Top Holiday Trend: 10 smart toys for connected kids
Shhh, don’t tell the kids, but many of the hottest holiday tech toys this year can actually be good for them. From iPads and Wii U’s, to all of the battery-operated, USB cable’d, LED-lighted magic in-between, today’s top picks can combine the best of the digital world with the engagement of the real world, to create modern toys that both educate and entertain. Here are some of my favorites:
1. Barbie Photo Fashion Doll
Age: 6+
Price: $50
Buy: From Mattel
Barbie Photo Fashion is bright, beautiful, and rocks the latest fashion trend, but there’s a whole lot more to this little doll than meets the eye. She’s equipped to introduce kids to the world of digital photography, graphic design, and modern marketing.
This Barbie doubles as a digital camera, with a built-in best-shot billboard. By pressing her belt buckle, you turn on a lens embedded in Barbie’s back, which features a 0.3-megapixel camera. The camera shoots and stores up to 200 photos, and displays them on the LED backlit screen built-in to Barbie’s shirt. Kids can customize photos with more than 30 filters, frames, and stamps. Compatible with both Mac and PC, Barbie Photo Fashion Doll can encourage creativity in a modern, pop culture sort of way way. Look out supermodel turned super mogul Tyra Banks, this Barbie is on to your kind of multimedia super powers.
2. Hot Wheels Apptivity
Age: 4+
Price: $20
Buy: From Amazon
Here’s another high-tech twist on a perennial favorite, Hot Wheels Apptivity. Kids can use specially designed, screen-safe Hot Wheels cars on their parents’ iPad. The cars actually interact with a free app. It uses a conductive technology, so the app recognizes each vehicle and its driving style. Now, of course this means parents have to be willing to give up the iPad for playtime. Apptivity also came out several other popular toy-meets-tablet games including Fruit Ninja, Batman, and Cut the Rope. If you lose one of the race cars or action figures, you can still play the apps with your fingertips.
3. Furby
Age: 5+
Cost: $60
Buy: From Amazon
A big trend in general this year is the “rad” revival of toys that first came in the 80’s and 90’s, like Furby. Today’s more modern furry friend encourages interactive play, through progressive learning. That means that the more a child plays with it, the better it learns to perform a trick, speak, and even pick up on the personality of the child playing with it. Furby even has sensors all over his fuzzy little “body” that help him react in a realistic way to kids movement and speech. Oh, and he’s got his own own smartphone and iPad app too. One word of warning for parents: the cutesy sounds this little guy makes will drive you crazy after awhile (like most kids toys that make noise). Nothing that set of ear-plugs won’t fix.
4. Rubik’s Stack & Build Blocks
Ages: 18 months+
Cost: $20
Another toy making a comeback (though really, it never went away) is the Rubik’s Cube. But this holiday season’s must-have version is the Rubik’s Stack & Build Blocks set that turns the classic puzzle into a set of 20 building blocks, perfect for the stroller set. The blocks have the same bright colors of the classic cube, and come in four shapes: triangles, squares, and small and large rectangles. These building blocks encourage creative play, help develop fine motor skills, and teach little minds about sizes and shapes.
5. Cubelets
Ages: 8+
Cost: $160
The cost of this toy is high, because what a child can do with it is seriously that cool. By using what looks an awful lot like regular building blocks, kids can create simple, reconfigurable robots that can actually move around, respond to light, react to sound, and display other lifelike behavior. It works by combining sensor, logic, and actuator blocks. Depending on the combination, you’re basically “programming” the robot to perform different tasks. The different types of cubes elicit different actions, and reactions, in the simple robot, without any wires, tools, or programming skills. This is a great way to introduce young minds to the core concepts of robotics and programming logic.
6. Tablets for Tots
Ages: 3-9
Cost: $80 — $150
Parents ask my advice about kids tablets all the time, and it’s tough to recommend just one. The one you choose has a lot to do with your budget. In the sensibly priced range, I really like both of the new, upgraded LeapPad 2, and VTech InnoTab 2 kids Tablets. Both focus more on learning capabilities than flashy tech specs, though they hold their own with more memory to store apps and creations, and faster processors that can handle more complex software. They also both have a 5″ touch screen, tilt sensor, microphone, and built-in digital photo/video cameras. Either of these tablets are fantastic first choices, great for learning early reading and math skills.
7. PlayStation Wonderbook
Ages: 7+
Cost: $40 for stand alone, $80 for the PS3 bundle
The new PlayStation Wonderbook is essentially a digital, holographic pop-up book. It works with the PlayStation Eye camera to “see” what’s happening in real-time, then layer it augmented reality-style with various events and activities on the screen. The first title coming out is the “Book of Spells,” written by J.K. Rowling. It teaches you how to become a wizard, and by using the PlayStation Move controller, you can actually perform spells with an onscreen wizard’s wand. It’s sure to captivate and engage audiences young and old, with it’s multi-sensory storytelling magic.
8. Activision Skylanders Giants
Ages: 6+
Cost: $75 (for starter pack)
One of the most popular selling games for the 2011 Holiday season was Skylanders: Spyro’s Adventure. Now, Activision’s bigger, bolder sequel Skylanders Giants, is poised to dominate this year as well. Skylanders broke ground as a revolutionary bridge between video gaming and action figures. With the Giants starter set, and a video game console (PS3, Wii, XBox 360), you can bring action figure to life inside the Skylanders game universe. The figures actually save and store your levels and information as well, and each comes with it’s own special powers. I like the way this provides a portal for positive play, away from the screen, creating a nexus between gaming, imagination, and active play, while creating a fairly positive storyline.
9. Digital Light Designer
Ages: 6+
Cost: $60
The Digital Light Designer lets you draw and color with light. With a digital stylus, kids can create and manipulate 96 colored LED’s inside a 3D, light-up dome. You can even animate the art with special effects like color change, rotation, and three panel animation.
It also comes with games and an activity mode, and lets you create and save your favorite drawings and personal messages to light up a room later.
10. Wonder Box
Ages: 3-6
Cost: $20 per month
For a truly interactive toy, take a look at Wonder Box from Education.com. It’s a subscription-based monthly service, that delivers ready-to-go science, craft and other fun projects right to your doorstep. Each month has a different theme, such as mad scientist, nature, or once upon a time. Each box is filled with age-appropriate projects to help educate, enrich and entertain kids. This is a great way to get families more quality time together, while helping kids satisfy their curiosity about the world around them.
As a mom, I know first hand that the best toys are the ones your kids actually play with. As someone pointed out the last time I did a toy round-up, sometimes the best toys are a simple cardboard box or set of pots and pans. But if you’re like me, there’s a good chance you’ll want to get a few of these toys, just so that you can play with them too.
Posted in Digital Parenting, Girlfriend's Guide, Great Gadgets, TechStyled
Wonderful work! That is the type of information that should be shared across the net. Disgrace on Google for not positioning this post upper! Come on over and talk over with my web site . Thanks =)
You actually make it appear really easy together with your presentation but I find this topic to be actually one thing that I believe I’d never understand. It sort of feels too complicated and very large for me. I am having a look ahead to your next put up, I¡¦ll attempt to get the dangle of it!
I do agree with all of the ideas you have offered on your post. They’re really convincing and will definitely work. Nonetheless, the posts are too quick for newbies. May you please prolong them a bit from next time? Thanks for the post.
whoah this weblog is fantastic i like reading your posts. Keep up the good paintings! You recognize, a lot of persons are hunting round for this information, you can aid them greatly.
Fantastic website. A lot of helpful info here. I am sending it to several friends ans additionally sharing in delicious. And obviously, thanks for your sweat!
I relish, cause I found exactly what I was looking for. You’ve ended my 4 day lengthy hunt! God Bless you man. Have a nice day. Bye
I¡¦m now not positive where you are getting your info, however good topic. I needs to spend a while learning much more or working out more. Thanks for wonderful information I was in search of this information for my mission.
You could certainly see your expertise in the work you write. The world hopes for even more passionate writers such as you who aren’t afraid to mention how they believe. Always follow your heart.
Useful info. Lucky me I found your web site accidentally, and I am shocked why this coincidence did not took place in advance! I bookmarked it.
Thank you for another magnificent article. Where else may just anyone get that kind of information in such a perfect way of writing? I have a presentation next week, and I am at the search for such info.
I¡¦m now not certain where you’re getting your info, but good topic. I must spend a while learning more or understanding more. Thanks for wonderful info I was looking for this information for my mission.
you are truly a good webmaster. The web site loading pace is incredible. It seems that you’re doing any unique trick. In addition, The contents are masterpiece. you have done a wonderful process on this matter!
Excellent site. A lot of useful info here. I¡¦m sending it to some friends ans additionally sharing in delicious. And certainly, thanks for your effort!
I am now not certain where you’re getting your info, however great topic. I must spend some time studying much more or working out more. Thanks for wonderful info I used to be on the lookout for this information for my mission.
Fantastic website. Lots of useful information here. I am sending it to some pals ans also sharing in delicious. And obviously, thank you for your sweat!
Really worthwhile post. Spend awareness
Every weekend i used to pay a quick visit this web page, as i wish
for enjoyment, for the reason that this this web site conations actually fastidious funny material too.
Hi just wanted to give you a quick heads up and let you know a
few of the pictures aren’t loading properly. I’m not sure why but I think its a linking issue.
I’ve tried it in two different browsers and both show the same
outcome.
Greetings! This is my 1st comment here so I just wanted to give a quick shout out and say I really enjoy reading your articles. Can you recommend any other blogs/websites/forums that deal with the same subjects? Many thanks!
Hi there are using WordPress for your blog platform? I’m new to the blog world
but I’m trying to get started and set up my own. Do you need any coding expertise to make your own blog?
Any help would be really appreciated!
I every time spent my half an hour to read this webpage’s articles all the time along with a cup of coffee.
If you are going for finest contents like me, just go to see this web page every day for the reason that it gives feature contents,
thanks
Hi there, I enjoy reading through your article post.
I like to write a little comment to support you.
We stumbled over here by a different page and thought I might
check things out. I like what I see so now i am following you.
Look forward to looking over your web page yet again.
If some one needs expert view on the topic of blogging then i advise him/her to pay a visit this web site, Keep up the fastidious work.
Do you want find other ways to get more social media engagment? If you are intrested go to: https://smmsupreme.com
Best Social Media Services 2022 – We offer: – Stripe Deposit – Automatic order processing – 24/7 Support. Click in my profile link for more info
BLACKHAT FREEDOM METHOD – MAKE 2000 DOLLARS PER MONTH
I couldn’t resist commenting. Exceptionally well written!
get more likes on facebook – Click Here: https://smmsupreme.com
Do you want get more social high quality network traffic, likes, subscribers and followers at low cost? If you are intrested go to: https://smmsupreme.com Have a nice day. HPL Holdings Team
you are really a good webmaster. The site loading speed is amazing. It seems that you’re doing any unique trick. In addition, The contents are masterwork. you have done a wonderful job on this topic!
https://DreamProxies.com assessment – 100 quality plus anonymous private proxies, top deals and also USA private proxies
Do you want get more social high quality network traffic, likes, subscribers and followers at low cost? If you are intrested go to: https://smmsupreme.com Have a nice day. HPL Holdings Team
prostata juckreiz
emagrecer em 7 dias
dores articulares mãos
Your home is valueble for me. Thanks!…
I love it when folks get together and share opinions. Great site, keep it up!
Glad I observed this on google .
Do you want get more social high quality network traffic, likes, subscribers and followers at low cost? If you are intrested go to: https://smmsupreme.com Have a nice day
Social Media Services – Platform with real organic followers, fans, likes, shares, views, reposts, or clicks Visit our official website: https://smmsupreme.com
It’s appropriate time to make some plans for
the future and it’s time to be happy. I’ve read this post
and if I could I want to suggest you few interesting things or suggestions.
Maybe you could write next articles referring to
this article. I desire to read even more things about it!
buy tiktok likes
Best panel Support in the market – Visit our official website: https://smmsupreme.com
begravning
sizleride beklerim faceitme
Facebook Fan Page Likes for $4.50/1000 ; Instagram Followers for $0.78/1000 ; – Youtube Views: $1.62/1000 ; – Twitter followers: $2.10/1000 ; Paypal Deposit ; – Stripe Deposit ; – Automatic order processing ; – 1 Hour Delivery. Click in my profile for more details.
Oh my goodness! Incredible article dude! Thanks, However I am encountering issues with your RSS.
I don’t understand why I cannot join it. Is there anyone else having the same RSS problems?
Anyone who knows the solution will you kindly respond? Thanx!!
Hey I am so excited I found your site, I really found you by accident,
while I was browsing on Digg for something else, Regardless I am here
now and would just like to say many thanks for a
fantastic post and a all round thrilling blog (I also love the theme/design),
I don’t have time to read it all at the moment but I have bookmarked it
and also included your RSS feeds, so when I have time I will
be back to read much more, Please do keep up the superb work.
http://lawsociety-barreau.nb.ca/?URL=https://jauczen.pl/index.php/community/profile/derickwaldon15/
https://stbensparishmilwaukee.org/?URL=https://anunciatelopr.site/housing/how-do-hard-money-loans-work.html
I just like the valuable info you supply to your
articles. I’ll bookmark your blog and check again right here frequently.
I am somewhat certain I will learn lots of new stuff right right here!
Best of luck for the following!
http://katalog.ezoterika1.ru/out.php?url=https://classifieds.miisbotswana.com/full-time/learn-exactly-how-i-improved-hard-money-loan-requirements-in-2-days.html
http://www.webclap.com/php/jump.php?url=https://metamorahistoricalsociety.org/members/profile/scottnimmo6117/
Thank you for the good writeup. It in fact was a amusement account it.
Look advanced to far added agreeable from you!
By the way, how can we communicate?
http://haroldmitchellfoundation.com.au/?URL=https://mya00.site/community/profile/nolaheckman9350/
http://cim.bg/?URL=https://prosite.ws/hobbies/five-secrets-and-techniques-about-hard-money-loans-for-bad-credit-they-re-nonetheless-preserving-from-you.html
I like the valuable info you provide in your articles.
I’ll bookmark your blog and check again here frequently.
I am quite sure I will learn lots of new stuff right here!
Good luck for the next!
https://a1seodirectory.com/backlink-tools-websites/now-you-possibly-can-have-your-hard-money-loan-calculator-completed-safely.html
https://marketplace.radiolachispafm.tk/housing/discovering-the-perfect-hard-money-loan-example.html
https://www.bestlawyer.advocatesvaranasi.com/other-market/here-s-a-fast-manner-to-solve-the-hard-money-lenders-for-beginners-problem.html
https://grumpybuy.com/hobbies/hard-money-loan-calculator-with-out-driving-yourself-crazy.html
https://students-rooms.com/english/8-things-twitter-desires-yout-to-overlook-about-hard-money-loan-example.html
https://call.ebimarketing.com/languages/what-all-people-else-does-in-relation-to-best-hard-money-lenders-and-what-you-must-do-totally-different.html
Hi, I do think this is a great web site. I stumbledupon it 😉 I’m going to return once again since I saved
as a favorite it. Money and freedom is the greatest
way to change, may you be rich and continue to guide other people.
https://classifieds.miisbotswana.com/services/warning-signs-on-hard-money-lenders-near-me-it-s-best-to-know.html
http://wiki.antares.community/index.php?title=What_Makes_A_Hard_Money_Loan_Example
http://urbanexplorationwiki.com/index.php/8_Guilt_Free_Best_Hard_Money_Lenders_Suggestions
http://poicom.co.kr/bbs/board.php?bo_table=free&wr_id=74475
https://sensualvip.com.ar/apartment/open-mike-on-hard-money-loan-requirements.html
https://www.optimalscience.org/index.php?title=Listed_Below_Are_7_Methods_To_Raised_Hard_Money_Loan_Example
Our main services are: Facebook Fan Page Likes, Instagram Followers, Youtube Views, Twitter followers, Website Traffic and much more. We also offer: Paypal Deposit, Stripe Deposit, Automatic order processing, 1 Hour Delivery, High Quality Services, Our prices are the cheapest in the market, starting at $0.01 ; OUR OFFICIAL WEBSITE: https://smmsupreme.com
youtube tik tok – Visit: https://smmsupreme.com
SMM Services
Heya i am for the first time here. I found this board and I find It really helpful & it helped me out a lot.
I’m hoping to give something again and aid others such as
you aided me.
Best Social Media Services 2022 – We offer: – Stripe Deposit – Automatic order processing – 24/7 Support. Learn More: https://smmsupreme.com
Best Quality-Price Ratio on the market with 976846 orders until now Click Here: https://smmsupreme.com
Do you want find other ways to get more social media engagment? https://smmsupreme.com
Do you want find other ways to get more social media engagment? Click in my profile link for more info
Attractive portion of content. I just stumbled upon your website and in accession capital to assert that I get actually loved account your weblog posts. Any way I’ll be subscribing in your augment and even I achievement you get right of entry to consistently quickly. !
Buy Hornady 6.5 Creedmoor 140 gr ELD® Match
Watch Exchange Swiss Legend Automatic 1000 Meter Divers
Best Teachers Linguistics Kenya
One thing I would like to say is that often car insurance termination is a dreadful experience and if you’re doing the proper things as a driver you will not get one. Some individuals do have the notice that they are officially dropped by their insurance company and several have to scramble to get more insurance after having a cancellation. Low cost auto insurance rates are usually hard to get from cancellation. Understanding the main reasons regarding auto insurance cancellation can help car owners prevent burning off one of the most important privileges available. Thanks for the concepts shared by your blog.
hi!,I really like your writing so much! share we keep in touch more about your article on AOL? I require an expert in this area to unravel my problem. May be that is you! Having a look forward to see you.