Making A List ... of the Most Popular Toys

Editor's Note: Milford Patch writer Judy Goldwyn went out and about looking for the most popular gifts for children. Here is Judy's report.

'Tis the season for toys.

My assignment was to disclose some of the most popular gifts for the children in your life. The news is that, along with innovative, electronic, cuddly, interactive and creative items developed recently, some of the old standards are holding their own.

After several conversations with friends whose children and grandchildren were experts in choosing toys, I went to a Milford toy store to get up close and personal at the scene.

Among the newer and very popular toys is the Zhu Zhu Pet. These fluffy and adorable toy hamsters interact with their owners with as many as 40 sounds. Susan from Milford was searching for a particular Zhu Zhu Pet which, she said, was almost impossible to find last year. This year they're available and the selection is wide. They scurry around the room or around some of their equipment (sold separately) but are also cuddly and apparently like being held.

Zhu Zhu "Hamster Homies" have names such as Pipsqueak, Pax, Sweetie and Kingston and their biographies give the owner insight into their personalities. Hamsters are about $7 with clothing and other equipment are available at additional cost.

Kung Zhu Ninja Warriors and Battle Area appeal to a slightly older audience such as Susan's nephew who is 6.

The Melissa and Doug Easel appears to be sturdy and in shorter supply than others in the store. At about $70, it looks like it will last at least until next holiday season. Dylan's grandmother said she likes the fact that it encourages creativity for boys and girls. The companion set, an apron, paper pad, crayons and other accessories are available at additional cost. (The tarp you might want to put down under it is available at hardware and paint stores.)

The Galt America Outlet (Original Toy Company) owned and operated by Milford residents Sue and Kevin McGrath, carries the very popular Fold and Go Trampoline for boys and girls ages 3 and up. The Fold and Go was nominated as the best new pre-school toy by the Toy Manufacturers of America and by ASTRA and Learning Express retail stores nationwide.

Another popular toy is the "What z'it," a multi-color building toy – perfect as a stocking stuffer. The outlet on Woodmont Road is open every day, including Saturdays, until Christmas.

Find "The Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition" online or locally at Kristine's Papery (Broad Street – behind the former Dunkin' Donut location and next to Archie Moore's) and at Miller's Hallmark  at the CT Post Mall. The book can be purchased alone or with associated items including an activity book and plush toys. The book is priced at $29.95, and The Elf, we are told, is Santa's secret helper who tells him which children have been naughty or nice. Probably a good idea to have this fella on your side. Go to elfontheshelf.com for more information.

Brittany at Toys R Us in Milford told us that Creepy Crawler Bug Maker continues to be a very popular item. It allows your child to create all manner of bugs and slithering things that will make them smile. Still available at this writing, we won't guarantee how long it will be there. The basic set sells for about $29 with accessories and additional equipment.

Legos, Hot Wheels, Gund stuffed animals and Fisher Price continue to produce and sell the toys that have been around for decades, often with updates. For example, you'll find the Lego Hogwarts set available at approximately $45. Thomas and Toy Story characters, both updated and original, are still popular. Melissa from Milford, whose children are 4 and 6, was carrying a Chutes and Ladders and a Candy Land for family game night at her house. "The kids love it, and so do I," she said as she made her way to the checkout line.

Then there are the electronics! X Box 360 still reigns as one of the must-haves, particularly with the addition of the X-Box Kinect to compete with the older Wii. It's a great way to get your kids out of the chair and into some physical activity while still enjoying their computers. The popular Red Wii Bundle runs about $200 and Kinect is about $210.

Barbie lives on in both a new Holiday Barbie (+/-$40) and with her 3-story pink townhouse (+/- $180.)  Of course Barbie's other outfits and themes are still out there and are still a favorite among the little and not-so-little girls. American Girl dolls and clothing still reign supreme with the girls.

Don't forget about books for all ages. Good Night Moon is still out there as are the Shel Silverstein treasures. The Beverly Cleary Ramona books continue to be popular along with new series for all ages. Recommendations from book store staff are a good resource – there are too many to name here.

Two websites, toyinfo.org and toyawards.org offer information for shoppers looking for popular, safe and age-appropriate gifts for children.

Just one more thing: please understand that it would be impossible to accurately report on every popular toy for every age group. This is only a smattering of the gifts that will be loved and appreciated. Bicycles, skate and snowboards and sporting equipment, computer games and accessories are sure to please.

Finally, consider planning a special day with the child you want to please. Depending on their age, you can go to a concert, a show, a day of skiing or ice skating and out for dinner or lunch. All this can be represented in a package that includes photos or a brief description of your special day together.

Final Note: Prices in this article are approximate as they vary from store to store and on online outlets. Good luck and happy hunting, everyone!