By Sandra E. Martin
Updated Jun 18, 2013Right Angle Tummy Triangle
Age: 0 m+
Instead of putting baby on a flat play mat (which some don’t like!), this model gently raises baby’s torso off the floor. It also features lots of colours, toys and music keep it interesting.
$40, Infantino
Check local retailers for availability
Where to Buy?
Disney Universe
Age: 8 – 12 yrs
Up to four players at a time “dress up” as their favourite Disney characters on-screen to solve puzzles and battle foes in your choice of Disney “worlds.” Kids can play competitively or co-operatively and switch back and forth throughout the game. You’ll need an Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 or Wii console to play.
$50, Disney Interactive Studios
Available at Walmart, Toys“R”Us, Future Shop, Best Buy
Where to Buy?
PlasmaBike
Age: 18 m+
Powered by kids’ feet, this sturdy bike stays upright on its own, so even little ones can ride a two-wheeler!
$80 PlaSmart
Check local retailers for availability
Where to Buy?
Baby Alive Baby’s New Teeth
Age: 3 yrs+
Feed the doll a cookie and watch her teeth grow — then use the included pretend toothbrush and toothpaste to make sure they stay clean and healthy. She also comes with a sippy cup and will wet her diaper.
$25, Hasbro
Available at Toys“R”Us
Where to Buy?
Fijit Friends
Age: 6+
Squishy on the outside, intelligent on the inside, Fijit characters move to the music you play and even coordinate their movement with other Fijits. They also chatter and respond to commands.
$70, Mattel
Available at Toys“R”Us
Where to Buy?
Battleship Live
Age: 8+
The general rules are the same as the Battleship you know and love — but with a twist. A computerized tower keeps track of the players and scoring, with an infrared camera that scans the board and notes every time you move a game piece. And because the computer can spring surprises on you (like starting a typhoon!), this game can change at any time.
$50, Hasbro
Available at Toys“R”Us
Where to Buy?
Voice Rockrz
Age: 4+
Kids looooove to karaoke — and this inexpensive microphone lets them live out Teenage Dreams without a video-game console or software. Built-in effects let you change the sound of your voice, add a drum roll or the sound of a cheering crowd. Comes in blue or pink, with a rad one-size-fits-all ring and bracelet.
$25, First Act
Available at Amazon.com
Where to Buy?
Meon Interactive Animation Studio
Age: 5 – 12 yrs
Kids use thin plastic “wire” to create their own scenes, or follow the included templates (you can download additional templates for free). Then battery power makes them glow like animated neon lights!
$30, Skyrocket Toys
Available at Toys”R”Us
Where to Buy?
NounSense
Age: 7 – 9yrs
This silly learn-to-read game, created by a teacher, is a bit like Mad Gabs. Kids can play competitively or cooperate as a team.
$30, NounSense
Available at Mastermind Toys and other independent retailers
Where to Buy?
Army vs. Aliens
Age: 8 yrs+
This dice game is a bit like Risk and takes just 15 minutes to play. It’s extremely portable too, as the shaking cups snap together to become a carrying case.
$15, Wiggles 3D INC
Available at wiggles3d.com as of November 1, 2011
Where to Buy?
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