Playskool Friends Sesame Street Let’s Dance Elmo

Everybody’s favourite furry red Muppet is ready to get grooving, and he wants your toddler to join him. Let’s Dance Elmo is a singing and dancing machine, encouraging little ones to shake their diaper-clad booties (“wiggle like a worm!”) while learning about colours and animals, and developing musicality. Elmo’s headphones, which double as a carrying handle, feature three buttons that let kids play DJ. He responds by twisting his arms and head to the music, although he does his best moves on smooth surfaces. The illuminated heart on Elmo’s chest flashes in time with the beat and changes colours to match those named in the songs. Push the heart and he speaks, helping little ones develop language skills—though they might end up sounding like Elmo (we’ll let you decide whether that’s a good thing). Kids will love singing and dancing along with Elmo, while parents will appreciate that this sturdy, durable toy can be played with independently. Be warned that the volume is loud, even on the low setting, so you might want to relegate this guy to a playroom or basement if you can. (Luckily, the required four AA batteries are easy to remove, if you’ve had enough Elmo for one day.) After a raucous Elmo dance party, your little one is sure to be ready for a nap.