SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
The Source for the Hottest Toys and Gifts for the Holidays
SEE INSIDE FOR DETAILS
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
to the first annual issue of The Toy Insider! We are excited to be able to share our expertise and guide you on the often daunting task of finding that perfect gift for the holidays. Our team of “Toy Insiders” are experts in developing, evaluating and selecting toys and we have compiled a list of some of the hottest toys to give you a jumpstart on creating your Wish List for that special child in your life. We all know how busy our lives are, juggling multiple roles and goals in life. Therefore, we wanted to provide a guide that is comprehensive and easy to use and that provides the information needed to help busy moms get a jump on the holiday season shopping. We have divided The Toy Insider into five key sections. Our Hot 20 toy section includes recommendations of what we feel will be some of the most sought after toys for the holidays. Since each child is an individual, we have created a broader selection in each of four age segments, 0-2 years (infant and toddler development), 3-5 years (the age of discovery), 6-8 years (the age of community and independence), and 9 plus years (personal growth and choice). We begin each age selection with an overview of children’s needs and interests at that life stage to assist you in finding age-appropriate selections for all of your gift-giving needs. We have identified key developmental play patterns for each toy selection, and as a quick reference, we have created an icon for each skill set that is conveniently located on the next page. Our website resources, which can be found at www.thetoyinsider.com and www.RBClick.com, provide expanded details on each toy and links to most of the manufacturer websites, where you can learn more about these and other products that these manufacturers have to offer. This link will be available throughout the holiday season and through mid-January to take advantage of after-holiday shopping, too. Manufacturer websites are also listed, for your convenience, after each toy description. The last page of The Toy Insider guide has a checklist of all of the toys featured in the guide, which you and your child can use as a shopping Wish List. Feel free to take this page with you when you visit your favorite retailer. Lastly, be sure to enter The Toy Insider Sweepstakes where you can win a toy chest full of many of the hot toys for the holidays! Ten lucky runners up will receive their choice of any one toy in the gift guide. Visit www.RBClick.com for full details. Toys and the gift of giving should be fun, entertaining and provide stimulation for growing minds and bodies. So dive in and enjoy The Toy Insider, THE source for the hottest toys and gifts of this holiday season!
CO-PUBLISHERS EDITOR-IN-CHIEF TOY INSIDER PANEL PRODUCTION DIRECTOR CREATIVE DIRECTION
Jonathan Samet and Laurie Schacht Reyne Rice Reyne Rice, Jackie Breyer, Laurie Schacht Jonathan Samet Anthony Guardiola Mada Design Inc.
Adventure Publishing Group Inc. 1107 Broadway Suite 1204 New York, NY 10010 (212) 575-4510 PH (212) 575-4521 FX www.thetoyinsider.com
All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form is prohibited without prior written consent of Adventure Publishing. All photographs, logos and artwork are the property of their respective owners.
ENTER FOR A CHANCE TO WIN YOUR OWN CHEST FULL OF TOYS OR A PICK OF YOUR FAVORITE! Enter at www.RBClick.com. No purchase necessary to enter or win. Toy Insider Sweepstakes sponsored by Adventure Publishing and Hearst Communications, Inc. Sweepstakes begins 12:01a.m. September 16, 2006 and ends 11:59 p.m. December 1, 2006. Odds of winning will depend upon the total number of eligible entries received. Must be 18 years or older and a resident of the 50 United States, District of Columbia or Canada. Void in Puerto Rico, Quebec Province and where prohibited by law. Sweepstakes subject to complete official rules which are available at www.RBClick.com
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
0-2 YEARS
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DORA KNOWS YOUR NAME, 18 MOS.+ Dora speaks directly to your child, sings songs, tells stories and plays games. Personalize Dora with your child’s information using a simple USB cable, CD-ROM, and computer. FISHER-PRICE, www.fisherprice.com
For more information, go to www.thetoyinsider.com OR www.RBClick.com.
Our Toy Insider staff of experts has
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PEEK ’N PLAY DISCOVERY DOME, 3 MOS.+ Activity dome offers dangling toys to explore, colors and textures to discover and more than 15 hands-on activities. For tummy timers, crawlers and walkers. PLAYSKOOL, www.hasbro.com/playskool
selected these as some of the Hottest Toys for this Holiday Season. Your
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child may have individual needs or passions, so please review each age segment for other great Holiday gifts that would appeal to YOUR child.
V.SMILE BABY INFANT DEVELOPMENT SYSTEM, 9–36 MOS. Three grow-with-me modes offer parent/child interaction for play and learning fun. Child psychologist-endorsed, ageappropriate curriculum with baby sign language cues. Includes one cartridge, wireless controller and activity panel. VTECH, www.vtech.com
SOUND BEGINNINGS GROOVE ’N GO BAND WAGON, 1+ Guitar-shaped wagon on wheels doubles as musical instrument. More than 50 activities, helps to teach ABCs, 123s and musical notes and encourages active play. SHELCORE, www.shelcore.com
(Please note that all products are listed in alphabetical order.)
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3-5 YEARS
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ARIEL MAGICAL TALKING SALON, 3+ Creative role-play lets kids interact with Ariel using voicerecognition technology with a light-up mirror. Includes chair. CDI, www.cditoys.com
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CARS FAST TALKIN’ LIGHTNING MCQUEEN VEHICLE, 4+ Large-scale car has animated eyes and a vinyl-animated mouth so he can talk to kids. Program him to perform 15 stunts and tricks. MATTEL ENTERTAINMENT, www.mattel.com
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BARBIE IN THE TWELVE DANCING PRINCESSES: LET’S DANCE BARBIE, 3+ Really dances! Three ways to play: teach Barbie new dance moves, teach girls new movements, or dance alone. Includes two interactive wristbands and one shoe clip. MATTEL, www.mattel.com
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MY LITTLE PONY CRYSTAL RAINBOW CASTLE PLAYSET, 3+ Castle playset expands to two feet tall and three floors high to become home to all of your child’s favorite My Little Pony figures. HASBRO, www.hasbro.com
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CARE BEARS TELE-FRIEND AMIGO BEAR, 3+ Amigo Bear teaches children bilingual skills. Press Amigo Bear’s phone to hear phrases that teach numbers, colors and simple conversations in English or Spanish. PLAY ALONG, www.playalongtoys.com
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TRANSFORMERS CYBERTRON PRIMUS DELUXE FIGURE, 5+ Standing 14-inches tall in Robot mode, Cybertron Primus changes from Transformers home planet to a giant robot, with lights and sounds. HASBRO, www.hasbro.com
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6-8 YEARS
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BRATZ PASSION 4 FASHION FOREVER DIAMONDZ FASHION SHOW-ON-THE-GO RUNWAY PLAYSET, 6+ From the Bratz Passion 4 Fashion DVD! Stylin’ trailer truck converts into a fabulous fashion show runway, with lights and sounds. MGA ENTERTAINMENT, www.mgae.com
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DISNEY FAIRIES PIXIE HOLLOW HOME TREE PLAYSET, 6+ With a clap of their hands, little girls activate the spinning Fairy-Go-Round on the treetop for up to four fairies. Exclusive Tinker Bell Fairy included. PLAYMATES, www.playmatestoys.com
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PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN 2, BLACK PEARL SHIP, 6+ Fully buildable, highly-detailed ship with real fabric sails. Two launching cannons, pulley system, opening deck panels, and access inside ship. Includes three exclusive figures. MEGA BLOKS, www.megabloks.com
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G Infant & Toddler Developmental Skills: Develop five senses, basic concepts, hand/eye coordination, active physical coordination, and early language skills.
I SCENE-IT? NICKELODEON DVD TRIVIA GAME, 6+ Combines all your favorite Nickelodeon characters in one incredible DVD game. Includes real show clips, trivia questions and a ton of on-screen challenges. SCREENLIFE, www.screenlifegames.com
SPY VIDEO CAR, 8+ The first remote controlled video camera directs the Spy Video Car with infrared night vision and headset display and films in real-time video. Works up to 75 feet away. WILD PLANET, www.wildplanet.com
Social and Emotional Intelligence Development: Develop art, music, language and social skills. Explore creative, imaginative play and role-playing.
# School Readiness Skills: Develop math, logic and spatial skills. Enhance language, reading and writing skills. Discover science, nature and exploration.
L Physical Skills: Develop balance and
9+ YEARS
coordination, using large and small motor skills, exercise and body awareness.
N Technology Products/Electronics: # L N
AIR HOGS STORM LAUNCHER, 14+ Radio controlled vehicle masters all terrain types, from land to sea to air. Comes ready to fly, no assembly required. SPIN MASTER, www.spinmaster.com
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DIGI MAKE-OVER, 8+ Girls use touchpad console with digital camera to scan in their face for a truly personalized makeover experience. Change hairstyles, make-up and more. Plugs directly into your own TV. RADICA, www.radicagames.com
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BLUE MAN GROUP MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS KEYBOARD EXPERIENCE, 8+ Mix and fade music, play drums, or jam along with your iPod. Combines nine different instruments, eight preprogrammed songs and multiple music modes using motion-sensor technology. TOY QUEST, www.toyquest.com
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MASSIVELY MINI MEDIA, 8+ Plays MP3 music files and videos and stores photos with touch-screen technology. One inch by 2.5 inches and 1/2 inch thick, with128 MB of memory. Includes ear buds with lanyard. TIGER ELECTRONICS ,www.hasbro.com/tiger
Enhance knowledge of computers, music, fashion, communications, internet, geography and world events.
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Social Interaction/Parent/Child Interaction: Encourage and develop close relationships through shared learning experiences. Toys “R” Us Availability: Products with this icon are available at Toys-R-Us stores nationwide, and /or at toysrus.com.
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MINDSTORMS NXT, 10+ Robotics toolset includes “Quick Start” guide to build and program a robot in 30 minutes. Uses “Intelligent-brick” and light, sound, motion and touch sensors. Blue-tooth wireless technology capable. LEGO, www.lego.com
For more information, go to www.thetoyinsider.com OR www.RBClick.com.
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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
AMAZING ANIMALS SING & GO CHOO CHOO, 6 MOS.+ Baby learns about animals through songs, animal facts and classic train play. Each electronic train car has unique features, sounds and three animals. For sitting or crawling babies. FISHER-PRICE, www.fisherprice.com
0-2 YEARS
INFANTS & TODDLERS
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In these important developmental
ARK PLAYHOUSE, BIRTH+ Peek-a-boo windows reveal cuddly plush animals inside the ark playhouse. Soft velboa plush animals remove for individual play. Designed in unisex colors with a carry handle. NORTH AMERICAN BEAR COMPANY ,www.nabear.com
years, your little ones are absorbing
For more information, go to www.thetoyinsider.com OR www.RBClick.com.
new information and new skills at an amazing rate. A variety of toys
AROUND WE GO ACTIVITY STATION, 4 MOS.+ Babies navigate this sturdy, activity-packed table in the “cruise control” seat or toddlers walk around it, exploring more than 20 interactive toys and activities. KIDS II BRIGHT STARTS, www.brightstarts.com
designed to encourage all of their senses are what little ones need to grow into balanced toddlers. We have selected products that encourage
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parent-child interaction, with colors, BACKYARDIGANS SING-ALONG MUSIC MAKER, 18 MOS.+ Sing and dance along with Backyardigans characters to five types of music: ska, disco, rock, salsa, and zydeco. Includes microphone and carry handle. FISHER-PRICE, www.fisherprice.com
textures, sounds and movement to stimulate your child’s sense of
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curiosity and discovery. Infants respond to sound and touch and learn
BOB THE BUILDER FOLLOW ME REMOTE CONTROLLED SCOOP, 2+ Scoop can follow Bob—and your child—with this delightful, easy-to-use remote control vehicle. Features working lights, 10 sounds and Bob-the-Builder’s theme song. RC2, www.rc2corp.com
to focus with parents as their favorite toy. As they grow to toddlers, handeye coordination, motor skills, speech recognition and more are all learned
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skills that parents can take an active BUILD YOUR OWN LEGO DUPLO ZOO, 2–4 YEARS This hefty tub of LEGO DUPLO bricks, elements and figures is perfect for inspiring little hands and big imaginations to build a whole zoo full of familiar animals, from elephants to penguins, lions to giraffes. LEGO, www.lego.com
role in developing. These products have been selected and designed
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especially with your baby’s and ERIC CARLE VERY HUNGRY CATERPILLAR, 3 MOS.+ Vibrant colors and lush textures engage babies in classic Eric Carle storybook style. Ten pockets, with tethered and tactile plush surprises. Surface washable. SMALL WORLD TOYS, www.smallworldtoys.com
toddler’s development in mind.
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FROGGLE BATH CENTER, 9 MOS.+ Water discovery toy develops sensory, cause & effect and coordination skills during bath time playtime. Includes water scooper and strainer and multiple activities. TINY LOVE, www.tinylove.com TOYS “R” US AVAILABILITY
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LITTLE HANDS ABC ZOO, 2+ Soft foam animals designed for little hands teach children about animals and the alphabet. Contains 26 animals with 26 removable letters. ALEX TOYS, www.alextoys.com
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LAMAZE TWO CAN PLAY CLAP WITH ME MONKEY, BIRTH+ Teaches baby about cause-andeffect through play. Monkey encourages clapping with the “If You’re Happy and You Know It” song. RC2 LEARNING CURVE, www.rc2corp.com
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PLAY-DOH 50 COLORS, 2+ Kids can sculpt countless Play-Doh creations with 50 different kidinspiring colors in one-ounce cans with this special 50th birthday gift pack. PLAYSKOOL, www.hasbro.com/playskool
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NOOBOO SYMPHONIC STACK, 9 MOS.+ Four soft, colorful rings slide over the post, initiating four different sounds to reinforce cause-and-effect learning with delightful musical tones. MANHATTAN TOY, www.manhattantoy.com
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LEARN ’N GROOVE MUSICAL TABLE, 6–36 MOS. 15 activities include bilingual learning for letters, numbers, colors, shapes and musical instruments. For sitting babies or standing toddlers. LEAP FROG BABY, www.leapfrog.com
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WOOD CREATIONS FARM, 2+ Classic natural wood with the proven versatility of the Maxi Blok building system. Farm set includes basic building elements, detailed themed parts and adorable animals. MEGA BRANDS, www.megabloks.com
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
BARBIE JAM WITH ME ELECTRONIC GUITAR, 4+ Comes with six songs on two cartridges and includes headset. Three separate volume controls. Four modes include karaoke, jamming, guitar, and strumming. KIDDESIGNS, www.kiddirect.com
3-5 YEARS
PRESCHOOL
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Open the door to role-play, creativity, BIGGEST LITTLEST PET SHOP, 4+ The ultimate playing and shopping experience for girls’ growing collection of Littlest Pet Shop characters. Includes two exclusive pets and multiple accessories. HASBRO, www.hasbro.com
and personality! By now, your toddlers
For more information, go to www.thetoyinsider.com OR www.RBClick.com.
have advanced their skills beyond the basics and are ready to explore even
BLACK AND DECKER JR. ELECTRONIC TOOL WORKSHOP, 3+ Role-play tools for your young craftsman include pretend hammer, screwdriver, saw, wrench, nuts, bolts and a nonworking cell phone. Realistic action, lights and sounds. CDI, www.cditoys.com
more variety in their playtime. They are ready to tumble forward into active play and most are eager to delve into creative imaginative play. Our role as
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parents and care-givers is to DORA GAME HOUSE, 3+ Solid wood game house holds eight classic Dora and Friends games: Checkers, Bingo, Dominoes, Tic Tac Toe, Go Fish, Old Maid, Crazy Eights and Match Game. CARDINAL GAMES, www.cardinalgames.com
encourage their social and emotional skills, such as music, art and role-
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playing, which instill their sense of confidence, inspire imaginations, and
GIGGLE GEAR MEGA MASKS (WITH SOUND MORPHER), 5+ Interchangeable parts allow kids to create outrageous masks that transform their voices and faces. Robot-Bug-Alien or Fun Fairy themes. CRANIUM, www.cranium.com
prepare them to play well with others. Many children are also ready to start learning school-readiness skills such
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as colors, numbers, and problem solving. We have selected products HOLLY HOBBIE CLUBHOUSE GIRLS SNOW CONE MAKER, 5+ Tree house-shaped playset offers multi-level fun. Remove the treetop, add ice and create snow cone treats. Includes flavor packets, accessories and Holly Hobbie poseable figure. MATTEL ENTERTAINMENT, www.mattel.com
from a variety of play categories that keep kids actively involved while they
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learn and explore. KID K’NEX ROCKIN ROBOTS, 3+ Easy for young hands to snap together with colorful chunky Kid K’nex pieces. Includes idea guide. Handy case makes storage and on-the-go fun a snap. K’NEX, www.knex.com
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KID TOUGH FP3 PLAYER, 3+ Durable digital media player for preschoolers comes preloaded with age-appropriate songs. Go to Fisher-Price Online Content Store to download stories and songs from popular children’s artists. FISHER-PRICE, www.fisherprice.com TOYS “R” US AVAILABILITY
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PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN 2: CAPTAIN JACK SPARROW’S PIRATE GEAR, 4+ Child-sized role-play set features Jack’s trademark headband with dreadlocks, beads, compass, sword, three carved rings, bracelet, temporary tattoo and cannibal eye stickers. ZIZZLE, www.zizzle.com
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POWER RANGERS MYSTIC FORCE ROOTCORE COMMAND CENTER, 4+ Includes exclusive five-inch figure and cycle launcher. Two play patterns include Train mode and Dragon Tower Mode, lights and sounds. BANDAI, www.bandai.com
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STORYBOOK PILLOW, 3+ Large 23-inch Storybook becomes a plush pillow for kids at naptime or bedtime. Favorite characters are available in classic stories, such as The Little Mermaid, Backyardigans, Dora the Explorer and more. SENARIO, www.senario.com
NAME THAT SONG MICKEY, MICKEY MOUSE CLUBHOUSE, 3+ Plush Mickey recognizes 20 songs and teaches kids to play 14 songs on wireless piano keyboard. Press Mickey’s hand and he sings. DISNEY CHARACTER DIRECT, www.disneyconsumerproducts.com
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POLLY POCKET SO HIP CRUISE SHIP, 4+ The ultimate vacation destination. Kids can role-play rock-climbing, parasailing, hot tubbing and super slide fun with Polly. Color-change bathing suits and loads of accessories. MATTEL, www.mattel.com
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SPARK ART EASEL, 3+ Encourages open-ended play. Uses electronic audio prompts for three modes of play: Create & Discover, Idea Starters, and Color Starters. Height adjustable, converts from easel to table. FISHER-PRICE, www.fisherprice.com
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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
SUPERMAN LAPTOP ADVANCE, 5+ Super-powered learning laptop features activities in math, logic, memory and spelling—30 activities in English and 30 activities in Spanish. Superman theme song plays when lid opens. OREGON SCIENTIFIC, www.oregonscientific.com
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TALKING CHOU CHOU, 3+ Realistic bilingual 19-inch sweet baby doll talks and reacts to child’s touch and to special accessories. Teaches nurturing play for little ones. ZAPF CREATION. www.zapfcreation.com
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TJ BEARYTALES, 3+ Animated plush bear helps preschoolers get ready to learn through storytelling, music and play-along activities. A collection of 13 original tales to teach young listeners social and emotional skills. PLAYSKOOL, www.hasbro.com/playskool
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TUB TUNES WATER TRUMPET, 3+ Musical trumpet can be tuned with water to create a variety of sounds so kids can experiment with music during bath time. Includes easy-to-learn song guide. ALEX TOYS, www.alextoys.com
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WONDER WORKS TALKING PICTURE BOOK, 5+ This open-ended electronic storybook encourages kids to create original drawings and to record their stories with wacky or realistic sounds. More than 60 innovative story-starter ideas included. CRANIUM, www.cranium.com
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ZIBBIES, 5+ Eccentric animal characters combine the most innovative plush on the market with the offbeat look of stretchy, Hyperflex hair. Collect them all. PLAY VISIONS, www.playvisions.us
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AMAZING ALLYSON, 6+ An interactive friend with long hair to style, Allyson will become a girl’s best friend, from listening and sharing favorite things to chatting with friends on her cell phone and more. PLAYMATES, www.playmatestoys.com
6-8 YEARS
GRADE SCHOOL
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With older kids, their sense of
ANT FARM GEL COLONY, 6+ Watch tiny architects sculpt their habitat into a natural work of art. Nutrient-rich gel provides your ants with a continuous source of food and water. UNCLE MILTON, www.unclemilton.com
independence is growing while they are
For more information, go to www.thetoyinsider.com OR www.RBClick.com.
also seeking community with their friends in school, sports and other
BEN 10 OMNITRIX, 6+ Boys become their favorite hero, Ben Tennyson, and reenact all his fun alien adventures. Wristband features red & green flashing lights, as well as sound effects. Uses animating disks. BANDAI, www.bandai.com
team activities. Most love new experiences, as they seek to discover their place in the world. As a significant influence in your children’s lives, you
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can help to identify your kids’ passions and encourage them to pursue them,
DEAL OR NO DEAL ELECTRONIC TABLETOP GAME, 8+ Based on the popular NBC TV Show. Choose a briefcase and then either stay with your briefcase or accept the electronic banker’s “deal.” 1–4 players. ITOYS, www.irwintoy.com
whether they involve music, art,
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creativity, athletics, science and discovery, reading and writing, acting
DISNEY PIX CLICK MICRO DIGITAL CAMERA, 6+ Designed for kids, holds up to 24 photos, with portable design that easily hooks to bags and backpacks. Has LCD display, software CD-ROM, and CIF resolution. DIGITAL BLUE, www.playdigitalblue.com
or math and problem-solving. At this age, kids often start building collections of trading cards, dolls, action figures,
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etc. Computer skills and internet awareness grow as they connect with a DOODLE DICE, 6+ Roll the Doodle Dice. Match a doodle pictured on one of the playing cards. Collect one of each colored card, of increasing challenge, to win the game. JAX LTD GAMES, www.jaxgames.com
bigger world through school and the internet. Products we have selected for
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this age group encourage a wide EXO-FORCE SENTAI FORTRESS, 7+ Exo-Force hero home base with lookout tower, repair and reload battle machines and regeneration station. Includes two battle suits, four minifigures and four villains. LEGO, www.lego.com
variety of skills and experiences.
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FLY WHEELS XPV XTREME PERFORMANCE VEHICLE, 8+ Navigates concrete, grass and off-road at speeds approaching 20 miles per hour! Flies 20 stories high at up to 30 miles per hour! Fully assembled. JAKKS PACIFIC, www.jakkspacific.com TOYS “R” US AVAILABILITY
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GI JOE SIGMA 6 DRAGONHAWK, 6+ Main transport plane for combat support. Magnetic docking system with removable drop box has a fastdeploy system to launch the team’s ninja motorcycle into action. HASBRO, www.hasbro.com
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GWEN STEFANI L.A.M.B. DOLLS, 6+ Based on the costume worn in the “Hollaback” video, the Bananas doll brings the world of cheerleading to life. Multiple accessories. Eight dolls available, including L.A.M.B dolls. HUCKLEBERRY TOYS,
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www.huckleberrytoys.com
HOT WHEELS RADAR GUN, 7+ Kids can measure the speed of vehicles and other fast objects. Real, working radar gun measures real speed and Hot Wheels 1:64-scale speed. Features point-and-read technology. MATTEL WHEELS.
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www.mattel.com, www.hotwheels.com
KNOT A QUILT, 6+ Create a giant 36-inch by 48-inch quilt in just a few hours. Knot the 48 fringed fleece squares together into a colorful pattern using six bold colors. ALEX TOYS, www.alextoys.com
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MIUCHIZ, 6+ Newest generation of virtual friends are digital, interactive characters that you customize, personalize and stylize! Three modes of play (online, wireless mode or push-button screen play-on-the-go). Full-color screens. MGA ENTERTAINMENT,
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www.mgae.com
MONOPOLY, SPONGEBOB SQUAREPANTS EDITION, 8+ Popular Monopoly classic game with a twist overlays the fun adventures of SpongeBob and his Bikini Bottom friends. Alternate game rules for shorter play. MILTON BRADLEY, www.hasbro.com/miltonbradley
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MY SPACE FUNKY 4-ROOM LOFT, 6+ Bring the popular TV home-makeover craze to your home. Craft kit includes a fold-n-go dollhouse, poseable foam doll, foam furniture, stickers, plus more. FIBRE CRAFT,
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www.fibrecraft.com
MY TWINN, 6+ Create a one-of-a-kind doll to look like the special child in your life. Customize with 15 face selections, eight eye and hair colors, lengths and textures and other personalized details. MY TWINN,
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www.mytwinn.com
NERF MAGSTRIKE RAPID FIRE LAUNCHER SYSTEM, 6+ Comes complete with one blaster, two reload clips, 20 Tagger MicroDarts, a scoring vest and one pair of Vision Gear eyewear. TIGER GAMES, www.hasbro.com/tiger
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PLAY TV SKATEBOARDER, 8+ Realistic skateboard action in either individual or two-player mode. Use a combination of joystick buttons and board movements to play. Plugs into TV. RADICA GAMES,
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www.radicagames.com
SPEED STACKS STACKPACK, 5+ New, fast-paced sport is practiced in 10,000 schools nationwide. Official StackPack includes 12 specially designed cups, competition stack mat, electronic precision timer, carrying bag and instructional DVD. PLAY ALONG,
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www.playalongtoys.com
WEBKINZ, 5+ Collection of cute, cuddly, plush pets. Each carries a secret code that unlocks a virtual world of fun and adventure at www.webkinz.com, www.ganz.com a safe and secure website for kids. GANZ
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BEATZ AND REMIX, 8+ Mix tools are designed to personalize your music mixes with scratch and remix options. iPods are protected inside (iPods sold separately). Comes with a belt clip, in a variety of colors. SPIN MASTER, www.spinmaster.com
9+ YEARS
TWEENS
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Today’s generation of kids 9 and older
CUBE-WORLD SERIES 2, 8+ Four new stick figures add personality and color. Play games individually, using the three action buttons found on each cube. Or build a cube world, where characters randomly interact. RADICA GAMES, www.radicagames.com
are more technology savvy and
For more information, go to www.thetoyinsider.com OR www.RBClick.com.
computer literate than any generation before them. In this section we
DESIGNERS WORLD PLUG ’N PLAY TV GAME, 8+ The game about the business of fashion. Create your own fashion line, pick your models, face the international judges and build your fashion empire. TIGER GAMES, www.hasbro.com/tiger
introduce some of the newest technology products designed specifically for them. Yet, we know that they also need to develop
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communication and social skills, so DRAGONOLOGY: THE GAME, 10+ Like New York Times’ bestselling book, Dragonology: The Complete Book of Dragons. This game invites players to travel the world, mastering dragons and teaching people about dragons versus slaying them. SABABA TOYS, www.sababatoy.com
we have included many games in a variety of new formats: classic board
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games involving favorite characters and celebrities, DVD board games,
ESPN FAST ACTION FOOTBALL, 8+ Electronic action game for one or two players encourages fast footwork. Play-by-play commentary and ESPN music. Three levels of play: Training Camp, Rookie or Pro, 20 games in all. FISHER-PRICE, www.fisherprice.com
electronic games, brain-teasers, trivia and active participation games. These also encourage peer and multigenerational interaction. At this age,
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building strong homework and timeESPN PLAY-BY-PLAY, 8+ The ultimate portable sports and audio entertainment system, this item inspires kids to provide play-by-play announcements, mimic athletes and announcers, conduct interviews and mix in sports music and sound bites. REAL LIVE SPORTS, www.reallivesports.com
management skills will help kids to deal effectively with scheduling their lives and managing stress. We have
FLY PENTOP COMPUTER FLYWARE, 8+ New software for your Fly Pentop Computer unlocks secret paths in Harry Potter’s Marauders Map and other games. Personalized homework software tutors algebra, writing and Spanish, plus more. LEAP FROG, www.leapfrog.com
rounded out this category with some of these new tools that the whole family can use.
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GORDIAN’S KNOT, 8+ Based on the classic brainteaser puzzle, this item challenges logic and problem-solving skills. Six colorful pieces, 69 different moves to solve. Comes with step-by-step instruction booklet. THINKFUN, www.thinkfun.com TOYS “R” US AVAILABILITY
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HYPERSCAN, 8+ Hybrid gaming system blends strategic trading card play with video game play. Intellicards scanned into console base bring characters to life on screen. Add and store new powers through challenges and upgrades. MATTEL, www.mattel.com
ICAR, 8+ This MP3 accessory rocks! Colored neon lights illuminate multiple vehicle parts, while a quality speaker pumps out sound and motion. Two body types and colors: Nissan 240SX and Cadillac Escalade. CORGI, www.corgi.co.uk
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IGAMEZ, 10+ MP3 players are hot. Gather 3–4 friends and connect your MP3 players (sold separately) and music to iGAMEz. Secretly select a song and have your friends guess to gain points. Many variations. PRESSMAN, www.pressmantoy.com
LEGO RACERS X5 IGNITER, 9+ Customized radio control vehicle is easy to build, race and rebuild after a crash. Reconfigure 58 pieces as offroad racer, monster truck, or whatever vehicle kids can imagine. LEGO, www.lego.com
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PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN DVD TREASURE HUNT, 8+ Exciting DVD board game includes clips and features from the hit movie. Navigate the seas in search of hidden treasure, collect booty cards and duel other pirate ships. IMAGINATION ENTERTAINMENT, www.imaginationgames.com
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MLB GRAND SLAM TRIVIA DVD GAME, 12+ Action-packed sports trivia game challenges Major League Baseball fans with questions and footage of baseball players, coaches and rivalries. Trivia questions offer multiple levels of difficulty. SNAP TV, www.snaptvgames.com
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POP 5, 12+ Hilarious new spin on pop culture, this game is not so much about what you know, but how you show it. Rank activities in pop culture themes; get your team to guess the theme using cues and clues. CRANIUM, www.cranium.com, www.pop5game.com
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SMART GLOBE, 8+ The only internet-updateable learning globe. Thirty learning activities for three programmable age levels: 5–8, 8–15 and 15–adult. Games stimulate learning geography, world facts and current events. Bilingual options. OREGON SCIENTIFIC, www.oregonscientific.com
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STAR THEATER SE, 8+ Explore the night sky as your darkened room is transformed into a home planetarium. Project hundreds of stars and constellations on your walls and ceilings. Stellarium computer software included. UNCLE MILTON, www.unclemilton.com
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SUDOKU HANDHELD ELECTRONIC GAME, 8+ This update on the bestselling Sudoku puzzle craze features a handheld electronic game with more than 2 million puzzles. New backlit illumination touch screen with stylus allows game play anytime, anywhere. TECHNO SOURCE, www.technosourceusa.com
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TWISTER DANCE DVD, 8+ New Twister Dance game combines audio AND video instruction. Four different dance sites: Club, Beach, Downtown and Stage. TV/DVD required. Dance mats included for 2–4 players. MILTON BRADLEY, www.hasbro.com/miltonbradley
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VMIGO, 8+ Handheld virtual pets also come to life as video game characters on your TV. Four multiplayer games and nine activities. Trade and share with wireless technology. Built-in, real-time clock affects game play. JAKKS PACIFIC, www.jakkspacific.com
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Your
Shopping Guide for the Top Hot Toys
AMAZING ANIMALS SING & GO CHOO CHOO
PIRATES, CAPT. JACK SPARROW’S PIRATE GEAR
NERF MAGSTRIKE RAPID FIRE LAUNCHER SYSTEM
ARK PLAYHOUSE
POLLY POCKET SO HIP CRUISE SHIP
PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN 2, BLACK PEARL SHIP
AROUND WE GO ACTIVITY STATION
POWER RANGERS MYSTIC FORCE COMMAND CTR.
PLAY TV SKATEBOARDER
BACKYARDIGANS SING-ALONG MUSIC MAKER
SPARK ART EASEL
SCENE-IT? NICKELODEON DVD TRIVIA GAME
BOB THE BUILDER FOLLOW ME SCOOP RC
STORYBOOK PILLOW
SPEED STACKS STACKPACK
BUILD YOUR OWN LEGO DUPLO ZOO
SUPERMAN LAPTOP ADVANCE
SPY VIDEO CAR
DORA KNOWS YOUR NAME
TALKING CHOU CHOU
WEBKINZ
ERIC CARLE VERY HUNGRY CATERPILLAR
THE BIG COMFY COUCH DVDs
AIR HOGS STORM LAUNCHER
FROGGLE BATH CENTER
TJ BEARYTALES
BEATZ AND REMIX
LAMAZE TWO CAN PLAY CLAP WITH ME MONKEY
TRANSFORMERS CYBERTRON PRIMUS DELUXE
BLUE MAN GROUP MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS
LEARN ’N GROOVE MUSICAL TABLE
TUB TUNES WATER TRUMPET
CUBE-WORLD, SERIES 2
LITTLE HANDS ABC ZOO
WONDER WORKS TALKING PICTURE BOOK
DESIGNERS WORLD PLUG ’N PLAY TV GAME
NOOBOO SYMPHONIC STACK
VEGGIE TALES DVDs
DIGI MAKE-OVER
PEEK ’N PLAY DISCOVERY DOME
ZIBBIES
DRAGONOLOGY: THE GAME
PLAY-DOH 50 COLORS
AMAZING ALLYSON
ESPN FAST ACTION FOOTBALL
GROOVE ’N GO BAND WAGON
ANT FARM GEL COLONY
ESPN PLAY-BY-PLAY
V.SMILE BABY INFANT DEVELOPMENT SYSTEM
BEN 10 OMNITRIX
FLY PENTOP COMPUTER FLYWARE
WOOD CREATIONS FARM
BRATZ FASHION SHOW-ON-THE-GO RUNWAY
GORDIAN’S KNOT
ARIEL MAGICAL TALKING SALON
DEAL OR NO DEAL ELECTRONIC TABLETOP GAME
HYPERSCAN
LET’S DANCE BARBIE
DISNEY FAIRIES PIXIE HOLLOW HOME TREE
ICAR
BARBIE JAM WITH ME ELECTRONIC GUITAR
DISNEY PIX CLICK DIGITAL CAMERA
IGAMESZ
BIGGEST LITTLEST PET SHOP
DOODLE DICE
LEGO RACERS X5 IGNITER
BLACK AND DECKER JR. ELEC. TOOL WORKSHOP
EXO-FORCE SENTAI FORTRESS
MASSIVELY MINI MEDIA
CARE BEARS TELE-FRIEND AMIGO BEAR
FLY WHEELS XPV XTREME PERFORMANCE VEHICLE
MINDSTORMS NXT
CARS FAST TALKIN’ LIGHTNING MCQUEEN VEHICLE
GI JOE SIGMA 6 DRAGONHAWK
MLB GRAND SLAM TRIVIA DVD GAME
DORA GAME HOUSE
GWEN STEFANI L.A.M.B. DOLLS
PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN DVD TREASURE HUNT
GIGGLE GEAR MEGA MASKS
HOT WHEELS RADAR GUN
POP 5 GAME
HOLLY HOBBIE CLUBHOUSE SNOW CONE MAKER
KNOT A QUILT
SMART GLOBE
KID K’NEX ROCKIN ROBOTS
MIUCHIZ
STAR THEATRE SE
KID TOUGH FP3 PLAYER
MONOPOLY, SPONGEBOB SQUAREPANTS EDITION
SUDOKU HANDHELD ELECTRONIC GAME
MY LITTLE PONY CRYSTAL RAINBOW CASTLE
MY SPACE FUNKY 4-ROOM LOFT
TWISTER DANCE DVD
NAME THAT SONG MICKEY
MY TWINN
VMIGO