILD RIDE, 3+ Little conductors can build a spiral more than 2 feet tall! Pull the lever to activate lights and sounds and start the rumbling storm. Wilson shoots down the 360 degree spiral to land in the turntable, where he spins some more! TOMY, www.tomy.com
DOC MCSTUFFINS TIME FOR YOUR CHECKUP DOLL, 3+ Based on the new Disney Junior animated series about a girl who heals toys out of her backyard clinic. Doc comes to life as she talks and sings while caring for Lambie. Lambie responds to Doc’s tools with several phrases. JUST PLAY, www.justplaytoys.com
LEAPPAD 2, 3+ This kids’ tablet features front-and-back cameras and video recorders and 4GB of memory. Includes a music player with five LeapFrog Learning Songs, Cartoon Director and Art Studio creativity apps, a Pet Pad writing app, and choice of an additional app. LEAPFROG, www.leapfrog.com
MY MAGICAL WAND CINDERELLA, 3+ Wave the magic wand, and listen to Cinderella tell her tale, as images from the story magically light up on her skirt. Sing along to “Bibbidi Bobbidi Boo” as you brush her hair and help her into her glittering slippers. TOLLYTOTS, www.tollytots.com
POWER RANGERS DELUXE MEGAZORD—SAMURAI GIGAZORD, 4+ When the Megazords and Zords come together they form the powerful Gigazord. Three ways to play! Morph it to Megazord mode, spaceship mode, or combine it with all the items in the ZordBuilder collection (sold separately). BANDAI, www.bandai.com
SPECIAL HOLIDAY SUPPLEMENT
6-8 YEARS
KURIO7, 4+ Android-based, 7-inch multi-touch-screen, Wi-Fi-enabled tablet allows kids to access content they want, while giving parents control over everything from Internet access and play time to app access and purchases. Up to eight different user profiles allows for age-appropriate access for each family member. TECHNO SOURCE, www.technosourceusa.com
LA DEE DA DOLLS, 6+ Meet Dee, an extraordinarily talented teen fashion designer who creates the most amazing outfits with her super-creative BFFs. From scarlet streaks to wild eye makeup, anything goes! This doll allows girls to imagine themselves as stylists and designers, too. SPIN MASTER, www.spinmaster.com
LEGO FRIENDS HEARTLAKE STABLES, 6+ Give girls an exciting new way to engage in LEGO play! Feed the horses, then saddle them up so the riders can practice their trotting and jumps. Groom them to get ready for the horse show. Includes two mini-doll figures and two horses. LEGO SYSTEMS, www.lego.com
MONSTER HIGH HIGH SCHOOL, 6+ Showcase your favorite student bodies in the Monster High High School! This two-story school features the iconic school entrance through the gargoyle statues, the mad science classroom, creepateria, casketball court, and, of course, the ghouls’ creepy cool coffin-shaped lockers. MATTEL, www.mattel.com
SKYLANDERS GIANTS, 6+ Using the mystical Portal of Power, players once again lead a team of Skylanders in an all-new adventure to save their world. Journey through new areas of Skylands with 16 new characters, encountering new enemies, overcoming obstacles, and finding rewards and treasure. ACTIVISION, www.activision.com
9+ YEARS
TOY SKILL KEY Developmental/Fine Motor Skills: Improve hand-eye coordination skills by encouraging fine motor skills with detailed activity play.
Kid to Kid Social Interaction: Encourage team play with challenging and competitive activities or shared role-play interactions. AIR HOGS BATTLE TRACKER, 9+ The Air Hogs Battle Tracker brings true physical battle play right into your home! With multiple ways to play, you can engage in an interactive battle between the all-new disc-firing heli and the missile-firing Automated Robot Turret. SPIN MASTER, www.spinmaster.com
WII U GAMEPAD, 9+ The Wii U GamePad controller removes the traditional barriers between games, players, and the TV by creating a second window into the video game world. It incorporates a 6.2-inch LCD touch screen, motion control, camera, microphone, stereo speakers, rumble features, sensor bar, stylus, and more! NINTENDO, www.nintendo.com
Parent and Child Social Interaction: Foster close relationships through shared learning experiences.
Physical and Active: Develop balance and coordination using large and small motor skills and dexterity. Improve physical awareness.
Social and Emotional Intelligence: Develop art, music, language, and social skills. Explore creative, imaginative play and role-playing.
School Readiness: Support math, logic, and spatial skills. Enhance language, reading and writing skills. Discover science, nature, and exploration. WORDS WITH FRIENDS LUXE, 13+ Based on the popular digital game from Zynga. Players take turns placing tiles onto the game board, building upon opponents’ word creations with their own. Features a large, rotating game board and digital features to enhance the game play. HASBRO, www.hasbro.com
Y FLIKER, 9+ Simply move your hips from side-to-side to move this ride. Y Fliker is sturdy, stable, and easy to balance. Its lightweight and sleek design allow for smooth carving and drifting actions. Folds up for storage. YVOLUTION, www.yvolution.com
Smart Tech: Enhance knowledge of computers, music, digital imaging, communication, Internet, geography, and world events.
For more information, go to www.thetoyinsider.com
HEXBUG WARRIORS BATTLE STADIUM, 6+ The ultimate battleground for all Hexbug Warriors! Comes with two Hexbug Warriors, weapons and armor, plus collectible battle arena pieces. Warriors jostle with opponents until someone loses by running out of health, at which point they deactivate. INNOVATION FIRST INTERNATIONAL, www.hexbug.com
SPECIAL HOLIDAY SUPPLEMENT
ALPHABET ACTIVITY CUBE, 9 MOS+ Discover, play, and learn! Teaches number and letter recognition and enhances motor skills. Comes with 13 building blocks that feature all 26 letters of the alphabet. Teaches cause and effect with mechanical elements that stimulate the senses. VTECH, www.vtechkids.com
0-2 YEARS
INFANTS & TODDLERS Every day is a new adventure for babies and toddlers,
For more information, go to www.thetoyinsider.com
who amaze their parents with their continuous growth and development. For this age range, choose items that stimulate their minds, bodies, and all five senses. Toys
BABY DRIVER ’N RACER, 6 MOS+ Baby is in the driver’s seat with this colorful steering wheel. Beep the horn and shift gears! Designed for the stroller, it detaches and fits on any free wheel car for fun “push and crawl” playtime. BLUE BOX TOYS, www.blueboxtoys.com
for this age group encourage experimentation with BUILD A BOUQUET, 2+ Budding florists can create countless floral arrangements while saving energy and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Made in the USA from 100 percent recycled plastic milk jugs, this brightly colored set includes four bases, 16 stem and leaf pieces, and 24 flower pieces. GREEN TOYS, www.greentoys.com
colors, shapes, sounds, and textures. By offering opportunities for hand-eye coordination, motor skills, language recognition, and nurturing, parents are providing little ones with the early development skills they need as they grow up.
FLYING SUPER GROVER 2.0, 2+ This motion-activated Super Grover 2.0 character comes to life when kids pick him up and “fly” him around the room. His arms will rise as though he’s flying, and he will let kids know whether he’s “going up!” or “going down!” PLAYSKOOL, www.playskool.com
GLIMMER THE GLOW WORM, 0+ Glimmer the Glow Worm is a plush toy, soft pillow, and comfy blanket all in one. Glimmer even glows in the dark! ZOOBIES, www.zoobies.com
HONEY BEAR, 0+ A soft bear that is perfect to hug and easy to grab and hold. Jittering bee in Honey Bear’s belly teaches cause and effect as the baby pulls it out and watches it jitter back in. INTERNATIONAL PLAYTHINGS, www.intplay.com
SPECIAL HOLIDAY SUPPLEMENT
For more information, go to www.thetoyinsider.com
LEGO DUPLO BUSY FARM, 18 MOS+ Children can build along to the storybook of life on the busy farm with all of the Lego Duplo bricks and elements needed to recreate each page. Package doubles as storage. LEGO, www.lego.com
LITTLE MOMMY DOCTOR MOMMY DOLL, 2+ Featuring light and sensors for responsive play, the doll interacts with a child when the included medical instruments are used. Baby doll responds, “Ahhhh!” to the tongue depressor and giggles when the reflex hammer makes her knee pop up (it really kicks!). MATTEL, www.mattel.com
PILLOW RACERS, 18 MOS+ Race around on these soft, cuddly characters. The four caster wheels allow these character ride-ons to easily turn in any direction, and the easy-to-grip handles help little ones hang on for a fun ride. LITTLE TIKES, www.littletikes.com
PLAYTIME BABIES, 1+ The perfect first baby doll. Each handmade doll is baby powder-scented and has a cuddly, silky-smooth body. They are perfect for cuddling with a beanbag-weighted bottom, which gives them their lifelike feel. ADORA DOLLS, www.charismabrands.com
ROLL & PLAY, 18 MOS+ Designed for parents and children to play together, cards instruct players to “Make a happy face,” or “Moo like a cow.” Helps kids to shine while encouraging creativity, active play, and motor skills. THINKFUN, www.thinkfun.com
SERVIN’ SURPRISES COOK ’N SERVE KITCHEN & TABLE, 2+ Kitchen recognizes specific food and responds with related sound effects and songs. Table features built-in stovetop with burner and grill and open-andclose lightup oven. Stovetop flips over to convert into an activity table! FISHER-PRICE, www.fisherprice.com
SPECIAL HOLIDAY SUPPLEMENT
For more information, go to www.thetoyinsider.com
SESAME STREET FIRE ENGINE, 1+ Elmo & Abby Cadabby speak to little firefighters with 15 phrases. Thirteen buttons on the hood and dash demonstrate cause and effect. Young children can use the walker bar to stretch growing legs. Storage space under the seat. TEK NEK TOYS, www.teknektoys.com
SPIN-A-MALS FARM, 1+ Features 11 brightly colored wooden gears. Place them on the wooden base, then place the cow, sheep, and dog into one of the openings. Turn the knob and watch the colorful gears spin while the farm animals twirl. SMALL WORLD TOYS, www.smallworldtoys.com
TOTS ART START, 18 MOS+ This first art kit for toddlers includes triangular shaped crayons that are easy for little hands to grip. Make up to six projects using pre-printed paper frames, crack and peel collage boards, and lots of stickers, doilies, tissue, fringe, and crepe paper. ALEX TOYS, www.alextoys.com
TRANQUIL TURTLE, 0+ Transforms any room into a peaceful seaside oasis! The shell projects a magical underwater light effect with a gentle wave motion and plays the soothing sounds of ocean waves and undersea melodies, giving children a peaceful night’s sleep. CLOUD B, www.cloudb.com
WOOFER BY B. TOYS, 2+ Strum along with this howling hound dog to the tune of 20 sing-along favorites and nine peppy puppy songs. A whammy bone and three modes—acoustic, electric, and Hoooouwl—will have you rocking out in no time! B. TOYS BY BATTAT, www.justb-byou.com
Y GLIDER, 2+ Perfect for beginner riders, this kid-powered ride-on features an easy-to-use lean-to-steer method that allows younger children to comfortably enjoy scooting at their developmental stage. Extremely durable with enhanced wheels for a smooth ride. YVOLUTION, www. yvolution.com
SPECIAL HOLIDAY SUPPLEMENT
3-5 YEARS
3D CREATE ’N COLOR BREAKTHROUGH, 5+ Build, color, and play on a whole new level. The pre-cut and interlocking pieces make assembly fun and easy. Color your gigantic creation with crayons, markers, or paint, and mount it to your wall for the ultimate 3-D wall art! ROSEART, www.megabrands.com
PRESCHOOL Preschoolers are ready to take on a new type of play. Encourage imaginative and creative activities with
ANGRY BIRDS: MISSION MAY’HAM, 5+ With these K’nex sets, you can build and destroy actual levels from the original Angry Birds game! Each set comes with a working launcher, enough parts to build and knock down, two birds, three pigs, and an extra item. K’NEX, www.knex.com
role-playing and pretend play. Provide opportunities for active play, exercising adventure. Social and emotional skills are emerging, so music, arts and crafts, teamwork, and language skills
BEN 10 OMNITRIX TOUCH, 4+ The Omnitrix of the future is here! With biostatic touch pad, your fingertips drive this multi-function piece of alien tech. Kids can hear seven alien voices, create sound effects, and unlock secret messages from Azmuth, the creator of the Omnitrix! BANDAI, www.bandai.com
are important to build self-esteem. Toys that teach vocabulary and social skills and that result in a sense of accomplishment are of the utmost importance.
BOUNCE BOUNCE TIGGER, 3+ “Tigger’s gonna make you bounce, bounce” with a dancing, shimmying, rocking version of this lovable character. Tigger shows off his best dance moves in sync with the music. Kids can dance and giggle along with Tigger as he bounces and “wiggety, wiggety wiggles!” JUST PLAY, www.justplaytoys.com
For more information, go to www.thetoyinsider.com
their bodies and their spirit of
SPECIAL HOLIDAY SUPPLEMENT
For more information, go to www.thetoyinsider.com
CINDERELLA TRANSFORMING PUMPKIN CARRIAGE, 3+ In celebration of Disney’s Cinderella: Diamond Edition on DVD and Blu-ray, kids can recreate the iconic fairytale metamorphosis over and over. Change the pumpkin to a carriage in three easy steps! MATTEL, www.mattel.com
DISCOVERY KIDS 77 PIECE BUILD & PLAY CONSTRUCTION FORT, 5+ This 77-piece set comes with 49 poles and 28 connectors. Build forts, playhouses, and more. Simply cover with a blanket or sheet! MERCHSOURCE, www.merchsource.com
DISNEY•PIXAR BRAVE MERIDA WITH ANGUS, 3+ Gallop into a world of enchantment with Merida and her noble horse, Angus. Dressed in a shimmering gown with long, flowing hair and moving arms and legs, Merida is ready for adventure! TOLLYTOTS, www.tollytots.com
FEED THE WOOZLE, 3+ The big-mouth Woozle is hungry. Can you feed him 12 silly snacks before all the snacks are gone? Set up the Wooozle a hop, skip, and a jump away and deliver snacks as the spinner directs. Don't drop those silly snacks! PEACEABLE KINGDOM, www.peaceablekingdom.com
FLIP FORCE VEHICLES AND PLAYSETS, 5+ Two sides, two rides! These vehicles flip over and keep on rolling for two different vehicle styles. The Flip & Fire Launcher transforms cars and propels them to new heights! WOWWEE, www.wowwee.com
IPIECES AIR HOCKEY, 4+ Experience the fast-paced thrills of air hockey! Download the free app and hit the animated hockey puck with the iPieces hockey strikers. Represent a country of your choice to compete in a variety of fun and exciting tournaments. PRESSMAN TOY, www.pressmantoy.com
SPECIAL HOLIDAY SUPPLEMENT
For more information, go to www.thetoyinsider.com
ITIKES PIANO, 3+ Teaches kids about music theory while making it fun and interactive! Without an iDevice, the keyboard comes with four built-in songs that can be played in four modes: Freeplay, Stepper, Solo, and Playback. Compatible with all iDevices. MGA ENTERTAINMENT, www.mgae.com JAKE AND THE NEVERLAND PIRATES WHO SHOOK HOOK? GAME, 4+ Captain Hook is snoozing in his hammock, surrounded by all the treasure he’s nabbed from Jake and his pirate crew. Carefully pluck items as directed by the spinner, without sending Hook tumbling into the water where Tick Tock Croc awaits. WONDER FORGE, www.wonderforge.com LCR LEFT CENTER RIGHT DICE GAME, 5+ Three specially marked cubes are rolled to determine where players distribute their chips as they compete to keep as many of their chips as they can. The last player with chips is the winner. Fun and fast-paced! GEORGE & COMPANY, www.dicegames.com
LEGO NINJAGO NEAT-OH! BATTLE ARENA, 3+ This battle case doubles as both a storage case for the Ninjago masters to hide in as well as the supreme battle arena! Dual fighting surfaces add another level of theater to the masters of Spinjitzu. Lego bricks not included. NEAT-OH! INTERNATIONAL, www.neat-oh.com
MATCHBOX BIG BOOTS AMBUSHER, 3+ There’s a T-Rex on the loose and the Big Boots have been called to save the day! Once they’ve tracked down the dino, they can use the vehicle’s pivoting claw to capture the rampaging animal and bring him back to safety. MATTEL, www.mattel.com
MICRO CHARGERS TIME TRACK, 5+ Equipped with four lane chargers, the Time Track lets kids load their micro racer, launch their car, and race their opponents to the finish line. Kids can design and customize the tracks, and a timer mechanism gives real time results. MOOSE TOYS, www.mooseworld.com.au
SPECIAL HOLIDAY SUPPLEMENT
MONSUNO CORE TEAM 2 PACK, 4+ Innovative new toy line that brings to life the adventures of the Monsuno animated series on Nicktoons. Spin and battle against your opponent and watch your Monsuno monster figure launch from its Core upon impact! JAKKS PACIFIC, www.jakks.com
For more information, go to www.thetoyinsider.com
MOBIGO 2, 3+ Multi-functional educational handheld system allows kids to enjoy on-the-go play and hone their creativity all while learning basic skills such as math, vocabulary, spelling, reading, logic, drawing, and more. Features motion sensor, touchscreen, and microphone. Many apps available. VTECH, www.vtechkids.com
NASCAR BASHERS, 3+ Styled like real NASCAR racecars, these cars actually crash. With multiple dramatic crash transformations, there are countless ways to wreck. Once you’ve crashed it’s time to rebuild your car and head back out on the track! SPIN MASTER, www.spinmaster.com
MUSICAL SLINKY, 5+ The classic Slinky is now available in a unique, musical package! The musical box celebrates the 50th anniversary of Slinky! Box plays a version of the Slinky song. POOF-SLINKY, www.poof-slinky.com
NENUCO LET’S PLAY SCHOOL, 4+ Everything a child needs to be the best schoolteacher ever! Ring the bell and class begins! Teach science, math, and more. Comes with a fashionably dressed toddler doll, desk, lesson board, lesson plans, teacher glasses, stickers, marker, and more! FAMOSA, www.famosa.es/en
NITRO MITES, 4+ These micro-sized motorcycles deliver mega speed, extreme stunts, and killer style. Just rev the rear wheels forward to gain speed, and let them go to race, do wheelies, and perform other stunts and jumps. ZAG TOYS, www.grabzags.com
SPECIAL HOLIDAY SUPPLEMENT
For more information, go to www.thetoyinsider.com
PHOEBE FROM HAIR TO THERE, 3+ With Phoebe, every day is a good hair day! Pull gently on the doll’s hair to make her lovely locks grow, and then crank the dial for a “quick trim!” Comes with a hair style guide and accessories. OUR GENERATION BY BATTAT, www.ogdolls.com
PILLOW PETS PEACE BEAR, 3+ This brightly colored tiedye bear has a peace sign embroidered on his front paw. With a strap that closes underneath to transform the pillow into a friendly pet, Pillow Pets are an ideal travel pal, naptime buddy, and cuddly friend. CJ PRODUCTS, www.pillowpets.com PLAYSKOOL HEROES SPIDER-MAN STUNT CITY PLAYSET, 3+ Spider-Man can climb walls, web swing, and perform other amazing stunts. Kids will be wowed by the magical wall climb. Lights and sounds activate as Spider-Man climbs skyward before performing a stuntacular flip to the roof! PLAYSKOOL, www.playskool.com PONY ROYALE PRINCESS PONY COLLECTION, 3+ These glamorous ponies have change-it-up hair, giving kids the ability to instantly transform manes and tails for endless hours of styling fun. The mane and tail slide in and out easily, making it a perfect play feature for little hands. RAZOR USA, www.razor.com
PRINCESS FANTASY CASTLE, 4+ With turrets, a gilded entrance gate, and a grand staircase, this castle is the perfect home for her royal highness. Store all the jewels in the tower’s secret hiding place before taking a spin around the ballroom on the revolving dance floor. Includes two figures and accessories. PLAYMOBIL, www.playmobilusa.com
SINGALONGZ, 3+ Singalongz are plush friends that sing along with you! Turn on the mic, press and hold the sing-a-link stars, and listen for a magical sound. Sing or talk into the microphone and your Singalongz friend will sing or speak your words in its own funny voice. WOW! STUFF, www.wowstuff.co.uk
SPECIAL HOLIDAY SUPPLEMENT
For more information, go to www.thetoyinsider.com
SONIX CITY, 4+ Interactive mini vehicle play sets with fun sounds and voices from the vehicles and their surroundings. Just start driving and the play sets come to life with more than 100 sound effects. Collect all the play sets and build an entire city. WILD PLANET ENTERTAINMENT, www.sonixcity.com
SQUINKIES ZINKIES MAGIC SECRETS FLOWER POT, 4+ Zinkies are half the size of Squinkies but still squishy and adorable! This everyday pot of flowers opens to reveal a world of teeny tiny fun! Use the flower magnifying glass, leaf squeezers, and ladybug key to discover hidden surprises. BLIP TOYS, www.bliptoys.com TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES SHELLRAISER, 4+ Inspired by the all-new CGanimated Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles series. Push a button to send a “hero in a half shell” flying out the side with 360 degree Ninja flipkicking action! Figures sold separately. PLAYMATES, www.playmatestoys.com
TOUCH MAGIC ROCKIN’ GUITAR, 3+ Offers musical fun and develops preschool skills with every touch. Kids can choose to play solo, play along with a band, or select electric or acoustic guitar to play well-known songs. Customize the experience by adding guitar riffs, silly sounds, and drums. LEAPFROG, www.leapfrog.com
WAVERLY MAGIC SEASHELL PLAYSET, 4+ Open play set to reveal a magic pearl reader that unlocks each pearl’s unique secrets. There are more than 50 secrets to be revealed, including lights, sounds, and spoken secrets from Waverly and her friends! THE BRIDGE DIRECT, www.thebridgedirect.com
WINX CLUB MAGIC WINGS BLOOM, 4+ Based on the Nickelodeon animated series. Place Bloom in the Transformation Station, slide the lever to see magical lights, hear the Believix song, and see Bloom spin as her wings attach and she transforms into a Believix fairy. JAKKS PACIFIC, www.jakks.com
SPECIAL HOLIDAY SUPPLEMENT
6-8 YEARS
For more information, go to www.thetoyinsider.com
GRADE SCHOOL Grade-schoolers are expanding their worlds into a broader community of schoolmates and teammates. They are enjoying new experiences as they explore their choices and expand their abilities. Encourage them to seek out and pursue their passions. Toys and games can help develop an appreciation for science, the arts, strategic and mind-stimulating activities, and spending time with family and friends. Kid-safe websites present an approach to playing that also teaches basic computer skills and computer etiquette.
1D CD BOOMBOX, 6+ Fans can play their favorite 1D songs with the 1D CD Boombox! The brightly colored boombox features an image of the band, as well as a top-loading CD player, AM/FM radio, and standard jack for headphones and earbuds. JAZWARES, www.jazwares.com
ACTION SHOT CAM, 7+ Attach this mini video camera to skateboards, bikes, or helmets with the secure mounting system. The Action Shot Camera has upgradeable memory to record your wild feats and then upload the footage through the built-in USB port to share your adventures! JAKKS PACIFIC, www.jakks.com
AIR STORM Z-TEK CROSS BOW, 8+ With power-swing technology, amazing accuracy, and three stick-anywhere Zartz, the Z-Tek Cross Bow is the one to beat! Two firing modes allow for short-range (up to 35 feet) and power-shot mode (up to 70 feet). ZING TOYS, www.zingtoys.com
ALL DUCT OUT, 7+ Tear, stick, and wear duct tape fashions you create using trendy colored, striped, and funky-patterned duct tape. Make belts, jewelry, headbands, glasses, a purse, and more. Templates and stencils make it easy! ALEX TOYS, www.alextoys.com
SPECIAL HOLIDAY SUPPLEMENT
For more information, go to www.thetoyinsider.com
APPFINITY APPDRIVE, 8+ Use your smart device to put the pedal to the metal with the Appfinity AppDrive. Take to the streets with racing, to the air with flight games, or head off road with motocross games for non-stop action. SPIN MASTER, www.spinmaster.com
BEYBLADE BEYWHEELZ CRASH COURSE, 8+ A complete battle in a box, this set includes a crash course arena and multiple stunt pieces, plus two Beywheelz battlers and launchers. Players can create their course to stunt, race, or crash their way to victory! HASBRO, www.hasbro.com
BARBIE PHOTO FASHION DOLL, 6+ This Barbie doll is actually a digital camera and Barbie doll’s shirt is where the digital image will appear! Add frames and effects to photos and make your own slide show. Holds more than 100 images and has an internal rechargeable battery. MATTEL, www.mattel.com
BLINGLES BLING STUDIO, 6+ An all-in-one station with more than 300 gems, the Blingles Bling Studio comes with a gem pen, transfer slides, and a glue roll, so you can make your own designs or use the pre-set patterns to decorate and personalize up to 10 designs. MOOSE TOYS, www.mooseworld.com.au COLOR ROX HAIR CHOX, 8+ The hottest hair trend—hair chalking—is now available for kids. The temporary hair coloring kit offers easy application and washes out with shampoo. Includes purple, pink, blue, yellow, and green hair chox, grips, beads, rubber bands, and a bead threader. FASHION ANGELS, www.fashionangels.com
CRAYOLA MARKER AIRBRUSH, 6+ Create amazing airbrush effects on paper, fabrics, and windows with Crayola markers! The Marker Airbrush works with a simple hand pump, so kids control the action. Simply attach a marker, pump it up, and spray—no batteries required! CRAYOLA, www.crayola.com
SPECIAL HOLIDAY SUPPLEMENT
For more information, go to www.thetoyinsider.com
ELECTRONIC LABYRINTH, 8+ Interactive board game features an electronic book that helps players look for magic gems. Travel through the enchanted maze talking to the dwellers and bringing them objects they desire in exchange for magic gems that help break the evil spell and free the captives. RAVENSBURGER, www.ravensburger.com
FURBY, 6+ Introducing an adorable new plush friend with a big personality! Feed it, speak to it, tickle it, or play music for it—Furby’s personality is shaped by these experiences. Furby can learn to speak English, and has animated eyes. HASBRO, www.hasbro.com
FUZE WHEEL WRITER, 8+ Displays high-tech light effects on bike wheels as kids ride! Mounts directly to spokes; as the wheels spin, the superbright, computer-controlled LEDs flash on and off to create more than a dozen different images and patterns— including a working speedometer. SKYROCKET TOYS, www.fuzebikefx.com
JOHN DEERE MONSTER TREADS RADIO CONTROL TRACTOR, 6+ This all-terrain action R/C features aggressive monster truck styling, super bounce airinflated tires, rear stand and spin stunt action, and great overall performance—both on and off the farm. TOMY, www.tomy.com KRE-O TRANSFORMERS DESTRUCTION SITE DEVASTATOR, 8+ Create four construction vehicles, including a crane and bulldozer, deconstruct the vehicles to create four different robot figures, or combine all vehicle builds together to form one of the largest and most epic enemies of the Autobot world, the Construction Devastator! HASBRO, www.hasbro.com LEGO MONSTER FIGHTERS THE MAD PROFESSOR AND HIS MONSTER, 7+ Assemble this mad scientist’s lab, where the doctor is bringing life to his monster to defend the Moonstone, but the Monster Fighters roll in on their car to foil his plan. Includes four minifigures. LEGO, www.lego.com
SPECIAL HOLIDAY SUPPLEMENT
For more information, go to www.thetoyinsider.com
LOOPDEDOO KIT FOR MAKING TWISTED ACCESSORIES, 8+ Create gorgeous friendship bracelets in minutes! Create your own design so each bracelet is totally unique. Complete with 18 skeins of thread and storage drawer. This item is kid powered (no batteries, no electricity). ANN WILLIAMS GROUP, www.annwilliamsgroup.com
MEGA BLOKS WORLD OF WARCRAFT—GOBLIN ZEPPELIN ASSAULT, 8+ Build and battle with the Alliance Catapault and the Goblin Zeppelin, featuring a working launcher. Includes three collectible figures with custom armor, with the collectible Judgement-Armor and Random Loot. MEGA BRANDS, www.megabloks.com
LUMILITE, 6+ Create glowing 3D images! Insert the stencils into the glow cube and use the magic reveal pen to scratch and light up 3D art. Make your own designs, and use it as a night light! TECH 4 KIDS, www.tech4kids.com
MUSCLE MACHINES 1:18 SCALE R/C, 8+ Muscle Machines are back! Huge engines, wide tires, and modified bodies all add to the fun. This full-function R/C has LED lights on the front that illuminate when the car is driven. Tri-channel feature lets three kids play at the same time. MAISTO INTERNATIONAL, www.maisto.com PERPLEXUS TWIST, 6+ The world’s first 4D marble maze game! Players maneuver a small marble around challenging barriers inside a large transparent sphere. Players must twist and realign the tracks to escape traps, decoys, and cliffhangers. PLASMART, www.plasmarttoys.com
PORSCHE 911 CARRERA, 8+ This R/C uses your iPod touch, iPhone, or iPad as the remote control. Sound effects deliver the rev of the engine and force feedback delivers the rumble of the engine. Features functional headlights, tail lights, and signal lights. SILVERLIT, www.silverlit.com
SPECIAL HOLIDAY SUPPLEMENT
For more information, go to www.thetoyinsider.com
RADIATE, 8+ “Ride the light” with the Radiate skateboard, featuring an integrated LED wiring harness system with 48 LED lights that blaze throughout the deck for a ride that glows over the pavement. Available in 10 color combinations. ROCKBOARD, www.rockboard.com
ROXX TRIXX STADIUM, 7+ Collectible, head-to-head competitive game of skillzz! The ultimate holographic stadium and Roxx set features an intensified 3D illusion. Kids will sharpen their Roxx skillzz and challenge each other or themselves for the best shot with an extensive variety of trixx. IMPERIAL TOY, www.imperialtoy.com SOCCER TABLE, 8+ Build a soccer table! This Level 2 project helps children advance their skill sets. Includes guided drilling, semi-guided bolting, cutting, and intermediate sawing. Assumes children have already mastered Level 1 skills. Then, enjoy hours of fun. RED TOOL BOX, www.red-toolbox.com
STUNT TWISTERZ, FLIPOVER SPEEDSTER, 6+ This full-function R/C lights up, moves forward and in reverse, spins, does wheelies, and even flips over! NKOK, www.nkok.com
THE GAME OF LIFE: ZAPPED EDITION, 8+ You still get to move your car from space to space and select your path to retirement, but now you spin, get paid, sue other players, and make important decisions—all on your iPad. Land on app spaces to unlock hilarious video clips. HASBRO, www.hasbro.com
WEIRD & WACKY CONTRAPTION LAB, 8+ Standing over 2 feet tall, the Weird & Wacky Contraption Lab has 60 mix-and-match pieces to build an unlimited number of contraptions. Kids can dream up crazy courses, then build and test them using this easy-toconstruct system. SMARTLAB TOYS, www.smartlabtoys.com
SPECIAL HOLIDAY SUPPLEMENT
9+ YEARS
4D CITYSCAPE TIME PUZZLE, 9+ Use the 4th Dimension Time Poster to locate and place each building into the puzzle floor in chronological order, as if history is happening before you eyes. See how the city’s skyline evolved over time! 4D CITYSCAPE, www.4dcityscape.com
TWEENS Whether online or in person, socializing is a key activity for kids in this age group. While tweens are
APPGEAR FOAM FIGHTERS, 9+ AppGear connects apps with traditional toys, providing the user with a unique interface combining the digital and real world. With Foam Fighters, take to the skies with WWII fighter planes for fast action and immersive aerial combat. WOWWEE, www.wowwee.com
comfortable with technology and the
games, being creative, and being active. Provide opportunities for them
CODEE, 9+ Each Codee strand is made of 64 flexible links marked with letters and symbols. Twist and turn each link as you follow the included code step-by-step to make assorted mystery or special edition characters—or design your own creations! TECHNO SOURCE, www.technosourceusa.com
to try new things both on their own and with their peers. Parents and caregivers are still key role models for this age group, so remain present and involved in their passions.
DIXIT JOURNEY, 9+ The storyteller gives a clue about their card, then each player puts in one card that they believe is similar to the storyteller’s card. Players then guess which card was the original. Includes a gallery of artistically designed cards. ASMODEE, us.asmodee.com
For more information, go to www.thetoyinsider.com
digital world, they also enjoy playing
SPECIAL HOLIDAY SUPPLEMENT
For more information, go to www.thetoyinsider.com
TOP TRUMPS CARD GAME & DOCTOR WHO DALEK COLLECTORS TIN, 9+ Celebrate 50 years of time travel! This war-style card game includes 60 character cards, featuring all 11 doctors, brave companions, and scary monsters! Must have for any fan of the world’s favorite TimeLord. TOP TRUMPS USA, www.toptrumps.com
ETÓN RUKUS SOLAR BOOMBOX, 9+ Keep the music playing nonstop with this portable boombox with solar panel and Bluetooth compatibility. Pair with any Bluetooth-enabled device, from smartphones to tablets, to stream music wirelessly—and never run out of power (comes with an AC adapter for charging on rainy days). ETÓN CORP., www.etoncorp.com HAUTE COUTURE FASHION STUDIO, 9+ Design and sew your own runway fashions with a fully equipped studio for budding fashion designers. Create outfits for 11-inch fashion dolls using the patterns included. Comes with a batteryoperated sewing machine, mannequins, fabric, patterns, trimming, jewels, thread, and more. SMALL WORLD FASHION, www.smallworldtoys.com
FLYLINE COMPLETE FLIGHT SYSTEM, 9+ Anchored indoor/outdoor racing and battling! These high-tech, highperformance planes fly at supersonic scale speeds. Great for both solo flight and multiplane battling. Learn to master take-offs, landings, climbs, dives, loops, double loops, knifeedge maneuvers, and more. CPI Corp., www.flylinerc.com
IZZA WRISTLET PURSE, 9+ This classic wristlet with slipthrough wristband is available in two colors—soft silver and neon pink. Each Izza holds up to four charms (sold separately). Perfect for cell phones, ID cards, and cashola! MOGO DESIGN, www.mogocharm.com
RAZOR PRO XX, 9+ Take it to the next level with Razor’s Pro Series scooters. Made from aircraft-grade aluminum and 4130 CroMoly steel construction with a rigid downtube. New deck sizes and unique designs with full deck grip tape. Competition-ready right out of the box. RAZOR USA, www.razor.com
SPECIAL HOLIDAY SUPPLEMENT
For more selections, go to www.thetoyinsider.com
TELESTRATIONS 12-PLAYER PARTY PACK, 12+ Miscommunication at its best! Players draw what they see, then guess what they saw, to reveal hilarious and unpredictable outcomes. It’s the telephone game sketched out! No drawing skills required— stick figures and a sense of humor welcome! USAOPOLY, www.usaopoly.com THE ORB, 9+ This alien-inspired spacecraft is lightweight and easy to fly. The patented “auto-upright” technology enables The Orb to lift off straight up in the air from any surface for smooth maneuvering and continuous play. It always lands upright! EB BRANDS, www.ebexcalibur.com
THE HOBBIT: AN UNEXPECTED JOURNEY 6INCH COLLECTOR FIGURES, 9+ These 6-inch scale collector figures feature intricate and authentic detail. Each figure contains up to 12 points of articulation and replicates the facial features, clothing, weapons, and accessories of each character as seen in The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey. THE BRIDGE DIRECT, www.thebridgedirect.com TWISTER DANCE, 9+ Combining today’s best dance music with the iconic Twister spots, Twister Dance gives kids a new, fun way to learn moves to today’s hottest dance songs! Includes a custom remix of “Till The World Ends” by Britney Spears. HASBRO, www.hasbro.com
WI-SPI INTRUDER, 14+ Full R/C control via smartphone or tablet with live video transmission from the Intruder to the control device. Record video and upload it directly to social media sites instantly. The Intruder can also record sound and has the capabilities for stealth nighttime missions. INTERACTIVE TOY CONCEPTS, www.interactivetoy.com
Z2300, 9+ The Z2300 has a 10 megapixel image sensor and an integrated printer, enabling users to instantly capture, edit, and print full color, 2-inch by 3-inch prints. Customizable printing options include the iconic Polaroid Classic Border, full bleed, and photo stickers. POLAROID, www.polaroid.com
S P E C I A L H O L I D AY S U P P L E M E N T
Shopping Guide for the Holidays ALPHABET ACTIVITY CUBE
LEAPPAD 2
KURIO7
BABY DRIVER ‘N RACER
LEGO NINJAGO NEAT-OH! BATTLE ARENA
LA DEE DA DOLLS
BRIGHT STARTS HAVING A BALL
MATCHBOX BIG BOOTS AMBUSHER
LEGO FRIENDS HEARTLAKE STABLES
BUILD A BOUQUET
MICRO CHARGERS TIME TRACK
LEGO MONSTER FIGHTERS THE MAD PROFESSOR AND HIS MONSTER LOOPDEDOO KIT FOR MAKING TWISTED ACCESSORIES LUMILITE
CRUISE & GROOVE BALLAPALOOZA FLYING SUPER GROVER 2.0 GLIMMER THE GLOW WORM HONEY BEAR
MOBIGO 2 MONSUNO CORE TEAM 2 PACK MUSICAL SLINKY MY MAGICAL WAND CINDERELLA
MEGA BLOKS WORLD OF WARCRAFT —GOBLIN ZEPPELIN ASSAULT MONSTER HIGH HIGH SCHOOL
NASCAR BASHERS For more selections, go to www.thetoyinsider.com
LEGO DUPLO BUSY FARM LIL’ PRINCESS 3 STORY ENCHANTED CASTLE LITTLE MOMMY DOCTOR MOMMY DOLL PILLOW RACERS PLAYTIME BABIES ROCKTIVITY SIT TO STAND MUSIC SKOOL ROLL & PLAY
MUSCLE MACHINES 1:18 SCALE R/C NENUCO LET’S PLAY SCHOOL NITRO MITES PHOEBE FROM HAIR TO THERE PILLOW PETS PEACE BEAR PLAYSKOOL HEROES SPIDER-MAN STUNT CITY PONY ROYALE PRINCESS PONY COLLECTION
POWER RANGERS DELUXE
PERPLEXUS TWIST PORSCHE 911 CARRERA RADIATE ROXX TRIXX STADIUM SKYLANDERS GIANTS SOCCER TABLE
SERVIN’ SURPRISES COOK ‘N SERVE KITCHEN & TABLE
MEGAZORD—SAMURAI GIGAZORD PRINCESS FANTASY CASTLE
SESAME STREET FIRE ENGINE
SINGALONGZ
THE GAME OF LIFE: ZAPPED EDITION
SPIN-A-MALS FARM
WEIRD & WACKY CONTRAPTION LAB
TRANQUIL TURTLE
SONIX CITY SQUINKIES ZINKIES MAGIC SECRETS FLOWER POT TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES SHELLRAISER
WOOFER BY B. TOYS
TOUCH MAGIC ROCKIN’ GUITAR
APPGEAR FOAM FIGHTERS
Y GLIDER
WAVERLY MAGIC SEASHELL PLAYSET
CODEE
3D CREATE ‘N’ COLOR BREAKTHROUGH
WINX CLUB MAGIC WINGS BLOOM
DIXIT JOURNEY
ANGRY BIRDS: MISSION MAY’HAM
1D CD BOOMBOX
BATMAN THE DARK KNIGHT RISES U-COMMAND BAT-POD
TOP TRUMPS CARD GAME & DOCTOR WHO DALEK COLLECTORS TIN
ACTION SHOT CAM
ETÓN RUKUS SOLAR BOOMBOX
BEN 10 OMNITRIX TOUCH
AIR STORM Z-TEK CROSS BOW
FLYLINE COMPLETE FLIGHT SYSTEM
BOUNCE BOUNCE TIGGER
ALL DUCT OUT
CHUGGINGTON DIE-CAST RAILWAY WILSON’S WILD RIDE CINDERELLA TRANSFORMING PUMPKIN CARRIAGE
APPFINITY APPDRIVE
TOTS ART START
DISCOVERY KIDS 77 PIECE BUILD & PLAY CONSTRUCTION FORT DISNEY•PIXAR BRAVE MERIDA WITH ANGUS DOC MCSTUFFINS TIME FOR YOUR CHECKUP DOLL FEED THE WOOZLE FLIP FORCE VEHICLES AND PLAYSETS IPIECES AIR HOCKEY ITIKES PIANO JAKE AND THE NEVERLAND PIRATES WHO SHOOK HOOK GAME LCR LEFT CENTER RIGHT DICE GAME
BARBIE PHOTO FASHION DOLL
STUNT TWISTERZ FLIPOVER SPEEDSTER
4D CITYSCAPE TIME PUZZLE AIR HOGS BATTLE TRACKER
HAUTE COUTURE FASHION STUDIO IZZA WRISTLET PURSE RAZOR PRO XX
BEYBLADE BEYWHEELZ CRASH COURSE TELESTRATIONS 12-PLAYER PARTY PACK BLINGLES BLING STUDIO COLOR ROX HAIR CHOX CRAYOLA MARKER AIRBRUSH ELECTRONIC LABYRYINTH
THE HOBBIT: AN UNEXPECTED JOURNEY 6-INCH COLLECTOR FIGURINES THE ORB
TWISTER DANCE
FURBY
WII U GAMEPAD
FUZE WHEEL WRITER
WI-SPI INTRUDER
HEXBUG WARRIORS BATTLE STADIUM JOHN DEERE MONSTER TREADS RADIO CONTROL TRACTOR KRE-O TRANSFORMERS DESTRUCTION SITE DEVASTATOR
WORDS WITH FRIENDS LUXE Y FLIKER Z2300