Imaginext Spike - The Ultra Dinosaur From Fisher-Price Toy Review

Technology is great but it's also nice to know that some things never change. For instance, kids have always been and probably always will be fascinated by dinosaurs. I know my boys certainly are. These primitive animals have a way of captivating young children. Children are eager to learn all they can about dinosaurs: what they ate, where they lived, how they lived and why they became extinct. The questions just go on and on.

This is what has lead Fisher-Price to develop a state of the art dinosaur toy that uses technology in a whole new way to educate and captivate young minds everywhere. Imaginext(TM) Spike the Ultra Dinosaur from Fisher-Price is an innovative toy dinosaur that your kids can all their own. This amazing new toy dinosaur from Fisher-Price can do everything a real ancient dinosaur could do. The dinosaur can walk, blink its eyes, move his mouth and stand on his hind legs. This is all made possible by a special remote control that your child controls.

The special remote even allows your child to control the very sounds the Ultra Dinosaur makes by simply pressing a button. All your child has to do is press a button on the remote control and the Dinosaur will growl, roar or snort. Since the remote control is made of large, easy to understand buttons children of all ages will adore this prehistoric creature.

This Dinosaur from Fisher-Price even has the ability to play games with your child such as fetch, chase the boulder and more. And its just the right size for big children as well as smaller children standing at just over two feet tall. This makes him a perfect match for any dinosaur-loving child in your life.

Let your children learn by expanding their imagination with Imaginext(TM) Spike the Ultra Dinosaur from Fisher-Price. Your child will love having a dinosaur as a pet that they can control and you will love that your child will be learning and developing their own imaginations all while they are having fun. Now that's a combination you can't beat.

Katie Byrd is the mom of 4 and has been a successful work at home mom for 14 years. She's gotten together with other moms and reviewed a ton of toys. Read our reviews for Spike Ultra Dinosaur and other toys by clicking on one of the links.

Gift and Toy Ideas For 7 to 10 Year Olds

Time can fly by really quickly. It doesn't really seem like that long ago I was dreaming about my favorite GI Joe toy for Christmas. However, time has moved on but the interest by 7 to 10 year olds in toys and games has not. Fortunately, this fact is not lost on the toy manufacturers who have plenty of great toys and games for this age grouping. Here, we will try to help give you a headstart on your Christmas shopping by pointing out a few of the top gift and toy ideas for 70 to 10 year olds in 2009:

Bop It Game

First up is the Bop It Game or Bop It Everyone Game. This one is the best one yet of these games. Here, you have one more added feature rather than the standard three where you can now: bop, twist, pull, and shout while playing this fun game that challenges players to act quickly and correctly. A great game to play with their friends and good for parties too. In fact, this is one that the whole family can also play and enjoy. Don't be surprised to see this one be a popular choice for family game night.

Monopoly City Edition

The Monopoly City Edition is another board game that really transforms the old classic into something very impressive. This one addresses some of the flaws of the original by adding in more competitive play and the possible of time limits. Here, you can actually help bring down the value of your neighbors buildings by building a waste plant by their luxury building. In addition, the game can be sped up by using an electronic timer that gives the game a time limit and helps make calculations.

You can bet families will really enjoy playing this one as it is really a super sized versin of the ole classic where in this one people get zoning deeds in the city rather than standard mortgages on properties.

My First Lab Duo Scope Microscope

The My First Lab Duo Scope Microscope is another great educational choice. This one gives boys and girls a great scientific microscope that offers lighting at the top and bottom. This feature allows them to see things whether they are solid like a penny or something that can be put on a slide like a bug.

This gift idea makes for a great way for parents to help build a basic interest in science that can further supplement their school work. This offering has become very popular with kids and parents.

Transformers Voyager The Fallen

The Transformers Voyager The Fallen is a toy that is the feature bad guy in the new Transformers movie. This one has cool bad guy like that many young boys will love to get their hands on. It makes for great game playing for them whether they are cheering on the Autobots or the Decepticons.

The above list of gift and toy ideas for 7 to 10 year olds is by no means exhaustive. There are actually some other really fantastic gift ideas for 2009.

For more information on other great gift and toy ideas for 4 to 6 year olds, click on the following links: 7-10 Year Olds Gifts or 7-10 Year Olds Toys.

Why Kids Love Gormiti Toys

We all love to give our children the toys they like and that will keep them entertained for hours. These toys are hard to find if you are wanting something other than video games. I have found my boys love to play with the Gormiti action figures. The love to make up battles and they stay busy for hours. Every time they finish one battle they quickly come up with another to start again. There are many different action figures to choose from and each has a brief summary of the action figures story. This helps my boys decided who will play what part.

These toys bring out the imagination in my boys that I like to see. It encourages them to be creative and come up with their own story for the battle. Best of all they do not have the outside influence from commercials or other programs we prefer them not to watch. Gormiti toys are great and I will continue to purchase them for my children as long as they want. They are not very expensive and the quality is great. They have a variety of starter pack as well as individual figure to choose from.

Gormiti has created a story line to go with the actions figures that capture the boys attentions quickly and keeps then wanting to know more. They love to pretend they are on the island and are determined to bring peace again. It is fun to watch the play and not get bored so quickly for a change. It is amazing to know that there are still non electronic toys out on the market today that keep the children engaged for such a long time. They do not get bored as quickly and always look forward to trying something new.

Over all I do recommend Gormiti toys to any parent that has boys. They give the children a baseline for each action figure and they get to be creative from that point on. They get to do some role play in the process and come up with different outcomes for the battles they start. Its a great way to build your child's imagination in a safe environment. Encouraging creativity is a big must for me when I buy toys and these do just that. These toys are one of my favorite toys for my boys to play with and I encourage others parents to do the same.

Elmis Strom writes about Gormiti Toys and the positive effect they have in children. Creative play for a child is very different from playing a computer game of watching TV. Click here to visit the best web store for Gormiti Action Figures

Here's How to Find Great Deals on Toys and Games

Today's toys and games are much different from even twenty years ago. There are now robotic toys, video gaming systems, and even electric cars. These types of toys can really ruin a budget if you are not careful. The trick to finding great deals on these types of items is to exactly where to look and what to look for. Here are some tips to help make the buying experience a little easier on your wallet.

Toy Stores Have It All

Today's toy stores have just about every toy imaginable. These toy super stores have the best selection, but sometimes the prices are not the greatest. In order to get the best deals, you might consider signing up for the store's email newsletter. Many times you'll find sales information and special deals available only to their newsletter subscribers. Some stores offer great coupons too, such as a certain percentage off of your total purchase or a buy one get one free. Keep track of these coupons and be sure you are aware of the expiration dates.

Shop Online for Variety, Savings

Many of today's toy manufacturers are now offering their toys online as well. When you cut out the middle man, this can result in substantial savings for you. You will also have the reassurance that you are buying a verified product and not an imitation.

Watch for Recall Information

In the past few years, there has been an increased number of toy and game recalls. These items were pulled from the market for many reasons, from potential choking hazards to lead poisoning issues. Be sure to sign up at one of the toy recall sites to get the information delivered in your inbox.

Recycle Your Toys and Games

There are several stores now that let your bring in your good used toys and receive a credit towards other merchandise. This is especially true for video games and video game systems. You earn points with every game you bring in and those points go towards the purchase price of a new game. This is a great way to keep your children stocked with the newest games without having to break into your piggybank.

Look for Coupons

Many toy and games stores offer coupons on a regular basis. However, there are other ways to locate coupons. You can search online for many of the online coupon sites. These sites are often separated into categories. This makes search for a coupon easy. You'll find coupons for a reduced price or for free shipping from online stores. These can really be a terrific way to find some of the best deals.

A Winning Tip

When you are buying toys and games, the best advice is to shop around, shop online, and never shop without coupons. You can get your child that great new game without having to pay a huge price. You'll be as happy as they are when you see the smile on their face.

During these tough times, you need to be able to keep the young (and the young at heart!) entertained without breaking the bank. So for the latest in toy coupons and game coupons, simply visit CouponTrunk.com. On this site, the world's leading toys and games manufacturers post their latest coupons, discounts, and deals so you can get what you want at the fraction of its retail cost.

Top Toys For 10 Year Olds

Turning ten years old is a special time because it is when children finally reach another milestone in their life, no longer in the single digits. Why not make their special birthday even more special and rememberable with a gift they would love. Around this age children may develop specific interests in certain things. Encouraging learning through toys and games will jump start a kids interest in other subjects possibly.

There are so many toys and options available it might be difficult choosing something a 10 year old would enjoy. While common knowledge plays a role in evaluating the proper toys for a 10 year old, a good mixture of entertainment and educational toys would be wise choice. Obviously, without spoiling them a good variety of each can enhance their learning abilities without forcing them to learn.

Especially among boys, action figures are great toys that come in many different sizes, prize ranges, and characters. Whatever a child is into, the chances are they make an action figure for them. Many toys now have become digital such as video games, but not all to be played on a screen. For those children who like to be active and travel out doors, most are, an electric go cart or scooter would be ideal. While the scooter won't reach racing speeds they can reach up to 12 mph. This would be an excellent gift any ten year old boy or girl would surely enjoy and appreciate.

Building blocks and sets will encourage the future architect in any youngster. Building ships, planes, and houses, will stimulate creativity promote using technical skills as well. Those children who would like something more artistic drawing and coloring kits would be a very good way to bring out the Leonardo Da Vinci's in the little ones. Though, drawing and coloring kits can suit any aged individual but there are difference in quality and prices ranges when it comes to art supplies. One wouldn't recommend high quality art supplies for younger children.

Word games are also another way to learn and memorize vocabulary. Different types of games are a good way to introduce aspects of basic education such as multiple tables, grammar, and memorization (State capitals for example). Games can make learning more interesting and appealing to young kids. When purchasing toys for girls, one can never go wrong with dolls and doll houses.

Troy James Macraft
Learning Toys
Melissa and Doug Toys

Top Baby Educational Toys

Educational baby toys are meant to be fun while they stimulate learning and aid in brain development of infants. There are thousands of educational toys for babies on the market today. Parents usually have a hard time choosing developmental toys that are effective, age appropriate and fun. Learning toys for infants must stimulate hearing, vision and touch. At the same time, it is important for parents to remember that baby educational toys do not have to be expensive or high-tech in order to stimulate a child's creativity and curiosity.

Fisher Price Brilliant Basics Baby's First Blocks

Blocks are recognized to be one of the best baby educational toys ever invented. They stimulate a baby's creativity and aid in his overall development. The Fisher Price Brilliant Basics Baby's First Blocks consist of 10 brightly colored blocks of different shapes. They can be dropped into an open bucket or pushed through a shape-sorting lid. As the baby grows older, he can move on to sorting, stacking, and identifying colors and shapes. These blocks are recommended for babies 6 months to 3 years old.

This baby toy encourages the development of motor skills. Filling the bucket with blocks and dumping them out strengthens eye-to-hand coordination. Grasping and sorting blocks develops hand dexterity. Playing with the blocks also stimulates creative thinking and enhances problem-solving skills.

Baby's First Blocks are available at Amazon.com, with prices starting at less than eight dollars.

LeapFrog Spin and Sing Alphabet Zoo

Babies can learn the alphabet, animal names and sounds with this baby educational toy from LeapFrog. A catchy tune plays while the ball is spinning. Letters of the alphabet are introduced using animal names. The Spin and Sing Alphabet Zoo helps babies develop their motor skills by batting or spinning the wheel over and over again.

Babies as well as parents will love the catchy songs. This toy is very entertaining and will hold a young child's attention for hours. It is highly recommended for babies who are 6 months to 3 years old.
This educational toy for babies is amazingly durable and well made. It is definitely worth a lot more than its price of less than $20 at Amazon.com.

Melissa & Doug Deluxe Bug Jug Fill & Spill Soft Baby Toy

Fill and spill toys come with their own containers for self-storage. They're great for hours of play at home and as a travel toy. Babies love the Melissa & Doug Deluxe Bug Jug Fill & Spill Soft Baby Toy for little ones age 6 months and up.

Four bugs made of soft materials come in a plastic jug with mesh fabric top. These multi-textured toy bugs crinkle, squeak, jingle and rattle. There's a grasshopper, spider, ladybug and butterfly.

This soft baby educational toy helps your baby develop fine motor skills as well as hand-eye coordination. The toys are machine washable, which is great because some babies like to stuff the bugs in their mouths. Different textures help stimulate your baby's tactile senses.

This wonderful soft baby toy can be purchased at Amazon.com for less than $15.

Halloween Party Games

Most people always anticipate great parties and costume parties during the Halloween season. It is a season wherein your friends and families will start to gather in different parties anywhere. Costumes are great during this time as people tend to dress up to the best that they can. Kids always love these events. Kids always love to play fun and enjoyable games during this time. There are a lot of Halloween party games that you can actually have during this time. You need to remember some tips.

AGE APPROPRIATE

The first thing that you need to consider is the range of the ages of the kids who will attend the party. Make sure that the games that you will have is appropriate for them. This will ensure their safety and will surely make the activity more enjoyable.

ONLINE SOURCES

It is always good to consult some sites that can be found online for some great games that you can have for these parties. You try to browse some sites. These will surely help you a lot. Creepy games can be done as well as fun ones.

GATHER THE MATERIALS

It is very important that you will gather all the needed props for the games that will be played for the party. Try to look into stores that sell these items so that you will be able to buy the props and equipment that you will need for these games. Make sure that the props that you will use is safe for them.

PRICES

Kids will surely participate well if they will know that there are prices at stake for the winners of the games. Try to buy some items from thrift stores near you. Candies, toys and a lot more items are some of the most popular prices during these games.

Putting up a party is indeed fun. One good thing that you can add to the party is an enjoyable game. Games will add life and fun. Try to follow the tips mentioned for you to have a guide on how to have fun games during parties.

During Halloween, it will be nice if you will have elvis presley costumes. Try to get one now.

You can also have an Elvis presley suit for the party.

Wholesale Educational Toys

Every parent wants his or her child to learn fast and grow up to become efficient and smart. Educational toys offer the best ways to help a child learn and have fun simultaneously. Parents who purchase educational toys for their children can save a lot of money by buying them at wholesale prices.

A wholesaler buys toys in large quantities from the manufacturers or importers. He sells smaller quantities to retailers, who in turn sell them to customers. Typically, wholesale rates are offered only to retailers who purchase the toys in bulk. However, there are times when a wholesaler sells these toys directly to the end user, namely the parent or teacher. There are a number of educational toys available at wholesale prices throughout the year. They are generally old stock that the wholesaler would like to dispose of quickly to make room for new models. Consequently, the wholesaler is inclined to sell them at cheaper rates.

The sale of educational toys at wholesale prices also happens during summer breaks or during festivals. When parents or teachers buy educational toys in large quantities, cheaper rates are offered to them.

There are many companies offering educational toys on the Internet at wholesale rates. People can easily access the websites that offer brand name toys or locally made toys at reasonable rates.

The most popular educational toys now offered at wholesale rates on the Internet are kid's laptops. These laptops are a good buy, because they make little kids computer savvy at a young age. Children really enjoy having their own laptops just like their parents, and have fun gaining lots of useful knowledge through their laptops

There are also other electronic learning toys for kids of all ages that provide a complete learning experience. In the past, many parents were hesitant to buy educational toys for their kids because the prices were really exorbitant. The availability at wholesale prices has proved to be an incentive for parents to buy educational toys.

Educational Toys provides detailed information on Educational Toys, Children's Educational Toys, Educational Games, Educational Baby Toys and more. Educational Toys is affiliated with Reading Glasses.

Hot Toy For Christmas 2009!

Guess what Elmo from Sesame street is back, and livelier then ever!. Easily one of the best toys of 2008, Fisher-Price Elmo Live is a one of a kind play experience for your child. Do not confuse this toy with Tickle me Elmo!! This is a SIGNIFICANT improvement. Elmo comes alive when touched on one of its sensors. He then sings songs plays games and so much more. Fisher price Elmo Live is a top toy on the wish list for 2009! The Fisher-Price Elmo Live children's toy does much more than its predecessor.

This dolls comes in at 11 inches tall and under 4 pounds for weight. A light weight doll with a heavy weight personality, Elmo live will provide children and adults alike with hours of entertainment.

In the box Elmo is to be found in a sitting position but thanks to amazing advancements in technology, Elmo doesn't stay sitting for long. Elmo can be switched on with a switch in his hand.

When your child presses his stomach, Elmo will recite an intro line and then begin moving and dancing around. Kids will love the hours of entertainment provided !!

Every Fisher-Price Elmo Live comes with several of Elmo favourite songs. your child will be singing with these songs in no time!!

Your child can rub or tickle Elmo's foot, nose, back and stomach and get a hilarious and fun reaction out of him. When Elmo talks to you and your child, he moves his mouth for an incredible realism that is like nothing you've ever seen before..

This toy is voted T.O.T.Y. (Infant/Preschool Toy of Year) 2009

ElmoLiveDoll

Author Also writes for the following:-

Meccano Set [http://www.meccanoset.co.uk]

The Benefits of Playing Video Games

For years, video games have invaded toy store shelves. Producing a variety of games that cover everything from racing to action to movies, game console manufacturers have tapped into a very lucrative industry. Although the popular phrase "too much of a good thing" does apply when it comes to video games, studies have shown that a considerable portion of games can be beneficial to the brain.

Video games help to develop and fine-tune a long list of cognitive milestones. Playing these games assists in the growth of thinking and problem-solving skills, as well as reasoning and memory capabilities. Video games can also spark a child's interest in a particular subject, causing them to not only pick up information throughout the game, but to seek further details at a later date, such as games based on animals, nature, or real-life events.

Language remains one of the most important components of video games. During almost any particular game, the player must understand the instructions given and decide how to proceed; this is even true for young children's games. Video games have the ability to teach kids various words in other languages, as well as encouraging them to recognize the alphabet and numbers, or begin to take the first steps towards reading. Of course, playing video games often helps to build the vocabulary of a child, regardless of age.

All too often, kids are left to play video games on their own, with parents, caregivers and other family members failing to realize the entertainment they provide. Renting a few video games makes for a great family night, as a way to get every member involved in a fun, crowd-pleasing event.

Although the cost of consoles may seem high, they will last a long time if taken care of properly. Most children treasure their game systems and keep them out of harm's way, unlike many other toys and electronics they may own. Surprisingly, most kids are also eager to share their systems and games with others, realizing that many games are better suited to more than one player.

Using the latest developments in gaming systems, even physical fitness can be achieved through the use of video games. This type of console offers accessories that record real-life movements, allowing for at-home fun that once could only be found outside of the house. One example is bowling; an instrument connected to the game system translates the actual physical movements of the player to the game itself. Other physical-based titles feature yoga, music and dancing, and an extensive list of sports.

Victor Epand is an expert consultant about kids toys, stuffed animals, and dolls. You will find the best marketplace for kids toys, stuffed animals, and dolls at these sites for video games, stuffed animals.

Finding the Best Transformers Toys and Figures at Low Prices

Finding Transformers toys at low prices is really rather easy right now. Following operators such as Christmas and other seasonal sales, many retailers in real-life stores and online are offering the best Transformers toys at discount prices. There are things like the Movie Leader Optimus Prime figure, the Bumblebee Voice Mixer Helmet, the Bumblebee and Sam Human Alliance box set, and many other different Transformers toys based on both the animated series and the live-action movies.

With the DVD and Blu-ray release of Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen, the second entry in the Transformers live-action feature film series, interest is once again peaked in Transformers merchandise. Now, fans are able to pick up their favourite characters in action figure form in a variety of sizes at lower prices than ever before. There are reductions on many of the regular action figures, the boxed figures and even the large format sets too.

Even the Devastator box set is now available at a lower price. That huge box set was a massive Christmas hit, and now it is available at a discount, even more fans can get hold of it. Finding these toys at reasonable prices needn't be hard. Have a look around a reliable websites online are dedicated to the best toys and games, where you will find many reviews of the items from other people that have bought them. That way you can check out how well made the toys are as well as how well the special offer worked out when they purchased each one.

Check out what most people say about the individual figures themselves, including likenesses to the advertised items, durability and so on. Fans of the famous robots in disguise can easily build their collection by seeking out special offers that are currently available to them from the variety of reliable retailers both on the internet and in physical stores around the globe.

Whether you prefer the heroic Autobots or the evil Decepticons, there are amazing Transformers toys available at low prices for you to collect. They are just as popular right now as they were in their eighties halcyon days, and fans young and old would love to get their hands on low priced Transformers toys! Finding discount Transformers toys doesn't need to mean you skimp on quality, it just means all manner of adventures can take place at home while your bank account remains safe and sound.

Andrew is a music journalist and pop culture blogger with an undying love of big robots that change into cars and stuff. One of the biggest Transformers toys around of late has been the Bumblebee Voice Mixer helmet. Have you checked it out?

Toy Industry Making Changes Due to Economy - 5 Trends to Watch

Toy Fair 2009 has finished its run. Toy Fair is where the toy industry gathers. Often manufacturers can do an entire year's worth of business in the four day the trade show operates. With over 20,000 attendees, 350,000 square feet of exhibit space, 100,000 products with over 7,000 never before seen in the world, 1200+ exhibitors, and 1000 global media representatives, you can see that toys are a serious business.

I spent three days at Toy Fair this year. As the consumer cannot attend Toy Fair, I wanted to share with you what I see as the trends in the toy industry. While I can't say that I saw all 100,000 products, I certainly walked every inch of the exhibit space, all 350,000 square feet of it. I came away with what I see as five trends that we will see reflected on toy shelves and they all have to do with the economy.

1. Less New Toys - There will be less new toys this year. I noticed that many manufacturers have not expanded their line and are focusing on their basics. There appeared to be fewer newer manufacturers, especially in the small entrepreneur category. Although, there are certainly those mompreneur that are committed to getting their product to the market regardless of the economy. They feel that strongly about their product.

2. Games - Games are what is hot this year. Games for very young children, games for children of all ages, family games, electronic games, adult games, games to play by yourself, games to play with a crowd. The industry sees a trend that we are going to be going out less. We will entertain at home and they are betting that we will purchase more games to play while we are hanging out at home.

3. Green - Green and organic toys continue to grow. This was the niche where people did expand their line. Manufactures went out of their way to tell you where their product was made, what it was made with, how it was packaged, and more. If you are interested in green products you will be pleased with what you will see at the toy stores.

4. Repackaging - Manufacturers know that we have less money to spend so they are repackaging or redesigning to lower the price point. For instance, you will be able to purchase 50 blocks in a set instead of 100 blocks. There were also a lot of smaller art kits. Another company took the electronics out of their toy to lower the price. People are also looking for ways to package their toy differently to lower their costs.

5. Special Needs - In this economy, the manufacturers know that they need to find new markets to sell to. The Special Needs community is growing and the toy industry is noticing. Many more people were talking about how their toy could be used for a child with a disability. Parents who are raising children with disabilities are going to benefit from this if the retail toy stores market the products well.

Mara Kaplan is an expert in Play & Children with Special Needs. You can read her reviews on the toys she saw at Toy Fair by visiting her website http://www.letkidsplay.com

Toys For The Big Boys

Who says that toys are exclusively for the young ones? If you think so, then you are absolutely mistaken, because the young once and the not-so-young, now play games of their own. There are specialty stores selling what are now called "toys for the big boys" as they definitely know how to appease that child within you. All the more toy companies will never stop inventing and reinventing toys that will surely fit your age.

The early 20th century dawned with the arrival of air soft guns, paintballs and the likes. Air soft enthusiasts even formed organizations that formulated playing guidelines, organized competitions and among others. Paintball games were incorporated to some company's team-buildings and retreat seminars as a means of releasing stress and tension.

Air soft competitions thus became extremely popular not just among the male population but also women. Specialty stores selling full battle air soft gears abound and are selling like hotcakes from pellets to vision goggles. Night vision goggles, although its use is regulated and limited only to the military and police, is the latest addition to the air softers' combat gear.

What do air soft players be aware of when buying night vision gadgets? Obey the law. If you are an air soft player, you need to be familiar with the laws governing civilian use of these goggles to avoid any criminal or civil cases filed against you because some countries like the United States prohibits the purchase, exportation and importation of these goggles without proper documentation from the US government. Some countries like Canada, though, are not that strict regarding the sale of these items but it is always rewarding to be cautious and knowledgeable because ignorance of the law excuses no one.

Compare selling prices of the different generations and model types of vision goggles. Visit your local gun stores or gun memorabilia specialty stores or websites in your country. An idea on the selling price will work to your advantage as it will allow you to haggle or bargain for a lower selling price thus will give you an additional savings to purchase other accessory items for your passion.

Third, identify the exact type of goggles that answer the specifications you need. It is based on your need and not just because your team member or team leader said so or the manufactures say so. If you are on a tight budget, ask opinions and alternatives from your specialty store salespersons. It is always wiser to see and understand beyond somebody else's point of view other than yours.

Utilize your imagination so that every air soft adventure you have will be such a realistic encounter through the use of military night vision goggles. Check out the night vision goggle that will complete your larger than life war game experience.

How To Start A Monopoly Revolution - The Classic Game Gets A Makeover

The Game of Monopoly sees its 75th anniversary and to celebrate it Hasbro have given it a makeover and given it the new name of Monopoly Revolution. Although the basic game play keeps to the traditional rules that we have all come to know and love there have been a few modern twists and turns added to reflect today's modern society. Destined to once again be one of the top Christmas toys this year, let's look at what this Monopoly revolution is all about.

If it 'aint broke don't fix it! For as many years as I care to remember Monopoly has been the family favourite property trading game and has kept a very traditional look to it. It comprised of a very simple set of rules and all based around a roll of the dice and a little shrewd wheeling and dealing to buy the best properties. There have been quite a few updates over the last few years to introduce Monopoly to people who may not have otherwise thought of playing the game. For instance there is a Spiderman version with instead of the usual metal player pieces in the shape of the little dog, the iron and the car they are little models of Spiderman and his enemy's. Even the Simpson's have gotten involved with the Monopoly legacy!

The Monopoly for kids version keeps the game play shorter and much simpler for children to follow. But this year sees a much more drastic makeover in the guise of Monopoly Revolution. As the name suggests it sees a new shaped board. Instead of the more recognisable square game board it now has a circular playing area.

To reflect a property market that has changed drastically over the last 75 years even the prices for the properties have been given a more realistic look. The big properties that we always try to get to first, that can easily win the game once covered in hotels such as Mayfair which normally cost a meagre £400 is now a whopping 4 million! Even the lame duck that no one ever really wanted, Old Kent Road now costs £600,000!

Keeping track of the millions that will be changing hands and serving as the banker, dice and sound effects and music player is a gaming pod device. So no more messing around with paper money, it is all registered electronically. One of my favourite sounds effects are when you go to jail you get to hear the jail door slam shut! While there are lots of other minor tweaks to the original game of Monopoly to bring it right up to date, you still have the same core needs of being able to negotiate and deal well in order to win the game.

Monopoly Revolution may not be for purists of the traditional version of the game. But if you like the idea of a game with a modern twist that reflects more realistic property values then Hasbro's Monopoly Revolutions should definitely be on your top Christmas toys list this year for gifts to buy.

Monopoly Revolution from Hasbro will be one of this years top ten toys for Christmas.Would you like to know who has them in stock at the best prices? To get the latest updates go to The Top Christmas Toys NOW!

4 Hot Toys For Xmas 2009

This Christmas parents are looking out for the hot trends in toys and gifts for children. This year there are many great toys that will out on the market. The interesting thing is that many new trends are going to be easier on parents' wallets. That is because many retailers have been hurt in by the economic downturn and see the Holiday Shopping Season as the best time to recoup their losses. This makes this the perfect opportunity to get many of the items on your children's wish list that you ordinarily may not be able to purchase. Here are some the trends that will be available this year.

A big trend to watch out is the miniaturization of popular toys and games. This is an effort for toy companies to still offer brand name toys but at reduced prices. A great example are hand held versions of popular games like BopIt and Yahtzee. This is something to look out for. So if you happen to see a smaller version of a toy your kids were looking for then make sure to get it while you can.

Another hot trend for the past couple of years have been Disney themed toys. The Disney franchise from Movies to Television and even Music has been probably a big part of how your kids spend their leisure time at home. This will mostly target the girls in your family. Make sure to look for Hannah Montana Dolls, Video Games and other products. There will also be great demand for the Disney Princesses and Fairies line of products. The main focus will be Princess Tiana of the upcoming The Princess and the Frog. Of course Tinker Bell is the head of the pack for the Disney Fairies with one DVD already out and another coming out this fall. The great thing about Disney products is that you can find them at high end stores and at your local Superstore so you should be able to find something to like.

Another big trend are green toys these are toys that are obviously made of recycled plastics. Many these toys are not only good for the environment but also good for your wallet. For example there are stuffed toys made from recycled plastic bottles such as the Fuzz That Wuzz. There is also a line of recycled plastic Trucks and Construction toys. Each of these will be well received by your children and help teach them important lesson about conservation and recycling.

Another popular choice will be games that you can move with your mind. There are two on the market right now but I will focus in on the cheaper one which can now be purchased for under $80 dollars. This a great toy and game for the entire family. Basically the Mindflex uses EEG technology. This is a technology that uses sensor placed on different parts of the head to record brainwave activity. By reacting to changes in brainwave pattern that occur when you concentrate on something it can be used to make the ball in the game levitate or descend as you please. What makes the game a keeper is the customizable course which allows you to play endless variations of the game providing hours of entertainment.

If you want to do something to help your more skeptical kids believe in Santa then you can have them get a personalized call from Santa. You find them astounded when they realize you are right next to them and their smart young minds will only be able to come to the conclusion that Santa is real!

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Bakugan Toys

Do you know what is guaranteed to be at the top of every kids Christmas list this year? Bakugan Toys! Yes there is a new toy craze in town and every kid from here to the Philippines wants it! Bakugan mania is in full storm in the US! Toys R Us can't keep these toys in stock, they sell out as fast as they are putting them on the shelves. There are national tournaments being hosted by Toys R US, and Activison has even signed on to make a Bakugan Video Game. But what exactly are these popular Bakugan Brawlers and why are they so popular?

Remember when you were a kid and you had the biggest collection of marbles in your neighborhood? Well, imagine if those marbles transformed into robots and monsters when you rolled them, springing to action with hidden magnets when they hit the field? That's pretty much what you get with Bakugan, it's a new spin on a classic game. The game itself comes from the Japanese Anime cartoon called Bakugan Battle Brawlers. First aired in 2007 it was a wild success. In fact it has been signed on for a new season called "New Vestroia." In the show, the main characters and their Bakugan buddies battle to protect the Earth from the evil Naga who wants the ultimate power and control of two universes.

The characters play the game by throwing down their cards and letting their Bakugan balls do the talking. The monsters within are released, and the most powerful Bakugan wins the battle.

Every year it seems like there is a new popular cartoon-made-into-a-game. Pokemon, Yu-Gi-Oh, Digimon, and the list goes on. This year promises to take that to a new level. Not only do kids get to play with the cards, they have the Bakugan Spheres as well to play with. When the spheres hit the magnetic cards they pop open revealing what is inside. The players can use their ability cards to boost the Bakugan's 'G power' and the strongest one wins the match.

The game itself is simple enough for your younger ones to play, but also has enough complexities to keep the older ones entertained for hours. It's also a great way to help your kids learn math. With two levels of strategy, not just your cards but also rolling your spheres, there is enough here to captivate parents as well. Although be sure you don't let your kids know!

Bakugan are guaranteed to be super popular this year, Toys R Us is having a difficult time keeping them in stock and many are being sold for much more than market price. It will just get more expensive as time goes on, so score yours today and save!

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Christmas Toys That Help Increase Kids Physical Activity

During the holiday season, parents and grandparents are confronted with choosing Christmas Toys for their kids or grand kids. Now is the time to possibly buy a few presents that will also add to your childrens' health by increasing their physical activity. There are dozens of toys available that will increase your kids physical activity. Below we discuss 6 different toys for both girls and boys, and for different children's age groups, that will get your kids up off the couch or from behind the computer.

For Babies:

Let's start our babies off with a bit of physical activity. Choosing a Christmas Toy for baby may seem difficult, yet one of the best gifts we can give them is a baby "gym". These toys usually come with a mat and highly attractive items that attach to the mat like colorful toy animals or lights. Some even have music.

The Rainforest Melodies and Lights Deluxe Gym by Fisher Price is a great baby "gym." It offers lights and musical melodies in a rainforest setting. It will help increase your baby's actions and their coordination as they reach for the various toys. It can keep baby entertained, yet calm too.

For Toddlers - Ages 9 months to 3 Years Old

As our children become more mobile toddling around, we may wish to engage their interest in using the Hasbro Playskool Step Start Walk 'n Ride This is an excellent gift for toddlers from 9 months to 3 years old. What is great about this particular product is, it is a "two in one". You can start it out as a sturdy walker that can help your baby learn to stand and walk. Then you can convert it into a ride-on scooter. This product could have your baby to toddler zipping around in no time.

Sometimes as busy parents, we use the television as a "baby sitter." I know I did when my daughter was little. I would sit her in front of the TV with her blankie and turn on a show made for little ones. She would be captivated for an hour or so. As we know now, this is not an especially good way to entertain our young ones.

Instead, it might be a good idea to use the Smart Cycle Extreme. This is an excellent Christmas toy to help increase physical activity in our children three years to six years old. You set it up with the TV and load its programs. Your kids can ride the "bike" and it will seem as if they are riding through all types of terrain. The handle bars will even give the impression of riding over bumpy paths.

For Children Ages 6 and Up

As our kids get a little older, it becomes even more of a challenge to get them off the couch or from behind the computer. At ages 6 or 7 and up, they seem to be able to use the computer better than we can! One toy that can be played indoors or outside that will surely hold their interest is the Wild Planet Hyper Dash.

This particular toy can be played with alone, in pairs or in teams. So it covers all the bases if you have just a single child or several. Hyper Dash offers an electronic "tagger" and five different colored and numbered targets. The "tagger" plays music and will call out which target the player must "strike." It keeps track of the time that it takes to go through the sequences and the course. You can set the targets as far away from each other as you like. There are even four different game modes. This product challenges your kids speed, skill, memory and increases coordination and teamwork.

For Children Ages 8 and Up

If you wish to increase your kids outdoor physical activities, coordination and a whole lot of fun, then you may wish to purchase the Razor E100 Electric Scooter for Christmas. This particular model requires a physical start, meaning it has be pushed and going at least 3 mph before you can push the button to start the little engine. The scooter can get up to 10 mph which is fast enough for fun, yet not too fast. It has a rechargeable battery that will last up to 40 minutes.

Fun for the Whole Family

Most people are aware that the Wii Game System is an excellent choice in increase physical activity for the whole family. It has numerous games that will get the whole family moving. If you do not have this game system, you may wish to consider buying it soon. The price has gone down and during the holidays, there will probably be many discounts found online.

If you already have the Wii Game System, than you may be interested in the Wii Motion Plus. It is a Wii game controller accessory that adds to the controller's sensitivity. It makes the controller respond faster to the slightest twist of the wrist, or any body motion. With more sensitivity, it brings a whole new level to playing Wii games by enhancing accuracy and play control.

Finding the perfect Christmas toys for your children can be a challenge. We always try to get them the best toys that will help them physically as well as mentally, without spending too much. If you wish to find even more age appropriate gifts at low prices for your children or grand children, than you may wish to visit this website today: http://christmastoyssale.com.

By A. Dixon, Copyright 2009

Batman Legos

Batman Legos are the new and revamped Legos we all use to play with as children. They hit the scene mid September 2008 and have been very popular with all ages, primarily the younger ones. They are definitely unique, but definitely more expensive. You can purchase a set of Batman Legos for around $15 dollars if you just want the plain set, but if you get a particular set, you may end up spending over $500 dollars. Some of the sets that are priced over $500 dollars are more expensive because of the great condition they are in, especially the sets that have never even been opened.

Aside from the Legos, there are many other items being sold in the whole Batman collection. You can even find Lego Batman video games. Those Lego Batman video games are only about $20 dollars on average and they can be found at just about any video game store out there. You can even purchase the Lego Batman video games off the internet and you may just find them to be a lot cheaper than in the store. The Batman Lego games, just like any other games, can have difficult and challenging sections to it, so some gamers will actually go online and look up cheat sheets for games, including the Batman Lego games. Some of the cheat sheets for Batman Lego games are sold, but if you are lucky and really good with the internet you can find free cheat sheets.

If you are a big collector you will notice Batman, among other things, do cost quite a bit of money. However, the internet is loaded with people willing to sell their memorabilia for low prices. You can find apparel, games, Legos, video games, mugs, key chains, and just about anything on the internet. People will sell their used, slightly used, and even never used belongings at a lower price than you would find in any store. I would be very careful though, not to get scammed. Also, I would recommend viewing a picture or some sort of visual aid to assure you in your purchase. Statistics have proven that people purchasing items off the internet are more likely to get scammed if there is no picture next to the description of the item being sold. You would be surprised by how many people lack a decent conscience. I know some people who frequently purchase items off the internet. Most of their purchases are a success. However, once in a great while they have completed a sale and either never received the product they purchased even though they already paid for it, or they have received faulty items. For instance one of my friends bought a cell phone off the internet and there was no picture or anything just a brief description and a price for $9.99. Well my friend received the phone a few days later and it did not work, apparently the battery was shot. So you just need to be really careful.

You can view the original article here: Batman Legos.

If you would like to read ongoing updates and news about Batman Legos, you can see that here: Batman Lego News.

Hottest Christmas Toy - U-Dance Review

One of this year's best-selling Christmas toys is a new take on an old favorite. It's U-Dance: a Dance Dance Revolution (DDR)-inspired game where players (up to two) dance to the beat of a pre-selected song and match up their steps with digital arrows on the TV screen.

Sounds just like DDR, right? Well, it's close. But U-Dance wins the dance-off on one count: it's wireless. That means no dance pads sliding around the living room, and no cords to get tangled in when stepping to victory. Instead of a pad, U-Dance features elastic foot straps, called Motion Tags, that have sensors that measure just how close to the beat you stomp your feet. Kind of like a Nintendo Wii, in U-Dance, the player is the controller.

Although the wireless aspect of the game is a huge advantage to games like DDR and its knock-offs, U-Dance has a couple major drawbacks. This Hasbro game is not a disc that you can put into your PlaySation console or GameCube. U-Dance has its own console, and its only game is, in fact, U-Dance. There's no word as to whether this one-trick pony of a console will learn new tricks (that is, whether or not it will accommodate other Hasbro games). The other major drawback is the song bank. Ask any DDR aficionado, and they'll tell you they wish the game had either more songs or more levels-or both. U-Dance has the same amount of levels as DDR, three: easy, moderate, and difficult, but it has fewer songs: 12 to DDR's dozens. And some players have complained about the fact that not all of the songs are the originals-because of complications (or price) of royalties, some of the songs are recorded by sound-alikes.

There is something to be said, though, about the game's celebrity endorsement by pop artist Chris Brown. Brown's hit song, Run It, is featured on the game, and the artist only has good things to say about it (the game; not his song): "U-DANCE is the best dance game out there. If you like to dance like I do, you are going to love this game." Well, if Chris Brown says it's the best, who's going to argue?

U-Dance can be purchased for $74.99 and does not include the four "AA" batteries necessary to run the game.

For more Christmas Toy reviews, check out TopChristmasToys.Net.

Julian Hartley

TopChristmasToys.Net

Video Game Prices - How Can a Parent Keep Up?

If you are a parent of children who love playing video games like I am, you know how expensive this activity can be. Of course any true gamer wants to get the game when it is first released. To make this easier, many retailers will let people preorder before the title is even on their shelf. These often cost between fifty to seventy dollars apiece depending on what the particular game is.

I have no problem spending this amount of money for a toy or activity that is going to last my child for a long period of time, but these video games don't last. I have spent seventy dollars buying the latest installment in whatever RPG series is popular at the moment, only to have my son defeat the game in two weeks. Of course, he gets bored and wants another one to play. The cost of these new releases are ridiculous for the amount of play time they actually provide. Even with some of the new interactive ones that can be used repeatedly, they require the use of additional external devices to fully enjoy them.

The motion sensor games have all types of accessory items like steering wheels, fishing rods and dance mats that children use to play the games. The fact that video games are made to be played by more than one person doesn't help the situation when dealing with children. They have their friends come over to play games with them and of course they want to have the popular games and accessories to show off to their friends.

I think what really frustrated me through all the years I purchased game consoles and video games was the ever changing formats the game manufacturers designed. After I had already invested hundreds of dollars buying video games for a certain console system they would make a new and improved version that didn't use the old cartridges or discs. If they did, the graphics were not displayed in the same manner for the old games as they were for the new games.

The other big disappointment came when I tried to sell the old games I had spent hundreds of dollars buying as brand new products and found they were only worth a small fraction of what I had spent. Over the years I have spent well over a thousand dollars in total buying various games, and made back about three hundred dollars in reselling them.

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Transformer Games For Kids

Now you all must have enjoyed the Michael Bay movie Transformers right? And it's the favorite of all you kids out there. So you can have more of it with the transformer games available online! With the gaining popularity of online gaming, kids for sure can avail such popular and free games, which are created out of movie series frenzy.

Like you all know, Transformers (film) has got all the robots fighting for victory against Deception, all the flashy Autobots, are scientifically enable to charge up what not. So all that spark, all those robots, all the action can be in your hands now, your operation, your strategies, and feel-good-factor for all you kids.

Gaming spree

Now online games and gaming series for infamous characters, plots, action, strategies, sports, make-your-move games are all available in plenty for download. You can get hold of them online, or can even get the game CDs that ensure the series and sequence.

As the series goes, where Autobots fight against Deception, they invade earth. And as you play, the control remains yours and you get to play to decide who wins! Though transformer games aren't really famous, but the film is for which there are action packed games available in series on the internet, and also on official gaming sites. Kids can go for free trials, and even download the games.

Toys for kids

Well, to try the transformer games out, you can very well, find transformer gaming images on Google, and also get access to many videos for free. If you are already familiar with the characters, and BumbleBee or Optimus Prime is your favorite, then play with the transformers.

Transformers toys have been launched and consist of an amazing set of actually transforming robots, which can change into anything, truck, sports car, music system, and robot. If this sounds good then there is more to it.

These toys function with a remote control which can actually transform into a car and run for 30 minutes (approx) and also comes with a 9volt battery required for charging for 4 hours.

Transformers Robots

Transformers robots in disguise, as you have heard is the English dubbed version (2000) taken from the Japanese series- Transformers: car robots. You can get hold of the episodes online, and this series as you know has been quite famous in the recent times.

The characters included Omega Prime, Optimus Prime, Ultra Magnus and all had an American and a Japanese dubbed version, whichever way you want to relate to, it is by far a fascinating sci-fi series to acquire in your gaming or series collection. Transformers series is an all cool gaming for kids, where different action pack episodes will keep you at the edge of the game.

Talking of gaming, you can always know about free trials and downloads, available in special transformers gaming sites and also purchase outlets. Transformer games can easily add up to your action gaming folder, just have access, and never be off the remote!

For more information on Transformer Games and the complete Transformer Universe visit http://www.transformertoysreview.com/Transformer-Games/

Kids' Gifts - Popular Toys For Kids

Children of all ages love to play with toys, and for that reason a toy is almost always an excellent gift choice. There are always toys that are in style or fashion, and some that are very trendy, and some that are classic gifts. When considering what gift to get a child, it is important to consider the age of the child, what they already have, what they like to play with, and what your budget may be.

There are several different toys that are popular with kids, and there are toys that are more popular with boys than girls, and vice versa. In choosing toys for kids remember that children love to use their imagination, so toys that encourage creativity and play are exceptional choices.

For young boys cars and racetracks are always popular. Fisher Price has produced a "Shake and Go Speedway Racetrack" which allows the child to shake the car to power up the motor, and then place it on the track to race. An automatic voice gives a play by play of the race, and kids and adults alike can cheer along. Lego has always been a favorite, and the wide variety of theme packs that can interchange with each other makes Lego a versatile gift. A new Wild Hunters Lego set complete with elephants, lions and crocodiles can really stir the imagination. Another building set that is very popular in Magneatos, which uses the concept of magnets to hold the building blocks together. These pieces are larger than Lego blocks and are perfect for younger children.

For girls there are several new toys that are very popular. The Rescue Pets are delightful looking puppies and kittens waiting to be adopted by your little girl. They have their own adoption certificate and information on caring for your puppy or kitten. EZ 2 Quikrochet is not your old-fashioned spool knitting craft package. This uniquely designed easy to hold knitting tool is perfect for making fashion jewelry, hair accessories, scarves or other projects. The Hollywood Barbie set is very popular, with Barbie being a Hollywood movie director. The doll comes with all the accessories, and can of course be interchanged with any other Barbie set. There is also the traditional favorite of the Easy Bake Oven for younger children. Kids love to pretend to cook, and this is a terrific way to let them pretend, without having to worry about safety.

Boys and girls enjoy a lot of toys and games together, and it is important to avoid indicating that some games or toys are just for boys or just for girls. Encouraging children to spend time playing together with toys, using their imaginations and just having fun is what being young is all about. One of the cool new toys that is loved by both boys and girls is the Etch a Sketch Wired. This allows the Etch A Sketch board to be wired to the TV set, so the children will actually see on TV what they are drawing on their Etch-A-Sketch screen. Another popular board game is the Cranium Family Fun or the Cranium original. The Family Fun version is designed for younger children up to age 7, and the original game is for older children.

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Buying Outdoor Toys

Outdoor toys usually come in a number of distinct groups, which include:

Outdoor Play Equipment:

Large outdoor toys are a superb option to choose from if you have a large family or group of friends as they can occupy the children for many hours, if not for days or weeks at a time. Although outdoor play equipment, such as climbing frames and playhouses can be expensive on the wallet, but they do offer great value for money as they are fun to play with all year around.

One of the most popular types of outdoor play equipment bought by parents these days is a traditional trampoline. A trampoline is a worthwhile investment as it not only offers entertainment for children of all ages (and even some adults), but they provide invaluable exercise. However, in order to prevent any children getting injured it is important that an adult is present at all times to supervise.

Garden Games:

If you ever talk about outdoor toys then classic giant games have a tremendous appeal. Some games designed specifically for the outdoors include; giant connect four, giant chess and hopscotch.

Other popular toys for the garden include boomerangs, flying disks and gum rings. Because of their curved design boomerangs are great to play with but remember they are designed to fly back to you!

Ball Games:

Whether it is football, tennis or cricket, ball games are guaranteed to entertain the children; however there are a number of other games sets available that are aimed at involving the whole family, such as the Dunlop Four in One Game Set. This game includes a blue fabric bag, a Velcro ball set, catch set, bat and ball set, and a flying disk. Family games are a great way to help to build relationships and develop skills like that of team working.

Water Toys:

The sunny weather of summer offers the best environment for your child to have fun outdoors. During this time you might want to go and lie around the swimming pool or even go to the beach; for these months, there is nothing better for your child than putting on their goggles and swimming with the fish.

Like all toys you buy (not just outdoor toys) there are a number of points you must bear in mind before you make the purchase. These include: age of child, safety concerns and features and does it interest the child. However, by taking these points into account before making your decision you are guaranteed to get an outdoor toy that will entertain your child.

Jenny Talorman is an amateur writer with a special interest in education, young development and educating others on a range of topics which include; education, the role of childrens outdoor toys and educational toys in development, young peoples' issues and even baking. If you have any feedback on this article please feel free to get in touch.

Buy Wooden Blocks For Kids At Discount Prices

Childrens wooden blocks are excellent toys to purchase for your small children. They have been a part of American culture for many generations. Toy blocks are an important tool for children as they are essential for expanding a childs learning ability. Not only are they fun to play with, but they can really play a role in a childs physical, and mental development.

Why buy wooden blocks?

Weather you believe it or not kids love to learn new things. By playing with toy blocks kids will definitely learn skills for everyday life. The most important skills a child can learn are socializing skills, and by sitting down, and playing with your child as much as possible. You can also invite other children to play with your child as this will encourage team play, working together, and listening to different opinions.

ABC blocks, and number blocks are very good for teaching kids how letters, and numbers look and sound. As a parent you can also play with your child and teach them at the same time. Start to stack your blocks, and challenge your child to stack theirs the same way. Spell out words with your letter blocks, and sound out the words, and let your children learn to spell their own words.

Wooden blocks for children also come in many different sizes, shapes, and colors. The construction aspect of building blocks is what makes them so fun to play with, because this helps in problem-solving. When you buy wooden blocks you invest in your childs future.

Where to find great deals on toy blocks

There are many retail toy stores that sell blocks, at various prices. However most do not have a large selection to choose from. To solve this problem toy blocks have been made available over the internet like everything else. In order to find the online vendor that is right for you, you will have to do a lot of searching. This can prove to be very time consuming.

Your best bet is to find someone who know how to find, discount prices, coupons, and clearance sales. I have taken the time to find some great deals on kids blocks. So If you are planning on purchasing toy blocks for your kids at a low affordable price hurry over to buy wooden blocks.

Sonya White enjoys writing about different subjects of interest, and giving advice, and tips to those in need.

For Great Deals, and Low Prices on kids toy blocks, head over to buy toy blocks.

Climbing Frames and Outdoor Toys

Children today do not get enough exercise and it shows in the childhood obesity rates that increase each year. With fast-food diets and little to no exercise, children are doomed to follow the path of being overweight and developing diabetes later on in life, as well as many other health problems that are directly related to weight control issues.

With fast-food drive-thrus, TV dinners, and the lack of daily exercise, children are suffering for our lazy choices in their lives. Computers and game consoles are now used to occupy their time with games and learning tools, and although these are fantastic ways to help kids concentrate and develop their mind skills, their bodies are not getting the exercise they need each day. Is the trade-off really worth it for them?

Outdoor toys are a great way to not only promote physical activity for your children, but also helps to get them outdoors in the fresh air where they can get their daily amount of Vitamin D that is highly needed for growing bodies. Having outdoor toys that capture the mind of your children, and maybe even the hearts and minds of those children in your neighbourhood, will instil a good foundation of exercise that is desperately needed especially in today's instant-gratification world.

Climbing frames are built a number of different ways and are manufactured with a variety of assorted materials. Depending on what you are looking for and the amount of space you have in your backyard for your new outdoor climbing structure, you should be able to find one that will you suit just fine. Many of these outdoor structures incorporate an assortment of different features to stimulate coordination, balance and agility for children. With extras such as rope ladders or bridges, slides, changes in elevation for the variety of walkways, there is no end to the amount of add-ons that could entertain your children for years to come.

One of the most popular types of outdoor climbing structures for children is made of wood. They are typically the best type for sturdiness, ease of cleaning and storage. Many of these outdoor apparatuses can be purchased in parts and you can piece them all together all at once or one at a time as you obtain them throughout the course of a few years. No matter how you plan on purchasing your outdoor structure, your children will benefit from it immediately.

Smaller climbing frames made of hard durable plastic are typically made for very young children such as toddlers and pre-school aged children. These types of play structures are quite small in size and can be used both indoors and outdoors. They are easy to clean and very easy to put together and take apart for storage or to move to another location.

Try to find out as much information as you can before making your final purchase for your outdoor play structure such as climbing frames, playhouses and trampolines. You will want to be sure that the style and model you are getting will suit your children for years to come and make it well worth your while to invest in a larger purchase for your backyard.

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Electronic Handheld Sudoku Games

The game of Sudoku has become increasingly popular for people of all ages and intellectual levels. Because of its popularity companies have now invented the electronic handheld Sudoku game. Because people love to play the game these electronic hand held versions have become very popular to the extent that stores are often running out of stock. When looking for an electronic Sudoku you will find that there are many types on the market. Here is a list of suggestions on where you can get the right one for you.

The New York Daily Times Excalibur Handheld Sudoku Game

The New York Daily Times electronic handheld Sudoku game by Excalibur is one of the best Sudoku's available. It is available for around $60.00 and you can purchase one in most fine department's stores. The game has many different levels from beginner to expert and come with a touch screen where you can either use a stylus or a finger to add the number to the grid.

The Coleco Sudoku Game

This is one of the most affordable and is also one of the easiest Sudoku handheld games to use. The Coleco electronic handheld Sudoku game can be found in stores that sell toys and will set you back from $10-$20. The Coleco does not have a touch screen but does have navigational buttons where a player can move around the screen. This game is very affordable and fun for all ages.

The SDK-150 Handheld Sudoku Game For Kids

Kids love to amuse themselves with electronic games so what better game to provide them with than an electronic handheld Sudoku game. A electronic handheld Sudoku game can assists them in expanding their logic and math skills. The SDK-150 electronic handheld Sudoku contains games that are at the right level for children so they are not too hard to play and will provide kids with hours of challenging and fun play. You can purchase this game in stores where toys are sold and cost around $10.

When you go looking for you're electronically Sudoku game do some research into the different types of games it will offer you. The prices range from $5 to $100.00 and there are literally hundreds of different types of electronic handheld Sudoku games available in stores all over the United States. Regardless of which game you select, there will be hours of endless fun when trying to solve those puzzles. And because they are handheld you can take them with you wherever you go.

For more tips and information on how to play Sudoku visit: [http://www.sudokuteaser.com]

Indoor Sports

A word of warning, first, just because a certain sport may or may not be safe for indoor play, you still want to have plenty of space! Even if you're using a foam basketball, there's still a possibility of knocking valuable things right over. Ideally, indoor sports should be restricted to a room free of fragile things, and with plenty of room for a little bit of running and jumping.

Of course, then again, ideally you want to be playing sports outside. Indoor sports, however, are a great way to get some exercise and keep from growing restless when it's raining, snowing, or too cold outside. Likewise, if it's night time and your kids have a little extra energy to burn off before they're ready to fall asleep, indoor sports can help to wear them out in time for bed once it's dark out.

Anyways, that said, there are a few sports that can be played indoors, safely, thanks to some toys out there today.

Basketball

With smaller hoops and a miniaturized, foam ball, shooting hoops indoors is made possible, and safe. Of course, it's not a full game of basketball in many ways. You can't dribble, of course, and it'd be a little hard to get more than two people to a team, but you can shoot, block, and pass just as well.

Miniature Golf

With tiny plastic golf clubs and cups for the plastic golf balls, it's pretty easy to set up miniature golf courses in your own home, using items around the house as obstacles and to arrange courses. Most toy golf kits come complete with a caddy bag and a variety of clubs. This is especially fun indoors when you get inventive with the courses, setting up ramps and obstacles with books and other items.

Soccer

Don't kick too hard! Setting up a small goal indoors, you can get a little goalie practice.

Understandably, there are some sports, such as football and baseball, which just can't really be played indoors without knocking everything over. However, with a few such exceptions, a rainy day shouldn't be an excuse to slack off and sit around all day.

There are plenty of ways for your kids to get their daily exercise indoors, as long as you have a little bit of space, when the weather outdoors isn't exactly friendly towards sports and outdoor play.

And again, just keep in mind that you will still want to practice all of the basic safety measures. Move everything valuable out of the way and clear off some floor space (in fact, if you have a garage with some room in it, that would be ideal). No matter how careful you try to be, it can be easy to get caught up in the heat of the moment, and throw a game winning shot, even though you had to knock the coffee table over to do it. It can be hard to try and pay attention to anything but the task at hand once you get "in the zone".

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The Top 10 Most Wanted Toys For Christmas 2008

Christmas is coming faster than you think!

Each year the same thing happens to millions of parents, when they have to tell their little one that "Santa didn't have time to deliver this year". Instead of running around like a headless chicken trying to find that special toy during the Christmas rat race, why not shop early and take a look at some of the most in-demand toys for Christmas 2008.

Basically there are 10 toys that are going to be hard to find by the time Christmas comes, so shop early for the best selection of Christmas gifts in 2008.

Toy Number 1

The Nintendo Wii

Nintendo's Wii video game system (pronounced "we") is designed to attract people, regardless of their age or video game experience, to sit down and play together--whether they're in the same room or on different sides of the globe. The system's name reflects this simple idea. It's easily pronounced in a variety of languages, and the distinctive spelling suggests two players side by side. The two Wii features Nintendo thinks will create new levels of gaming community are built-in Wi-Fi access, supported by a new online gaming service, and Wii's intuitive, wireless, motion-sensitive game controller.

Toy Number 2

The Wii Fit

Wii Fit is designed to be enjoyed by the whole family. In Japan it has been encouraging family members as a whole to discuss the topic of fitness and take an active interest in understanding their own fitness in a fun and entertaining way, all in the comfort of their own home.
Wii Fit comes bundled with the Wii Balance Board, an accessory developed exclusively for the Wii console that will have a far-reaching impact for all who use it. It's innovative, exciting and most of all fun and simple for all to use. It is a pressure sensitive, wireless balance board that goes on the floor - so someone can stand on it in front of the TV. It senses weight and shift in balance in any direction and therefore by standing on the Wii Balance Board during activities allows players to follow along to movements ensuring they have full control of the on-screen activities. This allows personal improvement goals to be set to effectively help you and your family to train and stay fit.

Toy Number 3

The Nintendo DS

Sleek black and white may have been the must-have look this summer, but now it's all about pink as the hugely successful Nintendo DS Lite turns pink. Nintendo's latest console includes all the existing features of the Nintendo DS, yet includes a variety of distinctive changes which truly sets it apart from other handheld consoles. Nintendo DS Lite retains the advanced touch screen technology, allowing players to control the software with a stylus or even their finger, as well as dual screens, voice recognition and Wi-Fi capabilities of the Nintendo DS but is now both smaller and lighter. Weighing nearly 60g less than the original, it is just two thirds of the original size. The redesign isn't only cosmetic though, the Nintendo DS Lite features adjustable screen brightness with four settings, a repositioned microphone for ease of use and a larger and more comfortable stylus. With its new design and unique features, this console is perfect for everyone regardless of age, gender and gaming skills.

Toy Number 4

Sony Playstation 3

The PS3 features IBM's "Cell" processor and a co-developed Nvidia graphics processor that makes the system able to perform two trillion calculations per second. That makes the PlayStation 3 40 times faster than the PS2. Along with the traditional AV and composite connections, it also boasts an HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) port, which delivers uncompressed, unconverted digital picture and sound to compatible high-definition TV and projectors. The system is capable of 128-bit pixel precision and 1080p resolution for a full HD experience. This console also provides for a sound experience by supporting Dolby Digital 5.1, DTS 5.1, as well as Linear PCM 7.1. A pre-installed 40 GB hard disc drive allows you to save games as well as download content from the internet. Unlike the other models of the PlayStation 3, the 40GB does not offer backwards compatibility.

Toy Number 5

Xbox 360

In comparison to the Darth Vader inspired design of the original Xbox, the Xbox 360 a thing of (near) wondrous beauty.

In addition to playing games and movies, the Xbox 360 can stream music and video from a wide variety of electronic devices, including iPods and the Sony PSP.

Toy Number 6

Sony PSP

All other portable consoles seem like chess to this. what is the point of making them. The PSP slim and lite has out classed the original and out classed all other portable devices. You can even get satnavs now for PSP! FANTASTIC!!!

Toy Number 7

Lego Mind Storm

Build-your-own Star Wars droids with the Droid Developer Kit. If you have ever wanted your own R2D2, now's your chance. With a little time and patience you can create a droid that can be programmed to do what you want it to.
At the heart of the Droid Developer Kit is a small, intelligent brain called the Micro Scout. This minute computer can react to light, has a motor to bring movement and has seven pre-programmed routines as well as a programmable option via your PC. If R2D2 is not your ideal choice of robot then you can build one of the two other droids in the pack: L-3GO Training Droid or the Jedi Knight Droid.

Toy Number 8

Silverlit PicooZ Twin Blade 3 Channel Helicopter

Be warned. This is no ordinary radio controlled helicopter. This is the TandemZ. A full three channel, auto stable system with twin propellers and an advanced multi-role set-up that requires skill, brains and determination to master. In appearance, the TandemZ closely resembles the iconic Sea Knight Helicopter, a vehicle famed for its assault transportation of combat troops and its ability to land on aircraft carriers. The twin propeller system is a striking feature of this unique style of helicopter, and providing greater stability, greater control and added power when airborne. With the TandemZ being a full 3 channel radio controlled unit, users are able to control the flight altitude, forwards and backwards movement and the direction of flight. Easier said than done. The handheld control unit (which doubles as the charging base for the TandemZ) is more complex than the standard R/C chopper, incorporating controls for Yaw trimming (direction), Pitch trimming (hovering angle), Throttle (altitude), Direction (forward/backward movement) and an additional headlight switch for flying in the dark. With guidance from the instruction booklet and a little practice, users will quickly appreciate the added control that the TandemZ offers and once mastered, can attempt more challenging stunts than ever before.

Toy Number 9

Speed Racer & Snake Oiler

Chase the robbers in the air and catch them at sea. This police seaplane is perfect for difficult police missions. Open the side door, take your seat, spin propellers and get ready for takeoff! Total wing span 40 cm/ 15.7 inches. Includes one police pilot.

And Finally - Toy Number 10

Original Rubix Cube

One of the most famous toys in history, Rubik's Cube is the incredibly addictive, multi-dimensional challenge that has fascinated fans since it arrived in 1980. Over "43 Quintillion" (that's 43 with 18 zeros to you and me) moves are possible with this original 3x3 Cube, but there is only one solution! A must for puzzle lovers, the aim is to twist and turn the Rubik's Cube to return it to its original state, with every side having one solid colour. For those who struggle to master this challenge - or simply lack the patience - the enclosed guide provides the simplest ever 7-step Rubik's Cube solution and introduces a number of other fantastic games to play. So, whether you're into simple siding or prefer a spot of classic cubing, hours of challenging fun lie ahead.

Darius Diamond specializes in writing video gaming, DVD & entertainment reviews, free tips guides and more.

To view a large selection of games, consoles and DVDs at great prices visit :

http://astore.amazon.co.uk/toys-and-games-superstore-21

Gormiti and Spongebob Games Are the Craze Among Kids

It's the new FLARE in town! Gormiti toys and games are all over the place and kids can't get hold of enough Gormiti toys. These action toys are pouring into the market and new editions are sprouting almost every day and parents are running around to get their kids their favorite toy. Gormiti is essentially a trading card game with a storyline behind it. Series 1 of the game contains a stack of 42 cards. The story was initially called Gormiti: The invincible lords of nature, it was changed to Gormiti: The lords of nature return.

The toys are based on characters from the story of Gorm. It is a village which is left lifeless by the evil villain and again brought to life by a mythical character referred to as Old sage. The old sage evokes the spirits of the four tribes- earth, forest, sea and sky. The rest of story is the events and episodes that follow, in the land of Gorm.

The toys are about 2 inch tall and were created in Italy in 1995. Kids love these toys because action and such an exciting storyline appeals to them. Boys, especially, enjoy collecting sets of Gormiti toys and recreating battles scenes and new stories for them. These toys encourage young minds to create and imagine. Although it would be good to curb their enjoyment of destruction and war, but that is the moral obligation of every parent.

Spongebob Squarepants is another popular game with kids. It is based on a cartoon series aired in nickelodeon. The setting is an underwater city called bikini bottom situated under the Pacific ocean. The whole cartoon has been given an aquatic theme, including the buildings. Several huge Hollywood personalities have worked behind Spongebob by giving their voices. The main idea is humor and the very opening line "who lives in a pineapple under the sea?" has the kids in peals of laughter. Apart from all this there are also toy figures and online games centered on this series.

Spongebob merchandise is also very popular. There are Spongebob t-shirts, shorts, rides, flips flops and the list just goes on forever. Online games have gripped the young brains and don't seem to loosen its hold. There are so many games that can be played online, almost uncountable versions and levels for the same game, numerous websites that allow access to these games and all that FUN you get while playing them.

There are a lot of free games like Gormiti games. Click here to know more about Spongebob games

Some of the Coolest Kids Toys and Games

The official beginning of the 2009 holiday shopping season is only a few weeks away. Major toy and retail stores have started to announce their 'Hot Toys' lists; the toys and games that will be on many kids' wish lists this season. With today's challenging economy, the prices of many kids' toys are being reduced to draw in more customers. One recent survey showed that many consumers will be starting their holiday shopping a bit earlier this year to make their money stretch further.

There are many older kid's toys that are being brought back with bigger and more exciting features. There are new boys' toys, girls' toys and toys for both genders. There are many boys and girls that have fun with the very same toys. Kids today are very well aware of the toys available today and have their opinions as to what they like and don't like. Sometimes it can seem like a child's holiday gift list goes on forever and knowing some of the most popular toys on the market today, helps gift givers decide on what gifts they will be giving their loved ones.

The following are popular children's toys and games that are expected to be big for this 2009 Christmas:

Boys Toys

1. Ben 10 Alien Force Kevin Levin's Action Cruiser. Just like his muscle car, but loaded with new unique features.
2. GX Racers Tightrope Terror Track Set. A track full of high-flying stunts!
3. Bakugan Battle Pack. Answer calls to brawl and decide the galaxy's fate.
4. VTech Kidizoom Multimedia Pink Digital Camera + Free Travel Bag. Take pictures to preview and edit; also play built-in games.
5. Battle Strikers Starter Set Series 1 Tsunami. The new generation of battling tops.
6. Playskool Kota and Pals Monty T-Rex. Soft and snugly, responds to touch, movements and sounds and that are lifelike.

Girls Toys

1. Peppa Pig's Princess Palace. Beautiful home for Princess Peppa and her family.
2. VTech Kidizoom Multimedia Blue Digital Camera + Free Travel Bag. Takes pictures that you can preview and edit; also play built-in games.
3. Disney Princess: Just One Kiss Princess Tiana Doll. Play out scenes from the Disney's The Princess and the Frog.
4. Little Mommy Baby Ah-Choo. Sneezes, wheezes and sniffles.
5. Dance around Dora. Interactive Dora dressed in crystals.
6. Peg Perego Polaris Trail Princess Ride-On. ATV ride-on for 2 people.
7. Littlest Pet Shop - Cozy Care Adoption Center. Keep pets healthy and well-fed.

Children's toys & games for both boys and girls

1. Sylvanian Families Caravan. Everything needed for staying away from home.
2. Monopoly City. Build a city inside the board game as the game is played.
3. Lego Games Minotaurus. LEGO® Games that you build, play and change.
4. Bendaroos. Shape 'em, Stick 'em, Wrap 'em, No stains, glue, or mess!
5. Color Me a Song from Crayola Beginnings. Create music with scribbles. The faster the scribbles, the faster the song!
6. Fisher Price Elmo Live Encore. Elmo does more in his encore. Life-like furry friend with the magic of the original Elmo Live but with new surprises.

Jenny Talorman is an amateur writer who enjoys learning and educating people on a range of topics including; childrens toys and games, children's issues and baking. If you have any feedback on this article please feel free to get in touch.

For more information on toys click here http://www.thetoyshop.com