How to Find Out the Best Toys for Christmas? Head to Time to Play

This past week, I stopped by the Time To Play showcase to see what was new for the holiday season this year. There was so much to look at and quite a lot stood out.  Here were some of my favorite products:

1. Moshi Monsters – My children are mad about the Moshi Monsters online games and I was pleased to see that the brand is making a big push to bring them offline, as well.  They are making a push for Moshi Monsters in offline toys and play with plush figures, collectible Moshling figurines, TV programming, and a magazine.  They understand that kids can only manage so much online time a day, and I’m grateful for that.  My kids love the Moshi Monster magazine that I brought home and I can’t wait to introduce them to the rest of the line.  The brand has made waves in the UK, where it originated, and it’s only a matter of time before it comes our way.

2. Cars 2 AppMATes – Disney has created a new way to integrate technology and kids with this new line of toys that comes to life digitally when used with an Apple IPad, transforming the tablet’s screen into a virtual playmate. I know that my son will go gaga for this.  The line inspired by Cars 2 features miniature vehicles with special bases that are recognized by the Cars app with no cable or Bluetooth connection required.  All you have to do is download the free Appmates Cars apps from the iTunes app store and place your favorite Appmates character on the screen and play. ($19.99 SRP)

3. Voice Rockerz – My daughter flipped when over the Voice Rockerz which I gave to her immediately after Time to Play.   She loves to sing and dance and has a slight obsession with Selena Gomez.  The interactive microphone ‘magically’ changes a child’s voice as they perform with just a tap of the included accessories – a ring and bracelet – to the Mic target zone. Kids can sound like stars and elevate their performances to new heights with the Mic’s incredible voice effects. Tap the ring to the Mic to activate the Hi-Note voice effect; tap the bracelet to the Mic to change up the show with the Echo-Tastic voice effect; or tap the ring and bracelet in succession to uncover the Robot-Riffic voice effect.  It’s a cool device and well worth the $24.99 SRP.

4. The DaGeDar game for boys from Cepia features collectible balls and playing cards for more than 100 different characters, each of which comes with a codes to unlock details of the characters online.  Cepia are the creators of Zhu Zhu Pets and it’s their first foray into the digital space. Currently, DaGeDar can be purchased at select Toys R Us and Walmart stores! DaGeDar Balls and Tracks are sold separately and range from $4.99 – $19.99.

5.  Blue Sky Heli – I had a sneak peek at a new Bluetooth 3-channel helicopter, with full gesture controls that easily connect and follow movements from an iPhone, iPad or iTouch.  My husband is admittedly obsessed with electronic airplanes and this one looked unbelievable.  It has sound effects and force feedback vibrations which simulate a real life flying experience, while Gryo Stabilization design makes for easy flying.

And one extra mention:

6. Hearts 4  Hearts Dolls – I have to admit, I may more into dolls than my daughter, and these caught my attention.  There are six dolls available, all with their own stories, clothing, and culture.  When you buy a Hearts For Hearts Girls doll, a portion of the purchase price is donated to children’s causes in those countries.  Great concept.

And there was more!  A lot more.   Stay tuned for more to come on holiday shopping for your kids in the upcoming weeks. What are some of the toys you’re looking at to get your kids for the holiday?

Disclosure: I have been given a few items from Time to Play, but not all of them.  All opinions expressed are my own.