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The Source for the Hottest Toys and Gifts for the Holidays
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For more selections, go to thetoyinsider.com | @TheToyInsider
we know play
™
Welcome to the 14th annual Toy Insider holiday gift guide, featuring the best toys, games, and gifts for every kid on your holiday shopping list! This year’s guide is full of brand new products for kids of all ages, from coveted collectibles to radical ride-ons and everything in between. Our legendary Hot 20 list features the hottest toys of the year that are sure to sell out, so grab them while you can! Plus, we’ve highlighted some of our Co-Publishers Laurie Schacht and Jackie Breyer and favorite toys that teach important STEM Co-Editors Marissa DiBartolo and Ali Mierzejewski concepts in our STEM 10 list. From coding tools and robotics kits to DIY activities, kids will have so much fun playing with these toys, they won’t even know they are learning. Sticking to a budget is important, and you don’t have to break the bank to have a memorable holiday season. For the first time ever, we are unveiling our 12 Under $12 list of budget-friendly favorites. This list includes some of the hottest toys of the year that offer tons of play value to keep kids engaged — and all of them are totally affordable at less than $12. At the Toy Insider, we eat, sleep, and breathe toys. We play every single day to make sure you choose the right toys for your kids year after year. We are dedicated to bringing you the most up-to-date news, reviews, and information on what’s trending in toys all year long, and you’ll find even more of our favorite picks online at thetoyinsider.com. Read product reviews, discover top toy trends, watch fun videos, and enter tons of giveaways! Plus, you can find extended info on all the toys in this gift guide, and an expanded selection of more than 300 total toy picks — there’s something for everyone! To complete the magic of the holiday season, we will give away a ROOM FULL OF TOYS to one lucky winner in our Toy Insider Holiday Sweepstakes. Three lucky runnersup will also receive great prizes valued at more than $250. Be sure to visit thetoyinsider.com/ti-sweeps-19 to enter to win, and while you’re there, sign up for our weekly e-newsletter so you can stay up to date on the latest toy news. The Toy Insider has been your go-to source for toys for 14 years, and we are looking forward to many more years of fun ahead. With more than 80 years of combined experience, remember: At the Toy Insider, we know play! Enjoy the Toy Insider Holiday Gift Guide, THE source for the hottest toys and gifts of the holiday season.
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CO-PUBLISHERS CO-EDITORS SENIOR EDITORS ASSOCIATE EDITOR EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS PRODUCTION DIRECTOR ART DIRECTOR
Jackie Breyer, Laurie Schacht Marissa DiBartolo, Ali Mierzejewski Jackie Cucco, Sierra McCleary-Harris, Maddie Michalik, James Zahn Madeleine Buckley Victoria Rosenthal, Miranda Siwak Bill Reese Joe Ibraham
Adventure Media and Events, LLC 307 7th Avenue - Suite 1601, New York, NY 10001 Phone: (212) 575-4510 thetoyinsider.com All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form is prohibited without prior written consent of Adventure Media and Events LLC. All photographs, logos, and artwork are the property of their respective owners.
ENTER FOR A CHANCE TO WIN A ROOM FULL OF TOYS!
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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 4, 2019 and 11:59 pm (ET) December 8, 2019. Visit thetoyinsider.com/ti-sweeps-19, 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-19.
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AGES 0-2
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FISHER-PRICE BOUNCE & SPIN PUPPY, 1+ This stationary, musical ride-on puppy plays songs, sounds, and educational phrases as baby bounces up and down or spins 360 degrees. It features a sturdy base, easygrip handles, interactive buttons, and multicolored lights. MATTEL, shop.mattel.com
Our Toy Insider panel of experts 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.
LEAPBUILDERS ABC SMART HOUSE, 18 MOS+ Use this 61-piece block set to build a house with the interactive Smart Star cube. Insert the 20 easy-to-hold, double-sided learning blocks into the Smart Star and it will respond with sounds, songs, and phrases. LEAPFROG, leapfrog.com
AGES 3-4
FISHER-PRICE IMAGINEXT DC SUPER FRIENDS TRANSFORMING BATMOBILE R/C, 3+ Kids can use the remote control to drive the vehicle, then turn the Power Pad to watch it transform into battle mode with awesome lights, sound effects, and projectiles. Includes a Batman figure and four projectile disks. MATTEL, shop.mattel.com
FURREAL CUBBY, THE CURIOUS BEAR, 4+ This plush will hug kids back, play peek-a-boo, dance, and babble back when spoken to. When kids feed him his bottle or treat, he’ll respond with eating sounds. His expressive face features moving eyes, nose, and mouth. HASBRO, hasbro.com
KINDI KIDS, 3+ These bobblehead dolls spark imagination and come with interactive food-themed accessories, such as a bowl of cereal that magically disappears from its spoon. Kids can choose from Marsha Mello, Jessicake, Peppa-Mint, and Donatina (sold separately). MOOSE TOYS, moosetoys.com
MYLA THE MAGICAL UNICORN, 4+ This interactive unicorn comes with a wand kids can touch to the butterfly palette to choose a color, then apply it to Myla’s eyes, wings, and horn. Plus, sing a duet using the microphone, braid Myla’s mane, and more. VTECH, vtechkids.com
PJ MASKS PJ SEEKER, 3+ The PJ Seeker features a pull-out ramp, drop-down side door, and enough room for up to four vehicles in the detachable carrier. It has lights, sounds, a disk launcher, and a detachable cage. Includes Catboy and a mini Cat-Car. JUST PLAY, justplayproducts.com
RIZMO, 4+ This evolving toy listens, learns, remembers, and grows. Kids can cuddle, sing, and play with Rizmo as it evolves from baby to kid to the fully grown Rizmo, who loves to make music and sing songs. TOMY, rizmo.com
RYAN’S WORLD SUPER SURPRISE SAFE, 3+ Kids can use the key to unlock more than 30 surprises. Push and reveal, smash and decode to discover figures, treasure, and more, inspired by the popular YouTube channel, Ryan ToysReview. JUST PLAY, justplayproducts.com
SCRUFF-A-LUVS REAL RESCUE, 4+ These interactive pets arrive as a ball of matted fur, shivering and whimpering. Kids then bathe and groom the pet to reveal a puppy or kitten. Has more than 30 lifelike features, including a heartbeat. MOOSE TOYS, moosetoys.com
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FGTEEV GIANT MYSTERY TEEV, 5+ Based on the popular FGTeeV YouTube channel, this unboxing experience features a giant retro TV carrying case with hidden surprises inside, including collectible figures, a Gurkey Turkey plush, a squishy, stickers, and more. BONKERS TOYS, bonkerstoys.com
HATCHIMALS WOW, 5+ You’ve never hatched like this before. Introducing Hatchimals’ biggest surprise yet: Hatchimals WOW! There are lots of new surprises in store with the newest member of the Hatchimals family. SPIN MASTER, spinmaster.com
L.O.L. SURPRISE! O.M.G. FASHION DOLLS, 6+ L.O.L. Surprise dolls are getting big sisters. Unbox 20 surprises including fierce fashions and fabulous accessories. Four dolls to collect (each sold separately). MGA ENTERTAINMENT, mgae.com
LUCKY FORTUNE, 6+ Crack open the toy fortune cookie to reveal a surprise charm bracelet and matching paper fortune. Wear your bracelet — and your luck — on your sleeve, and trade to collect all 100 bracelets. WOWWEE, wowwee.com
MEGA GRAVE DIGGER RC TRUCK, 5+ This all-terrain remote control vehicle measures more than 2 feet long and features oversized tires, a custom rubber tread for superior traction control, and mega-sized shocks and suspension. Control from up to 250 feet away. SPIN MASTER, spinmaster.com
POWER RANGERS BEAST MORPHERS BEAST-X ULTRAZORD FIGURE, 5+ Take on the bad guys with this action figure that has the ultimate Morphin power. Detects certain positions and features more than 30 sounds and phrases, like “Beast-X Ultrazord attack!” and “Woah! Everything’s upside down!” HASBRO, hasbro.com
TIC TAC TOY XOXO FRIENDS, 5+ Kids can unbox eight surprises with XOXO Friends by famous YouTube family Tic Tac Toy. Each XOXO Friends collectible comes with colorful, mix-and-match wings and swappable accessories. There are 24 Friends to collect in series one. BLIP TOYS, bliptoys.com
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BLUME, 5+ Use the watering can to water the “seeds” and watch your Blume doll grow right out of her flower pot. Kids can collect 22 dolls, each with a unique hairstyle, outfit, accessories, mini friend, and sticker book. SKYROCKET, skyrocketon.com
AGES 8+
BLINGER DIAMOND COLLECTION, 8+ Blinger is the new glam styling tool that allows you to load, click, and bling your hair, fashions, and more. With 75 gems included and multiple colors to choose from, glam it up and add sparkle to your daily life. WICKED COOL TOYS, wickedcooltoys.com
FORTNITE JUMBO LOOT LLAMA PINATA, 8+ This 25-inch tall llama features 100 pieces, including exclusive Frozen Raven and Ice King 4-inch figures, weapons, back bling, exclusive building materials, and more. Tear it open, dig through the confetti, and reveal your loot. JAZWARES, jazwares.com
*The Toy Insider, LLC is a participant in the Amazon Services, LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com; the Rakuten Marketing program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to walmart.com; and the Target Affiliates program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to target.com.
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These top toys offer tons of play value without breaking the bank. While small in size, each toy offers layers of fun for a price that fits any budget.
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5 SURPRISE MINI BRANDS SERIES 2, 4+ Kids can unwrap, peel, and reveal these capsules to find five miniature collectibles based on real brands that are found in any grocery store — it’s like they’ve been hit with a shrink ray. ZURU TOYS, zuru.com
CRY BABIES MAGIC TEARS, 3+ Available in blind bottle houses and dressed in animal onesies, these dolls cry real tears and come with eight accessories and a sticker sheet. There are 12 characters to collect, including one rare character. IMC TOYS, imctoys.com
CUTETITOS BABITOS SERIES 1 & CUTETITOS SERIES 3, 3+ Cutetitos Babitos are 3-inch, burrito blanketwrapped plush baby animals with a surprise gender reveal. Plus, kids can unbox the full-sized Cutetitos, featuring new fabrics, characters, and personality “hot spots.” Sold separately. BASIC FUN!, basicfun.com
FLUFFY CLOUDZ JAR, 4+ This colorful, super-stretchy Cloud Slime assortment features fruit-flavored scents, including Berry Blast, Cococraze, Grape Squeeze, Melon Mania, Peach Paradise, and Piney Party. Each jar includes a surprise charm. WECOOL TOYS, wecooltoys.com
FOODIE SURPRISE, 6+ Open the mini mystery food cart and reveal surprise ingredients and supplies to make edible candy, then pack it in the “to go” keychain containers. Available in themes such as sushi, pizza, ice cream, and more. REDWOODVENTURES, redwood-ventures.com
JIXELZ, 6+ Each puzzle set comes with hundreds of precision-cut, micro jigsaw pieces. Kids can use the included templates to create pre-determined designs or create their own. Jixels hold together strong and fit together with ease. FAT BRAIN TOYS, fatbraintoys.com
MORPHIMALS, 8+ Kids can twist, mold, and squish these collectible characters, including TwistiCorn, SkulptySloth, and ShapeyApey. Kids can reshape the Morphimals as many times and ways as they want. ORB, orbmorphimals.com
MÜSHMEEZ, 7+ These tactile plush are soft, moldable, and stretchable. Available in three sizes, Müshmeez come in bright, fun characters, each filled with unique materials. BEVERLY HILLS TEDDY BEAR CO., plush.com
NANABLES, 3+ Each highly detailed Nanables dwelling features built-in hangouts and includes two unique Nanos. Using the integrated viewer, kids can peek inside each house, or download the free Nanables app to bring the house to life. JAZWARES, jazwares.com
PIÑATA FIESTA, 4+ Kids pull three strings to open different compartments to reveal all the surprises inside the reusable piñata, or pull the middle string to open them all at once. Available in 12 designs in six different themes. JAKKS PACIFIC, jakks.com
POP POP HAIR SURPRISE, 6+ Each includes a Pop Brush with spray bottle to reveal a surprise, a Pop Roller, and a Pop Hair Pet with long, brushable hair. More than 25 characters to collect in four themes: Girly Q’s, Disco ‘Dos, Pretty in Punk, and Bed Heads. MGA ENTERTAINMENT, mgae.com
UNBOXME GIRLS, 6+ Each exclusive 8-inch Boxy Girl doll has articulated arms, legs, hips, wrists, and heads. With 36 different dolls to collect, kids can unbox a variety of shoes, hair, makeup, and clothes. JAY@PLAY, boxygirls.com
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AIR-WALKER, 8+ This four-legged bot uses a system of suction cups and pumps to crawl along smooth, vertical surfaces. Kids can also build four other models with the same components and learn about suction and mechanical devices. THAMES & KOSMOS, thamesandkosmos.com
AMAZING RESCUE 50-PIECE SET, 3+ Kids can click together magnetic pieces to build a fire station and a fire truck. This set includes 24 magnetic pieces, two characters, and emergency vehicle accessories. MAGFORMERS, magformers.com
ARTIE 3000, 7+ This coding/drawing robot features easy-to-use drag and drop programming and is compatible with a Mac, PC, or tablet. Kids can get creative by telling Artie what to draw next, while learning skills such as basic programming, geometry, and math. EDUCATIONAL INSIGHTS, educationalinsights.com
CODING CRITTERS, 4+ These interactive pets introduce preschoolers to critical thinking, problem-solving, and other STEM skills through fun play sets, storybook coding adventures, and two interactive modes. The full-color, 20-page storybook includes coding challenges. LEARNING RESOURCES, learningresources.com
DISCOVERY PREHISTORIC SLIMYGLOOP DIG, 6+ Kids poke, pull, and press the thick Slimygloop jelly layer to begin excavating, then dig in with the digging tool or their hands to squish and reveal all the hidden bones to build two dinosaur models. HORIZON GROUP USA, horizongroupusa.com
K’NEX DRAGON REVENGE COASTER BUILDING SET, 7+ Kids use 584 K’NEX pieces to build and design this roller coaster, then watch as the car races through turns and flips to escape the moving dragon. The coaster is powered by a newly designed motor. BASIC FUN!, basicfun.com
LEGO STAR WARS BOOST DROID COMMANDER, 8+ Download the free LEGO BOOST Star Wars app and build three droids, including R2-D2. Travel to Star Wars locations in the app and code and command the droids to solve more than 40 challenging missions. LEGO SYSTEMS, lego.com
MUSIC KITS: ELECTRO GUITAR AND RECORD & REMIX, 8+ Build a cardboard guitar or sound sampler using step-bystep animated instructions, then record your own tracks. Kids can learn how sound waves work as they create their own music. Sold separately. TECH WILL SAVE US, techwillsaveus.com
MY ROBOTIC PET — TUMBLING HEDGEHOG, 7+ Build a working hedgehog robot with this 172-piece kit, then control it by clapping. Watch it tumble, roll, spin, bristle its spines, and scurry. Learn about gears, motors, sound sensors, LEDs, and more. THAMES & KOSMOS, thamesandkosmos.com
VEX ROBOTICS BUILD BLITZ BY HEXBUG, 8+ This kit includes more than 800 snap-together pieces kids use to build seven different motorized robots without the use of tools. Teaches science and technology concepts, including remote control function, motors, and wiring systems. HEXBUG, hexbug.com
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 to robotics and engineering, the following STEM toys give kids the tools they need for success in the modern world. Best of all? They won’t even know they’re learning.
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AGES
0-2
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Infants & Toddlers 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 ride-ons and toys that encourage baby to crawl or walk. Seek out toys that offer experimentation with colors, shapes, sounds, and textures. Offer opportunities for hand-eye coordination, motor skills, language recognition, and nurturing. Toys that grow with a child are a plus.
CABBAGE PATCH KIDS LIL’ SURPRISE REVEAL, 18 MOS+ Kids can reveal fun surprises with this new line of Cabbage Patch Kids, including the gender of each 9-inch newborn doll and the hidden bottle that matches the baby’s signature color. WICKED COOL TOYS, wickedcooltoys.com
DOLCE SAFARI ADVENTURE, 0 MOS+ This four-in-one toy helps babies develop sensory skills with textured fabrics and a bell, a knot, and a button to fasten. The monkey fits snugly inside the lion, which fits inside the hippopotamus, which fits inside the elephant. MAGFORMERS, magformers.com
FISHER-PRICE LITTLE PEOPLE BARN BALL PIT SET, 2+ Hang out in the barn right in your living room. This two-for-one set features a barn and a silo, 50 balls, and an open roof so parents can keep an eye on kids while they play. BESTWAY, bestwaycorp.com
HOOT THE FINE MOTOR OWL, 18 MOS+ Babies can engage in four activities, including dropping coins, rotating Hoot’s eyes, poking Hoot’s squeaky nose, and flapping his wings with the sliding front buttons. Helps babies build strength, coordination, and scissor skills. LEARNING RESOURCES, learningresources.com
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KID TRAX RIDEAMALS PLAY & RIDE DINO, UNICORN, OR TIGER, 18 MOS+ These rideons feature multiple types of interactive play: feed, pet, walk, and ride. The animals have 20 unique sounds, rubber traction strips, and a push-button drive system. Each reaches a maximum speed of 1.5 mph. Sold separately. PACIFIC CYCLE, kidtraxtoys.com LAMAZE GRAB & HIDE BALL, 6 MOS+ This soft, colorful ball has different sounds and textures for babies to explore. They can roll the ball or play hide and seek with the tethered elephant and lion to develop gross motor skills. TOMY, tomy.com
MIRARI MYSTORYMAKER, 12 MOS+ Kids can create stories with this wooden board. The sections light up to guide kids to create more than 100 stories with sound effects. Press the logo to trigger a giggle and the narrator’s voice. PLAYMONSTER, playmonster.com
MY BUDDY WHEELS, 2+ Kids can learn the fundamental skills of cycling with this balance bike and cuddly friend combo. Kids can learn to balance on two wheels, skipping the need for training wheels. Available in unicorn and dinosaur styles. YVOLUTION USA, yvolution.com
PEPPA PIG’S MAGICAL PARADE, 2+ Kids can press the wand to make the parade follow them. This set features three interchangeable, moving floats; a moving smokestack; music and sounds; and exclusive Peppa Pig and George figures. JAZWARES, jazwares.com
ROCKIN’ RIDER STARLIGHT GROW-WITH-ME UNICORN, 9 MOS+ As kids grow, parents can convert this three-in-one ride-on from a bouncer to a rocker to a spring unicorn without tools. Starlight sings “I’m a Magical Unicorn” and says six phrases when kids press its ears. TEK NEK TOYS, myrockinrider.com 12
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SESAME STREET LOVE TO HUG ELMO, 18 MOS+ Squeeze this 13-inch plush Elmo’s soft tummy and he’ll lift his arms and ask for a big hug. When kids hug him, Elmo responds with phrases and sings a song in English or Spanish. HASBRO, hasbro.com
SPLASH AND PLAY MERMAID, 2+ This fully submersible doll is perfect for bathtime. It comes dressed in a mermaid swim set and includes a hooded towel with a tail, a bottle, and a fish toy. It also features drainage holes in its feet. MADAME ALEXANDER, madamealexander.com
STEP2 STEM DISCOVERY BALL TABLE, 2+ Learn about simple machines with this play table, featuring levers and a pulley system kids can use to transport balls. It includes 10 balls to catapult, and helps with motor skill development. STEP2, step2.com
THOMAS THE TANK ENGINE ACTIVITY PIT WITH BALLS, 1+ This pop-up ball pit can fit multiple kids and includes 20 soft, air-filled balls and a train track on the top for kids to race their trains. The ball pit is easy to assemble and put away. SUNNY DAYS ENTERTAINMENT, sunnydaysent.com
TIMBER TOTS TREEHOUSE, 2+ Press the button at the top of the tree to reveal a cozy home inside, including an elevator, a fireplace, a living space, and more. Kids can store the included critters and accessories inside the treetop to take it on the go. FAT BRAIN TOYS, fatbraintoys.com
TREASURE SEEKERS PIRATE SHIP, 18 MOS+ Kids can strengthen fine motor skills and pretend to sail with this play set. They can play with the sailor figures on the ship or convert it into a deserted island to hunt for buried treasure. Teaches colors, numbers, and more. VTECH, vtechkids.com 14
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AGES
3-4 For more selections, go to thetoyinsider.com | @TheToyInsider
Preschool
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 always a hit.
24V MONSTER TRUCK, 3+ Take a drive with this ride-on truck. Featuring four huge, all-terrain wheels, working shock absorbers, and an elevated seat, the truck can speed up to 4 mph forward and 1.86 mph in reverse. ROLLPLAY, rollplay.net
4 FUN COSMIC GLOW GOLF 5-HOLE MINIATURE GOLF KIT, 4+ Play mini-golf inside or outside. Each hole features a “tee box” and obstacles, such as a tunnel, a ramp, and a moving windmill. Two LED golf balls and four UV backlights light the course. Includes a storage bag. B4ADVENTURE, b4adventure.com
BABY ALIVE HAPPY HUNGRY BABY, 4+ With more than 50 realistic baby sounds, phrases, and expressions; a special interactive spoon; two doll food packets; and more, this baby doll makes feeding and changing time feel real. HASBRO, hasbro.com
BABY SHARK 6V PLUSH RIDE-ON, 3+ This soft plush ride-on features authentic “Baby Shark” sounds and easy, foot-pedal acceleration. Kids can cruise up to 2.5 mph. DYNACRAFT, dynacraftwheels.com
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BARBIE FASHIONISTA DOLL ASSORTMENT, 3+ With more than 100 different looks, this doll line includes a variety of skin tones, hair colors, body types, and fashions. The line also features an articulated doll with a wheelchair and a ramp accessory. MATTEL, shop.mattel.com
CAP’N RYAN’S MEGA MYSTERY TREASURE CHEST, 3+ This pirate-themed chest doubles as a storage case. Inside, kids will find eight secret compartments containing exclusive mystery figures, Build-a-Ryan figures, gold coins, gem putty, skeleton keys, and more, including an exclusive pirate ship. BONKERS TOYS, bonkerstoys.com COLORFORMS SILLY FACES GAME, 3+ In this game, kids can spin the spinner, choose a face piece, and race to make the silliest face using re-stickable pieces. The game features characters from the Netflix series Charlie’s Colorforms City. KAHOOTZ TOYS, kahootztoys.com
COUNTING SURPRISE PARTY, 3+ Kids can remove the box tops of the numbered, two-piece presents to develop number recognition, matching skills, and early counting skills. Each set includes 10 presents with a miniature toy hidden inside each box. LEARNING RESOURCES, learningresources.com
CRY BABIES — KRISTAL GETS SICK & FEELS BETTER, 3+ Kids can check this doll’s temperature with a thermometer, give her play medicine, and cool down her fever with a cloth. If she breaks out in spots, kids can give her a shot to watch them disappear. She also cries real tears. IMC TOYS, imctoys.com
CRYSTAL PALACE, 4+ Set off on a regal adventure with this Winter Kingdom palace play set, complete with twinkle lights in the lower-level cave. Includes furnished rooms, figures, interchangeable outfits, and accessories. PLAYMOBIL, playmobil.us 20
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DEMO DUKE, 4+ Kids can crash and demolish this self-repairing vehicle featuring more than 100 sounds. Align the vehicle and press the throttle to send it flying, then press the repair button to automatically rebuild the crashed vehicle. SPIN MASTER, spinmaster.com
DINO SMASHERS SERIES 3 EPIC EGG, 4+ Smash open the giant egg and use the scratch ’n reveal map to discover clues and find the fossils inside. Includes five compounds, six smash eggs, a smash egg rebuilder, and more. ZURU, zuru.com
DISNEY JUNIOR T.O.T.S. NURSERY HEADQUARTERS PLAYSET, 3+ This multi-level set features a lights-andsounds baby monitor, a slide, a removable swinging basket, and more. Three included baby animal figures have diapers that change colors when placed in cold water. JUST PLAY, justplayproducts.com
DISNEY PRINCESS ARIEL MUSIC & LIGHTS VANITY, 3+ When kids open the vanity, Sebastian spins and “Under The Sea” plays. The vanity lights up and includes a Flounder jar, play perfume bottle, tiara, earrings, play curling iron, dinglehopper brush, comb, and more. JAKKS PACIFIC, jakks.com
FISHER-PRICE WONDER MAKERS DESIGN SYSTEM BUILD AROUND TOWN STARTER KIT, 3+ Kids can design and build with more than 75 reconfigurable play pieces. Create buildings and towns or use the pieces to connect into tracks for vehicles. Includes wooden pieces, links, characters, vehicles, and accessories. MATTEL, shop.mattel.com
FLUFT COTTON CANDY SAND, 3+ Fluft Cotton Candy Sand is a mess-free, tactile sand that kids can shape, build, and stretch. It never dries out and is available in four different colors. IMPERIAL TOY, imperialtoy.com
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FLYING PIGS, 4+ Kids use the wands to catch as many multicolored, foam pigs as they can to score points. The person with the most points wins the game. The pigs fly within an enclosed dome using a safe, motorized fan. CRA-Z-ART, cra-z-art.com
GROOVY WUBBLE, 4+ This bubble ball has a colorful, tie-dye design. Kids can kick, throw, bounce, or even sit on the ball inside or outside. It inflates up to 30 inches with the included pump. Also available without pump. NSI INTERNATIONAL, wubbleball.com
HAIRDORABLES DOLLS SERIES 3, 3+ Each doll comes in blind packaging with 11 surprises inside, including a hair tool that kids can use to color, crimp, or curl the doll’s hair. Series 3 features new themes and pop-up backgrounds. JUST PLAY, justplayproducts.com
HAPE JUNIOR INVENTOR DELUXE SCIENTIFIC WORKBENCH, 4+ Kids can learn about science with this workbench that comes with 79 pieces to conduct more than 15 experiments to demonstrate key scientific principles, such as energy transfer, momentum, and gravity. HAPE INTERNATIONAL, hape.com
HEXBUG BOX SUMO BATTLE RING, 3+ Kids can place the collectible characters on top of their nano robotic insects and pit them against each other. The Box Sumo Arena doubles as a carrying case. Kids can collect more than 60 characters. HEXBUG, hexbug.com
LIL’ BLIZZARD FRIENDS, 3+ Kids unbox blind-packaged collectibles resembling Dairy Queen Blizzard cups. Each includes a Lil’ Blizzard Friend doll, an outfit, and interchangeable hair clips. There are 24 dolls to collect, each with a different personality. SUNNY DAYS ENTERTAINMENT, sunnydaysent.com
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LUVABELLA NEWBORN, 4+ Kids can feed, burp, and soothe this soft doll. It features natural expressions, realistic sounds and movements, interactive accessories, and responds to gentle touches. Watch the doll “breathe” when it falls asleep. SPIN MASTER, spinmaster.com
MIX & MATCH-A-SAURUS, 3+ Kids can learn about feelings as Mix & Match-a-Saurus sings and dances to ballet, hip-hop, and marching band music. Kids can insert nine different tiles into its back for different play modes. VTECH, vtechkids.com
MOSAIC MAGNETIC PLAY KITCHEN, 3+ This play kitchen features a magnetic refrigerator, a freezer, an ice-maker that dispenses plastic ice cubes, an oven, a stove with sound effects, a microwave, a sink, and a six-piece accessory set. KIDKRAFT, kidkraft.com
MOTHER GOOSE CLUB BLUETOOTH SING ALONG PORTABLE MP3 PLAYER, 3+ Kids can stream unlimited audio via Bluetooth and store up to 16 hours of music thanks to 1 GB of built-in memory. The MP3 player includes 24 built-in classic kids’ songs and a headphone jack. EKIDS, ekids.com
MY FAIRY GARDEN NATURE COTTAGE, 4+ Plant a garden in this whimsical fairy house. There’s plenty of space for the included Isla figurine to hang out inside and on the balcony. The cottage doubles as a planter so kids can learn about gardening and STEM concepts. PLAYMONSTER, playmonster.com
For more selections, go to thetoyinsider.com | @TheToyInsider
LIL’ SHUCKIES GLITZY SEA SHELL SET, 4+ This jumbo seashell carrying case has two Lil’ Shuckies oyster shells with surprise collectible pearls, magic sand, glitzy slime, and 60 filler pearls inside. Kids can play with the slime and create their own pearl bracelets. WECOOL TOYS, wecooltoys.com
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SPECIAL HOLIDAY SUPPLEMENT
NEWBORN NURSERY BEAUTIFUL BABY, 3+ These 19-inch dolls are designed to look and feel like real babies, each featuring a weighted fabric body, molded head and limbs, and wispy hair. The dolls are made from Lee Middleton sculpts, featuring different skin tones, eye colors, and hair colors. MADAME ALEXANDER, madamealexander.com
ORANGUTWANG, 4+ Players test their hand-eye coordination as they take turns hanging fruit and animal pieces off of the orangutan. When it’s holding too much, the monkey will spring up onto the rope, sending the balanced objects flying. PLAYMONSTER, playmonster.com
PAW PATROL SUPER PAWS MIGHTY JET COMMAND CENTER, 3+ When kids lift the handle, this two-in-one play set transforms from a jet into a mobile command center that fits all Mighty Pups figures (sold separately). A launcher ejects the included Ryder figure out of the jet. SPIN MASTER, spinmaster.com
PETS ALIVE BOPPI THE DANCING LLAMA, 3+ With three pop songs to bop, spin, and dance to, Boppi whips her rainbow hair to get the party started. Features 360-degree spinning motion and booty shaking action, with soft plush fur. ZURU TOYS, zuru.com
PINKFONG BABY SHARK FINGERLINGS, 3+ The first-ever Baby Shark Fingerlings respond to motion, sound, and touch with a fin that lights up. Baby Shark can blink his eyes and give kids magical kisses. Features sea sound effects and the “Baby Shark” song. WOWWEE, wowwee.com
PINKFONG BABY SHARK SONG PUPPETS WITH TEMPO CONTROL, 3+ Move the mouth of the Baby Shark, Mommy Shark, or Daddy Shark puppet to hear it “sing” the entire “Baby Shark” song. Change the speed of the song by moving the mouth faster or slower. Each sold separately. WOWWEE, wowwee.com
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For more selections, go to thetoyinsider.com | @TheToyInsider
PLAY-DOH KITCHEN CREATIONS POPCORN PARTY PLAY FOOD SET, 3+ Create Play-Doh popcorn masterpieces with a machine that cranks the pretend snack into three buckets, then add play food toppings, such as pretzels, candy, and syrup. Includes six cans of Play-Doh, creation cards, and accessories. HASBRO, hasbro.com
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POKÉMON MY PARTNER PIKACHU, 4+ Kids can team up with My Partner Pikachu using its two play modes featuring more than 100 interactions and 20 sounds and expressions. Its arms and ears move, while its cheeks and tail light up. WICKED COOL TOYS, wickedcooltoys.com
POLLY POCKET POLLYVILLE MEGA MALL, 4+ This play set features six floors and more than 20 accessories, including Polly Pocket’s micro SUV. The mall features a sports store, a movie theater, a fashion runway, and more. Includes two Polly Pocket dolls. MATTEL, shop.mattel.com
POP POPS SNOTZ SLAMMER HAMMER, 4+ Kids can smash Pop Pops bubbles, store Pop Pop Snotz characters in the included compartments, and use the handle like a syringe to suck up and squirt slime with this multi-purpose tool. YULU TOYS, yulutoys.com
POUND PUPPIES, 3+ Reminiscent of the originals, these soft puppies are ready for adoption. They feature varying facial and eye expressions, ear lengths, and fur colors. Each includes a pet carrier-shaped package, a care sheet, and official adoption papers. BASIC FUN!, basicfun.com
RAINBOCORNS BIG BOW SURPRISE, 3+ The biggest Rainbocorns surprise egg, the Big Bow Surprise, includes multiple layers of surprises for kids to reveal, including a Sequin Surprise Heart, a giant plush, Big Bow accessories, collectible Bow-Bowcorns, and more than 20 additional surprises. ZURU TOYS, zuru.com
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SPECIAL HOLIDAY SUPPLEMENT
For more selections, go to thetoyinsider.com | @TheToyInsider
RAINBOW FLUFFIES, 3+ Rainbow Fluffies are soft plush toys that turn from a rainbow ball into an animal and back again. Available in nine variations, there are two sizes of Rainbow Fluffies: regular and jumbo. JAY@PLAY TOYS, rainbowfluffies.com
REALTREE 24V UTV, 3+ This ride-on features Realtree camouflage decals, working headlights, a front rack, and a rear cargo bay. Suspension springs ensure a smooth ride for two kids, with speeds up to 5 mph. DYNACRAFT, dynacraftwheels.com
RIDEAMALS JOSIE PLAY & RIDE UNICORN, 3+ Kids can feed, brush, walk, and ride Josie, which features more than 100 sounds and interactions. Josie includes a saddle bag, a brush, a flower, and a cupcake; and moves at a maximum speed of 4 mph. PACIFIC CYCLE, kidtraxtoys.com
RITZY ROLLERZ DANCE N DAZZLE SPA, 4+ Kids can roll Ritzy Rollerz into the light-up Dance n Dazzle Spa play set, pop charms onto their wheels, and make them dance on the stage. Includes Tori TaDa Unicorn and 30 ritzy charms. TOMY, tomy.com
ROBO ALIVE BABY SHARK, 3+ Robo Alive Baby Shark brings the title character of the viral song to life in a 100% waterproof, bathtub-ready toy. The water-activated Baby Shark swims when it’s dropped into water. ZURU TOYS, zuru.com
ROCKIN’ RIDER DURANGO ROCKING HORSE, 3+ The Rockin’ Rider Durango Horse is a plush rocking horse on a wooden base. The ride-on sings the “I’m a Little Pony” song and says six phrases with sound effects when kids squeeze its ears. TEK NEK TOYS, myrockinrider.com 30
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SHIMMER STARS, 4+ Shimmer Stars are plush pets that include a Shimmer Wand that kids can use to add colorful shimmers to both the furry friend and their own hair. Includes wear-andshare fashion accessories, such as a hair bow that both the pet and kids can wear. KD KIDS, group-kd.com
SMARTGAMES BRAIN TRAIN, 3+ Kids match shapes and sequences in the correct order to complete a train pattern, learning spatial insight and problem-solving skills. Different levels offer players varying hints to complete the train. SMART TOYS AND GAMES, smartgamesusa.com
SPARKLE MARBLE RUN, 4+ This sparkly, pink-and-white set includes chutes, merry-gorounds, curves, spinner slides, and marble vortex pieces that kids can use to build a custom marble run course. Includes 103 pieces and 20 cat’s eye marbles. MINDWARE, mindware.com
STICKIES, 4+ Kids can squish, squeeze, and shape Sticky the Octopus, Sticky the Shark, Sticky the Axolotl, and Sticky the Pig (each sold separately). Throw the animals at a wall or flat surface to see them splat and stick. HOG WILD TOYS, hogwildtoys.com
SUPER MARIO BOWSER’S CASTLE PLAYSET, 3+ This play set includes a 2.5-inch Bowser figure, a moving lift, spinning fireballs, and a cage bottom that opens. Kids can press the exclamation switch to drop Bowser into the lava, and press the top of the spire to trigger sounds and music. JAKKS PACIFIC, jakks.com
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ROCKIT TWIST, 4+ This gaming system features buttons, spinners, sliders, and switches with preloaded games that teach kids literacy, math, problem-solving, science, and creativity. Kids can also play with three digital pets. Additional game packs sold separately. LEAPFROG, leapfrog.com
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SPECIAL HOLIDAY SUPPLEMENT
For more selections, go to thetoyinsider.com | @TheToyInsider
SURPRISE TOY BOX, 3+ Each Surprise Toy Box contains eight individually wrapped surprises, such as plastic bracelets, animal figures, stickers, plush balls, stationery stamps, squishy toys, and more. There are more than 150 toys to collect. IMPERIAL TOY, imperialtoy.com
SWEET RASPBERRY HOME, 3+ This newest addition to the Calico Critters Village comes furnished with baby furniture and a Grace Hopscotch Rabbit figure. The set matches and connects with the Red Roof Cozy Cottage and Red Roof Country Home. CALICO CRITTERS, calicocritters.com
TINY TUKKINS PLAYHOUSE, 4+ Kids can play house by dressing up the mice characters, including mom, dad, and baby; hanging laundry in the wardrobe; tucking the baby into the crib; and nestling the parents into bed with soft blankets. BEVERLY HILLS TEDDY BEAR CO., plush.com
TOY STORY 4 BUZZ LIGHTYEAR STAR COMMAND CENTER, 4+ Play in Launch Mode (upright) or Flight Mode (horizontal) with this command center, featuring working microphones with an intercom, moveable targets, blaster buttons, a joystick with trigger action, sound and light effects, and a converting console panel. JAKKS PACIFIC, jakks.com WHAT’S IN THE BOX?, 4+ Players place items into the Challenge Box to stump opponents, who have 10 seconds to feel what’s inside before guessing. Play as singles or in teams. The game includes a built-in timer, item bags, and scorecard sheets. BLIP TOYS, bliptoys.com
ZOOMIGOS, 3+ Kids can pump the Zoomigos characters and place them in any of the Zoomers to watch them roll. The characters have see-through legs to show kids how the mechanics work and to spark their curiosity. EDUCATIONAL INSIGHTS, educationalinsights.com 32
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AGES
5-7 For more selections, go to thetoyinsider.com | @TheToyInsider
Grade School
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. These kids are ready to build and create with their hands and minds.
3DOODLER START ROBOSUMO PEN SET, 6+ Kids can build their own mini Sumo battling robots and face off against each other in the included Sumo ring. Comes with a 3Doodler Start pen, two motors, 24 strands of plastic, DoodleMolds, a battle ring, and a charging cable. 3DOODLER, 3doodler.com
BEN 10 ALIEN GAME OMNITRIX, 5+ Kids can pretend to transform into 10 different aliens, just like Ben, when they wear this Omnitrix on their wrists. It features a 1-inch LCD screen and four different games featuring the aliens. PLAYMATES TOYS, playmatestoys.com
BUTTS UP, 7+ In this game, players answer questions and compete for a seat. The last player seated each round gets a ring, and whoever has the least rings wins the game. PLAYMONSTER, playmonster.com
CAPSULE CHIX, 6+ These fashion dolls come in unique, capsule vending machine packaging. Combine the parts from five capsules to form one complete doll, then mix and match for unique doll combos. MOOSE TOYS, moosetoys.com
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SPECIAL HOLIDAY SUPPLEMENT
CRAFT-TASTIC DIY MYTHICAL POM ANIMALS KIT, 5+ No sewing is necessary to make three 5.5-inch mythical characters: a pandacorn, a meowmaid, and a narwhal. Kids stuff the pre-sewn felt shapes, decorate them with poms, and stick a heart inside. ANN WILLIAMS GROUP, annwilliamsgroup.com
CRAYOLA GLITTER DOTS SPARKLE STATION, 5+ Squish and roll the Glitter Dots to make custom creations in a less-mess way. They contain a special coating so that all the glitter is contained in the dot and a unique adhesive that sticks to a variety of surfaces. CRAYOLA, crayola.com
CRAYOLA SPRINKLE ART SHAKER, 5+ This art project is housed in an enclosed case so that kids can lay down custom glue designs and shake until the sprinkles stick. After each creation, the remaining sprinkles roll back into the included sprinkle tubes for continued use. CRAYOLA, crayola.com
DROP DOTS LOVE EM’S, 6+ These squishy collectible characters are made with Drop Dot material and slow-rising foam that combine for a tactile, sensory play experience. Series two includes a llama, a dragon, a turtle, a pineapple, a unicorn, and a puppy. KESS, kess.co
ELEGANT TOWN MANOR GIFT SET, 6+ This two-story manor features a gold-stained chandelier, furniture, windows, railings, a terrace, a balcony, a spiral staircase, and a detachable roof that can be placed on other Town buildings. Includes a Stella figure. CALICO CRITTERS, calicocritters.com
FART NINJAS BASIC FIGURES SERIES 1, 5+ Kids can surprise and disgust their friends with these action figures. This collectible ninja clan includes eight characters with 10 motion-activated fart sounds. Use the free app to pull off additional virtual pranks. FUNRISE, funrise.com
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SPECIAL HOLIDAY SUPPLEMENT
FOODIE ROOS, 5+ These plush animals look, smell, and feel like different foods they love. Each Foodie comes in a food container that doubles as its “room,” which kids can decorate. There are 20 to collect, including two that are rare. MAYA TOYS, mayatoys.net
GUMBALL MACHINE MAKER, 6+ Kids learn physics concepts as they build their own gumball machine and watch the gumball perform stunts and tricks through trialand-error experiments. Each segment of the track teaches a different lesson in mechanical physics. THAMES & KOSMOS, thamesandkosmos.com
H2OGO! SNOW UNICORN 39-INCH INFLATABLE SNOW TUBE, 6+ Kids can fly down hills with flair in this bright snow tube made with weather-resistant, PolarShield material that won’t freeze or crack in the cold. The unicorn has two oversized handles designed to fit gloves. BESTWAY, bestwaycorp.com
HATCHIMALS COLLEGGTIBLES MEGA SECRET SURPRISE, 5+ When kids press the hearts on this large, crackable egg, they will reveal royalty-themed surprises, including exclusive Hatchimals figures, CollEGGtibles, accessories, and Hatchtopia Life Gem Treasures. Then, they can put the egg back together for display. SPIN MASTER, spinmaster.com
HEIST, 7+ Players must work cooperatively to crack a safe full of gold in five minutes or less and steal $50 million. Each player has a different role in this fast-paced game with five challenging levels. UNIVERSITY GAMES, universitygames.com
HOLLYWOOD RIDES — 1:16 SPIDER-MAN 2017 FORD GT R/C, 6+ This 2017 Ford GT takes its styling cues directly from the friendly neighborhood web-slinger: Spider-Man. Featuring USB charging technology, this 1:16-scale R/C is ready for action right out of the box. JADA TOYS, jadatoysinc.com
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For more selections, go to thetoyinsider.com | @TheToyInsider
SPECIAL HOLIDAY SUPPLEMENT
HOT WHEELS COLOSSAL CRASH SPEEDWAY, 5+ This is the biggest boosted Hot Wheels set ever, featuring a double figure eight track. There are two colorful track loops that meet in the middle, forming a high-speed crash zone. MATTEL, shop.mattel.com
JUNO MY BABY ELEPHANT, 5+ Kids train and play with the animated elephant, which makes more than 150 lifelike movements and sounds. Feed Juno a peanut to see it react, teach it tricks, and play games with the included mouse toy. SPIN MASTER, spinmaster.com
KIDISTAR DANCE, 5+ When kids snap on the motion-activated bands, they can learn dance moves, play four motion games, and create music with movement. KidiStar Dance includes music and color-changing lights and connects to an MP3 player. VTECH, vtechkids.com
KING OF THE RING, 6+ Kids can battle to be the last Sumo standing as they launch their wrestlers into the ring and try to knock out their opponents. The last figure standing becomes the King of the Ring. YULU TOYS, yulutoys.com
L.O.L. SURPRISE! OOH LA LA BABY SURPRISE, 6+ Unbox a fashion purse to discover a new, bigger L.O.L. Surprise Lil Sisters doll and shareable surprises, including lip gloss, a play cell phone, a glitter bottle, and more. There are three to collect. MGA ENTERTAINMENT, mgae.com
LARGE HORSE STABLE WITH HOUSE AND STABLE, 5+ This tri-level play set adds to the Horse Club collection with realistic house and stable details. The set features moveable stairs, a secret door, animal and human figures, and more. SCHLEICH, schleich-s.com/en/US
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SPECIAL HOLIDAY SUPPLEMENT
For more selections, go to thetoyinsider.com | @TheToyInsider
LEGO CITY DEEP SPACE ROCKET AND LAUNCH CONTROL, 7+ This set features a modular, multi-stage, NASA-inspired rocket featuring a booster, payload storage, two-minifigure cockpit modules, a rover with an articulated grappling arm, a space telescope with folding solar panels, and a monorail system. LEGO SYSTEMS, shop.lego.com LOOPIES, 7+ Kids can stuff and fluff plush characters using pre-sewn plush, chenille yarn, and a hook tool. Once the plush is stuffed, kids can add felt features and other details to complete their new fluffy friend. ALEX BRANDS, alexbrands.com
LUVI PUPS, 6+ Kids can stretch and squeeze these collectible, tactile puppies. Each mystery Luvi, including one ultra-rare runt, features six surprise toys. A portion of the proceeds is donated to an organization dedicated to saving dogs from kill shelters. REDWOODVENTURES, redwood-ventures.com MARS SPACE STATION, 6+ Kids can explore as they move around the space station play set through a central hub, mission modules, docking stations, and more. Includes two astronauts, a robot, and accessories, including a movable laser blaster. PLAYMOBIL, playmobil.us
MARVEL AVENGERS: ENDGAME NERF ASSEMBLER GEAR ROLE PLAY, 5+ These customizable Nerf blasters feature swappable pieces that are compatible with any Assembler Gear sets. Available in seven character styles — including Iron Man, Captain America, and Captain Marvel — for more than 100 combinations. HASBRO, hasbro.com MELTDOWN, 7+ Players try to be the first to successfully stack cubes on a putty-covered platform to win this balancing game. Roll the die to see how many cubes you have to add. PLAYMONSTER, playmonster.com
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SPECIAL HOLIDAY SUPPLEMENT
For more selections, go to thetoyinsider.com | @TheToyInsider
MY SINGING MONSTERS, 6+ These harmonizing figures bring the My Singing Monsters mobile game to life. Each monster knows its part in the song and when to join in and includes an accessory and an in-game reward code. PLAYMONSTER, playmonster.com
NEON GHOST, 5+ This customizable scooter features controllable lighting that pulses and strobes through a transparent core that projects it onto the ground. Features transparent hand grips, an aluminum deck with grip tape, adjustable handlebars, and a rear brake. YVOLUTION USA, yvolution.com NICKELODEON PEANUT BUTTER AND JELLY SLIME SLOW-RISERS, 6+ Create a slime peanut butter and jelly sandwich that looks just like the real thing. Kids can add sequins to make it sparkle. Includes slow-rising bread slices; scented, premade slime; and sequins. CRA-Z-ART, cra-z-art.com
OOZE LABS: ALIEN SLIME LAB, 6+ Kids take on the role of a lead chemist with this lab play set. Their research mission is to mix, analyze, and identify batches of unidentified “alien” slime using the lab station and tools. Includes 10 experiments. THAMES & KOSMOS, thamesandkosmos.com
ORBEEZ WOW WORLD WOWZER SURPRISE SPARKLE SURPRISE, 6+ Kids can add water to the globe to reveal two Wowzers. Twist the diamond topper to make the Wowzers dance. The case features light-up effects and a removable base that doubles as a display. MAYA TOYS, mayatoys.net
ORBSLIMY XTREME GLITTERZ, 5+ This premade slime is filled with pieces of colorful glitter floating in a transparent base. When kids stretch and squeeze the slime, it crackles and snaps. The glitter won’t transfer to kids’ hands or other surfaces. ORB, orbslimy.com 48
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OWLEEZ, 6+ Teach the baby owl to fly by swinging it through the air. The owl’s eyes light up to show different moods, and it responds to touch. Kids can feed and nurture it, then watch it take flight. SPIN MASTER, spinmaster.com
PIXIE BELLES, 5+ Kids can interact with these four magical creatures that spin and express moods based on the color of their light-up horns. They respond to touch, motion, and sound, and feature multiple play modes and wearable, swappable tails. WOWWEE, wowwee.com
PLAYFOAM PLUFFLE 2-PACK, 5+ This new compound is squishy, fluffy, and tactile. Kids can mix their favorite colors to create combinations, squish the compound, and watch it flow. Playfoam Pluffle never dries out. EDUCATIONAL INSIGHTS, educationalinsights.com
POOPSIE RAINBOW SURPRISE SLIME BAG, 6+ This kit features more than 35 surprises, including DIY slime, colorful makeup to mix into the slime, two scents, and other add-ins. Kids can store their slime creations in the included airtight container. MGA ENTERTAINMENT, mgae.com
PRETTY, PRETTY PRINCESS, 5+ Kids can compete to become a princess in this classic ‘90s board game. The first player to collect all of their matching jewelry and the crown wins the title of pretty, pretty princess. WINNING MOVES GAMES, winning-moves.com
PULP HEROES SNAP BOTS, 5+ When kids take these springloaded collectibles out of their comic-book-themed protective sleeves, they snap into 3D form. Kids can send them zooming into battle with the pullback motor. Available in Marvel and Star Wars characters. FAR OUT TOYS, farouttoys.com 50
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SPECIAL HOLIDAY SUPPLEMENT
For more selections, go to thetoyinsider.com | @TheToyInsider
RISE OF THE TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES BABBLE HEADS, 5+ These interactive turtle buddies tell jokes and feature movement, strike sensors, battle sound effects, and a clip for onthe-go play. Available in Loud Mouth Leo or Motor Mouth Mikey (sold separately). PLAYMATES TOYS, playmatestoys.com ROBLOX JAILBREAK: MUSEUM HEIST DELUXE PLAYSET, 6+ Kids can recreate heist scenarios and relive the action of Badimo’s Jailbreak game with this play set. The set includes six figures, accessories, a collector’s checklist, and an exclusive virtual item code. JAZWARES, jazwares.com
SHIMMER ‘N SPARKLE 5-IN1 FRIENDSHIP BRACELET STUDIO, 5+ A new twist in bracelet making, this studio lets kids string, bead, and spin together metallic beads and threads, charms, and more to make friendship bracelets. Make more than 25 bracelets in five different styles. CRA-Z-ART, cra-z-art.com
SKY MAGIC, 6+ In this cooperative game, kids work together to help five enchanted friends get home before they run out of magic spells. Navigate around storm clouds and avoid falling through the sky when the board shifts. PEACEABLE KINGDOM, A MINDWARE BRAND, mindware.com
SLIMEEZ WITH NICKELODEON SLIME, 6+ Kids load each 3-inch figure with Nickelodeon Slime, push, and watch it ooze through. Each of the the seven new figures (sold separately) comes blind packaged with 2 ounces of slime and a collectible SpongeBob cube. ALPHA GROUP US, alphatoys.com
SLIMYGLOOP SQUISHYCHUMS SNOW GLOBE, 6+ Fill the mold with slimy paint, then dunk in the activator to watch your creation form into a squishy, 3D friend. Fill your snow globes with tons of colorful, squishy critters. HORIZON GROUP USA, horizongroupusa.com 52
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SMART PIXELATOR, 7+ Pixelate any design to build 2D and 3D projects. Step by step, kids can create 50 Pixel Bead designs out of the box, or use Bluetooth connectivity to upload any photo and recreate the image with Pixel Beads, pegs, and sequins. FLYCATCHER, smartpixelator.com
SPEAK & SPELL, 7+ One of the earliest computerized learning systems, the Speak & Spell helps kids learn to spell using a speech synthesizer. Multiple play modes and challenge levels help kids have fun and learn at the same time. BASIC FUN!, basicfun.com
SPIDER-MAN LASER TAG BLASTERS, 5+ This set comes with two laser tag blasters, each equipped with three modes that have different damage, range, and reload times. The infrared receiver tracks and registers the blasts. Kids can add additional units for even larger battles. EKIDS, ekids.com
SHOPKINS REAL LITTLES LIL’ SHOPPER PACK, 5+ Shopkins Real Littles come packaged inside iconic household brands. From Welch’s Concord Grape Jelly and Kellogg’s Frosted Flakes, to Pringles and Cheez-Its, kids can collect more than 50 miniature versions of real brands. MOOSE TOYS, moosetoys.com
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#SNAPSTAR POP ROYALTY: ECHO’S DEBUT ON THE PINK CARPET, 5+ Echo makes her pink carpet debut in this play set packed with accessories, including a TV camera and mic. Echo is media-ready and can get digital makeovers in the free #Snapstar Studio app. YULU TOYS, yulutoys.com
TAMAGOTCHI ON, 6+ Tamagotchi On offers on-the-go entertainment and teaches kids responsibility as they care for their pets. Features a colored screen and millions of options so kids can make personalized characters. An interactive mobile app adds more play value. BANDAI AMERICA, bandai.com 53
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TREASURE X TREASURE TOMB, 5+ Kids can smash, dig, and solve secrets to uncover all of the treasure and surprises in this play set. Each set includes real gold-dipped treasure, a Treasure X character, and accessories. Folds up for on-the-go play and storage. MOOSE TOYS, moosetoys.com UNTAMED LEGENDS DRAGON, 5+ Vulcan is an intelligent beast that reacts to kids’ touch. Motion-sensing technology lets him respond by flapping his lifelike wings, growling, screeching, and emitting other sounds. Features guard mode and firebreathing action. WOWWEE, wowwee.com VENDEES, 6+ Unwrap the dispenser and open the different pull tabs and compartments to unveil six surprises, including stickers and scrunchies. Then, get creative with DIY activities, from creating custom lip balm to painting ceramic figures. HORIZON GROUP USA, horizongroupusa.com
WWE SMASH BRAWLERS, 6+ WWE fans can go head to head with this starter set, which includes John Cena and AJ Styles figures. Kids can use the controller to dodge and battle opponents, causing them to collapse in defeat. TOMY, tomy.com
X-POWER DOZER, 6+ This all-terrain vehicle can plow through rocks, dirt, snow, toys, and more with a high-torque motor that can push or pull up to 200 pounds inside or outside. It also features lights and sounds. JAKKS PACIFIC, jakks.com
ZAX, 5+ The axe-throwing craze comes home in a safe, fun way with Zax: easy-to-use foam axes that suction onto many flat surfaces. Players compete to see who can toss the axe and get it to stick. ZING TOYS, zing.toys 54
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AGES
8+ For more selections, go to thetoyinsider.com | @TheToyInsider
Tweens
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 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.
5 SECOND RULE SPINTENSITY, 14+ Up against a randomized time limit, players try to name three things in a category. To make things more challenging, the spinner indicates a secondary task to complete — before time runs out — to earn points. PLAYMONSTER, playmonster.com
AIR HOGS ZERO GRAVITY LASER RACER, 8+ This lightweight vehicle drives up walls and along floors and ceilings, quickly chasing a laser. The laser light has multi-direction control so the car can easily drive forward, make turns, and spin on any smooth surface. SPIN MASTER, spinmaster.com
ARCADE1UP COUNTERCADES, 14+ Featuring a tabletop design with commercial-grade construction and coinless operation, the Countercades include original artwork; immersive, full-color, high-res displays and sounds; and full-size joysticks and controls. New games include Pac-Man, Dig Dug, Space Invaders, and Centipede. TASTEMAKERS, arcade1up.com
BEYOUTOLOGY LUXE COSMETIC BAR, 8+ Kids can create DIY makeup palettes using more than 60 color combinations to create unique shades of eyeshadow, lip gloss, and highlighter. Drop pigmented pearls into a mixing bowl and crush them to form custom cosmetics. ROSEART, roseart.com
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CARPOOL KARAOKE GAME, 12+ Got moves like Jagger or a voice like Ariana? Using your favorite music app or streaming service, select a song and duel other players — in song, dance moves, or celebrity trivia — for points. BIG G CREATIVE, biggcreative.com
CLASSIC PINBALL GAME, 8+ Players launch 10 balls one at a time to try and get the high score in this classic, tabletop pinball game. Land balls in the scoring zones to accumulate points. Play solo or go head to head. BUFFALO GAMES, buffalogames.com
COOL MAKER GO GLAM NAIL STAMPER, 8+ Style manicures at home with this kit. Paint nails using the included polish, then place nails in the machine to adhere the patterned stamps. Decorates up to 125 nails with five patterns (additional patterns and polish sold separately). SPIN MASTER, spinmaster.com HANK’S TWISTED CHALLENGE, 8+ Players will wiggle their bodies in crazy ways as they race to remove the ball from the wire. They can choose from four play modes and use the challenge cards to increase the difficulty. WICKED COOL TOYS, wickedcooltoys.com
HARRY POTTER INVISIBILITY CLOAK, 8+ Budding Wizards and Muggles can appear to disappear. Using the cloak’s green screen technology and the free Wow! Stuff app, wearers can recreate the excitement of the invisibility illusion from the Harry Potter films. WOW! STUFF, wowstuff.com
HARRY POTTER MAGICAL INFINITY BOX, 8+ Wizarding World fans can rotate the box to reveal 18 hidden compartments, each containing a secret Harry Potter-inspired item. The surprise collectibles range from plush toys to travel tags for Muggles and Wizards alike. YUME TOYS, yumetoys.com 58
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HOT WHEELS MONSTER TRUCKS RADIO CONTROL BONE SHAKER, 8+ Inspired by the real Bone Shaker, this full-function, 1:10-scale R/C vehicle features sounds, a shaking engine, working headlights, and monster wheels. It can also battle with other New Bright monster trucks (sold separately). NEW BRIGHT, newbright.com
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HYPERSTRIKE, 14+ The HyperStrike bow launches soft foam Zonic Whistle Arrows that can fly up to 250 feet away, allowing kids to take their backyard battles to new levels. Available in two styles: camouflage and carbon fiber. ZING TOYS, zing.toys
K’NEX PAC-MAN ROLLER COASTER BUILDING SET, 9+ Kick off Pac-Man’s 40th anniversary with this working roller coaster. Features more than 400 pieces, including classic-size K’NEX rods and connectors, a flexible roller coaster track, and a batterypowered motor that drives the chain-link coaster car lift. BASIC FUN!, basicfun.com LASER X MORPH, 8+ This set includes two transformable blasters. Set up both units as blasters for two-player laser tag, or set up one as a target for single-player practice. The blasters have a 300-foot range and sound effects. NSI INTERNATIONAL, getlaserx.com NERF FORTNITE RL BLASTER, 8+ Inspired by the gear used in the video game Fortnite, this blaster fires big foam rockets. Load a foam rocket, grasp the handle, and push it forward to fire. Includes two NERF Fortnite Elite rockets. HASBRO, hasbro.com
PICTIONARY AIR, 8+ In this game, players draw in the air with a light-up pen that pairs with the Pictionary Air mobile app. Point the in-app camera at the pen, and the drawing will appear on your device’s screen. MATTEL, shop.mattel.com 60
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POKÉMON SWORD AND POKÉMON SHIELD, 8+ A new generation of Pokémon is coming to the Nintendo Switch. Become a Pokémon Trainer, embark on a new journey in the Galar region, and unravel the mystery behind the Legendary Pokémon Zacian and Zamazenta. NINTENDO, nintendo.com
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SCATTERGORIES, 30TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION, 12+ The game of Scattergories returns with the components and categories from the original game. The mechanical timer has three different settings so players can choose the difficulty level for each game. WINNING MOVES GAMES, winning-moves.com
TOILET PAPER BLASTERS: SHEET STORM, 8+ This blaster transforms toilet paper into clean spitballs. It features rapid-fire pump action to blast spitballs up to 50 feet away. One roll of toilet paper creates more than 350 spitballs, with two spitballs per sheet. JAKKS PACIFIC, jakks.com
WAVE CATCHER, 8+ Kids cruise along the street at up to 10 mph with this electric scooter and skateboard hybrid. The aluminum skateboard deck tilts on its side, and the scooter features a Flexbar handle and folds up for easy storage. ROLLPLAY, rollplay.net
X-SHOT NINJA TURBO STRIKE, 8+ The world’s No. 1 Fortnite streamer, Ninja, collaborates with ZURU for this monstrous, 20-dart foam blaster with an auto-rotating barrel and “SlamFire” rapid-shot technology. Includes 48 darts, a bandana, and Ninja dog tags. ZURU TOYS, zuru.com
Y’ART, 8+ Kids can create textile art with yarn by threading the Y’Art pen and coloring in the numbered areas of the pre-printed canvases. The yarn clings to the Grip-NStick Y’Artboard, and kids can easily lift the yarn and reposition it at any time. KAHOOTZ TOYS, kahootztoys.com
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