Baltimore's Child Buzz

2011-12-03T23:19:00.162-05:00

Great Gift Ideas for Tweens, Teens, and Adults

The 2011 Gift Guide
Compiled by Dianne R. McCann

Having a hard time coming up with fresh ideas for gift-giving this year? Sure, buying for young children is not so difficult, but as your family and the families of your friends grow older, it can get tough—especially if you choose not to give gift cards or cash.

Let’s not forget about the other adults in your life, too. What are you doing for them?

Well, it’s a good thing you found your way here. This guide is a collection of some of the newer, often lesser-known products or services for tweens (ages 9-14), teens, and adults. And there’s something for just about every price range.

Also, don’t miss the section on charitable opportunities for giving as well as another section offering shopping advice, including tips for smart online shopping, courtesy of the shopping search engine, SortPrice.com.

Finally, if you still have some younger children on your list to buy for, when you’re done here, click on the 2011 Children’s Gift Guide, compiled by Janice Hands, which is also on this blog site.

Happy Holidays!

Prices listed are manufacturers’ suggested retail prices, provided prior to the publication of this guide. Baltimore’s Child cannot be responsible for price or availability changes.

It’s All Fun and Games

A Gift Card to Bowl Them Over

Give the gift of bowling with the AMF Holiday Gift Card. AMF Holiday Gift Cards are available in amounts of $25, $50, $75, and $100. They can be purchased at area AMF Bowling Centers. Or, if you prefer to buy them online, go to www.amf.com. (At the bottom of the homepage, click on Gift Cards.) Gift cards can be reloaded online as well. And, as an added bonus, your purchase qualifies for free shipping if ordered by Dec. 31, 2011.

For more information, call AMF Customer Service, at 800-342-5263.

Pop Culture-Pegged, Singing Kitty and T-Shirt

Inspired by the CBS sitcom, The Big Bang Theory, this Big Bang Theory Soft Kitty sings song lyrics first sung in one of the TV show’s episodes, “Pancake Batter Anomaly.” Then, on the Internet, the “Soft Kitty Song” went viral. Just press the paw of this 10-inch, grey and pink plushie, and you can sing along, too. Also available is the matching Big Bang Theory Soft Kitty T-Shirt, in adult and child sizes. Buy the two items as a combo and save.

Go to www.StylinOnline.com. Soft Kitty, $29.99. Soft Kitty Combo, $44.99.

Flippin’ Out! and Name 5

Here are two action-packed, family-friendly games that are sure to get everyone involved on game night.

Nominated as the Best Party Game of 2011, Flippin' Out! was inspired by the classic game of Categories. Flippin Out! is a wild and fast-thinking party game where a letter or a player is eliminated with each flip of a chip. Chips representing all the letters of the alphabet are spread out among all players and, once a category (such as “produce”) is read, a player has 10 seconds to say something within the category and flip over the first letter of that word (such as “lettuce” for “l” or “apple” for “a”). Each letter may only be used once. Players who say a word and flip a chip within the 10-second time limit stay in the round. For ages 8 and older.

Name 5 is the outrageous party game that asks easy questions players may know the answers to, but with a twist. Sure, a player may know one Tom Hanks movie, for instance—but can the player name five? Name 5 includes a game board, 1 die, 4 pawns, a 30-second timer, instructions, and 288 cards with more than 1400 challenges! For ages 12 and older.

The general principle of Endless Games is to produce high-quality entertainment in board games and puzzles that are quick and easy to learn. This theme runs through its line of classic games as well as its party games Name 5 and Flippin' Out!

Flippin' Out and Name 5 are available at Target, Toys R Us, Walmart, Barnes & Noble, and online retailers such as Amazon.com as well as www.endlessgames.com.

Get Up and Dance

Get them off the couch, moving their feet, and grooving with family and friends with live-action music videos from top musical talent in the game Get Up and Dance for Nintendo Wii and PlayStation Move for PlayStation 3 computer entertainment systems.

Get Up and Dance lets players strut their stuff to popular tunes and music videos from chart-topping performers, including Taio Cruz, The Pussycat Dolls, and Timbaland with Katy Perry. The game also features legendary songs from renowned artists such as Elton John and Lionel Richie, plus up-and-coming artists from around the world.

Complete with choreographed routines, Group Mode encourages players to create their own dance troupe and perform with up to three friends. In Shape Up Mode, players can sweat to the beat of heart-pounding hits for calorie-burning fitness workouts.

Get Up and Dance, by O-Games, is available at major retailers, local and online. $29.99.

LockerLookz Locker Décor

It’s not every year that a chandelier and shag carpet can be stuffed into a stocking, but it is possible this year thanks to LockerLookz locker décor. LockerLookz helps tween and teen girls glam, accessorize, and transform their dull lockers into one-of-a-kind showpieces.

With five accessories for less than $10 and another three products available for less than $25, LockerLookz products make great stocking gifts.

LockerLookz is available online, at lockerlookz.com, and at these local retailers: Barston's Child's Play, in Baltimore; Child's Play in the Village of Cross Keys, Baltimore; and at Hallmark, at The Avenue at White Marsh.

A Maryland Science Center Membership

For a gift that lasts from December to December, a membership to the Maryland Science Center is something the entire family—everyone, of all ages—can enjoy over and over again. Membership includes a full year of free admission, admission to special members-only events, discounts on tickets to the IMAX Theater and traveling exhibitions, and great deals at the Science Store and Beaker’s Café.

In addition, Maryland Science Center members receive free admission to more than 250 participating ASTC museums around the country. For information on purchasing a Maryland Science Center membership, call 410-545-5981, or visit its website, www.marylandsciencecenter.org.

Sleep in a Selk’bag

Sleepovers just got more fun with the addition of the 4G Lite Sleepwear System, from Selk’bag. Don’t worry about packing bulky blankets and pillows for sleeping on the go, just bring your Selk’bag. This is a perfectly portable, wearable sleeping bag, ideal for sleeping outdoors, indoors, or even just playing video games in comfort.

The lightweight 4G Lite sleeping bag is available in adult and kid sizing, and comes in three bold, fun colors—Dark Shadow, a dark grey; Surf the Web, a royal blue; and Hyacinth Violet. Find it online, at store.selkbagusa.com. From $79.

Smallville: The Complete Series

After 10 seasons on television, Smallville: The Complete Series has been released on DVD by Warner Home Video. This modern retelling of a hero's legendary origins blends realism, action, heart, and humor as Clark Kent completes his epic journey by claiming his birthright as the world’s ultimate hero—Superman. Designed for the ultimate Smallville fan, this DVD set features more than 192 hours of content—including all 218 episodes; more than five hours of newly added special features, such as a never-before-seen, 1961 Superboy TV pilot; a 100-minute featurette offering a retrospective look at the series; and a Comic-Con featurette.

In addition, exclusive printed materials include a Daily Planet newspaper, written by DC Comics, which highlights the storylines developed during the show’s 10-year run; an episode guide with never-before-seen production art (storyboards/sketches); and behind-the-scenes photos.

For fans who’ve already been collecting Smallville seasons on DVD, the series’ final installment, Smallville: The Complete Tenth Season, also is available on both DVD and Blu-ray, and includes never-before seen featurettes, deleted scenes, and more.

Both sets are available at major retailers, local and online. Smallville: The Complete Series, $339.88. Smallville: The Complete Tenth Season, DVD, $59.98, and Blu-ray, $69.97.

Gifts That Go “Yum”

Harvard Sweet Boutique

Life is sweet at Harvard Sweet Boutique, where its specialty is putting together unique and spectacular dessert gift packages, brimming with freshly baked gourmet cookies, toffee, and brownies. All treats and desserts are lovingly made by hand, using only the freshest, all-natural ingredients, which include rich European chocolate with the highest cocoa butter content, pure double-strength vanilla extracts, the finest flours, premium-grade nuts, and fresh, Grade A butter.

Harvard Sweet Boutique is online, at www.harvardsweetboutique.com. Prices vary.

Lucy’s Allergen-Free Cookies

Enjoying a deliciously baked cookie just got more exciting for the 12 million Americans who suffer from food allergies—3 million of whom are children. Lucy’s baked goods company has created cookies that more people can enjoy, food allergies or not. What began as a mother’s tasty recipe for her child has developed into a delicious alternative for people with or without special dietary considerations.

All Lucy’s cookies, including the new Chocolate, Ginger Snap, and Maple Bliss varieties, are gluten-free, vegan, and made without milk, eggs, peanuts, or tree nuts. Each cookie is baked to perfection and features a satisfying and airy crunch. All cookies are prepared in a carefully controlled, dedicated bakery, ensuring that each cookie meets tight allergen-testing standards. And, with all-natural ingredients, 0 mg cholesterol, and 0 g trans fat, everyone can feel good about eating these cookies.

Lucy’s is online, at www.drlucys.com. Prices vary.

These Gifts Sure Are Handy

CLEANCut Paper Towel Dispenser

Offering great style and performance, the CLEANCut Touchless Paper Towel Dispenser is designed for consumers who are looking for a smarter, cleaner, and more efficient way to work in the kitchen.

CLEANCut uses intuitive LED technology to seamlessly dispense and cut any length and brand of paper towel. Having greater control over the quantity of paper towels used helps prevent waste. And, because your hand touches only the towel dispensed, it helps eliminate cross-contamination of germs. CLEANCut operates on a low-voltage power adapter that plugs into any standard outlet. Also, it features an aesthetically pleasing, under-cabinet design, which saves on counter space.

The CLEANCut Touchless Paper Towel Dispenser is available at www.cleancutdispenser.com. White, $139.95. Stainless-steel finish, $159.95.

Family Organize Notepad

Sure enough, many parents will vow to be more organized in the New Year. While there are many hi-tech gadgets, gizmos, and apps available to help reach this goal, sometimes, a good old-fashioned piece of paper and pencil are just what the doctor ordered—especially when that piece of paper comes from the Family Organize Notepad.

Simple yet genius, this weekly notepad promises to help the entire family stay organized. It’s easy to fill out and post for every member of the family to get a visual reminder of what the week’s chores, appointments, and events look like.
The 300-sheet Family Organize Notepad can be personalized, and is available online, at InvitationBox.com. $30.95.

Poo~Pourri Bathroom Sprays

Make the season merry for friends and loved ones with Poo~Pourri's Original Before-You-Go Bathroom Spray, the only toilet bowl deodorizer small enough to fit in a stocking yet strong enough to suppress any odor. These sweet treats for the toilet make handy, unique gifts.

The spray features a natural blend of essential oils that create a film over the water, trapping unwanted bathroom odors before they can come to light. All that will be left behind is the unique and pleasing aroma. Classic blends of nine natural oils include bergamot, lemongrass, and grapefruit, creating a fresh scent that can be used freely all year round.

Poo~Pourri products come in a variety of sizes. For the traveler, the 2-ounce bottle is discreet enough to tuck into purses or pockets, and small enough to use when checking through airport security. The 4-ounce bottle is a host's best friend as it keeps guests at ease in heavily trafficked bathrooms. Gift sets also are available.

Find Poo~Pourri Bathroom Sprays online, at www.poopouri.com. Prices vary.

Remote-Controlled SimpliciKey

Combining convenience with safety, SimpliciKey is a remote-controlled electronic deadbolt that provides users multiple options to easily lock or unlock the house at the touch of a button.
With an encrypted key fob that has a range of up to 50 feet, SimpliciKey features a wireless keypad that can accommodate up to 16 user codes, which can be changed at any time, providing added ease and security. The deadbolt also allows you to continue to use a traditional key.

The SimpliciKey electronic lock is simple to install, replacing the existing standard deadbolt without any additional holes or drilling. And no hardwiring is necessary, because it runs on AA batteries. Also, the reversible lock system fits both right- and left-hand doors.

SimpliciKey is available in three finishes—polished brass, satin nickel, and aged bronze. Find it at Home Depot stores and online, at www.simplicikey.com. $249.00.

Feeling Good, Looking Good

Olie Biologique Essential Oils

Olie Biologique's travel-sized Huile Moderne 004 organic oils, a 5mL-spray vial delivers the perfect amount of essential oils in one smooth stream. Ideal for on-the-go individuals who follow strict beauty regimens, Huile Moderne 004's ingredients include USDA-certified organic Argan and Rosehip oils with bergamot, neroli, frankincense, and vitamin E—which, together, protect against environmental exposure and preserve well-conditioned skin and hair. Huile Moderne 004 is hydrating, healing, wrinkle-smoothing, and mood-lifting. Lightly scented and packed with anti-aging goodness, it is fast-absorbing and ideal for normal to combination skin.

Olie Biologique's travel-sized Huile Moderne 004 is available for purchase online, at www.oliebiologique.com. $15.

Rinse Soap's Skin Sticks and Pucker Sticks

Whether traveling or at home, experience a moisturizer that's good enough to eat. Cocoa and Shea butters paired with delightful and soothing scents and oils create Rinse Soap's Skin Sticks and Pucker Sticks, two lines of rich yet non-greasy lotion in stick form. They’re great for cuticles, knuckles, elbows, and anywhere else. Each batch is handmade from premium ingredients and is gluten free. Choose from fun scents, such as Ginger Lemongrass and Coconut Mango. Or, go with something more decadent, such as Chocolate, Almond, and Honey or Fresh Fig. Rinse also has a line of vegan-friendly skin products.

Rinse bath and body products, including Rinse Soap's Skin Sticks and Pucker Sticks, can be found in salons, spas, and boutiques as well as online, at www.rinsesoap.com. Prices vary.

For That Doggone Lucky Pet

Dog Tag Art’s Virtual Leash

Not just a colorful tag, Dog Tag Art Pet ID Tags come with Virtual Leash, which allows pet owners to maintain a unique online profile for any animal, increasing the chances of a safe return in case the pet is lost. The pet's exclusive website address and the owner’s phone number are printed on the custom ID tag. The website includes the pet’s information such as photos, special needs, and medical history.

Then, when someone finds the lost pet, he or she can go to the site listed on the tag and simply click the “I found this pet” button or type a personal message. That will send the pet owner and/or any other emergency contacts a message either by phone, email, or text, or post on Twitter. The site also uses Google Maps to help potential finders a safe place for the lost pet.

Dog Tag Art’s Virtual Leash is online, at www.dogtagart.com/virtual-leash. Virtual Leash, $1 per month, and is only available with the purchase of custom Dog Tag Art Pet ID Tags, $11.99.

Planet Dog Treats, Toys, Good Cause

Planet Dog offers two new flavors of Planet Dog EATS, premium, healthy dog treats made by Polka Dog Bakery in Boston— Chicken & Pumpkin Pot Pie and PB&J. Designed with form, function, and versatility in mind, the 100 percent natural dog treats aid in tartar control and offer super nutrients in every bite.

These EATS are a perfect companion for Planet Dog’s Orbee-Tuff toys. Made in the U.S. with all-natural ingredients, Planet Dog EATS fit the Treat-Spot in Orbee-Tuff toys and provide hours of interactive play and wholesome goodness. The playful bone-shaped treats easily break into smaller pieces for portion control and for placing inside all sizes of Orbee-Tuff toys. They also can be used with Planet Dog's new On the Go Snack Sack for "ready-to-reward" ease.

The rough, crunchy surface and composition of the new treats supports daily tartar control and contributes to healthy teeth and gums. Planet Dog EATS are wheat, corn, and soy-free, and contain no wheat gluten. Sold in a recyclable, 12-oz. virgin craft cardboard box, they are covered by the company's 100 percent satisfaction guarantee.

All Planet Dog products are available online, at www.planetdog.com, or at pet supply retailers. Or, call toll-free, at 800-381-1516. Prices vary.

Planet Dog donates 2 percent of every purchase of Planet Dog products to the Planet Dog Foundation to support canine service programs, providing cash grants to programs nationwide that train, place, and support dogs who help people in need.

Sexy Beast for Canine Style

Here's a pooch pampering product line that rivals any men's or women's style line on the market today. Sexy Beast offers a wide range of uniquely designed canine care products—from fancy fragrances and powders, to dog tees and tags, and from canine coat care products to health supplements. Everything by Sexy Beast is 100 percent vegan and 100 percent safe.

The full line of Sexy Beast products is available online, at www.sbstyle.com. Prices vary.

Up Close and Personalized

Made-to-Order GelaSkins

GelaSkins are removable covers, or skins, for protecting and customizing portable devices, such as iPhones, iPads, MP3 players, laptops, and gaming equipment. They feature photo-quality graphics, ranging from fine art prints to contemporary urban images, and are sure to make that gadget stand out in a crowd. Or, if you prefer, upload your own family photos or kids’ artwork to design and truly personalize a GelaSkin for someone special on your gift list.

The ordering process is simple, and, as always, when you buy three custom- or artist-designed skins, your fourth is free. Visit the GelaSkins website, www.gelaskins.com, for more information and to get started on your very own design. Prices vary.

Custom S’well Insulated Wine Bottles

Maker of insulated bottles that keep cold drinks cool for 24 hours and hot drinks warm for 12 hours, S’well, has introduced a wine lovers' version. The S'well insulated wine bottle holds 25 oz./750 mL, making it the perfect size to keep white wine chilled at picnics, outdoor concerts, tailgating parties, and social functions. Made of stainless steel, S'well wine bottles eliminate the need to tote a cooler of ice, and they end the worry of breaking a glass bottle. Also, they do not add stale flavor to wine and are nontoxic, non-leaching, and BPA free. Also, there is never condensation or water beading on the bottles.

But to make this gift really special, S’well wine bottles also are customizable. Add a name, a logo, choose a color—you name it.

Find S’well wines bottles online, ready to personalize, at swellbottle.com. $45. Also, through a partnership with the nonprofit WaterAid, 10 percent of all sales go to build safe and hygienic water sources in Africa and India.

They’ll Wear It Well

Cake Lingerie

Cake Lingerie specializes in sophisticated maternity and nursing lingerie that intertwines sensual comfort and a secure fit with much-needed style and polish.

Worn and loved by celebrities around the world, Cake Lingerie empowers women to celebrate their newfound curves with graceful elegance. With astonishing attention to detail, the gorgeous collections of Cake Lingerie give pregnant and breast-feeding mothers an opportunity to feel feminine again. In short, Cake Lingerie infuses high standards of quality, style, and innovation in designs that are rich, fun, indulgent, satisfying, and delicious.

Cake Lingerie is available at A La Mode, in Annapolis, and online, at www.cakelingerie.com. Prices vary.

FoodTees, Healthy Food Clothing

A great way to remind someone you love about clean, healthy, fresh living, FoodTees make wonderful gifts. The colorful photo designs of mainly individual fruits and vegetables are underscored with a brief caption, making them fun, entertaining, and ever mindful of promoting good health. They're available in sweatshirts, long- and short-sleeve tees, and tank shirts, for women, men, children, toddlers, and babies. Aprons and totes are available now, too.

Find FoodTees online, at FoodTee.com. Prices vary.

Gaiam ECOStyle 2011 Holiday Looks

Gaiam, maker of products to promote healthy living, has launched its 2011 Holiday Looks winter collection of women’s clothing, featuring a variety of cover-ups for easy, comfortable layering. The collection boasts a fashionable eco-wardrobe crafted from materials such as pure organic cotton, sustainable bamboo, natural wool, and recycled polyester. Gaiam’s sweaters, tunics, and ponchos are designed to keep you warm, calm, and in style with a comfortable, no-fuss, mix-and-match wardrobe.

Shop Gaiam’s clothing line, at www.gaiam.com/category/apparel.do. Request a catalog at the website or by calling 877-989-6321.

Hosiery from Gold Toe and PowerSox

What do Rhianna and Justin Bieber have in common? All they really want for the holidays is socks! Socks make great gifts, and Gold Toe and PowerSox offer these stylish, affordable stocking-stuffers everyone will love. For sharp dressers, there’s the Gold Toe Women’s Over The Knee Cuff, worn thigh-high, folded, or scrunched down. Made of soft acrylic with special moisture control, choose among black, brown, charcoal grey, or natural. Or, try Gold Toe Men’s Argyle/Texture Three-Pair Pack, featuring comfortable fit, perfect for dress or casual wear, and available in two classic argyles and one textured solid, in navy, olive, oatmeal, brown and black color combos.

For outdoorsy types, there’s the PowerSox Outdoor Merino Wool Boot Socks for men & women. Field-tested on Mt. Everest and Antarctica by mountain guide Dave Hahn, they’re made of soft, warm merino wool and moisture-managing tech fibers, and come in black marl and taupe marl. And, for young athletes playing soccer, football, rugby, and field hockey, the PowerSox Debris Inhibitor Sports Spat keeps laces tight and looks cool, like the tape "spatting" pro athletes are known for. They also prevent crumb rubber and turf from getting into shoes and socks. Choose from black, white, red, royal, and navy machine-washable colors.

These socks and more are available at GoldToe.com and PowerSox.com and at major retailers, local and online. Prices vary, from $9 to 12.75.

The Mommy Mitten

Water resistant, insulated, and lined with fleece and tightened with Velcro, Mommy Mitten hand warmers not only offer a tight fit to keep the cold air away from hands, they provide a place for hands to stay cozy while pushing a stroller. Mommy Mitten easily secures around the handle bar of a baby stroller to keep hands protected from the elements without having to deal with clumsy, easy-to-lose gloves or mittens.

Choose from different color combinations, including black with a pink fleece lining, or black with an aqua fleece lining. The Mommy Mitten features an external zipper pocket for easy access to things such as keys, cell phone, money, or pacifiers.

Find the Mommy Mitten online, at mommymitten.com, BabiesRUs.com, and Amazon.com. $29.99.

In a Word, Great Gifts

Out of Print's Journals and Notebooks

Boasting iconic book covers, from Pride & Prejudice to Invisible Man, Out of Print's collection of hard-bound literary journals and notebooks are ideal products to start penning one's own adventures. Also, while writing, find inspiration from a compilation of the classic novel's lines, bordering the pages.

The softcover notebook includes 120 micro-text-lined pages. The 5x7-in. journal includes 300 micro-text-lined pages and ribbon page marker. Journals and notebooks, along with Out of Print’s books and other stationery products, are available for purchase online, at www.outofprintclothing.com. Notebook, $8. Journal, $16.

The Sacred Work of Grandparents Raising Grandchildren

Serving as an important tool to help take on the new challenges grandparents face as second parents, The Sacred Work of Grandparents Raising Grandchildren, by Elaine K. Williams (BalboaPress, 2011) is a welcomed gift indeed. Their challenges are not the same as those of the biological parents, and often are not addressed in typical parenting literature. This book offers grandparents a support system with solid tips and suggestions.

Elaine K. Williams has a master’s degree in social work from the University of Michigan. Her expertise is in the areas of trauma, loss, life transitions, and inter-generational communication.

Find The Sacred Work of Grandparents Raising Grandchildren at the author’s website, www.elainekwilliams.com, and at Amazon.com and BN.com. Hardcover, $33.95. Softcover, 17.95. E-book, $9.99.

Gifts for a Good Cause

The Baltimore Humane Society

Baltimore Ravens fans and animal lovers alike will love the 2012 Happy Tails Calendar for the holidays. Mary Swift Photography created this calendar featuring the happy-ending stories of dogs and cats that’ve stayed at the Baltimore Humane Society. Also, Baltimore Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco supports the no-kill shelter and has posed for a page in the calendar.

The 2012 Happy Tails Calendar costs $15 plus $2 for shipping and handling. Make your check payable to the Baltimore Humane Society, and send it to: Calendar, Baltimore Humane Society, 1601 Nicodemus Rd., Reisterstown, Md. 21136. Be sure to include your shipping address. If you prefer to pay by credit card, call 410-833-8848 x212.

Also available at the Baltimore Humane Society are Sponsorships for Homeless Animals—just right for the animal lover who has everything! By sponsoring a dog, cat, or rabbit, you (or your gift recipients) get the satisfaction of helping to care for a homeless pet.

This includes a pet photo, thank you note, and your name (or your gift recipient’s name) displayed on the animal’s space for the duration of the sponsorship. Rabbit sponsorships are $20/week or $80/month; cats are $25/week or $100/month; and dogs are $50/week or $200/month.

For more information call 410-833-8848 x207, or visit the website, bmorehumane.org/donate/sponsorashelteranimal. The Baltimore Humane Society is a private, nonprofit organization, not affiliated with any national humane societies or animal welfare organizations. It does not receive funding from the government.

ChildFund Gifts of Love & Hope

How about something for the charitable soul who has everything? ChildFund International supports impoverished children, giving them the capacity to improve their lives and the opportunity to become young adults, parents, and leaders who bring lasting and positive change in their communities. Its Gifts of Love & Hope catalog enables holiday shoppers to purchase practical items, such as water buffalo, mosquito nets, water purification systems, etc., to benefit children, their families, and their communities. These gifts can be offered in the name of a particular recipient and go to fill particular basic, pressing needs of children around the world. The organization supports approximately 15.2 million children and family members in 31 countries worldwide.

Find ChildFund International at www.childfund.org. $5-$2,250.

Doctors Without Borders

Created by doctors and journalists in France in 1971, Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) is an international medical humanitarian organization, providing aid in more than 60 countries. Specifically, it helps to people whose survival is threatened by violence, neglect, or catastrophe, primarily due to natural disasters, armed conflict, epidemics, malnutrition, and exclusion from health care. In 1999, MSF was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for these efforts.

Learn how you can support Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières by visiting www.doctorswithoutborders.org.

Maryland SPCA 2012 Pet Calendar

The Maryland SPCA 2012 Pet Calendar, with a beautiful cover photo of a dog named Pepper at the Inner Harbor, makes a wonderful holiday gift for any animal lover. Delight your friends and family while helping animals in need.
The Maryland SPCA’s programs directly benefit people and pets in central Maryland. It is not affiliated with any national animal welfare organization, nor does it receive operating funds from the government.

For more information or to order your calendar, call 410-235-8826, email efinton@mdspca.org, or visit the Maryland SPCA website, www.mdspca.org. $15.

World Vision Catalog

Since the World Vision Catalog was first introduced in 1996, new gifts have been introduced and its popularity as a gift-giving alternative has grown substantially.

Goats were the most popular item in 2009—more than 50,000 goats were given to families in need thanks to the generous contributions of gift catalog donors. After purchasing a Gift Catalog item, the person whose name the gift was purchased in receives a special card describing the gift and the impact it will have.

Possible catalog items include: new clothes and shoes for U.S. children and families ($25 provides $150 worth of necessities); five ducks that produce eggs to feed a family year round ($30); one goat and two chickens that supply protein and surplus milk to sell ($100); and one sheep to supply warm wool for clothes and blankets ($105).

Serving the poor, regardless of religion, race, ethnicity, or gender, World Vision is dedicated to helping children and their communities. For more information, visit www.worldvision.org. To order World Vision gifts, visit the website, www.worldvisiongifts.org. To order by phone or to request a print catalog, call 888-511-6511.

Online Stores, Catalogs, and Advice

The OMGmother Store

Building on the specialized roles that aunts, uncles, and godparents have children’s lives, the OMGmother Store is an easy, one-stop marketplace for them to shop for cool, original, inspired gifts. It features popular children’s books, eco-friendly toys, instruments, and even funky clothes for that lucky child. Select products from three age groups: 0-2 years, 3-6 years, and 7-12 years.

Go to www.OMGmother.com.

Retrevo's 2011 Holiday Gadget Picks

Got enough gadgets on your gift list to make your head swim? Also, how do you know which product is the right choice for the person you’re giving it to?

This is when the blog site for reviewing today’s popular gadgets, Retrevo, comes in handy. Using its Artificial Intelligence-based product evaluation engine, Retrevo's algorithms process more than 100 million data points across the Internet every day to give an objective, unbiased, comprehensive, and relevant Retrevo Real Time Review. This process answers these questions: Is this product current? Do people like it? Is the product a good value?

One of TIME magazine's Best Sites of 2011, Retrevo currently is featuring its 2011 list of holiday gadget picks. These products are chosen based on providing exceptional value for their price and being well liked by experts and users alike. The categories include, but are not limited to, Smartphones, Advanced Point & Shoot Cameras, Blu-ray Players, Home Theater Systems with HD Video, Tablets, and Headphones.

Go to www.retrevo.com/content/blog/2011/11/retrevos-2011-holiday-gadget-picks.

Be a Smart Shopper

Free Shipping Day

If you’re busy buying gifts online, circle the Dec. 16 on your calendar. This is Free Shipping Day, a one-day shopping event when participating online merchants offer free shipping with guaranteed delivery by Dec. 24. Among the merchants involved in this year’s Free Shipping Day are Best Buy, Land’s End, DSW, JC Penney, and Kmart.

For more information, visit the website www.FreeShipping.org.

The 11 for ’11 List: Tips for Online Shopping

Dubbed The 11 for ’11 List, it’s designed as a blueprint for every online shopper—from the novice to the seasoned veteran—to get the most out of his or her holiday shopping experience this year. With an emphasis on safe holiday shopping, the list also is reflective of the myriad options available to shoppers on the ever-growing e-commerce landscape.

“Consumers have more options than ever before this holiday shopping season,” says Doron Simovitch, co-founder and SortPrice CEO, in a recent press release. “With all of those choices, however, comes the reality that this time of year requires diligence not just in finding the best deals out there, but protecting yourself while you shop online as well.”

Developed from years of experience in guiding online shoppers and providing merchants with a solid platform from which to sell their items online, the 11 for ’11 List is as follows:

1. Be thorough in your research by utilizing all the resources the Internet provides, particularly social media networks, to compare prices and search for online-only bargains that guarantee you’ll save money.

2. Update your home computer’s anti-virus software and security tools before you start shopping. If using a wireless connection, make sure it’s encrypted with a password.

3. Don’t Procrastinate! Prices and inventories change quickly online this time of year, so to ensure you get what you’re looking for, shop and order early.

4. Carefully review every online retailer’s terms and conditions as well as its return policies, as they vary industry-wide.

5. Beware of certain promotional emails requesting personal information or promising a special deal. Usually, if a deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

6. Create or update new online passwords that are unique and difficult to steal—avoid pet names, birthdays, etc. Incorporate numbers and characters.

7. Use credit cards instead of debit cards, as you’ll be better protected from fraud and face less liability in the event of your card number being stolen.

8. Shop only on certifiably secure websites. Look for “https://” URLs that indicate secure connections when placing orders and entering personal information.

9. Be smart about where you disclose personal information—including phone numbers, addresses, and financial information—and avoid unverifiable entities.

10. Look for delivery guarantees from online retailers, and always keep hard copies of email confirmations of orders and delivery status.

11. Seek out the “freebies” that some retailers include on orders of a particular size or volume. Keep them for yourself, or use them as stocking stuffers!

SortPrice.com, founded in 2004, is a shopping search engine and a pioneer in the growing field of social commerce. Learn more at www.sortprice.com.

2011-11-29T19:59:00.089-05:00

2011 Children's Gift Guide

Compiled by Janice Hands

If you’re looking for children’s gift suggestions beyond the lists your kids have provided, you’ve come to the right place. A host of the latest in children’s toys, books, and electronics is described here. Take a few moments to look through everything, and select something totally new and unexpected for the lucky youngsters in your life.

Also, be sure to check out the helpful shopping articles at the end of this guide, including “Ways to Save” for the word on websites that will help save you bucks, and “Smart Holiday Spending,” full of practical shopping advice from Consolidated Credit Counseling Services, Inc.

Suggested ages were not available for all products; when provided, they have been included. Prices listed are manufacturers’ suggested retail prices, provided several months prior to the publication of this guide. Baltimore's Child cannot be responsible for price or availability changes.

Looking Forward to the Holidays

Nothing gets youngsters in the mood for the holidays better than reading the Clement Moore holiday classic “A Visit from St. Nicholas.” Your child will enjoy the story more as he interacts with the musical Little People “Twas the Night Before Christmas” story set from Fisher-Price. Santa and his elf are in the sleigh pulled by eight reindeer and, of course, Rudolf. The storybook is included. Ages 1-up. $25. Catalog exclusive, 800-747-8697, fisher-pricestore.com.

Kids of all ages can enjoy the anticipation of Christmas Day with the Christmas Countdown Calendar from Fisher-Price. This colorful, soft-fabric banner features a musical Christmas tree and 25 soft ornaments to hang on the tree daily from December 1 to the big day. Ages 18 mos.-up. $30. 800-747-8697, fisher-pricestore.com.

For Baby & Toddler

Help your little one learn about friends in the community with Soft & Safe Community Helpers. The set of five includes a police officer, firefighter, letter carrier, doctor, and chef, all made of super-squeezable plastic that’s easy for little hands to grab, hold, and enjoy lots of pretend play. Ages 6 mos.-5 yrs. $29.95. Lakeshore Learning Store, Towson; lakeshorelearning.com.

No dinosaur could be more fun for your tot than Go Baby Go! Poppity-Pop Musical Dino. Six colorful balls pop up or roll down the dino’s tail and out of his mouth. There are eight silly tunes and fun sounds to keep your baby bouncing in delight. Ages 6-36 mos. $27. 800-747-8697, fisher-pricestore.com.

The Roll ‘N Pop Express chugs along on baby-power. This bright train from Playskool plays music and pops out three balls as your tot pushes it along. He’ll have fun scooting after the balls and dropping them back into the engine to start the excitement all over again. Ages 9 mos.-up. $14.99. Toys R Us, Target, hasbrotoyshop.com.

Cuddly Friends

These adorable Patty Cake stacking cups are unlike any you’ve ever seen. The soft plush parts squeak, rattle, crinkle, and stack up to look like a colorful, tasty cupcake. Just right to help little hands develop motor skills. Ages 6 mos.-up. $14.98. Hearth Song Catalog, 800-325-2502, hearthsong.com.

Buckley Panda from BuckleyBoo will cuddle with your toddler and help with his cognitive development as he grows. A series of colorful buckling straps across Buckley’s tummy helps your child learn to match patterns, and buckle and unbuckle. Buckley has a host of similar friends, including a lion, monkey, dog, bunny, bear, and more. Ages 18 mos.-4 yrs. 12-inch bear, $19.99. 17-inch bear, $29.99. www.buckleyboo.com.

Tip-toe by these sleeping friends and they will come alive! Motion-Activated Critters are sure to have your youngster giggling and wiggling right along with them. Choose among the gator, monkey, dog, or cow, all with soft plush bodies and charming little faces. Ages 3-up. $19.98 each. Solutions Catalog, 800-342-9988, www.solutions.com.

You never know what might crawl out of the Plush Animal Tree House. This soft tree stump is home to five snuggly friends, including a monkey, gorilla, tiger, panda, and ring-tailed lemur. Soft cords keep these critters from wandering too far from home. Ages 5-up. $30. Smithsonian Catalog, 800-322-0344, www.smithsoniancatalog.org.

More than just cuddly friends, Comfy Critters provide comfort and warmth as well. These snuggly guys are actually full-size, hooded, fleece blankets, folded into huggable animal friends. Your child can cuddle with them, play with them, and even wear them. Choose from Ulani the Unicorn, Milo the Monkey, Petunia the Pig, Percy the Penguin, Lilly the Ladybug, and Dexter the Dog. All ages. $19.99-$24.99. Target, www.mycomfycritters.com.

Bedtime prayers will be special when your child hugs his Speaking Good-Night Prayer Lamb. This soft, chenille plush lamb plays the familiar “Now I lay me down to sleep…” prayer as his body is squeezed by your little one. He’s the perfect friend to teach your youngster his first prayer and keep him company through the night. All ages. $29. Orvis Catalog. 800-541-3541, www.orvis.com.

As you tuck your little one in, she can tuck her little Slumber Silly in as well. These plush critters come with their own little plush beds, perfect for snuggling ‘til morning. Choose from Monkey, Dog, Cat, or Bunny. All ages. $16.98. Hearth Song Catalog, 800-325-2502, hearthsong.com.

Here’s a new friend that is just perfect for any child, but especially created for children with special needs. Borris the Prince of Whales, by Soft Clothing, is a cute, chew-safe, plush little whale, made of non-toxic materials and constructed with reinforced seaming and a double layer of organic canvas and bonded plush—just right for children with behaviors unique to sensory processing disorder and autism. $25. www.softclothing.net.

Oh, You Beautiful Doll!

Your child can create an enchanted forest with these Woodland Fairy Homes and Fairy Dolls. Three soft-sculpture fairy homes are available—mushroom, acorn, or tree trunk. Each feature charming details including a door that opens and closes, and two colorful fairy dolls, dressed in nature-inspired finery. Extra fairies are available to populate the imaginary forest. Ages 3-up. Fairy Homes $24.98 each. Fairy dolls $10.98 set of 2. Hearth Song Catalog, 800-325-2502, hearthsong.com.

This pair of dolls…uh, mice…couldn’t be cuter. The boy and girl, four-inch Posable Mice with Clothes are made of wood and come with a 26-piece, colorful wardrobe in a sturdy storage box. Your child can mix and match the outfits for endless dress-up doll play. Ages 3-up. $29.98. Magic Cabin Catalog, 888-623-6557, magiccabin.com.

The Stylin’ Strawberry Shortcake Doll is just waiting for a makeover! Your child will have a great time stylin’ and re-stylin’ Strawberry’s locks with the comb, barrettes, hair extensions, and clips included with her new friend. Strawberry is 14 inches tall and smells just as sweet as ever. Also available, Stylin’ Lemon Meringue Doll. Ages 3-up. $19.99. Target, Toys R Us, hasbrotoyshop.com.

All Booked Up!

Here’s an electronic reader for kids. The Me Reader set includes eight 20-page hardcover books and a push-button tablet that holds each book’s narration. Your child needs only to choose a story button, find the storybook he has selected, push the “Read Story” button, and settle in for the reading of one of his favorites. The set comes with either eight Disney Classics or eight Disney Pixar stories. Ages 3-up. $24.95. www.storyreaderbooks.com.

Help your youngster bone up on the wildlife in your backyard with Curious Critters by David FitzSimmons, a unique book of photography. In its pages you will find photos against plain white backgrounds of common animals, such as the bullfrog, goldfish, snake, and screech owl. This type of photography has the effect of making the animals’ colors, textures, shapes, and personalities pop off the page. Each of the 21 featured animals tells its own story in kid-friendly language. Additional natural history information on the animals also is included. Ages 4-8. $19.95. www.curious-critters.com.

Music & Movie Magic

The perfect addition to your child’s bedtime routine, Songs from the Baobob: African Lullabies and Nursery Rhymes is a book and CD set that includes 29 lullabies and soothing rhymes. Mothers and their children sing in 11 languages of the rich cultures on the African continent. The book features colorful illustrations, the full lyrics translated into English, and a map for you and your child to explore. Ages 5-7. $16.95. www.thesecretmountain.com.

If your family hasn’t discovered Shaun the Sheep on cable, you’ll see what you’ve been missing when you purchase Shaun’s Christmas DVD, We Wish Ewe a Merry Christmas. There are seven episodes featuring Shaun’s unique brand of humor that combines slapstick with silent comedy for lots of wooly mayhem. See Shaun and the flock decorate the farmer’s house for Christmas, frolic in a snowball battle, and enjoy lots more wooly fun. All ages. $10.99. amazon.com.

Ignite the Imagination

Your little Wheelies collector will have a great time chatting with Fisher-Price’s Wheelies Zig the Big Rig talking truck. All he needs to do is touch Zig’s bumper, roof, side gate, or wheels to enjoy his different animated expressions. Zig’s eyes, mouth, and brow all move, his headlights flash, and his mouth lights up. Best of all, he has more than 50 different phrases and sounds to share as he rolls along. An added bonus—he stores up to 12 Wheelies vehicles. Ages 18 mos.-5 yrs. $30. 800-747-8697, fisher-pricestore.com.

These unique blocks will have your little builder creating skyscrapers and entire villages in no time. The Little Builder Rattle Blocs 22-piece set contains colorful squares with windows and doors, sets of steps and even roofs, all designed with little hands in mind. Best of all, there is a wooden marble inside each block adding to the fun. Ages 2-up. $35. Toys R Us, www.citiblocs.com.

Your youngster can construct all kinds of colorful structures with Crystal Climbers, see-through plastic pieces in four shapes and colors. The set includes 170 pieces featuring a slotted design that makes them easy to slide together for “climbing” in all directions. Ages 3-7. $19.99. Lakeshore Learning Store, Towson; www.lakeshorelearning.com.

The Discovery Kids Color Me Play House or Play Castle is sure to appeal to your child’s artistic talents as well as her imagination. The house stands 5 feet tall and 3 feet wide with windows, doors, mailbox, and chimney; the castle is 6 feet tall and sports a drawbridge and customizable flag. Both are ready to be colored by your youngster before pretend playtime begins. Ages 3-up. $19.99 each. Bed Bath & Beyond, JC Penney, and Kohl’s.

Month after month your child will await the arrival of the letter carrier with her new Kiwi Crate package. The themed crate includes art projects, science experiments, and materials for all kinds of imaginative play. Just go to the Kiwi Crate website, subscribe, and await a treasure trove of activity for your youngster. Subscriptions are available for 3, 6, or 12 months, and shipping is free. Ages 3-6. $19.95/month. www.kiwicrate.com.

The building is easy with Magnetic Geo Builders. These foam building pieces have magnetic edges, are easy to hold and connect, and come in six shapes and six textures. The set includes 48 pieces and a metal tray for a sturdy building base. Ages 3-6. $24.95. Lakeshore Learning Store, Towson; www.lakeshorelearning.com.

Two items from Animal Planet are sure to make bath time more fun. The Color Me Bath Art Scenes Activity Set includes washable bath soap crayons with two large coloring scenes that cling to tub, tile, or glass. Happily, the scenes are erasable for play another day. The Mold Me Bath Activity Set includes a floating work station, molds to fill with foam soap or colored bath salt to create animal shapes that can be decorated with colorful bath paint pens. The bath water will cool long before your little one is ready to get out of the tub! Ages 3-up. $10 each. Walmart.

A host of unusual critters will be visiting your house as soon as your child reaches into the Lakeshore Creature Builder set. This huge set has enough snap-together pieces, including bodies, legs, tails, and even silly hairdos, to create eight fascinating critters. The set of 70 colorful plastic pieces comes in a handy storage tub. Ages 3-6. $49.95. Lakeshore Learning Store, Towson; www.lakeshorelearning.com.

What could be more fun than a toy spaceman that actually flies?! Check out the Remote Control Flying Spaceman with twin rotors and infrared 2-channel controller. This astronaut knows no bounds, particularly in the great outdoors. Ages 8-up. $24.95. discoverystore.com.

Your young astronaut will have hours of space play with the Lunar Explorer 15-Piece Playset from The Smithsonian. The set includes a space shuttle, 747 transport, lunar module, lunar rover, Apollo rocket, space station, a rock, and three astronauts, all made of die-cast metal and plastic. (Set has small parts, and is not intended for children under age 3.) $34. Smithsonian Catalog, 800-322-0344, www.smithsoniancatalog.org.

Getting Crafty

Your young artist can create colorful pictures without crayons, chalk, or paint, using Rainbow Scratch Paper. At the touch of the special stick, a rainbow of colors appears. The set includes 30 sheets of paper and six wooden scratching sticks. Ages 3-11. $9.99. Lakeshore Learning Store, Towson; www.lakeshorelearning.com.

Discovery Kids Trace N’ Draw makes drawing easy for even your youngest artist. She chooses a disc from any category—including animals, food, transportation, and more—inserts it in the device, and traces a perfect outline for coloring or painting. Ages 3-up. $19.99. JC Penney, Kohl’s.

A truly unique craft idea, Color A Glambrella invites your youngster to decorate a big, bold umbrella with waterproof markers. The pre-printed outlines are striking, featuring high-fashion shoes, shades, bags, and flowers just begging for splashes of color. Your child will be wishing, hoping, and praying for rain! Ages 4-up. $18.95. Metropolitan Museum of Art Catalog, 800-468-7386, store.metmuseum.org.

Your little girl will want to add these Color-My-Heart Pendants to her wardrobe and share them with friends. The kit includes six transparent polyresin hearts ready to decorate with special paints in six colors. Fine-tipped brush, craft stick, permanent marker, and six yards of ribbon are included. Ages 5-up. $14.98. Hearth Song Catalog, 800-325-2502, hearthsong.com.

Now your youngster can preserve happy memories using My Scrapbook Kit. All he needs to bring to the table are the photos. The kit includes a 48-page, spiral-bound scrapbook, 10 sheets of design paper, 28 die-cut frames and accents, more than 350 stickers, and more. All materials are acid-free. Ages 5-11. $19.95. Lakeshore Learning Store, Towson, www.lakeshorelearning.com.

Your young fashionista will be delighted with her gift certificate to FashionPlaytes, an online clothing design studio. Here, she can create her own wardrobe from tops, dresses, and pjs, to accessories and even doll clothes, complete with labels of her own design. Clothing will be fashioned and shipped directly to her. Ages 5-12. Gift certificates start at $20. www.fashionplaytes.com.

All in the Game

The gang from Disney/Pixar’s Cars 2 gets together to create mayhem in Trouble with Mater, the latest version of the Trouble board game. Players pop the pop-o-matic Mater bubble and race around the track. Watch out for your opponent—if he lands on your spot, you’ll be towed back to the garage! Ages 5-up. $14.99. Toys R Us, amazon.com.

It’s a word-building race when your family gets together for Scrabble Alphabet Scoop, a game even early spellers can enjoy. Reach into the “soup” bowl to grab letters that spell the words on your card. Watch out for “flies” in the soup—they will make you return your letters to the bowl and start all over again. Ages 6-up. $19.99. Target, Toys R Us.

The colorful tiles of Qwirkle make this game of strategy easy for even preschoolers to play. In a game similar to dominos, players draw patterned tiles and see how many matches they can arrange by color or pattern, building a kaleidoscope all along the way. Ages 6-up. $24.98. Hearth Song Catalog, 800-325-2502, hearthsong.com.

Your family won’t just be looking in the night sky anymore for the stars, moon, and all things celestial. The Starry Night Find It Game will keep everyone happily occupied, looking for various nighttime objects among the brightly colored pellets contained in the star-shaped, clear plastic container. Keep an eye out for the moon and planets (of course!) and also a sleeping bag, a satellite, an alien, a telescope, and more, as you shake the container to reveal more and more “lost” objects. Turn the lights off and find the hidden treasures that glow in the dark. Ages 8-up. $22. www.finditgames.com.

It’s a game…it’s a puzzle…turns out, it’s both! Scruble Cube is a unique 3D word game that’s billed as “Rubik’s Cube meets Scrabble.” One to four players rotate and twist the rows and columns of the cube to create new words at each turn. Each of the 96 letter pegs is assigned points that players tally up to find a winner. We’re told there are 7,401 septillion possible configurations—mind boggling! Ages 8-up. $24.95. Barnes & Noble, Toys R Us, www.scrublecube.com.

Monopoly moves into the 21st century! Swipe your debit card in the electronic banking unit and start building your real estate empire with Monopoly: Electronic Banking Edition. Played just like the Monopoly you grew up with, this modernized version still warns “Do Not Pass Go, Do Not Collect $200” as you make your way to jail! Ages 8-up. $24.99. Target, Toys R Us.

Fun for the whole family, Trivial Pursuit: Disney for All Edition poses questions related to all your favorite Disney movies. Even your youngest players will be able to pipe up with some of the answers. Ages 8-up. $24.99. Toys R Us, amazon.com.

Your Harry Potter fan will love this version of the classic game Clue—Clue: World of Harry Potter Edition. A fellow Hogwarts student has disappeared, and it’s the players’ job to find out who did it, how, and where. Your youngster will be delighted with the familiar spells and locations from the movies. Ages 9-up. $24.99. Toys R Us, amazon.com.

Learning Fun

The Dinosaur Floor Puzzle will have your youngster mixing and matching heads, tails, and even wings as he assembles and names these prehistoric friends. The puzzle contains 48 jumbo-sized pieces and measures 4 feet long when completed. Pieces are durable cardboard that are easy to wipe clean. Ages 3-up. $19.98. Hearth Song Catalog, 800-325-2502, hearthsong.com.

The whole family will settle in to watch and learn about the creatures featured on the Really Wild Animals four-DVD set from National Geographic. Titles include Swinging Safari, Dinosaurs and Other Creature Features, Totally Tropical Rain Forest, and Deep Sea Dive. Take a look at these animals and their habitats around the world. Ages 4-10. $49.95 set of four DVDs. National Geographic Catalog, 888-225-5647, www.shopng.org.

Worx Toys vehicles are sure to give your youngster hours of imaginative play, but they feature so much more. The Speedster Racecar, Apex Helicopter, and Torch Fire Truck are each interactive vehicle and storybook systems that show curious youngsters how things work with shape-code commands that identify each of the vehicles’ parts with light and sound. Corresponding storybooks featuring kid reporter, Howie Works, explains how everything works. Ages 6-9. $30-$65. Barnes & Noble, www.worxtoys.com.

Your young scientist will have months of fun and discovery with The Magic School Bus Young Science Club subscription. Each month, a hands-on science kit will arrive at your door, filled with activities and experiments on topics such as the human body, weather, fossils, and more. Ms. Frizzle herself will lead your child through each session with colorful manuals and easy-to-understand explanations. There’s even an online clubhouse that kids can visit for more info and details on the experiments. $19.99/month, includes shipping and handling. www.theyoungscientistsclub.com/themagicschoolbus.

Your child will have a great time turning his room into a planetarium with Discovery Kids 3D Star Theater. When he dons the 3D glasses, he’ll take an extraterrestrial journey through the stars, constellations, and planets, all displayed on the ceiling and walls above and around him. Ages 6-up. $39.95. discoverystore.com.

Kids in the Kitchen

For a quick, fun dessert, check out these Make Your Own Ice Cream Mugs. Just place ice cubes and salt in the lower part of the mug, and fresh ingredients in the single-serving size container. Kids will enjoy shake-shake-shaking for just three minutes to prepare a delicious treat. Mugs come in Penguin, St. Bernard, Polar Bear, and Seal shapes. A recipe booklet is included. Ages 4-up. $11.98. Hearth Song Catalog, 800-325-2502, hearthsong.com.

Your kids will create delicious meals and learn about other countries in the bargain when they crack open the One World Kids Cookbook: Easy, Healthy and Affordable Family Meals by Sean Mendez. In its pages, they’ll find a wealth of international recipes with easy-to-follow directions. They’ll learn about the world through food, as each country represented features a recipe, full-color step-by-step photos of children of the region preparing the dish, a map, and fun facts and photos. $20. www.barnesandnoble.com, www.amazon.com.

It’s Electric! Electronics for All Ages

If the youngster in your life is into the TV shows Glee, American Idol, or any of the other singing-competition TV shows, she is sure to be thrilled with the Voice Rockrz Mic. This wireless microphone features “tap” technology. Your young singer just taps one of the included accessories—a stylish ring and bracelet—to the mic’s target zone to activate the voice effects, including “Hi-Note,” “Echo-Tastic,” and “Robot-Riffic” sounds. Drum rolls and applause also are included. Best of all, the mic is MP3-compatible, so your youngster can rock out to the favorites on her MP3 player. Ages 4-up. $24.99. Target, Toys R Us, Walmart, amazon.com.

When he must be awakened by an alarm clock, your child will not mind hearing from this Nature Calls Alarm Clock. These charming, battery-operated clocks feature cute animal faces and the animal’s sound as the wake-up call. Choose from Raccoon, Frog, or Owl. $19.99. National Wildlife Foundation Catalog, 800-756-3752, www.shopnwf.org.

Stocking Stuffers

Even your toddler will have a great time playing with Wooden Jungle Buggies, cute little pull-back cars with wild and wooly drivers. Look out! There are elephants, tigers, hippos, and rhinos at the wheel! Ages 18 mos.-up. $12.98 set of four. Magic Cabin Catalog, 888-623-6557, magiccabin.com.

Now your child’s Sesame Street friends come in a size that’s easy for little hands to handle and tote about with them. The Sesame Street Figure 2-Pack Assortment character pairs include Elmo & Oscar, Bert & Ernie, Cookie Monster & Telly, Abby & Zoey, Big Bird & Snuffy, and Super Grover & Murray. These colorful, chunky versions of the Sesame Street gang are just perfect for the tot set. Ages 18 mos.-up. $5.99 a pair. Toys R Us, hasbrotoyshop.com.

Fingermajigs Push Puppets are sized just right for little hands. These six colorful little wooden friends dance a jig when their bases are pushed. Choose from the Jungle theme, featuring an elephant, monkey, lion, zebra, giraffe, and hippo, or the Pirate theme, featuring six friendly pirates. Ages 3-up. Magic Cabin Catalog, 888-623-6557, magiccabin.com.

Your youngster will have time on his hands with this cool version of the slap band, the Slap Watch. Made of soft, comfortable silicone, the faces and wrist straps can be mixed and matched to create several different looks. The set of two includes two brightly colored analog watches. Choose black and orange or purple and pink. Ages 4-up. $19.98 set of two. Hearth Song Catalog, 800-325-2502, hearthsong.com.

Your child’s feet will be tapping with these cool Light-Up Shoelaces. Each set of two laces has three settings (constant glow, blink, or slow flash) and is available in blue, green, pink, or red. Replaceable batteries that last a whopping 70 hours are included. Ages 6-up. $12.98. Hearth Song Catalog, 800-325-2502, hearthsong.com.

Gifts that Give Back

Your child can have endless hours of imaginary play with Anamalz characters from the present and prehistoric animal kingdoms. These charming creatures are environmentally friendly, made of sustainable maple wood and textile products, and hand-painted with child-friendly paints. Your dinosaur lover will love the prehistoric collection that includes a brontosaurus, stegosaurus, tyrannosaurus rex, triceratops, and more. A portion of all proceeds go to the Anamalz Saving Animals Foundation, which contributes funds to various wildlife and children’s organizations around the world. Ages 3-up. $8.95-$12.95. Boxed sets $24.95-$34.95. www.anamalzna.com.

When you purchase a Hearts for Hearts Girls doll you’ll be helping children around the world. This is a charitable doll collection from Playmates Toys that includes six 14-inch dolls representing real girls from real places all over the world. Choose Consuelo from Mexico City; Lillian from Belarus; Dell from Kentucky’s Appalachian Mountains; Rahel from Ethiopia; Tipi from Laos: or Nahji from India. Each girl has a story to tell about how she is helping to change her community for the better. A storybook and friendship bracelet are included. A portion of your purchase price is donated to children’s causes in that doll’s country. These charming dolls show youngsters how they can make a difference at any age. Ages 6-up. $29.99. www.playmatestoys.com.

Ways to Save

Bargain Hunter’s Websites

You’ll find coupons, great deals, and savings on clothing for the whole family, toys, electronics, sporting goods, and much more, from scores of companies, including Barnes and Noble, The Gap, JC Penney, Nordstrom, Old Navy, Toys R Us, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Kohl’s, Walmart, Bed Bath & Beyond, Babies R Us, amazon.com, and hundreds more. Carve out a half-hour or more, and sit down to browse these comprehensive websites loaded with bargains: CurrentCodes.com, DealCoupon.com, DealHunting.com, and GottaDeal.com. And don’t overlook Facebook, where businesses often offer special deals to members on their pages, and Twitter, where you’ll find coupons from popular retailers.

Save on Toys, Video Games, & More

The online children’s clothing exchange website, thredUP, introduces its books and toys swapping program in which parents can trade boxes of used toys online. Log onto www.thredup.com, browse the box selections under “Toy Boxes,” choose your favorite, pay only $5 plus shipping, and your box of treasures will be delivered right to your door. If you have perfectly good toys that your children have outgrown, visit thredUp to list your box of toys, and you will be notified when another member has selected it. Best of all, thredUp provides the shipping label and schedules pick-up at your home.

Visit Swap.com, list those video games, books, music, and DVDs that are gathering dust on your shelves, and wait for the website to offer a list of all that is available to you FREE in a direct swap with another Swap user. You pay only the cost of shipping, unless you’re lucky enough to find someone nearby your home to trade with in person.

Smart Holiday Spending

Having looked over this vast array of gifts, is your head spinning? Are you wondering where to begin?

The folks at Consolidated Credit Counseling Services, Inc., a nonprofit educational credit counseling and debt management organization, have some practical advice in their Holiday Survival Guide. You can download a free copy of the guide online, at www.ConsolidatedCredit.org/booklets/holidaysurvivalguide.pdf.

Here is just a brief summary, with a few tips, hints, and warnings from CCCS to keep in mind.

Begin your shopping by making a holiday giving budget, and do your best to stick to it. You may want to ask adult family members to set spending limits on gifts, or to consider drawing names for giving. Let your youngsters know that there is a budget for their gifts, and ask them to prioritize their wish list. You might want to give them gift cards for some of the items on their lists and hit the mall after the holiday for great bargains.

Before setting out to shop, make a list of those you are buying for, with possible gift purchases, each marked with a dollar limit. Check newspapers, catalogs, and ads to determine where you need to go to buy and which stores have the best prices on the items on your list. Start your shopping early enough so that there is plenty of time to comparison shop.

Keep track of how much you’ve spent. And, remember, things such as taxes, gift wrap, postage, and shipping all add up. Budget for them as well.

Consider using cash in lieu of credit. Decide how much you want to spend and bring with you just that amount of money for shopping. Or, use debit cards or your checkbook.

If you decide to use plastic, use no more than two credit cards—one with a low rate for any purchases that you may need to pay for over a period of time. CCCS recommends that you keep in mind “…you are the best judge of what you can comfortably manage. Just because you have a certain amount of credit available, doesn’t mean you should use all of it between Thanksgiving and New Year’s. REMEMBER: Never borrow more than you can reasonably pay off. Giving gifts should be a gesture, not a sacrifice.”

If you are shopping online, use credit cards. If you’re scammed, you generally are not responsible for any more than $50. Shop at companies you’re familiar with. And, most importantly, when you enter the shopping cart or the e-commerce area of a site, remember that secure servers show “https” instead of simply “http” at the beginning of their website’s address or URL. Don’t include credit card information or personal information such as social security numbers in an email. (Legitimate shopping websites use special forms.) Stay away from unsolicited email offers as they are often scams.

With a lot of planning and a little common sense, your holiday shopping can be a pleasurable prelude to the delight of the season.

2010-11-30T11:08:00.008-05:00

2010 Children's Gift Guide
Compiled by Janice Hands

We know your youngsters have provided you with a list of must-have holiday gifts, and you’ll do your best to fulfill at least a few of their wishes. But, everyone loves surprises. Why not consider giving them at least one something totally new and unexpected. A host of the latest in children’s toys, books, and electronics is described below. Take a moment to look them over. You’re sure to find some interesting items to round out even the most specific wish list. Also, be sure to scroll down and check out the helpful sidebars, including “Ways to Save” for the word on websites that will help save you bucks, and “Smart Holiday Spending” full of shopping advice from Consolidated Credit Counseling Services, Inc.

Finally, if you're also looking for gift ideas for the older loved ones on your list, scroll down to our 2010 Gift Guide for Tweens, Teens, and Adults, compiled by Dianne R. McCann.

Have a great holiday!

Suggestions are arranged by category. Within the categories, items are arranged according to age, youngest to oldest. Suggested ages were not available for all products; when provided, they have been included. Prices listed are manufacturers’ suggested retail prices, provided several months prior to the publication of this guide. Baltimore’s Child cannot be responsible for price or availability changes.

Looking Forward to the Holidays

Kids of all ages can enjoy the anticipation of Christmas day with the Nativity Advent Calendar from Fisher-Price. Starting on December 1, your child adds a soft, stuffed character to the scene daily through December 25 when the Christ child completes the story. Ages 18 mos.-up. $30. Catalog exclusive, 800-747-8697, fisher-pricestore.com.

This unique set of four wooden Jewish Traditions Puzzles represents Shabbat, Rosh Hashanah, Chanukah, and Passover. Prepare for the festival of lights with your child, exploring the rituals featured on the Chanukah puzzle. Ages 3-up. $29.95. One Step Ahead catalog. 800-274-8440, www.onestepahead.com.

Just right for little hands, the 12-piece Plush Nativity Set will familiarize little ones with the story of the nativity. They will enjoy setting up and moving around the 4-inch soft people and animals. The stable closes to hold all the pieces. All ages. $49.99. Constructive Playthings Toys. 800-832-0572, www.cptoy.com.

Begin your holiday excitement with a family movie night featuring The Dog Who Saved Christmas Vacation, the sequel to the popular movie The Dog who Saved Christmas. Join the Bannister family again, this time on their trip to a beautiful Rocky Mountain ski lodge where they encounter obnoxious relatives and the hooligans who tried to ruin their Christmas the previous year. A laugh-filled adventure for the whole family. $19.98. Available on amazon.com for pre-order prior to the December 7, 2010 release.

Baby and Toddler

The Plush Turtle Ball Pit provides safe, portable fun for your little one. This charming plush turtle sports a colorful soft shell of many textures and colors and can hold a set of 25 bright, lightweight plastic balls to toss and roll around in. Best of all, it zips up to store the balls when not in use. Ages 6 mos.-3 yrs. Turtle $16.95. Set of 25 balls $4.95. ABC Distributing catalog. www.abcdistributing.com.

Dr. Suess’ One, fish, two fish, red fish, blue fish comes “alive” for your tot with the One Fish, Two Fish Fishbowl, featuring five colorful fish that make a cacophony of interesting sounds. A great tool to teach counting and colors. Ages 9 mos.-up. $24.95. Add the Dr. Seuss classic book for $8.95. One Step Ahead catalog. 800-274-8440, www.onestepahead.com.

These adorable little friends will help your toddler learn to dress with ease. The Learn-to-Dress Dolls feature buttons, laces, ties, and more, for your child to practice 10 dressing skills in all. Choose from “Jake” sporting a baseball cap and carrying a skateboard, or “Emma” complete with purse and teddy bear. These cuddly dolls with removeable clothing are machine washable. Ages 18 mos.-up. $29.95 each. Young Explorers catalog. 800-239-7577, youngexplorers.com.

Your little one will enjoy playing with Noah and his friends, two-by-two, with Fisher-Price’s Noah’s Ark. The plastic ark comes in two pieces, with a detachable deck, and contains 20 chunky animals and, of course, Noah. A great way for your tot to re-enact the Old Testament bible story. Ages 1-4. $40. 800-747-8697, fisher-pricestore.com.

Chase away those nighttime fears with A Light in the Night, an adorable little stuffed friend that lights up when his tummy is pressed. Any time your tot is frightened, he has only to hug his cuddly pal to brighten up his room and his outlook. Gift set comes with a coordinating board book as well as the super-soft plush friend. Ages 24 mos.-up. $34.95. Young Explorers catalog. 800-239-7577, youngexplorers.com.

Baby will join the jet set with the Peek-a-Zoom airplane from Bright Starts. This colorful plane has rolling wheels and makes airplane sounds as your child plays. Best of all, three surprise characters, each with its own melodies and sounds, pop out from the top as the plane rolls along. $14.99. Target, Walmart, amazon.com.

It will be hard to resist all the cute baby gifts tucked into Apple Park’s Holiday Gift Crate. Contents include The Apple Park Picnic Pals board book, Picnic Pal soft teething toy, Picnic Pal finger puppet, cotton baby cloth, and one of the five Picnic Pal characters. Choose from Monkey, Lamby, Cubby, Bunny or Ducky. All products are made with eco-friendly materials. $40. www.applepark.com, amazon.com.

Cuddly Friends

Any dinosaur worth his salt has a roar to impress his friends. Big Roarin Rex, a favorite Toy Story 3 movie character, just waits for his young friends to squeeze him, and he roars with the best of them. Squeeze him harder, and his roar is louder. Ages 2-6. $25. Fisher-Price. 800-747-8697, fisher-pricestore.com

These little stuffed friends don’t just cuddle with your youngster, they sing as well. Sing-a-ma-jigs are colorful soft puppies in five colors and styles. Squeeze their tummies and they will sing solo, sing in harmony with one another, or chatter in conversation with your child. Their mouths open as they do, proudly displaying their teeth and tongues inside. Ages 3-up. $13 each. Fisher-Price. 800-747-8697, fisher-pricestore.com.

These adorable Blanket Babies will be there for your child to hug and cuddle. The collection includes a bear, kitty, and monkey, each with cute faces and detachable blankets. $39.95 set of three. $14.95 each. Toys to Grow On catalog. 800-987-4454, www.ttgo.com.

Oh, You Beautiful Doll!

The little girl in your life will tire out long before the Play All Day Baby Doll does. This little lady recognizes motion and different playful positions like bouncing, dancing, and more, and she responds with more than 50 sounds and phrases. She is 14 inches tall and dressed in adorable play clothes. Ages 2-up. $35. Fisher-Price. 800-747-8697, fisher-pricestore.com

A spot of tea, anyone? Your little girl can have a delightful afternoon tea with her dolls, serving them on a lovely tea table and chairs just perfect for her 18-inch dolls. This wooden set, painted white, is adorned with pink floral details and includes a table and two chairs. Ages 4-up. $39.99. Be sure to take a look at the coordinating ceramic tea set, also decorated with pink flowers. The service for four comes in a gingham-lined wicker basket. Ages 8-up. $15.99. Constructive Playthings Toys. 800-832-0572, www.cptoy.com.

Youngsters of all ages will cuddle up with the Basket of Babies, a collection of six, super-soft 10-inch dolls, nestled in a fabric basket. Each doll has a removable sack dress that matches its permanently attached hat. Six new friends for your child in one basket! All ages. $29.99. Constructive Playthings Toys. 800-832-0572, www.cptoy.com.

All Booked Up!

The All About Me! Personalized Photo Book will appeal to even the tiniest baby, as she turns the soft-sewn pages and sees pictures of all her loved ones. The 8-inch book holds up to nine 4”x6” photos and comes with labels to identify Mommy, Daddy, Grandma, and more. The cover can be personalized with your child’s name and has a space for her picture as well. Ages infant-up. $19.95. Toys to Grow On catalog. 800-987-4454, www.ttgo.com.

Young readers and non-readers alike will be pleased with any one of a number of Record a Story books from Publications International, Ltd. As their name implies, these books allow a parent, grandparent, or other special adult to read and record the story which will then play back for the youngster as the pages are turned—a great idea for working or traveling parents, distant grandparents, or military service members away from home. Beginning readers can record their own voices reading the story – a means of encouraging a life-long love of reading. Choose from these titles: ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas, Guess How Much I Miss You, Sesame Street: Together at Heart, or Dora the Explorer. Ages 3-up. $19.99. Walmart, Barnes & Noble, Borders, Toys R Us, www.record-a-story.com.

Kids will love this geography lesson—one like no other—for the instructor is an adorable little Jack Russell terrier by the name of Mr. Pish. Kids will accompany him as he takes a cross-country trip from the Atlantic to the Pacific in his book Postcards from Mr. Pish, A Cross-Country Journal by photographer and writer K.S. Brooks. His journey starts on the shores of the Chesapeake Bay, continues through New England, Quebec, Ontario, the Midwest, the Badlands, Yellowstone, and concludes in Washington state. Along the way he writes some amazing postcards with facts about the state’s history, geography, and the sights he sees. The photos are excellent, and each page has a small U.S. map pinpointing the spot that Mr. Pish is visiting. $14.95. Sales benefit the Arbor Day Foundation. www.mrpish.com, amazon.com.

Ignite the Imagination

Your tiny carpenter will have all the tools of the trade in his or her very own My (Very Soft) First Tool Box. This adorable soft-sculpture tool set includes a hammer, saw, wrench, screwdriver, and more in a soft carrying box that can be personalized. Ages 6 mos.-up. $24.95. One Step Ahead catalog. 800-274-8440, www.onestepahead.com.

Your preschooler will enjoy being down on the farm with Talk of the Farm. This colorful play mat and toy truck feature Buttercup Farm. As your child pushes the truck over the musical notes, the fun begins with the mat responding in all kinds of imaginative ways. A great way to introduce listening skills, simple phrases, and counting. Ages 18 mos.-up. $39.95. Discovery Channel Toys. discoverystore.com.

Playtime will be a “blast” with the Space Adventures Spaceship. This colorful plastic space vehicle features lights, countdown, and blast off sounds, and includes two astronauts and their astro dog for lots of pretend play in outer space. Ages 18 mos.-up. $29.99. Constructive Playthings Toys. 800-832-0572, www.cptoy.com.

Just about every kid loves dinosaurs. The Dinos on the Go playset offers your child an afternoon of prehistoric fun. The set includes six squeezable, happy-faced dinosaurs and a carrying case that unzips to create a Jurassic playmat. Ages 18 mos.-up. $19.99. Constructive Playthings Toys. 800-832-0572, www.cptoy.com.

Straight from Toy Story 3, the Tri-County Landfill will give your youngster hours of imaginative fun. Can Buzz Lightyear escape? Your child can make it happen! Playset includes Buzz Lightyear and Lotso figures, three aliens, three “tires” to launch, three pieces of junk and bulldozer. Ages 3-8. $50. Fisher-Price. 800-747-8697, fisher-pricestore.com.

Kids can build a domino course in myriad designs with Watch This! Domino Designer. In addition to a whopping 150 colorful dominoes, the play set includes a rolling locomotive to fill with dominoes and set in motion; a looping car track with car; a bridge; a gorilla launching a hang glider; and more. All accessories are designed to start the domino chain reaction. Ages 3-up. $29.95. Additional 200 dominoes $9.95. Toys to Grow On catalog. 800-987-4454, www.ttgo.com.

Take those Matchbox and Hotwheels cars out of that plain bucket and store them instead in this Super-Rig Carrier. The 24 1/4-inch long, eight-wheel car carrier “rig” can hold up to 44 die-cast cars. The truck even sports a handy built-in handle for portability. Ages 4-up. $37.99. Constructive Playthings Toys. 800-832-0572, www.cptoy.com.

Your kids will be able to build just about anything imaginable with Connectagons, a huge assortment of wooden pieces with slots, in an array of colors, patterns, and shapes, that fit together slot-to-slot. Choose from original Connectagons or Connectagons Geometry (each 240 pieces, $24.98), Under-the-Sea Connectagons (234 pieces with storage bag, $29.98), Treetop Connectagons (242 pieces with storage bag, $29.98), Connectagons Butterflies and Flowers (62 pieces, $19.98) or Connectagons Heart-to-Hearts (120 pieces, $19.98). Ages 4-up. Hearth Song Catalog. 800-325-2502, www.hearthsong.com.

Bouncing around couldn’t be more fun than this. Kids can pretend they’re riding a pony, hopping on the back of a kangaroo, or leaping from lily pad to lily pad on a frog, when they play on these Hippest Hoppers bouncers. These 18-inch rubber balls are covered with soft plush, removable “animal” covers with a friendly face and a handle for hanging on. Choose from pony, kangaroo, or frog. Ages 5-up. $29.95. Sensational Beginnings Toys. 800-444-2147, www.sb-kids.com.

Look close, and you’ll see that the residents of these aquariums are not quite real, but certainly the next best thing. Just fill these attractive little Magic Aquariums with water and a bit of detergent and watch the swimmers swirl and dive just like the real thing. Choose from a frog, fish or crab. Ages 8-up. $15.98 each. Hearth Song Catalog. 800-325-2502, www.hearthsong.com.

Your youngster can create an entire city with the TOMICA line of die-cast cars, trains, and accessories from TOMY Corp. The line includes seven die-cast cars, three train sets, six accessory sets, six destination sets, and five deluxe play sets that can be laid out in one amazing city. The Mega Station offers a platform for the transportation network, while the police headquarters and fire station play sets are just two of the accessories available for the town. Prices vary. Toys R Us, toysrus.com.

Getting Crafty

Now your youngsters can stow away all their great memories with My Scrapbook Kit. All they need are the photos and mementos—the kit contains the remaining supplies, including a 48-page, spiral-bound scrapbook, design paper, frames, accents, stickers, glitter glue, and even the scissors, providing many happy hours of scrapbooking. Ages 5-11. $19.95. Lakeshore Learning Store, Towson, www.lakeshorelearning.com.

Beads are all the rage these days, and your child will love “getting the word out” with the Secret Message Jewelry Kit. The kit includes nearly 1,000 colorful beads that represent specific letters, numbers, and spaces, as well as 20 decoder cards, elastic, and instructions. Ages 6-up. $24.95. Young Explorers catalog. 800-239-7577, youngexplorers.com.

Your young artist will enjoy creating a unique stone plaque with the Kids Mosaic Stone Kit. The kit contains a “stone” mix to combine with water and pour into the included mold, as well as smooth colorful stained glass shapes for embedding in the project—a great decoration for the garden, or a keepsake for your youngster. Ages 7-up. $15.99. Constructive Playthings Toys. 800-832-0572, www.cptoy.com.

The Happily Ever Crafters craft kit from the Discovery Channel store is sure to delight any “crafty” kid. Your child will learn to crochet, embroider, and sew, fashioning nine separate projects including a stuffed dog, coin purse, felt brooch, embroidered bandanna, wall hanging, sewing pouch, hair ribbon, bracelets, and a scarf. All instructions and materials are included in a storage case with lid. Ages 8-up. $47.95. Discovery Channel Toys. discoverystore.com.

How cozy your youngster will feel nestled in a Knot-A-Quilt that he or she made. Your child simply ties together the fleece squares with fringe to make a colorful quilt to keep warm or use for decoration. Choose from the original Knot-A-Quilt with 48, 9-inch squares in six bright colors ($24.98) or the Starry Sky Knot-A-Quilt with 30, 11-inch squares in night-inspired colors and star patterns ($29.98). Hearth Song Catalog. 800-325-2502, hearthsong.com.

Outdoor Fun

This riding toy will be with your little one until he is safely on the road by himself. The Rock, Roll ‘n Ride Trike starts out as a rocking toy for your tot. The rocker converts to a parent-assist handle, and your toddler will begin to pedal with help from you. When he’s ready, you remove the handle, and your youngster is happily riding on his own. Everything converts easily—no tools necessary. Ages 1 1/2-5. $50. Fisher-Price. 800-747-8697, fisher-pricestore.com.

My First Skates from Fisher-Price make learning to skate a breeze. These inline skates have three settings: “skate walk” with wheels locked, roll forward only, and finally, roll forward and backward. Rear wheels are spaced apart for stability, and hook and loop fastenings make on and off easy for little fingers. In Barbie or plain silver styles. Ages 2-up. $25. 800-747-8697, fisher-pricestore.com.

Don’t just take a walk in the woods. With Science on a Nature Walk you and your child can hike and enjoy creative field experiments. This kit contains everything you need, including binoculars, butterfly net, magnifying glass, whistle, tracking guide, and more. Ages 4-12. $24.99. National Wildlife Federation Catalog. 800-756-3752, www.shopnwf.org.

There are probably not too many of us in the central Maryland area looking forward to another winter like the one we had last year. But, the Zipfy Freestyle Mini Luge may have your whole family looking forward to the first snowstorm of the season. This rugged plastic sled features a lever for steering and stability. At 3 1/2 lbs. it is compact and easy to carry, holds up to 250 lbs. and comes in a variety of colors. Ages 5-up. $39.99. BJ’s, Costco, Target, Toys R Us, amazon.com, discoverystore.com, www.zipfy.com.

A fast-moving game of Spikeball is sure to get your teen off the couch and out into the sunshine. The game includes a hula hoop-sized net, placed at ankle level, and a palm-sized ball. Two teams of two spike the ball onto the net, positioning it so that the rebound goes in the direction of the opposing team. Teams have up to three hits to control the ball and return it to their opponent. If they fail, the other team scores a point. The game is won at 21 points. Great exercise, and lots of fun in the bargain! $49.99. www.spikeball.com.

Get in the Game

Hopscotch isn’t just for outdoors anymore. This Indoor Hopscotch features brightly colored foam pieces from 1 to 10 that fit together like a puzzle. Four tossing markers are included to land on the proper number and be scooped up by your hopping, giggling youngster. Ages 3-up. $35.95. Sensational Beginnings Toys. 800-444-2147, www.sb-kids.com.

These bumper cars look just like the real thing, only in miniature. The Bumper Car Game features two colorful 5-inch bumper cars and two remote controls. Kids bump their opponent’s car, hitting all three bumpers to win the game. Ages 4-12. $29.95. Toys to Grow On catalog. 800-987-4454, www.ttgo.com.

Add a bug, take one away! That’s how the Add-A-Bug Math Game is played. Kids roll the dice and move around the game board, adding and subtracting bugs all along the way. The player with the most bugs at the end of the game is the winner. Game includes a bright game board, four game pieces, 45 plastic bugs in four clear storage containers, and two soft dice. Ages 4-up. $24.95. Toys to Grow On catalog. 800-987-4454, www.ttgo.com.

It’s a matching game, it’s bingo, it’s a guessing game, all rolled into one. Animal Tracks will have your youngster matching a variety of animals to their tracks in a number of challenging ways. Ages 5-up. $14.99. National Wildlife Federation Catalog. 800-756-3752, www.shopnwf.org.

Dinosaurs are the play pieces in this Jurassic game. Your children will battle their way to the Dino Cave playing Dino-Bump, a fast-moving board game for two to six players. The game includes a large colorful game board and six 5-inch dinosaurs of various types. Ages 5-up. $24.95. www.luvyduvy.com.

This “hot potato” has the music built right in! Squeeze the Electronic Hot Potato to start the music, pass it around, and whoever is holding it when the music stops is out of the game. The charming silly face on the huggable potato is sure to give everyone the giggles. Ages 5-up. $21.95. Young Explorers catalog. 800-239-7577, youngexplorers.com.

Hasbro has a new take on two popular games this holiday season. Sorry! Spin features a rotating game board. Getting “home” is even more unpredictable than before. $24.99. Kids will still be all twisted up playing Twister Hoopla, but the difference is they become the game mat as the dots are turned into rings that players use to connect to one another and score points. $19.99. Ages 6-up. Toys R Us, Target, amazon.com.

Watch out for the moldy cheese! While kids are playing the Diary of a Wimpy Kid Cheese Touch Game, they’ll encounter many creative, social, and intellectual challenges all around the game board. But, they need to be on their toes—a wrong answer could get them stuck in the stinky cheese that was found on the basketball court. If your youngster enjoys the Wimpy Kid books, he’s sure to have a blast playing this game. Ages 7-up. $19.99. amazon.com, barnesandnoble.com, Toys R Us.

The Find It Kids Game is a unique version of “I Spy.” Hidden among a host of colorful beads in a 10-1/2-inch clear cylinder are 48 assorted surprises, waiting to be discovered by your youngster. The challenge is to find all 48. $19.98. The Deluxe version of the game features 84 items, 123 playing cards, a timer, spinner, and scoring pad, making the game more challenging, and even more fun. $34.98. Ages 8-up. Hearth Song Catalog. 800-325-2502, hearthsong.com.

Your child can get in on the chess craze with the Once a Pawn a Time Chess Teacher game. The set includes two full-color storybooks—one introducing the chess pieces and the other game strategy—game board, playing pieces, and velvet storage bag. Ages 8-up. $29.95. Young Explorers catalog. 800-239-7577, youngexplorers.com.

Learning Fun

Your preschooler can tour the world with the Fly and Discover Talking Globe that features a simple joystick kids use to “fly” around the world, collecting fun facts all along the way. Five learning modes teach about the continents, oceans, animal facts, music, customs, and more. Music and sound effects add to the fun. Ages 3-up. $36.95. National Geographic Catalog. 888-225-5647, www.shopng.org.

Your child can discover an endless array of fascinating facts about our universe while exploring the 3-D Solar System and Talking Planetarium. The 10-inch movable Solar System model features a light-up sun. The interactive planetarium will engage your youngster with pictures and icons to press to hear more than 1,000 facts and challenging questions and answers. Ages 5-up. $44.99. Constructive Playthings Toys. 800-832-0572, www.cptoy.com.

Jamie and Adam, the Discovery Channel MythBusters, present some of the best sports myths for your young scientist to confirm or bust in their latest science kit MythBusters Science of Sports Kit. Your youngster will learn that science plays a major role in sports, and a successful athlete will learn to use his or her brain as well as muscles. Why does a curve ball curve? Where is the “sweet spot” on the bat? These and many more myths are in the kit to be tested. Ages 9-up. $19.95. Discovery Channel Toys. discoverystore.com.

Kids in the Kitchen

If you have an aspiring kitchen helper in your house, he or she will love the Playful Chef Set of child-size utensils. The set includes 10 color-coded utensils to help children choose the right tools for each step in any of the five included recipes. A colorful apron completes the set. Ages 3-6 (red apron), 6-8 (blue apron). $39.98. Hearth Song Catalog. 800-325-2502, www.hearthsong.com.

Nickelodeon characters Dora and Diego invite your child to have fun in the kitchen exploring the 50 yummy recipes found in Dora and Diego Let’s Cook cookbook for kids. Your youngster will learn about measuring, stirring, and decorating as she whips up such recipes as Pirate Adventure Pizza Coins and Incan Quinoa Pudding. As an added bonus, she’ll be introduced to a host of Spanish words and phrases. Ages 4-8. $16.95. amazon.com, barnesandnoble.com.

It’s Electric! Electronics for All Ages

Your preschooler will feel just like a big kid with a Wii video game just for him. JumpStart Pet Rescue not only shows kids a good time, but gives them a chance to practice pre-reading, memory, and listening skills. Youngsters explore a jungle, beach, neighborhood, and various other spots on a mission to rescue lost pets. As they progress they earn special virtual rewards, adopt and care for cuddly pets, and design the perfect avatar. Ages 3-6. $19.99. Walmart, Toys R Us, Best Buy, amazon.com.

Your youngster will enjoy learning with the Vtech-MobiGo Portable Learning System. This kid-tough learning device features a slide-out keyboard and touch-screen technology. Your child will be having so much fun he’ll hardly notice he is developing fundamental skills in math, vocabulary, spelling, logic, and more. Ages 3-7. $59.99. Best Buy.

Take any book in your child’s library, and record the story in your own voice for him to play back, using Franklin Electronics’ AnyBook Reader. Just place a special sticker on each page, tap the sticker with the AnyBook Reader device, and record the words on each page. Your youngster then uses the device to tap the stickers to hear your voice as he turns the pages and the story unfolds. A distant relative or a military service person far from home can record a story, and your child will enjoy and recall the sound of his or her voice any time. As an added feature, beginning readers can record their own voices as they discover a new book. Ages 3-up with adult. $39.99 (15 hours), $59.99 (60 hours). www.franklin.com/anybook.

Your holiday celebration will be faithfully recorded by your child using the Crayola 3-in-1 Digital Camera. Just right for little hands, this camera has a rubberized casing to protect it, and a 1-inch square preview screen. It stores up to 102 pix and has “Show & Share Creativity” software built in. The camera will also record short videos. Ages 3-up. $69.95. Young Explorers catalog. 800-239-7577, youngexplorers.com.

Your young secret agent will be thrilled with the Mini Digital 3-in-1 Spy Camera. This nifty wristwatch-size camera, complete with wristband, is expert in still and video photography and serves as a web cam. It takes up to 243 digital photos, and comes with USB cable, software CD, LCD display panel, 12 settings, and, of course, user guide. Ages 8-up. $24.95. Young Explorers catalog. 800-239-7577, youngexplorers.com.

Take Sesame Street friends along with you wherever you go with a Sesame Street Video USB drive. These drives in the shape of any one of seven of your child’s favorite characters feature a full-length character-themed educational movie, direct access to the Sesame Street website, and memory capacity to store up to 400 songs, photos, or unlimited amount of written content. Not to worry—they are all water-, dust-, and drop-proof. $38.75. amazon.com.

The ever-popular feline, Hello Kitty, now stars in her new video game for Wii, Hello Kitty Seasons. Your youngster will be challenged to create a character and manage SanrioTown populated by such favorite characters as My Melody, Keroppi, Badtz-Maru, Chococat, and others, as well as Kitty herself. Players’ missions change as the seasons change, with new challenges and rewards all along the way. Great fun for the whole family! $29.99. amazon.com.

Here’s a “spider” that’s not likely to have you running from the room. The Skitterbot micro-robotic bug is creepy, crawly, and capable of traveling at the rate of one foot per second. Available in red, blue, clear, and green, the Skitterbot comes with a 5-button remote and a retractable USB charger. Buy several in different colors, and race them; each color operates on a different frequency. $19.99. Radio Shack, Toys R Us, www.mydeskpets.com.

Stocking Stuffers

Talk about bling—these flashy Finger Rings will never go unnoticed. This set of eight light-up jelly rings comes in four different colors. Ages 3-up. $12.98. Hearth Song Catalog. 800-325-2502, www.hearthsong.com.

The Light-Up Slinky is not your father’s slinky, or even the slinky you remember. This slinky “slinks” in the usual way, but your youngster can change its color with the click of a button. Ages 5-up. $9.98. Hearth Song Catalog. 800-325-2502, www.hearthsong.com.

A Gift that Gives Back

Treat your youngster to a cuddly new stuffed animal in a variety of delightful “species” from IKEA, and one euro will be donated by the retailer to UNICEF and Save the Children for educational programs throughout the world. To help out locally, buy a stuffed animal and donate it to the Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center Children’s Program. Your purchase will comfort a local child and still generate a euro for the charities mentioned above. $2.99-$14.99. Or purchase a SUNNAN solar-powered lamp in one of a rainbow of colors, and IKEA will donate an identical lamp for a child to read by in a spot around the world with no electricity. $19.99. IKEA stores, www.ikea.com.

Last spring’s oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico brought to light the plight of marine life there and in other parts of the world. For a one-of-a-kind gift, consider giving a satellite-tracked adopted sea turtle from the Sea Turtle Conservancy. The Conservancy sponsors regional and international conservation, education, and research programs. Your recipient will have the privilege of naming his or her adoptee and will be able to track the turtle’s migration online at www.conserveturtles.org. For a donation of $25 he or she will receive a personalized adoption certificate, a Sea Turtle Conservation Guide, a one-year subscription to Sea Turtle Conservancy’s membership publication, and more. Additional membership levels include gifts such as turtle plushes for kids, t-shirts, and holiday ornaments. adoptaseaturtle.org, 800-678-7853. BC

And now for a little shopping advice...

NAPPA Looks Out for the Best Buys for Kids
If you haven’t seen just the right gift in our 2010 Gift Guide, check out the National Parenting Publications Awards’ (NAPPA) “Parenting Resources 2010 Winners” online. NAPPA is one of the oldest and most comprehensive awards programs for children’s products, helping parents make the best choices for their children. Click on “This Year’s Winners!” to find the best age-appropriate toys, books, DVDs, CDs, software, and video games to help round out your holiday shopping list. Visit www.parenthood.com/nappa/parenting_resources_2010.php.

Ways to Save:
Bargain Hunter’s Websites
You’ll find coupons, great deals and savings on clothing for the whole family, toys, electronics, sporting goods, and much more, from scores of companies, including Barnes and Noble, The Gap, JC Penney, Nordstrom, Old Navy, Toys R Us, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Kohl’s, Walmart, Bed Bath & Beyond, Babies R Us, amazon.com, and hundreds more. Carve out a half-hour or more, and sit down to browse these comprehensive websites loaded with bargains.
DealHunting.com
CurrentCodes.com
DealCoupon.com
GottaDeal.com
Don’t overlook Facebook, where businesses often offer special deals to members on their pages, and Twitter, where you’ll find coupons from popular retailers.

Savings on Video Games and More
If you’re shopping for a gift for a video game fan, or you are one yourself, don’t miss all that www.sayswap.com has to offer. Here you can buy or trade games at greatly reduced prices. Post your list of games to sell or trade and the list of new-to-you games you’re looking for. Sit back and await an offer.
Visit Swap.com, list those video games, books, music, and DVDs that are gathering dust on your shelves, and wait for the website to offer a list of all that is available to you FREE in a direct swap with another Swap user. You pay only the cost of shipping, unless you’re lucky enough to find someone nearby your home to trade with in person.

Smart Holiday Spending
Having looked over this vast array of gifts, is your head spinning? Are you wondering where to begin?
The folks at Consolidated Credit Counseling Services, Inc., a nonprofit educational credit counseling and debt management organization, have some practical advice in their “Holiday Survival Guide.” You can download a free copy of the guide online at www.ConsolidatedCredit.org. Here is just a brief summary with a few tips, hints, and warnings from CCCS to keep in mind.
• Begin your shopping by making a holiday giving budget, and do your best to stick to it. You may want to ask adult family members to set spending limits on gifts or to consider drawing names for giving. Let your youngsters know that there is a budget for their gifts, and ask them to prioritize their wish list. You might want to give them gift cards for some of the items on their lists and hit the mall after the holiday for great bargains.
• Before setting out to shop, make a list of those you are buying for, with possible gift purchases, each marked with a dollar limit. Check newspapers, catalogs, and ads to determine where you need to go to buy and which stores have the best prices on the items on your list. Start your shopping early enough so that there is plenty of time to comparison shop.
• Keep track of how much you’ve spent. And remember, things like taxes, gift wrap, postage, and shipping all add up – budget for them also.
• Consider using cash in lieu of credit. Decide how much you want to spend and take just that amount of money with you shopping. Or use debit cards or your checkbook.
• If you decide to use plastic, use no more than two credit cards – one with a low rate for any purchases that you may need to pay for over a period of time. CCCS recommends that you keep in mind “…you are the best judge of what you can comfortably manage. Just because you have a certain amount of credit available, doesn’t mean you should use all of it between Thanksgiving and New Years. REMEMBER: Never borrow more than you can reasonably pay off. Giving gifts should be a gesture, not a sacrifice.”
• If you are shopping online, use credit cards. If you’re scammed, you generally are not responsible for any more than $50. Shop at companies you’re familiar with. And most importantly when you enter the shopping cart or the e-commerce area of a site, remember that secure servers show “https” instead of simply “http” at the beginning of their website’s address or URL. Don’t include credit card information or personal information like social security numbers in an email - legitimate shopping websites use special forms. Stay away from unsolicited email offers as they are often scams.
With a lot of planning and a little common sense, your holiday shopping can be a pleasurable prelude to the delight of the season.

Happy Holidays!