Every Christmas retailer tries to identify which toys are going to be the hottest selling items for kids everywhere. However, with so many toys to choose from, the task of Christmas shopping for your children can be overwhelming.
So if you want to surprise your kids with an amazing gift this Christmas season but are stumped about where to begin, here is a list of 10 of the hottest holiday toys that are likely to be on your children’s Christmas 2010 wish list.
Air Hogs
For parents who don’t know about Air Hogs, they are a line of remote controlled toy airplanes, helicopters, rockets and zero gravity cars. Recommended for ages eight and up, these toys are likely to appeal to adults as well. From the Hummer-style vehicle that can be driven up walls to the extremely popular Aero Ace radio controlled plane, or the Hawk Eye Camera Copter that can make videos and photos while flying, there are as many variations as there are price ranges for these toys. Price: $20 and up.
Barbie Video Girl
Since Barbie first hit the market back in the late 50s, every little girl has fallen in love with the doll and all of her accessories. Well, now Barbie comes with a hidden video camera inside her necklace, which allows your little girl to make and watch her own movies. That means she’ll be able to keep memories of Christmas 2010 for years to come. Price: $50.
Fisher Price Sing-a-ma-Jig
On the 2010 Toys-R-Us top 10 list of gifts, these offbeat characters are actually singing plush toys. Each Sing-a-ma-Jig chatters in its own language, sings a tune and harmonizes with other Sing-a-ma-Jigs. That means the more Sing-a-ma-Jigs you have, the more harmony they create. Plus they come in a variety of colors and styles. A sure-fire hit this Christmas, they are listed on Amazon.com for $15 to $25.
Fuzzoodles Jumbo Plush Construction Kit
Fuzzoodles are oversized, plush, fuzzy pipe cleaners in various bold colors. The twistable Fuzzoodles connect with a variety of fun pieces that allow children to create their own fuzzy, whimsical creatures that they can play with for hours. Recommended for children ages five and up, there are several sets that range in price from $15 to $20.
LEGO® Hogwarts™
Okay, what child is not completely enthralled with Harry Potter™ as well as LEGO®? However, there are several Lego Hogwarts toys and games. One of the least expensive (around $30) and fun games for 2 to 4 players is LEGO® Harry Potter™ Hogwarts™. There are also the four variations of LEGO® Harry Potter™ Hogwarts™ Castle. The latest version is said to contain new, redesigned, and exclusive mini-figures along with some brand new rooms such as the AstronomTower.
The biggest hurdle with this gift is the price tag. The different versions run from $175 to over $500. Keep in mind that most kids love LEGO® and so if the Harry Potter™ version isn’t right for your child, there are plenty of other LEGO® themes to choose from.
My Pillow Pets
These cute creatures are both a pillow and a pet. They’re plush stuffed animals that come in a variety of animal types, including a penguin, hippo, ladybug and dog. These are great for sleepovers or naptime, and your littlest ones will be sure to thank you on Christmas morning. They are priced as low as $5, though the average price is around $35.
Squinkies
There are literally hundreds of Squinkies to collect, including kittens, puppies, babies and ponies. They come in a little plastic ball, similar to what you can get in a gumball machine. They are soft and squishy and fit in the palm of your hand. They are not recommended for children under three due to their small size. However, this is the kind of fun gift that older kids will enjoy finding in their Christmas stocking. Sets come in a variety of sizes starting as low as $10.
Toy Story 3 Electronic Jet-Pack Buzz Lightyear
Considering the popularity of this year’s Toy Story 3 the Jet-pack Buzz Lightyear is likely to be one of this holiday season’s hottest toys. This action figure features pop-out wings with laser lights that blink red and green. The star command communication module on his arm flips up and makes a sound. He also comes with a pulsing laser light weapon and speaks 60 unique phrases. This is a toy that will keep your child busy for long after the Christmas holiday. Price: $75 to $100, though there are earlier versions of Buzz that are less expensive. Or check out the Toy Story 3 Buzz Lightyear Mission Pack for under $25.
Wow Wee Paper Jamz Guitar
For children dreaming of becoming a rock star, the Wow Wee Paper Jamz guitar gives your child the freedom to choose between pre-programmed tunes and strumming their own beats. And you don’t have to worry about the noise because the Wow Wee Paper Jamz guitar comes with headphones. That means while your child rocks out you can still enjoy a peaceful Christmas holiday. Average price: $20.
Zhu Zhu Hamsters
Zhu Zhu Hamsters and all their accompanying accessories are back and cuter than ever. Get the Zhu Zhu Pets Hamsters Wild Bunch Set (around $50), which includes four different wild bunch characters: Hedgehog, Skunk, Rabbit and Raccoon. Each one is motorized and has artificial intelligence that allows it to interact with the Zhu Zhu Pets’ play environments. Or kick it up a notch with the Kung Zhu Battle Hamsters (around $35), which include Special Forces, Ninja Warriors, Rangers and the Skull Tribe Battle Hamsters along with their gear. Any little boy or girl will want one of these toys in their Christmas stocking.
So there you have it, 10 different gifts many children will be hoping to find under the tree this Christmas. Now you just have to choose the right Christmas gift for your child.
Deborah S. Hildebrand - Deborah S. Hildebrand is a freelance writer & HR consultant with 20+ years in human resources & a Bachelor's degree in Business.
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