Father Christmas is hard at work filling his bag with surprises so kids who’ve been good will get the presents they’ve asked for on Christmas morning.
By now he’s noticed what most children seem to want are toys based on blockbuster movies and TV series such as High School Musical 3: Senior Year and Ben-10. As always games for Nintendo’s Wii consoles and other portable hand games are high on kids’ wish lists.
Some of these coveted items aren’t cheap though - the consoles are expensive and the games cost an additional R500. Yet they remain popular, says Issy Zimmerman, spokesman for Toys “R” Us and Reggies.
TV series and movies dominate children’s toy choices this year, Prima Toys spokesman Kate Swiegers says. “We predict High School Musical, Hannah Montana, Bratz and Ben-10 will be extremely popular.”
Barbie, that veteran among dolls, is still going strong. The Barbie & the Diamond Castle doll (R399,99) from the movie of the same name sings two songs, changes her day dress for a ballgown at the press of a button and her necklace flashes in sync with her voice.
Girls who love baby dolls can add the new Baby Born doll (R499) to their collection. They can feed and bathe it, change its nappy and put it on a special potty with flashing lights and flushing sounds. For girls who prefer a doll that looks and feels like the real thing the Water Babies doll (R349) will do the trick. When it’s filled with warm water it’s easy to imagine it’s a real baby.
Cars are a hit with most boys and this year the Hot Wheels Power Loop (R599) is the in thing. The racing track with its array of shiny cars will make the player feel like a Formula One driver.
If you want to make a boy under 10 happy you can buy just about any toy involving action movie Ben-10. Ben-10 DX Omnitrix watch (R329,99) changes Ben into various space creatures. There are also several Ben-10 action figures (R169,99), and the PlayStation 2 Ben-10 game (R299,90).
Younger boys will enjoy the Lightning McQueen race car (R179) - just shake it and it’s ready to go and the more you shake the longer the drive will last.
With so many wonderful choices, children are guaranteed to be extra good over the next few weeks.
*See YOU this week for the full article on this year’s most sought-after gifts for kids.
