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The Source for the Hottest Toys and Gifts for the Holidays
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we know play™
We are so excited to bring you the 11th annual Toy Insider holiday gift guide, featuring the best toys, games, and electronics for every child on your holiday shopping list! At the Toy Insider, we test the latest and greatest toys and games all year long, making us the ultimate toy experts. This year’s guide is packed with a brand new selection of toys for children of all ages, and remember: All kids learn through play, Co-Publishers Jonathan Samet and Laurie Schacht so be sure to check out our handy skill key located on the Hot 20 page, which shows you exactly which skills and developmental benefits kids can gain from each toy on our list. In addition to our Hot 20 list of the hottest toys sure to top kids’ wish lists, be sure to check out our Top Tech 12—a guide to the most innovative tech toys on the shelves. From impressive drones to high-tech wearables to robotic pets with tons of features, these toys offer lots of play value. Toys that enhance kids’ knowledge of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) can help turn intimidating subjects into fun play experiences. Our STEM 10 list features some of the coolest toys that will stealthily teach kids all about these important fields of study while keeping them entertained for hours. We spent countless hours testing all of these incredible toys so you can be sure you’re making the best decisions for the kids in your life this holiday season. The Toy Insider is dedicated to bringing you the most up to date news, reviews, and information on toys all year long, and you’ll find even more of our favorite picks on thetoyinsider.com. Read product reviews, discover top toy trends, watch fun videos, and enter tons of giveaways! To make this holiday season even more special, we are giving away a room full of toys to one lucky winner! Three lucky runners-up will also receive great prizes. Be sure to visit thetoyinsider.com/ti-sweeps-16 to enter to win our annual sweepstakes, and while you’re there, sign up for our newsletter so you can be sure you are staying totally up to date on the latest toy news. We’ve been your go-to experts for top toy selections for the past 11 years, and we are very much looking forward to many more years of play. With more than 80 years of combined experience, remember: At the Toy Insider, we know play! Enjoy the Toy Insider, THE source for the hottest toys and gifts of the holiday season! Follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/thetoyinsider Follow us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/thetoyinsider Like us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/thetoyinsider Subscribe to our channel: www.youtube.com/thetoyinsider
CO-PUBLISHERS Jonathan Samet, Laurie Schacht EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Jackie Breyer SENIOR EDITORS Marissa DiBartolo, Ali Mierzejewski ASSISTANT EDITORS Maddie Michalik, Stephanie Grassullo PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Bill Reese ART DIRECTOR Joe Ibraham
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ENTER FOR A CHANCE TO WIN A ROOM FULL OF TOYS! NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. “Room Full of Toys” Sweepstakes. Sponsored by The Toy Insider LLC. Enter between 12:01 am (ET), October 10, 2016 and 11:59 pm (ET) December 9, 2016. Visit thetoyinsider.com/ti-sweeps-16, 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, 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 to thetoyinsider.com/ti-sweeps-16.
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0-2 YEARS
Our Toy Insider panel of experts has selected these as some of the hottest toys for the holiday season. Whether they’re based on a favorite TV show or movie character, selling out in stores, or just a whole lot of fun, these toys will be at the top of many kids’ wish lists. Every child has different needs and passions, so be sure to consider each age segment and visit our website, thetoyinsider.com, for even more great holiday toys and gifts for kids of all ages.
GO! GO! SMART FRIENDS ENCHANTED PRINCESS PALACE, 18 MOS+ This epic palace expands to 4 feet long. Place Princess Darla on any of the five MagicPoint locations for sounds, lights, and more. Light-up buttons introduce words, colors, letters, and numbers, and play magical melodies and sing-along songs. VTECH, vtechkids.com
LAUGH & LEARN CRAWL-AROUND LEARNING CENTER, 6 MOS+ Encourage experiential learning with three levels of play that grow with baby. Features a motion-sensor archway, sensory play activities, a personalized voice message, customizable picture frame, and tons of learning content, including ABCs, colors, shapes, and more. FISHER-PRICE, fisher-price.com
3-5 YEARS
DISNEY FROZEN NORTHERN LIGHTS ELSA, 3+ Help Elsa bring back the Northern Lights as she sings “Let It Go.” Kids can wave their hand over the snowflake to create beautiful colors. Hold a hand over the snowflake and watch as the lights sparkle on Elsa’s dress. JAKKS PACIFIC, jakks.com
DISNEY MY TIME SINGING ELENA OF AVALOR, 3+ Kids can sing along with Elena as she embarks on magical adventures. Press Elena’s necklace to hear her sing “My Time,” from the Disney Channel TV series. The doll’s articulated arms allow her to hold her included guitar. HASBRO, hasbro.com
FURREAL FRIENDS TORCH MY BLAZIN’ DRAGON, 4+ Share fiery adventures with this adorable plush baby dragon that breathes flame-colored mist. “Toast” the colorchanging marshmallow treat, then feed it to Torch to hear his happy munching sounds. Torch features more than 50 sound and motion combinations. HASBRO, hasbro.com
LION GUARD TRAINING LAIR PLAYSET, 3+ Recreate the adventures of Disney Junior’s The Lion Guard with this 3-foot-tall play set full of lights, sounds, and secret surprises. It features a zip line, rock lift, and boulder drop, and comes with Kion and Janja figures. JUST PLAY, justplayproducts.com
PAW PATROL MONKEY TEMPLE, 3+ This play set transforms from a Monkey Temple into a Jungle Headquarters for Ryder and the pups. It features lights and sounds, trap doors, control panels to direct kids to their next mission, vines to slide down, and an elevator. SPIN MASTER, spinmaster.com
PJ MASKS HEADQUARTERS PLAYSET, 3+ This two-sided, 2-foot-tall play set features three levels of adventure. Kids can choose their mission, and then re-create the action with the high-flying zip line, elevator, hanging cat rings, trap door, and pop-out hatch. Catboy and Cat-Car are included. JUST PLAY, justplayproducts.com
POKÉMON MY FRIEND PIKACHU, 3+ Pikachu, I choose you! Kids can snuggle up to the coziest Pikachu yet with My Friend Pikachu. Hug Pikachu to see its ears move, its cheeks light up, and to hear cute sounds. Gotta catch ’em all! TOMY, tomy.com
TALK-TO-ME MIKEY, 4+ This Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle party dude is ready for action. He recognizes kids’ questions and quickly responds in hundreds of hilarious ways. Movement sensors allow for silly reactions as kids play and flip him around. PLAYMATES TOYS, playmatestoys.com
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6-8 YEARS
HATCHIMALS, 6+ Hatchimals are interactive magical creatures inside eggs. Who’s inside? It’s a surprise! Care for them and they will hatch themselves with your help. SPIN MASTER, spinmaster.com
HOT WHEELS AI, 8+ This racing set includes two cars, controllers, and more than 16 feet of customizable track. Features smart cars that communicate with the track, three modes of gameplay, and three levels of difficulty. Race and play on or off the track. MATTEL, mattel.com
SHOPKINS HAPPY PLACES HAPPY HOME, 6+ Kids can collect and display Happy Places Petkin furniture pieces to decorate and personalize Popette’s home. The house play set comes with Popette Lil’ Shoppie, a large Petkin, two medium Petkins, two small Petkins, and two mini Petkins. MOOSE TOYS, moosetoys.com
SNUGGLES, MY DREAM PUPPY, 6+ Snuggles moves, feels, and responds just like a real puppy. When kids feed him his bottle, he’ll fall asleep in their arms. Pat his head or rub his tummy and Snuggles will close his eyes and make adorable puppy sounds. MOOSE TOYS, moosetoys.com
SKYLANDERS IMAGINATORS, 6+ For the first time, kids can create their own Skylanders with endless options for powers, abilities, catchphrases, appearance, and more. Creation Crystals allow players to transport their unique Skylanders to consoles anytime, anywhere. ACTIVISION, skylanders.com
9+ YEARS
TOY SKILL KEY
LEGO STAR WARS RESISTANCE X-WING FIGHTER, 9+ Kids can build this detailed X-Wing Fighter with opening wings and cockpit, spring-loaded shooters, retractable landing gear, a removable engine, and more. Toppling tower and fire elements create a make-believe blaze. Includes three minifigures and a BB-8 Astromech Droid. THE LEGO GROUP, lego.com
NINTENDO MARIOKART 8 QUADCOPTER, 9+ Kids can fly Mario’s R/C quadrocopter with anti-gravity mode. Features a six-axle gyro system for flight stability, a protective cage for the rotors, and 2.4 GHz technology for up to seven minutes of flight. It has beginner and advanced modes, and a rechargeable battery. CARRERA OF AMERICA, carrera-rc.com
Social Interaction: Encourage team play and foster close relationships with challenging and competitive activities or shared role-play interactions. Emotional & Social 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 and explore science and nature.
POKÉMON SUN AND POKÉMON MOON, 9+ Launching in November exclusively on the Nintendo 3DS, these games (sold separately) introduce new Pokémon and Z-Moves, an explosive new power for battle. When paired with the Z-Ring from TOMY (also sold separately), players can feel the moves in real life. NINTENDO, nintendo.com
SPEAK OUT, 16+ This hilarious game dares you not to get tongue-tied. Players put in a mouthpiece, draw a card, and try to speak phrases while team members try to guess as many as possible. HASBRO, hasbro.com
Tech Smarts: Enhance knowledge of the Internet, computers, programming, digital imaging, wireless communication, motors, and circuitry.
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Development of Large & Small Motor Skills: Improve hand-eye coordination skills with detailed active play, develop balance and dexterity, and improve physical awareness.
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ANIMAL JAM—CLUB GEOZ DANCE PARTY PLAYSET, 6+ Set the stage for the ultimate dance party, featuring the exclusive Diamond Arctic Wolf figure. Listen to music, dance under the lights, and watch the disco ball spin. Special code unlocks exclusive content in the Animal Jam online game. JAZWARES, jazwares.com
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These forward-thinking tech-based toys incorporate the latest in digital play, creativity, and innovation.
AIR HOGS HELIX SENTINEL DRONE, 12+ This ultra-performance video quadcopter features a built-in, high-speed action camera to capture fast-moving objects. Kids can watch the video stream in real-time and use the first-person view (FPV) goggles for a fully immersive viewing experience. SPIN MASTER, airhogs.com
BARBIE HELLO DREAMHOUSE, 6+ This modern, two-story smart home features floor sensors that recognize where the dolls are in the house. Embedded speech-recognition technology allows kids to control the lights, elevator, and more. Kids can further customize their experience through an app. MATTEL, mattel.com
BOSEBUILD SPEAKER CUBE, 8+ Kids can explore the science of sound by making their own Bose Bluetooth speaker. Then, they can personalize it with color-changing LED lights and custom covers. Pairs with any smart device to stream kids’ favorite tunes. BOSE, build.bose.com
CHIP, 8+ CHiP is the ultimate artificially intelligent robotic dog. It recognizes its master and responds to commands using the included wearable SmartBand. CHiP also responds to hand gestures and voice commands, and plays games with its SmartBall. WOWWEE, wowwee.com
CODEGAMER, 10+ Kids can use the gamepad and four interchangeable sensor modules to play through a video game app on a tablet (not included). Kids will learn Arduino programming language as they solve puzzles in the game. THAMES & KOSMOS, thamesandkosmos.com
KURIO WATCH, 6+ This smartwatch features a camera, music player, activity tracker, mini-games, and more. Kids can connect watch to watch or to family members’ Android devices via Bluetooth. With the kid-safe messaging app, they can share voice recordings, drawings, and more. KD INTERACTIVE, kurioworld.com
LUMI, 8+ Kids can easily fly this indoor quadcopter using the app on a smart device. Lumi can hover on its own while kids play games, perform one-touch stunts, or choreograph flight moves and play them back to their own music. WOWWEE, wowwee.com
MEBO, 8+ This customizable robot is full of personality, and features a built-in HD camera, an articulated arm and gripping claw, two-way audio, and a microphone. Kids can control Mebo through an app, and access him remotely by connecting to his hotspot. SKYROCKET TOYS, skyrockettoys.com
MECCANO MECCASAUR, 10+ Kids can build this 3-foot-long interactive T-Rex. This prehistoric pet has a huge personality, and is programmable via the Meccabrain on its back. Kids can control its direction, attack, roar, and mood. SPIN MASTER, spinmaster.com
SKY ROVER VOICE COMMAND DRONE, 10+ This drone responds to 12 voice commands when spoken through the included headset. Kids can say “take-off” and other commands and watch as the drone takes flight, changes direction, and performs 360-degree flips. AULDEY TOYS NORTH AMERICA, auldeytoys.us
SKY VIPER HOVER RACER, 12+ Combining racing with video game battling, this drone flies 20 mph while hovering 3 feet above the ground. Up to four players can race, battle, and design their own courses using the infrared beacons and companion app. SKYROCKET TOYS, skyrockettoys.com
ZOOMER CHIMP, 5+ This robotic pet chimp features lifelike movements and realistic chimp sounds. He can follow kids, stand up on his own, and recognize voice commands, such as “go bananas” and “do a flip.” SPIN MASTER, spinmaster.com
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Science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) concepts are vital to kids’ learning development, and hundreds of toys that reinforce these important subjects can now be found on store shelves. From the basics of coding and circuitry to complex robotics, the following STEM toys give kids the tools they need for success in the modern world. 3DOODLER START ESSENTIALS PEN SET, 8+ Get creative kids thinking and designing in 3-D. This easy-touse 3-D printing pen extrudes eco-friendly plastic that cools and hardens rapidly, allowing kids to literally draw in the air. WOBBLEWORKS, the3doodler.com
BARBIE STEM KIT, 4+ This project kit includes a Barbie or Nikki doll, plastic building pieces, and science experiment materials to create seven models. Each model is built to “Barbie-scale” and is compatible with the original Barbie Dreamhouse. THAMES AND KOSMOS, thamesandkosmos.com
BLOXELS, 8+ This app-based video game lets kids be the game designers, programmers, storytellers, players, and more. Kids can create and animate play spaces, characters, and objects while learning coding and programming. MATTEL, mattel.com
CODE & GO ROBOT MOUSE ACTIVITY SET, 5+ Kids can build a maze, and then use the coding cards to create a stepby-step path for the programmable robot mouse. Create endless maze path possibilities, and then watch the mouse race to find the cheese. LEARNING RESOURCES, learningresources.com
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GECKOBOT, 8+ Build a wall-climbing robot! A motorized air suction system enables Geckobot to walk vertically up and down smooth surfaces. The batterypowered motor drives an innovative gear system that makes the legs move like a real gecko. THAMES AND KOSMOS, thamesandkosmos.com
PROJECT MC2 WE HEART CHEMISTRY KIT, 6+ Conduct 10 fun chemistry experiments with this kit and household products. Make ordinary powders fizz and foam, and create a color-changing mixture, a rolling wave, a color-changing eruption, and more. Mix your own to see what you can create. ALEX BRANDS, alexbrands.com
THINK & LEARN CODE-A-PILLAR, 3+ Preschoolers learn sequencing and programming by arranging easy-to-connect segments in endless combinations to send Code-a-pillar on his path—forward, left, right, or pause. Configure the segments so Code-a-pillar can reach the targets kids set up throughout the room. FISHER-PRICE, fisher-price.com
VEX ROBOTICS ZIP FLYER, 14+ Kids build this STEM-based construction kit, then pull the zipcord stick to release the propellers more than 30 feet into the air. Can be built for both handheld and tabletop action. Two builds, two ways to launch. HEXBUG, hexbug.com
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ROOMINATE COTTON CANDY CARNIVAL, 8+ This wired building set inspires open-ended, hands-on play, while showing kids that creativity and engineering are fun. Use circuits, motors, and colorful building pieces to create unique and original structures, then rebuild something new again and again. PLAYMONSTER, playmonster.com
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MIGHTY MAKERS DIRECTOR’S CUT BUILDING SET, 7+ Help Lily make her own movie! Build the stage where the video takes place. Learn various filming techniques, and once filming has ended, rebuild the stage into a theater to watch the final cut. K’NEX, knex.com
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Every day is a new adventure for babies and toddlers, 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 that play songs and allow kids to make their own music are big hits with little ones, as are rideons and toys that encourage baby to crawl or walk. Seek out toys that offer experimentation with colors, shapes, sounds, and textures. Offer opportunities for handeye coordination, motor skills, language recognition, and nurturing. Toys that grow with a child are a plus.
BERENGUER BOUTIQUE DELUXE TWIN GIFT SET, 2+ These 15-inch boy and girl soft-body dolls feature vinyl heads, arms, and legs. Their eyes open and close, and they come with two-piece outfits and matching blankets, two pairs of shoes, baby bottles, and pacifiers. JC TOYS GROUP, jctoys.com
BRIGHT BEATS LEARNIN’ LIGHTS DANCE MAT, 9 MOS+ This interactive, soft dance mat has lights, sounds, and music. Babies can activate the mat by pressing the buttons, batting at BeatBo, or passing through the motion sensors. Babies can learn letters, numbers, and colors as they move and groove. FISHER-PRICE, fisher-price.com
CARE FOR ME LEARNING CARRIER, 9 MOS+ This interactive pet carrier features an activity panel packed with learning fun. Press the light-up buttons to learn about colors, letters, shapes, pet care, and more. The carrier also includes a puppy and accessories so toddlers can groom, feed, and play. VTECH, vtechkids.com
COUNT ALONG CASH REGISTER, 2+ This talking, interactive cash register sings and lights up, encouraging imaginative role play while introducing preschoolers to early money skills. The register enables kids to explore colors, vocabulary, food sorting, healthy habits, number recognition, and counting. LEAPFROG, leapfrog.com
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CUDDLEBOTS, 18 MOS+ Cuddlebots have squishable bodies and vibrate and scurry across the floor, encouraging toddlers to crawl and explore. These cuddly critters are packed with character, and kids can choose from two styles: Honey Bee and Lightning Bug. HEXBUG, hexbug.com
FARM PLAYSET, 2+ This eco-friendly play set is made in the U.S. from 100-percent recycled plastic and includes a barn, pick-up truck, farmer cow characters, sheep, pigs, and more. The pieces fit inside the barn and the built-in handle allows for easy travel. GREEN TOYS, greentoys.com
LAMAZE MIX AND MATCH CATERPILLAR, 6 MOS+ This plush caterpillar features eight different segments that babies can rearrange. They can also practice color recognition by matching the like Velcro colors together. Each segment has a different engaging texture and sound, including a chime ball and crinkle. TOMY, tomy.com
CAT BUILDING CREW LIGHTNING LOAD—HAULIN’ HARRY, 2+ This mini dump truck features motorized driving action and dramatic light-up features. Lights, sounds, and fun tunes make getting the job done fun for toddlers. TOY STATE, toystate.com
LOVE2LEARN ELMO, 18 MOS+ Parents can program Elmo to know their child’s name, favorite colors, and more. He teaches kids letters, numbers, and more, and can offer support and encouragement. He features more than 350 responses and multiple sensors to react to kids’ touch. HASBRO, hasbro.com
MELODY THE MUSICAL TURTLE, 2+ With 10 snappy musical activities, Melody teaches numbers, colors, and patterns and allows toddlers to create turtle-rific tunes. Features three learning modes and singleand two-player games for more challenging fun. LEAPFROG, leapfrog.com
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MY FIRST ADORA BABY TEE DOLL, 1+ This machine-washable doll has a soft, squeezable body, removable clothes, and a magnetic pacifier that encourages little ones to nurture and role-play with their babies. CHARISMA BRANDS, adoradolls.com
PLAYFUL DINO, 1+ This dinosaur-themed wooden activity center is packed with multiple play surfaces, including bead runs, peg mazes, spinning gears, and more. It teaches toddlers cause and effect while fostering fine motor skill development and handeye coordination. THE MANHATTAN TOY CO., manhattantoy.com
PLAYSKOOL CHASE ’N GO BALL POPPER, 9 MOS+ This updated classic features airpowered popping play. Kids can swivel the trunk around to deliver even more unpredictable ballpopping action. It encourages kids to stand, crawl, grasp, and dance, and features a handle and slim design for easy storage or transport. HASBRO, hasbro.com
SORT & DISCOVER ACTIVITY CUBE, 9 MOS+ Babies cans explore seven activities that introduce colors, numbers, and more. Turn the book page, twist the spinner, and slide the animals to develop fine motor skills. It features more than 75 songs, melodies, and fun phrases. VTECH, vtechkids.com
SPINAGAIN, 1+ A new take on the stacking toy, SpinAgain will mesmerize toddlers with its twirling spins and stacking play. The dual-colored starburst- and daisy-shaped discs are engaging, and the dual-sided base provides sturdy or wobbly stacking options. FAT BRAIN TOYS, fatbraintoys.com
WEEBLES TREEHOUSE PLAYSET, 2+ This Weebles hangout is full of wobbly elements. Features a spinning lookout, a drop-through tree trunk, and a carousel that plays music. Includes Willie and his puppy figures. JAZWARES, jazwares.com
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Preschoolers are ready to take on a new type of play. Encourage imaginative and creative activities with role-playing and pretend play. Provide opportunities for active play, exercising their bodies and spirit of adventure. Social and emotional skills are emerging in this age group, so music, arts and crafts, teamwork, and language skills are important to build self-esteem. Toys that teach vocabulary, social skills, and give kids a sense of accomplishment are of the utmost importance. At this age, kids are likely to have favorite characters from movies and TV shows, and toys that reflect these characters are a pretty safe bet.
BARBIE CONVERTIBLE RC, 3+ Take Barbie on a road trip with this cool convertible with a steering wheel-shaped controller. This simple-function R/C has space for two Barbie dolls to cruise in style. TOY STATE, toystate.com
BIG ADVENTURE AT THE WATERHOLE, 3+ This play set features an oasis at the base of a cascading waterfall for inhabitants of the Savannah to gather. The burrow at the edge of the waterhole, plants, rocks, stream, and waterfall can be rearranged. The set includes seven animal figures. SCHLEICH, schleich-s.com
CABBAGE PATCH KIDS BABY SO REAL, 3+ This baby doll features LCD eyes that open, close, and look around. Kids can play peek-a-boo and tickle, feed, burp, rock to sleep, and care for their doll. Baby So Real also features a free baby monitor-style app. WICKED COOL TOYS, wickedcooltoys.com
CAPTAIN AMERICA BATTERY OPERATED MOTORCYCLE, 3+ Modeled after Captain America’s motorcycle, this batteryoperated ride-on is aspirational and fun for kids. Holding up to 65 pounds, this motorcycle is great for little Cap fans. HUFFY, huffybikes.com
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CORGI PUPPET & FRENCH BULLDOG PUPPET, 3+ These beautiful puppets offer openended, imaginative play. The playful pups help inspire creative thinking, social interaction, emotional expression, cooperation, and more. The cuddly dogs make for a great first pet. Each sold separately. FOLKMANIS, folkmanis.com
DESIGN & DRILL POWER PLAY VEHICLES, 3+ Kids can build their own race car, helicopter, or monster truck by snapping the pieces together and using the mini drill to add bolts. Kids will develop STEM skills exploring patterning, matching, and counting. EDUCATIONAL INSIGHTS, educationalinsights.com
DISNEY FROZEN LITTLE KINGDOM ELSA’S MAGICAL RISING CASTLE PLAYSET, 4+ Kids can pretend to have Elsa’s powers with this castle. With a wave of their hand, kids can make it rise and open to expand Elsa’s Ice Castle with lights and sounds, Elsa and Olaf dolls, and accessories. HASBRO, hasbro.com
DISNEY PRINCESS CARRIAGE, 3+ This 24-volt Disney Princess Carriage features fairytale sounds and two seats so princesses can ride with a friend. It also includes a wear-andshare princess tiara and a light-up magical wand. DYNACRAFT, dynacraftwheels.com
DISNEY PRINCESS MAGICAL WAND CINDERELLA, 3+ Help Cinderella get ready for the ball! A short wave of the magical wand prompts a response and changes the color of her dress, while a longer wave creates a light show and makes her sing. This doll says 40 different phrases. JAKKS PACIFIC, jakks.com
DISNEY’S MOANA, STARLIGHT CANOE & FRIENDS, 3+ This canoe comes with a Moana figure, two animal friends, a spot large enough for the Maui the Demigod figure (sold separately), and LED star lights. The canoe rocks back and forth when kids push it along. HASBRO, hasbro.com
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DREAMWORKS TROLLS HUG TIME POPPY DOLL, 4+ This 14-inch doll says phrases and sings songs from the movie, featuring Anna Kendrick’s voice. Poppy includes matching Hug Time bracelets for herself and for the child. Both bracelets and Poppy’s hair light up. HASBRO, hasbro.com
ELENA OF AVALOR ROLE PLAY COLLECTION, 3+ The Elena Royal Ball Gown lights up to the song “My Time.” The Elena Magical Scepter of Light lights up as kids pretend to activate its powers. The Elena Storytime Guitar has working strings, plays three songs, and remembers where kids left off when they sing along. JAKKS PACIFIC, jakks.com
E-Z GRIP FOOTBALL, 3+ Designed for easy throws and catches in the pool or on the field, the E-Z Grip Football is soft, durable, and waterproof for active play in any type of weather. This ball is specialneeds approved. Each sold separately. TUCKER TOYS, tuckertoys.com
GEARS! GEARS! GEARS! SWEET SHOP BUILDING SET, 4+ Kids can build their own tasty creations with this set that features pretend lollipops, cupcakes, ice cream cones, stickers, and more. The gears spin when kids twist the gear handle. Teaches early STEM skills. LEARNING RESOURCES, learningresources.com
GIFT ’EMS HOTEL & SPA, 4+ Gift ’ems are collectible figures that help teach kids about diversity and world cultures. This play set closes for storage, holds eight Gift ’ems gift boxes, and features an exclusive lifeguard boy Gift ’ems. JAKKS PACIFIC, jakks.com
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DOC MCSTUFFINS TOY HOSPITAL CARE CART, 3+ Featuring a light and sound patient scanner with an interchangeable X-ray card, patient Findo, talking EKG area, blood pressure pump, drawer, and patient bed, this cart rolls and plays the “Welcome to the Hospital” song. JUST PLAY, justplayproducts.com
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HALF-SHELL HEADQUARTERS PLAYSET, 3+ Each level of this play set is packed with surprises, transformations, twists, and turns. With four levels of TMNT fun designed for smaller hands, preschoolers can experience open-ended imaginative play. PLAYMATES TOYS, playmatestoys.com
HAMSTERS IN A HOUSE: ULTIMATE HAMSTER HOUSE, 4+ The Ultimate Hamster House features all the luxuries for the Hamster world, where the Hamsters can sleep, slide, exercise, and more. Placing the Hamsters on hotspots throughout the play set activates 16 interactive sounds. ZURU, zuru.com
HELLO KITTY CAR, 3+ This 6-volt vehicle has a Hello Kittyshaped body and a light-up bow, and can travel up to 2.5 mph. It features MP3 input and speakers, a contoured comfy seat, a steering wheel with a working horn, and adjustable safety straps. DYNACRAFT, dynacraftwheels.com
IMAGINEXT DC SUPER FRIENDS SUPER HERO FLIGHT CITY, 3+ Combining the worlds of Superman and Batman, this play set features four power pads for the heroes to take flight, projectile launchers, an elevator and pie launcher for the Joker, secret trap doors, and more. FISHER-PRICE, fisher-price.com
LEAPSTART, 3+ This interactive learning system has two platforms—one for preschool and pre-K, and one for kindergarten and first grade. LeapStart replayable activity books are designed to help kids build key skills for school and life. LEAPFROG, leapfrog.com
LINCOLN LOGS 100TH ANNIVERSARY TIN, 3+ Celebrate 100 years of Lincoln Logs with this 100-percent made-in-theU.S. nostalgic tin. The set includes 111 logs and pieces for kids to build imaginative structures. Most models can be built at once. K’NEX, knex.com
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LITTLE SCHOLAR MINI, 3+ This 7-inch tablet comes preloaded with more than 70 apps, books, games, videos, and songs that improve reading, math, and spelling skills. It also includes School Zone’s Charlie & Company video series. SCHOOL ZONE PUBLISHING, schoolzone.com
MAGICMEEMEES, 4+ These collectible figures’ built-in technology allows them to interact with other MagicMeeMees, light up, and show preferences for their “food.” With 24 to collect, they are available as singles and play sets, with blind bag Yummees as their food. FUTURE OF PLAY, magicmeemees.com
MERRY MISSION, 3+ Build-A-Bear continues the story of Merry Mission with Santa’s Reindeer, including Glisten, the Star-Powered Deer; Twinkle, the Supersonic Deer; and Tinsel, the Speedster Deer. Each is sold separately. BUILD-A-BEAR WORKSHOP, buildabear.com
MY FAIRY GARDEN—MAGICAL COTTAGE, 4+ This set includes all the materials kids need to build a fairy garden: a flowerpot cottage with opening doors, a tray, tools, soil, and quickgerminating seeds. Freya the fairy and her chipmunk Hazel, gardening accessories, and cottage furniture are also included. PLAYMONSTER, playmonster.com
NHL HOCKEY ARENA, 5+ Each of the four NHL players features a movable arm and hockey stick. Use the lever to swing and hit the puck, and the goalie to defend the goal. Customize the players with the included NHL team decals. PLAYMOBIL, playmobil.us
OUR GENERATION SWEET STOP ICE CREAM TRUCK, 3+ Designed for 18-inch dolls, the truck features working headlights and windshield wipers, three songs, and rolling wheels. Turn the steering wheel for signal lights, press the brake for flashing lights, or pull down the roof for a dining area. BATTAT, battatco.com
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ROAD RIPPERS DINO HAULER—T-REX, 3+ Part of the Road Rippers line, this vehicle carries prehistoric cargo that is trying to escape. Kids can go on imaginative adventures with fun light and sound effects, music, and motorized movement. TOY STATE, toystate.com
ROCKIN’ RIDER HOLLY & HENLEY ROCKING HORSES, 3+ These soft plush rocking horses feature a full body bridle and reigns, saddle, metal stirrups, and more. They sing the exclusive “I’m a Little Pony” song and say six phrases with sound effects. Each sold separately. TEK NEK TOYS, myrockinrider.com
SELFIE STAR VIDEO MICROPHONE, 5+ Kids can record themselves singing along with built-in music from the Trolls movie or rock out to any song. The Trolls-themed selfie app lets kids make music videos and decorate them with stickers and animations. EKIDS, ekids.com
SPIROGRAPH JR., 3+ Little kids can make amazing designs using jumbo-sized gears. The easy-to-carry drawing tablet doubles as a work station and storage case. The set includes gears, washable markers, and design paper. KAHOOTZ TOYS, kahootztoys.com
SQUINKIES ‘DO DROPS SQUINKIEVILLE CLUBHOUSE PLAYSET, 4+ Squinkies characters can hang out in the game room, snack in the Squinkie Café, or try on new ‘dos in the dressing room. The set also features a spinning lookout, swings, a hidden compartment, and three exclusive characters. BLIP TOYS, squinkies.com
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PEPPA PIG’S HOLIDAY PLANE, 3+ Pack your suitcase and join Peppa on a vacation adventure. This plane set includes Mummy Pig and Peppa figures, and a cargo hold and suitcases. It plays multiple sounds and songs, including Peppa’s “Flying High” song. JAZWARES LLC, jazwares.com
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STAR WARS INTERACTECH STORMTROOPER FIGURE, 4+ This 12-inch trooper is equipped with more than 70 light and sound effects and precise motion sensors. Kids can feel the power of the E-11 blaster or strap on the jetpack to unlock sounds. HASBRO, hasbro.com
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STREET SHOTS RACERS BLASTER, 5+ This blaster fires vehicles fast and far at scale speeds of more than 500 mph. Kids can use the included accessories to launch vehicles up walls and over furniture. BLIP TOYS, bliptoys.com
SUPER DUPER ART STUDIO, 3+ This giant easel converts from a large desk with a chair to two standing easels, allowing up to four kids to draw at once. It comes with three paint cups, brushes, an eraser, and storage trays. GROW’N UP LTD., grow-n-up.com
SUPER WINGS WORLD AIRPORT PLAYSET, 3+ This set features the World Airport from the animated TV series. It has lights and sounds, a rotating luggage carousel, and a cargo scale. It comes with mini Jett and Donnie transforming figures that switch from bot to plane. AULDEY TOYS NORTH AMERICA, auldeytoys.us
THE GROSSERY GANG YUCKY MART PLAYSET, 5+ Use the launcher to try and dunk the collectible Grossery Gang figures into the giant slushie, sneak in the secret vile vent, chill in the queasy freezer, or just hang on the shelves. It comes with two exclusive Grossery Gang characters. MOOSE TOYS, moosetoys.com
TOUCH & LEARN ACTIVITY DESK DELUXE, 2+ This three-in-one desk features interactive activity cards, a desktop, and five pages for kids to explore early school skills, music, colors, and more. Kids can learn to draw shapes, letters, and numbers. It also transforms into an easel and chalkboard. VTECH, vtechkids.com
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TWOZIES TWO PLAYFUL CAFE PLAYSET, 5+ Kids can let their Twozies collectibles take a spin on the teacup roundabout or ride and slide along the counter while treating them to sweet delights. The set includes an exclusive baby and pet displayed in a large shadow box. MOOSE TOYS, moosetoys.com
WELLIEWISHERS, 5+ These 14.5-inch dolls wear colorful garden boots and have the same wish to be a good friend. Garden-themed accessories, such as a theater stage and wooden playhouse, are also available. Each doll sold separately. AMERICAN GIRL, americangirl.com
WET HEAD, 4+ This water roulette game challenges players to fill the hat with water, strap themselves in, and give it a spin. Players spin the spinner to see how many pins to pull. Each time, someone could end up with a wet head. ZING TOYS, zingtoys.com
WORRY EATERS, 3+ Kids write or draw their worries on a piece of paper, feed them to the Worry Eater, and zip its mouth shut. Kids have a safe place to express anxieties and parents get insight into what is troubling them. THE HAYWIRE GROUP, haywiregroup.com
XPV RC SKATEBOARDING MIKEY, 4+ Watch as Mikey does amazing skateboarding tricks and self-rights when knocked over. This R/C Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle performs wheelies, 360-degree spins, onefooted tricks, and more. Mikey has 20 sound effects and phrases. JAKKS PACIFIC, jakks.com
ZOOMER MARSHALL, 3+ Kids can go on a Paw Patrol rescue adventure with this robotic pup. It features more than 150 sounds and phrases, more than 80 interactive missions and tricks, and a transforming pup pack with launching water cannons. SPIN MASTER, spinmaster.com
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Grade-schoolers are expanding their worlds into broad communities of schoolmates and teammates. They are enjoying new experiences as they explore their choices and enhance 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. Technology begins to play a much larger role for this age group, and robotics, R/C vehicles, and STEM-based toys come into play for both boys and girls. These kids are ready to build and create with their hands and minds.
AIR HOGS HYPER STUNT DRONE, 8+ This R/C drone can speed across the ground, climb walls, and roll across the ceiling with its attachable wheels. Kids can press the stunt button on the controller to perform aerial tricks. SPIN MASTER, airhogs.com
AIR MARKER SPRAYER, 8+ This motorized kit turns Crayola markers into spray art. Kids can plug it in, secure a marker, then release the trigger to spray just like professional artists. CRAYOLA, crayola.com
ALEX TOYS KNOT-A LION, 8+ Comes with everything kids need to create their own snuggly pillow pal with a blanket attached, ideal for naps and sleepovers. Stitch together the lion’s face with prepunched fleece and knot the pillow closed. ALEX BRANDS, alexbrands.com
ALEX TOYS LIL LOCKITZ MEMORY STUDIO, 6+ Kids can make 10 locket necklaces, bracelets, or key chains with charms, beads, and sparkle pieces. Choose the locket to make, fill it with the pieces, lock it, and watch the lights and music infuse the locket with a personal story. ALEX BRANDS, alexbrands.com
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BARBIE STAR LIGHT ADVENTURE RC HOVERBOARD, 8+ This working R/C hoverboard with a Barbie doll rider features an easy-to-use joystick and a simple sliding lever to adjust the flying height. Kids can get started right away with three pre-set flying stunts. MATTEL, mattel.com
BOX & BALLS, 6+ With dozens of playing options, this classic-looking set of eight wooden nesting boxes and eight bouncy balls is perfect for solo or group play. Strengthens hand-eye coordination, fine motor skills, strategy planning, and game rule creation. FAT BRAIN TOYS, fatbraintoys.com
BRYNK, 7+ Players must try to place their pieces on the teetertottering base and get them to stay. If the balance is upset, the tower will come crashing down. The package doubles as a playing surface and storage container. WINNING MOVES GAMES, winning-moves.com
BUGGALOOP, 6+ Players roll the die and move their bugs across the yard until a Hexbug emerges from the loop and tries to bump them off. If a player’s bug is safe, then they continue moving across the yard, but if they get bumped, they have to start over. RAVENSBURGER, ravensburger.com
CIRCUIT MAZE, 8+ Arrange the tokens to create a real circuit that lights up the different-colored Beacons. With 60 challenges ranging in difficulty from beginner to expert, this logic game introduces kids to electrical engineering. THINKFUN, thinkfun.com
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ALEX TOYS SWEETHEART STRING ART, 8+ Make a 22-inch dream catcher without using pins or nails, and decorate string art with pom poms, shimmering yarn, gold beads, and shiny faux leather feathers. Wrap the yarn around the frame, decorate, and hang. ALEX BRANDS, alexbrands.com
Become Pikachu’s Trainer with
aa a a a pik u Pikachnd talks a s! laugh
MY FRIEND PIKACHU Press Pikachu’s belly to make its ears move, its cheeks light up, and to hear one of Pikachu’s 10 phrases!
TOMY.COM/POKEMON ©2016 The Pokémon Company International. ©1995–2016 Nintendo/Creatures Inc./GAME FREAK inc. TM, ®, and character names are trademarks of Nintendo. Manufactured by TOMY.
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COGNITOYS DINO, 5-9 Kids can explore a variety of topics and can participate in storytelling, questions and answers, games, and more. This Wi-Fi enabled, cloud-based toy engages kids in intelligent conversations. ELEMENTAL PATH, cognitoys.com
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CRAYOLA CRAYON FACTORY, 8+ Kids can melt the included crayons or recycle their old ones to make colorful creations such as a car, heart, or puppy. Mix, melt, and mold to make crayons for playing and doodling. CRAYOLA, crayola.com
CRAYOLA EMOJI MAKER, 6+ Kids can mix, measure, and click to create their own custom emoji stampers. Comes with everything kids need to make 16 custom color markers for creating and sharing emoji messages with friends. CRAYOLA, crayola.com
CYKLONE360, 8+ With wheels that twist and turn, this R/C motorcycle spins 360 degrees. The LED light changes color while kids drive using the pistol-grip controller. MAISTO, maisto.com
DC SUPER HERO GIRLS ACTION DOLLS, 6+ Kids can explore their inner hero with dolls inspired by the students of DC Super Hero High. At 12 inches tall, each action doll wears iconic fashions inspired by the original DC comic books to highlight her powers. Each sold separately. MATTEL, mattel.com
DISNEY DESCENDANTS DIGITAL RECORDING STUDIO, 6+ Kids can sing into two microphones and record themselves as they sing along. Connect any smart device, place it on the viewing stand, and record up to 10 songs and performances using music from YouTube, Spotify, and more. EKIDS, ekids.com
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FIRETEK ZYCLONE, 6+ This blaster offers fun with a twist. Kids load the flyer onto the handheld launcher, pull it back, twist it, and watch as the flyer lights up the night, traveling up to 100 feet. ZING TOYS, zingtoys.com
FRIGHT FACTORY CREATURE CREATOR, 6+ Kids can use the light-curing EwwGoo gel to fill the included molds. The ultra-safe LED light helps to develop quick 3-D creations such as insects, reptiles, rats, bats, and more. TECH 4 KIDS, tech4kids.com
FURBY CONNECT, 6+ Kids can interact with Furby through songs, videos, and more using the Furby Connect World app. It also features movements, multiple sensors throughout its body, and more than 1,000 phrases. HASBRO, hasbro.com
GEMMIES DESIGN STUDIO, 6+ Kids clip the crystals to elastic rings and join them to completed rings to make 3-D sparkling creations. The set comes with more than 500 pieces to inspire kids’ creativity. TECH 4 KIDS, tech4kids.com
HAPPY SALMON, 6+ In this fast-paced, silly card game, players quickly call out the action shown on their card. When two players match, they perform the action together and discard that card. The first person to discard all their cards wins. NORTH STAR GAMES, northstargames.com
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FASHION PLATES SUPERSTAR DELUXE DESIGN SET, 6+ This activity set features new superstar edge, such as guitars, microphones, and rock star apparel for kids to mix and match and create different looks. Everything packs neatly into the trendy portfolio case. KAHOOTZ TOYS, kahootztoys.com
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KABOOM, 6+ In this high-energy game, players take turns trying to build up their towers to earn points, while other players attempt to demolish their work using catapults. This fastpaced frenzy is fun for the whole family. BLUE ORANGE GAMES, blueorangegames.com
LEGO DISNEY PRINCESS BELLE’S ENCHANTED CASTLE, 6+. Explore the ballroom, kitchen, dining room, balcony, and bedroom in this two-story Enchanted Castle with Belle and transforming Beast/Prince mini-doll figures and their friends. Kids can build the entire castle with more than 370 pieces. THE LEGO GROUP, lego.com
LIONEL MEGA TRACKS CORKSCREW CHAOS MASTER SET, 8+ Kids can design their own courses with this flexible track system. The set includes 20 feet of TwisTrack, 55 construction pieces to build layouts, a Rail Racer vehicle and charger, and a handheld R/C controller for creative racing fun. LIONEL, lionel.com
MAX TRAXXX TRACER RACERS RC STUNT SET, 6+ Kids can take their racing skills to the next level with this stunt set, which includes a Mustang car, a lane changer, and more. The racers use light trail technology to blaze streaks of light on the glow-in-the-dark track. SKULLDUGGERY, skullduggery.com
MINECRAFT RC FLYING GHAST, 8+ Kids can fly this Ghast quadcopter forward and backward, left and right, or up and down. Other features include 360-degree turns and an automatic landing button. MATTEL, mattel.com
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HEXBUG BATTLEBOTS ARENA, 8+ Kids can watch their bots battle in the 20- by 20-inch arena. It features a fold-out game board, two pushactivated hammers, R/C versions of Tombstone and Witch Doctor, and protective glass surroundings. HEXBUG, hexbug.com
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MINI ARCADE GAMES, 8+ These miniature versions of classic arcade games feature Pac-Man and Space Invaders. Kids can move the joystick around to take on each game’s challenge. Each sold separately. THE BRIDGE DIRECT, thebridgedirect.com
PICKLE LETTER, 7+ It’s a race to match the most letters before other players find them first. If things don’t match up, opponents may prove your matches wrong. The game helps kids learn letter recognition, and is compact for easy on-the-go play. R&R GAMES, rnrgames.com
PIE FACE SHOWDOWN, 5+ Players go head-to-head and face off in this tug-of-war-style game. The faster kids push the button, the closer the whipped cream-loaded arm gets to his or her opponent’s face. HASBRO, hasbro.com
PROVE IT, 6+ Players bet back and forth on who can perform a task best, until one player says, “prove it.” The other player must perform the task in order to earn a point. PLAYMONSTER, playmonster.com
REAL COOKING ULTIMATE BAKING STARTER SET, 6+ This set includes real cooking tools and two mixes to make eight cupcakes with edible toppings and decorations. It also comes with kid-friendly equipment, including mixing bowls, an egg cracker, and mini cupcake baking sheets. SKYROCKET TOYS, skyrockettoys.com
REMOTE CONTROL CLASSIC ECTO-1, 6+ This iconic ghost-chaser R/C comes with working headlights, taillights, roof lights, and sound effects. The vehicle features a powerful motor and can quickly travel forward, backward, left, and right. NKOK, nkok.com
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RUBIK’S RACE, 7+ Kids shake the scrambler to create a new Rubik’s pattern, then slide the tiles on their board to match the pattern in the scrambler and solve the puzzle. The first player to solve it wins. UNIVERSITY GAMES, universitygames.com
SELFIEMIC, 8+ SelfieMic lets kids create music videos on their smartphones. It features a selfie stick with a karaoke microphone and an earpiece. Kids can record their own voice, or lip sync to more than 3 million songs with the Star Maker app. MOOSE TOYS, moosetoys.com
SHABOOM!, 7+ Players face off in a series of challenges that test speed and agility to see which player can complete the challenge first. THE HAYWIRE GROUP, haywiregroup.com
SHOPKINS KINSTRUCTIONS DELUXE SET FOOD COURT, 6+ This Shopkins construction set features a pizza parlor and a sushi restaurant. The set comes with six characters, including Candy Apple, Candi Cotton, and Suzie Sushi, which kids can mix and match. THE BRIDGE DIRECT, thebridgedirect.com
SIMON AIR, 8+ Classic gameplay gets a twist with a game that senses hand motion and registers correct sequences. Kids can play solo or work together to remember the sequence, repeat the pattern, and conquer the game. HASBRO, hasbro.com
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RIDING CENTRE WITH RIDER, HORSES, AND ACCESSORIES, 6+ This riding school play set quickly transforms into an open arena. It features a rider, horses, troughs, saddle and bridle holders, moveable gates and windows, and stickers to create a unique riding school. SCHLEICH, schleich-s.com
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SPACE ROCKET WITH LAUNCH SITE, 6+ With working lights and sounds, this construction kit features a moveable maintenance platform where kids can inspect rockets before launch. The set includes two figures, a rocket, a launch structure, a satellite, a repair robot, and more. PLAYMOBIL, playmobil.us
SPIN & SPARKLE PET MAKER, 6+ This craft activity lets kids create sparkly miniature pets. Kids mix the magic cast powder with water and pour it into any of the pet molds. While they spin the handle, they can watch as their pet takes shape. ROSEART, roseart.com
SQUAND PLAY SETS, 6+ Kids can create and display underwater scenes with specially formulated sand. The sand holds its shape underwater and squeezes out into different molds. Available in Mermaid Magic or Sea Adventure play sets, sold separately. CRA-Z-ART, cra-z-art.com
STAR WARS SCIENCE FORCE SPINNER MAGNETIC LAB—BB8, 6+ Kids can launch and control a spinning droid using the force of magnetics. The versatile test platform can be used to do tricks and perform experiments. Includes a force controller and a rip cord. UNCLE MILTON, unclemilton.com
STIKBOT STUDIO PRO, 6+ This stop-motion animation studio includes a green screen so kids can make their own videos. Stikbots are easy-to-pose figures with suction cup hands and feet that stick to any flat surface. ZING, zingtoys.com
THE POWERPUFF GIRLS FLIP TO ACTION PLAYSET, 6+ This play set transforms The Powerpuff Girls’ bedroom to the Professor’s laboratory with a quick and easy flip. Attach Bubbles to the light trail and she is ready to fly off to her next mission. Includes Bubbles and Professor figures. SPIN MASTER, spinmaster.com
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ULTIMATE SECRET FORMULA LAB, 8+ Kids can explore the secrets of science with 40 experiments that will fizz, change color, totally disappear, and more. The lab book helps young scientists learn more about what they see during the experiments. SMARTLAB TOYS, smartlabtoys.com
VIRTUAL EXPLORER SPACE EXPEDITION, 8+ Kids can project hundreds of stars and constellations on their walls. The activity guide unlocks virtual reality experiences that allow kids to enjoy a 360-degree journey through the solar system using a smartphone and the included goggles. UNCLE MILTON, unclemilton.com
XSHOT BUG ATTACK ELIMINATOR & 2 PREDATOR TK-3 COMBO, 8+ Kids have three blasters to send away the creepy crawlies. Fire the arrows up to 55 feet and practice precision with Creepeez Bug targets. ZURU, zuru.com
XTREME CYCLE MOTO-CAM, 8+ This motorcycle R/C unit comes with a built-in helmet cam that allows kids to record video at 30 frames per second, capturing the vantage point views of the R/C cycler while it does flips, tricks, and turns. WICKED COOL TOYS, wickedcooltoys.com
Y FLYER, 7+ This fast, innovative ride-on is the coolest way to travel. The motorized pedal power, hand-controlled brake, and kickstand allow for a fun, exciting way to ride. The steel frame folds for easy storage and travel. YVOLUTION, yvolution.com
YUMMY NUMMIES S’MORE MAKER PLAYSET, 6+ Kids can make mini graham crackers, marshmallows, and chocolate for delicious, no-oven-needed s’mores. The light-up campfire-shaped play set comes with utensils and ingredients for plenty of mini s’mores fun. BLIP TOYS, bliptoys.com
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ESCAPE THE ROOM: MYSTERY AT THE STARGAZER’S MANOR, 10+ Kids can have an Escape the Room experience right at home with this mysterious game. Players decipher clues as a group to solve the mystery of the astronomer who disappeared in his own mansion and try not to get stuck themselves. THINKFUN, thinkfun.com
HOT WHEELS SKY SHOCK, 9+ This remote-control vehicle zooms on land and flies up to 200 feet in the air for the ultimate speed competition. Transform from ground mode to air mode with the push of a button. MATTEL, mattel.com
GAME FOR FAME, 10+ This board game fuses theater and charades. Players work in teams to become superstars, but teammates soon become opponents and compete against each other for the big bucks. The richest superstar wins the game. BANTER GOARD GAMES, thegameforfame.com
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Whether online or in person, socializing is a key activity for kids in this age group. While tweens are comfortable with technology and the digital world, they also enjoy playing games, being creative, and being active. Provide opportunities for them to try new things both on their own and with their peers. Toys that teach a new skill, whether it’s archery, DIY crafting, or programming, get kids thinking in different ways, expanding their minds and abilities. Parents and caregivers are still key role models for this age group, so remain present and involved in their passions.
CRAYOLA JEWEL MAKER, 9+ Kids can make unique jewels and charms for bracelets, key chains, and more. They pick a mold, mix the gel, and add glitter, confetti, or pictures. Their creation is ready to wear in 30 minutes. CRAYOLA, crayola.com
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LEGO DIMENSIONS GHOSTBUSTERS STORY PACK, 9+ Six puzzle-packed levels and new LEGO Gateway bricks take players into the LEGO Ghostbusters universe. Based on the 2016 reboot, the set includes a buildable Abby Yates mini-figure and buildable Ecto-1. WARNER BROS. INTERACTIVE ENTERTAINMENT, legodimensions.com
LEGO MARVEL SUPER HEROES SPIDER-MAN: WEB WARRIORS ULTIMATE BRIDGE BATTLE, 9+ Kids can team up with Spider-Man and other characters to defeat Green Goblin. The buildable set includes seven mini-figures and a bridge section with a movable roadway and detachable tension cables. THE LEGO GROUP, lego.com
LEGO MINECRAFT THE JUNGLE TREE HOUSE, 9+ Kids can build an awesome tree house using more than 700 pieces, then defend it from intruders. The set includes a trap door to lure in Creeper, plus a tamed Ocelot and Alex figure. THE LEGO GROUP, lego.com
MAGIC: GOLD EDITION, 9+ Learn, practice, and perform 150 magic tricks and illusions with this magic kit. The instruction manual walks kids through each trick, and comes with everything they need to be the next Houdini. THAMES & KOSMOS, thamesandkosmos.com
MECCANO MECCANOID 2.0, 10+ Kids can build their own 2-foot-tall personal robot. This robot has realistic movements and voice recognition, with more than 3,000 preprogrammed phrases. It comes with real tools to encourage STEM learning. SPIN MASTER, spinmaster.com
MEGA BLOKS AMERICAN GIRL GRACE’S 2-IN-1 BUILDABLE HOME, 9+ This large, buildable house comes with three mini American Girl figures, including Grace, American Girl’s Girl of the Year. Kids can play with the girls in the kitchen, living room, or put them to sleep in the included bunk beds. MATTEL, mattel.com
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NERF MEGA MASTODON BLASTER, 9+ The first-ever motorized Nerf blaster is ready for battle with rapid-fire speed and a 24-dart drum. Its massive size and shoulder strap make for epic battles and easy maneuverability. HASBRO, hasbro.com
NERF REBELLE FLIPSIDE BOW, 9+ This bow has two five-dart drums that flip around to blast 10 darts. Kids can pull the string back and release it to send each dart flying up to 80 feet. HASBRO, hasbro.com
OZOBOT 2.0 BIT STARTER PACK, 9+ This tiny smart toy robot opens the door to STEM through games and apps. Using coding and robotics, kids with different levels of experience can draw paths and patterns for it to follow or explore Ozobot apps and activities. OZOBOT, ozobot.com
POCKET DRONE, 12+ This drone is small enough to fit in a pocket, but its features make it larger than life. It can be flown indoors or outdoors, and takes HD videos and high-resolution photos as it flies. ODYSSEY TOYS, odysseytoys.com
POPALOTSY, 9+ In this dice game for two to six players, kids race each other to match the color or number on their ring cards after the dice fly out of the popper. The first person to get rid of his or her ring cards wins. PLAYMONSTER, playmonster.com
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NINTENDO ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM: NES CLASSIC EDITION, 10+ This new nostalgia-fueled gaming system is a near identical, mini replica of Nintendo’s original home console and syncs directly to a TV. It comes with 30 NES games built-in, including Super Mario Brothers and Pac-Man. NINTENDO, nintendo.com
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RAZOR RIPSTIK ELECTRIC, 9+ Riders can experience the thrill of surfing or snowboarding with this motorized caster board. The pivoting deck and 360-degree inclined caster wheels let kids cruise up to 10 mph without pushing their feet. RAZOR, razor.com
SHIMMER ‘N SPARKLE REAL SUPER SPA SALON, 9+ This spa provides the ultimate pedicure experience when kids add water and scented spa fizz. It features a cascading waterfall, sparkling lights, and bubbling water, leaving kids feeling pampered and relaxed. CRA-Z-ART, cra-z-art.com
SHIMMER ‘N SPARKLE SEW CRAZY SEWING MACHINE, 9+ This sewing machine makes it easy for kids to stich their own creations. It includes its own working foot pedal, fabric, and patterns to make a scarf, pillow, headband, and more. CRA-Z-ART, cra-z-art.com
SHRINKY DINKS 3D FLOWER JEWELRY, 9+ Kids can use silicon molds to bake flat Shrinky Dink flower shapes into thick flowers. After they design, color, and bake, the Shrinky Dinks are ready to be made into a necklace, bracelet, or stud earrings. ALEX BRANDS, alexbrands.com
SKY VIPER V2400 HD STREAMING VIDEO DRONE, 12+ This drone delivers exciting stunts and stability for drone flyers of all ability levels. It streams and records HD video and has auto pilot, launch, hover, and land features for easy flying. SKYROCKET, skyrockettoys.com
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RAZOR HOVERTRAX 2.0, 9+ This self-balancing, hands-free scooter features autobalance and gyro-sensor technology, which give kids a smooth, fast riding experience while going forward, backward, around corners, or in a 360-degree spin. RAZOR, razor.com