Well, the Holidays are here, but in case you didn’t finish your shopping, here are a few more toys that will make those kiddos shriek with delight as they tear off the wrapping paper.
Hatchimals Super Surprise (Spin Master)
Last year’s hit toy is back with an ever-bigger surprise inside. The all new Hatchimals Surprise let you hatch two sweet, cuddly Hatchimals from the same egg—that’s right, twins. As you play with and hold your colorful egg, the Hatchimals inside make all sorts of sounds to let you know they’re trying to hatch. When they’re finally ready, you’ll see their rainbow eyes and they’ll begin to “push” their way out of the egg. Although they’re twins, each Hatchimal has a unique personality. As you interact with them, they learn new tricks and habits, like how to talk, dance, sing, tell jokes, play games, repeat what you say, and more. They also interact with each other, sometimes sweet, sometimes arguing, like any siblings will. About $60 in stores and online. https://spinmaster.com
Star Wars Hero Droid BB-8 (Spin Master)
Ever want to own your own droid (honestly, who hasn’t)? With this new, nearly life-size BB-8 (16 inches tall, 19 with antenna), you’ll feel like a true Jedi or Padwan. BB-8 glides about just and makes sounds just like his movie counterpart. In “Follow Me” mode, he’ll roll next to you. There’s also voice recognition and remote-control capabilities. Hero Droid BB-8 is a great gift for any Star Wars fan, young or old, new to the films or longtime aficionado. About $150 in stores or online. https://spinmaster.com
Hedbanz (Spin Master)
This fun game is great for all ages (as long as they can read). At the start, every player gets three chips and a card with a personality on it to stick in a headband. On your turn, turn the timer and ask Yes or No questions to guess who you are. If you’re right, hand in a chip and go again. If you’re wrong, you lose your turn. The winner is the first person to hand in all their chips. It’s a fun, not-too-challenging game that will have everyone laughing and trying to figure out who’s who. About $12. https://spinmaster.com
Othello (Cardinal)
If you’re looking for a quieter, one-on-one strategy game, check out Othello. The goal is to trap and capture your opponent’s pieces, but the winner typically isn’t decided until the last pieces are played. About $15 in stores or online $15. https://spinmaster.com
M.A.X. Meccano Robot (Meccano)
If you and your children like hands-on projects, building, or robotics, this toy will be your fast favorite. The latest Meccano robot, M.A.X., has both Artificial Intelligence and customizable programming so that you get to build a completely one-of-a-kind robot. Little hands build upon or start their knowledge of programming and robotics as they give their robots flair and personality. M.A.X can be controlled using voice commands, buttons in his MeccaBrain, or via free, included app. M.A.X., has expressive facial graphics that are designed to engage kids—oh, and he can tell jokes, too. Besides being tons of fun, M.A.X. is quite the learning tool, and comes with a gaming platform, built-in infrared sensors that help him avoid obstacles, and much more. Ages 8+ or for anyone who loves to learn and has hands that like to be kept busy. About $99 in stores or online. http://www.meccano.com