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Review • Toys
Playstation Move Heroes
Rated E (10+)
$39.99; Playstation.com
Features characters from three of Playstation’s most popular series: Jak & Daxter, Ratchet &
Clank and Sly Cooper. Characters compete together in a series of intergalactic challenges
and events. PlayStaion Move motion & navigation controller enhances the gaming
experience.
Alex, 13, liked the variety of quests in these short games, one of the best he’s played in
the Move series of games. The flying discs were his favorite.
Kirsten Flournoy
2011
Summer Toy Review
It’s Toy Time!
Here’s our kid-tested toy review of summer’s
newest toys and games for indoor and outdoor
Head to SanDiegofamily.com and enter
fun.
our Big Toy Giveaway to win selected toys with
and read many more reviews!
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Looking for great game and craft ideas? Stay
tuned for reviews of the coolest family games, plus
things to make and do, in our July issue.
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Pharaoh’s Quest Flying Mummy Attack
$19.99; 7+ years
PharaohsQuest.Lego.com
Help adventurer Jake Raines defeat
the flying mummies and capture
Pharaoh Amset-Ra’s Soul Diamond
from the obelisk! Visit the website for
games, quizzes, videos and fun in the
Hero’s Lounge.
Kellan, 7, liked the evil mummies
and cool airplane in this “build it
yourself” set.
Sand Truck 4-in-1
$14.99; 3+
WildDill.com
It’s a truck, shovel, rake and bucket all in one! This ecofriendly vehicle is made from “Sprigwood,” a durable,
kid-safe material made from reclaimed wood and recycled
plastic.
Beckie says this quality toy will last for generations. Jack,
2, says, “I love my new truck!”
Tarantula Planet
$14.99; 5+ years
UncleMilton.com
Just clap to make this spider’s eyes light
up and send it scurrying across any flat,
smooth surface. David, 7, says, “Super
fun to play with and scare my family!”
1 • www.SanDiegofamily.com • June 2011
Boysterous Slope
Shreddin’ Sean
$17; 3+
ManhattanToy.com
Sean is ready to play his
favorite sport! His legs and
arms bend and his hand
and feet are magnetized
so he can play all of
the Boysterous sports!
Includes magnetized
snowboard.
Grace says 5-year-old
Adrian loved this wellmade toy, and enjoyed
using his imagination
to send Sean on fast,
downhill rides.
Elmo’s A-to-Zoo Adventure for Wii
$39.99; Rated EC (Early Childhood)
Kids head to the zoo with Elmo, Zoe and animal
friends as they explore fun games including letter
identification, rhyming,
letter sounds and color
& shape identification.
Includes fun exploration
of an aquarium, a jungle,
the Arctic and more!
Two-year-old Ava
had lots of fun going
on exciting virtual
adventures with Elmo.
My Little Pony Twilight
Sparkle’s Twinkling Balloon
Playset
$19.99; 3+
Hasbro.com
Guide Twilight Sparkle pony through
the sky in a purple hot air balloon
that illuminates and changes colors
along the journey with the push
of a star-shaped button! Features a
nighttime mode that plays soothing
sounds and acts as a night light.
Four-year-old Alessandra loved
playing with this pretty pony!
Win
Pool with Water Slide
This
$39.99; 4-10 years
Toy
Playmobil.com
Splash into summer fun! Six Playmobil
figures can ride the water slide and swim
in the pool. Includes functioning shower
and accessories.
Audrey, 4, had a blast pumping the
shower and adding water. Mom Jennifer
says it takes about 45 minutes to
assemble all the pieces prior to play.
June 2011 • www.SanDiegofamily.com •
2
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This
Toy
Lamaze Totem Stackers
$17.99; 6 months+
LearningCurve.com
Perfect for helping
develop
dexterity and
hand-eye
coordination,
these
fun, colorful
stackers will engage
and encourage baby.
Smart magnets make
these soft stackers
an easy and nonfrustrating
way to
help baby
explore
the concept
of stacking and order. With bright
colors, fun patterns and a rattle in each
character, these toys are an adorable
way to stimulate baby’s vision as
well as engage baby’s hearing. Mom
Jennifer loves the built-in magnets and
Ridge, 9 months, likes the crinkling
and rattling sounds the toy makes.
Djubi
$29.99; 8+ years
Djubi.com
The coolest new twist on the game of catch! Hook your
ball loop on to the racquet, pull back, let go and fling it
into the air! The other player tries to catch this superfast ball. Perfect outdoor game for the beach, park or
your own backyard!
Brent, 10, says, “Super fun! Balls fly
really far.”
PetCakes
$14.99; 3+
years
PetCakesToys.com
Each PetCakes animal features a “frosting” hat and comes nestled
in its own cupcake wrapper, providing hours of open-ended
imaginative play. This soft, huggable toy is perfect for pet lovers!
Nevaeh, 1, fell in love with her “sweet” puppy and carried it
around everywhere.
Aqua Tech Transmorpher
$19.99; 5+ years
Toyquest.com
Build up to 11 different
water blasters! Customize a
target shooter, quick draw
blaster and many more.
Evan, 11, likes this
“awesome” interchangeable
blaster. Mom Francine says
this versatile toy shoots far.
Fireball Light Up Toss
$14.99; 6+ years
Sportcraft.com
Outdoor fun for day or night! Includes two LED light-up
launchers and glow-in-the-dark “fireball.” Be sure to
charge the ball under a light before playing at night.
Night games are an extra challenge.
Kellan, 7, enjoys playing this easy catch game. “Let’s
play fireball!”
Washable Colored Bubble Launcher
$14.99; 4+ years
Crayola.com
Create a storm of brightly colored bubbles! Washable pink, purple, blue, green
and orange bubbles may leave colorful marks behind, so outdoor use, in play
clothes, is recommended. Includes one launcher and two bottles of bubble
solution.
Mom Jessica says her son London, 4, had a great time launching colored
bubbles into the air.
3 • www.SanDiegofamily.com • June 2011
Sweetheart Rose “Dollie & Me”
Prices vary; 4-12 years
Dollieme.com
Matching fashionable apparel for your
daughter and jointed, 18-inch dolls (sold
separately; “Rachel” shown here) make
any occasion a special one. Girls will love
dressing Dollie to match, styling her hair
and playing with accessories. Includes dresses
for child and doll. Maribella, 6, says, “Aww! She’s
beautiful! We’re going to be twins.”
Sydney, 8, says, “My doll looks just like me!”
Electronic Guitar/Drum Shirt
$29.99; 6-16 years
ThinkGeek.com
Rock out anywhere you go with this wearable electronic instrument.
Press the buttons to play major chords or use the magnetic pick to
strum the guitar. Crank the “mini amp” speaker clip to share your tunes
with pals. Drum shirt has seven different sounds and an embedded
speaker. Note: disassembly required prior to washing.
David, 8, says, “It’s so cool!”
Laser Pegs 3-in-1
Win
This
$45.95; 7+ years
Toy
Laserpegs.com
This 72-piece lighted construction kit
offers hours of creative fun. Build a dune
buggy, monster bug, tractor or design a
new model. Includes batteries, storage tray,
power unit and instruction guide.
Tyler, 7, likes to assemble his own
inventive creations. Mom Linda says “it’s
rewarding to put it together and see it light
up. Fun to use at night.”
Nerf N-Strike Barricade RV-10 Blaster
$14.99; 6+
Hasbro.com
Motorized, semi-automatic blaster with
revolving barrel rapid-fires foam, whistle
darts. Makes a whirring “fan” sound as
it runs. Requires three AA batteries (not
included).
Nine-year-old Ryan liked everything about
this toy.
June 2011 • www.SanDiegofamily.com •
4
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This
Toy
Sand & Water Fun Farm
$59.99; 2+ years
Step2.com
Outdoor play table has divided sand and water play
areas, and comes with a tractor, shovel, pull carts and
barn accessories. Perfect for cooperative play, little kids
will love having a place to splash, dig and exercise their
imaginations.
Game Party In
Motion Xbox360
Kinect
$39.99; Rated E
Xbox.com/Kinect
Play 16 classic arcade
games like bowling,
Skeeball, horseshoes,
pool, darts and more.
Play head-to-head or
compete in teams of
up to 16 people.
Eleven-year-old Alec enjoyed playing these
challenging, interactive games.
Patty Cake Pre-School
Zhu Zhu Pets
$19.99
3+ years
Zhuniverse.com
Charming Zhu Zhu baby
hamsters can sing nursery
rhymes, listen to stories, and
play with other hamsters on
the playground.
Norah, 5, loved having
a “baby” hamster to play
with the “mommy” Zhu Zhu
pets. “They are so cute and
cuddly!” she says.
5 • www.SanDiegofamily.com • June 2011
Zombie Zoo Stitch
$20.99; All ages
ZombieZoo.com
Cute and creepy, ZombieZoo are
designed by artist and illustrator
Neecy Twinem. These soft, fleece
critters are 12-15” high and wear
personality tags. Cuddly plushies
come with a DVD story; learn more
about each character on the website.
“Super cute!” says Sydney, 8.
Playskool Alphie Databots
$17.99; 3+
Hasbro.com
These portable DATABOTS friends are full of personality and provide
lots of learning fun! The MAESTRO-BOT pal is a musical playmate
with a keyboard in his tummy who teaches preschoolers about
melodies, colors, shapes, patterns and sequencing. The DECI-BOT
buddy enjoys numbers and is full of engaging games to introduce
children to amounts and the principles of greater than and less than.
Mom Michele likes this very interactive, educational toy and Grant,
3, says, “I like Alphie. He’s my friend!”
Shrinky Dinks-Misty White
$6.50; 5+
ShrinkyDinks.com
Shrinky Dinks provide
children with countless
options for artistic
expression and parents a
little dose of nostalgia as
they introduce their kids to
a beloved activity from their
childhood.
Mom Elizabeth likes the
Misty White. “When the
Shrinky Dinks melt, it is really
easy to see the drawings
with the white backgrounds.”
Chalk the Block
$12.99; 6+
Klutz.com
This handbook of inspired lunacy is packaged with
a set of chalk. Every drawing is easy to execute,
simple to draw, and guaranteed to bring a smile to
passersby. Mom Julie likes the clever ideas in this
book and says the neighborhood kids didn’t want
to stop drawing.
Ladybug Pillow Pet
$24.99; 3+
PillowPets.com
This super-soft chenille stuffed animal starts out as a toy; un-velcro
its belly, and it quickly becomes a pillow. So cuddly, kids will never
want to put it down! Joslyn, 7, loves to cuddle in bed with her Pillow
Pet and mom Teresa wants one of her own.
June 2011 • www.SanDiegofamily.com •
6
Bird Watcher Field Kit
$24.99; 5+
BackyardSafariOutfitters.com
This kit comes complete with everything kids
need for the ultimate birdwatching experience.
Peek through a pair of 5x30 power binoculars
with 2.5” lens shades, secure them to the
tripod, and use one of three different bird
callers for attracting just about every backyard
bird.
Dylan, 5, likes having his own binoculars and
enjoys attracting birds using his special whistle.
Thumb Wars: The Ultimate Guide
$12.99; 8+
Klutz.com
This book covers everything from the classic challenges
of thumb wars, strategies, and training exercises to fake
outs, trash talk, and never-before-played games. Comes
complete with the Sleeve of Doom, the ultimate instrument
of thumb war combat.
Chris, 8, loves challenging his friends using the Sleeve
of Doom, pudding wrestling and marshmallow thumb wars.
Dr. Doofenshmirtz
Voice-inator
$9.99; 6+
Jakks.com
This cool gadget has more
than five voice changing
effects so you can disguise
and alter your voice! It also
gives you different bizarre
voices to choose from and
even lets you warp the pitch
of your voice in real time.
David, 7, likes the echo
voice the best.
Expedition Three Base Camp Shelter
$39.99; 5+
BackyardSafariOutfitters.com
This rugged shelter is easy to assemble,
stands over 40” tall and comes with
everything needed to set up camp. You’ll have
plenty of pockets and storage space to put all
of your essential field gear like the bonus mini lantern
with carabiner.
Bobby, 7, says it is easier to get into than a tent and he uses it as a fort.
Mom Nancy likes how portable it is.
7 • www.SanDiegofamily.com • June 2011
Piggyback Bandz
$4.95; 3+
PiggybackBandz.com
Take your elastic bracelet to a whole
new level-perpendicular to your
wrist! “The Bandz That Stand” has
incorporated a mini shape band that
“piggybacks” on top of a traditional
rubber band, allowing the top shape
to be easily seen when placed on
the wrist.
McKenna likes to trade these with
her friends.
LittleBigPlanet 2
$59.99; E for Everyone
LittleBigPlanet.com
This brand new story mode
provides a beautifully reshaped
world for Sackboy to explore and
play. Each story level is influenced
by cultural high points in history
and is visually stunning. Players
can even create their own levels.
Adam, 10, likes to play with his
PlayStationMove camera and put
himself in the game with Sackboy.
Freeze Ball
$14.99; 6+
ShopWildPlanet.com
Throw, run, dodge or catch—despite its name, Freeze Ball is not a
game about standing still. Players wear numbered wristbands then
toss the soft, colorful six-sided ball. If your number is rolled, grab the
ball and yell “freeze”, then throw it at the closest player. Mom Linda
says her kids loved this surprisingly simple game. Tyler, 7, likes to earn
bands by getting his brother out.
Guess How I Feel?
$26.99; 3+
FunandFunction.com
How do you feel when
you ride a rollercoaster…
get ice cream…see
fighting…say goodbye?
Guess each player’s
reaction—and have fun
sharing yours! Choose
from 50 situations,
each illustrated with
vivid photographs so
no reading skills are
needed. Players develop
skills in self-expresssion
and empathy, and have
fun getting to know each
other.
Teacher Grace likes
this well made product
geared towards children
that can draw what they
feel. Adrian, 5, likes the
guess bag with colored
bands he earns when he
guesses right.
Teach My Preschooler
$49.99; 3-6 years
TeachMy.com
This all-in-one learning kit for preschoolers is divided into four section; Ready to Read,
Ready to Print, Ready for 1-100 and Ready for Math. Each section has coordinated books,
flashcards, posters, a print guide and a magic drawing board. It is designed to give
preschoolers a head start, develop fine motor skills, encourage parent/child interaction
and increase school readiness skills. Mom Michele says it is very educational and super
fun to use while her preschooler learns.
June 2011 • www.SanDiegofamily.com •
8
Timmy Time Talking Yabba
$14.99; 2+
Jakks.com
Characters from the new preschool series,
Timmy Time, airing on Playhouse Disney,
are now available as cute and cuddly plush.
Timmy’s friend Yabba utters six different
silly sounds when you press her tummy.
Chloe, 2, likes to cuddle with her furry
duck.
Tibbar’s Tangrams
$28; 3+
SimplyFun.com
Seven giant geometric pieces fit together to form
whatever shape you desire. Complete with a 32-page
puzzle booklet and 80 suggested puzzles to complete,
this game teaches spacial relationships, early geometry
and dimensions and proportions.
Sofia, 4, says, “I like the shapes and colors!”
Rainbow Whirls Pegging Game
$35; 2-6 years
HabaUSA.com
Ideal for free play, the colored pegs and rings
offer many different plug-in variations. The rings
can also be piled up on the pegs. Includes 32
parts and beech pegging board.
Mom Riffi says this is a sturdy and colorful
toy that is great for self-teaching. Kyan, 5, likes
stacking the colorful pegs.
The Marvelous Book of Magical Horses
$19.99; 6+
Klutz.com
This book comes with six gorgeous paper ponies and two paper doll
fairies plus everything you need to dress them up and play to your
heart’s content: a dozen fabulous wings and more than 250 punch
out saddles, manes, tails, bows, crowns, and other horse and fairy
fashions. Four fabulous illustrated backgrounds inspire all sorts of
imaginative play.
Dad Jeff says, “Fun activity that my daughters can play with again
and again.”
9 • www.SanDiegofamily.com • June 2011
Star Wars Mini Light Saber
Dark Side Detector
$14.99; 6+
UncleMilton.com
Are you Jedi or Sith? The dark
Side Detector changes color
to let you know. Discover
the science of electricity as
you build your very own mini
version of the lightsaber used
by Darth Vader. This six-piece
toy is perfect for all aspiring
Jedi Knights.
Mom Jennifer says it is
surprisingly entertaining and
Logan, 7, says, “How does it
do that?”
Friendship Pixies
$16.99; 8+
Klutz.com
Bend some wire to form a
body, wrap it with colorful raffia
clothing and add sparkly yarn
hair. You’ve just made a friendship
pixie! Finished pixies are cute,
flexible and great listeners.
They’re also just a little bit magic
because each pixie gets a sparkly
charm that shows the exact wish
she delivers. Mom Jennifer says
this is great for creative, artistic
girls who want to give something
unique to their friends. Hope,
12, says, “These pixies are a
great way to strengthen the bond
between friends.”
Smart Snacks Rainbow Color Cones Game
$16.99; 3+
LearningResources.com
This board game reinforces color matching and
following directions as children reach out to make
their own towering treat. Self-checking puzzle
cards offer two levels of play. Sofie, 4, likes the
colorful scoops of ice cream.
Strawberry Shortcake Twirling Flower
Fashions Doll
$19.99; 4+
Hasbro.com
To create the season’s berry best
styles, girls place their strawberry
shortcake doll onto the playset’s
rotating base. With the simple
pull of a lever, the doll will
spin. Girls then squeeze
the plastic rose on the
base and a light sprinkle
of water sprays onto
her chic skirt, revealing
different playful patterns. Abby, 5, likes
the flower spritzer the best.
Nerf Dart Tag Swarmfire Blaster
$29.99; 8+
Hasbro.com
With this fully automatic Dart Tag blaster, players can launch a powerful stream of up to 20 darts. Mom Tracy
cautions that is requires 6 C batteries, so it becomes heavy to carry around.
Luke, 9, loves how fast it shoots and that the darts have Velcro on them.
June 2011 • www.SanDiegofamily.com •
10
Monster Tale
$29.99; E for Everyone
MajescoEntertainment.com
A ragtag pack of
kids have snuck
into a secret
world inhabited
by monsters and
are making them
do destructive
things that will
ultimately result
in the downfall
of the Monster
World. Ellie discovers the Monster World and
befriends a mysterious young monster named
Chomp and they set out on a fantastic adventure.
Brandon, 9, likes how his monster pet grows,
evolves and gains new abilities as the game
progresses.
Aquapets
$10.99; 6+
ShopWildPlanet.com
These collectable characters live in brightly colored
raindrop shaped aqua pods and sing, dance and chirp
in response to interaction with their owners and other
Aquapets. The more you play with them, the more
songs they perform and the livelier they become.
Hope, 12, says, “Bertie is such a cool ‘pet’ to have!”
Recycled Cardboard
Zoo
$29.99; 4+
CreativityForKids
.com
This cleverly designed
eco-friendly kit
includes everything
you need to play and
pretend zoo. The
easy-to-assemble zoo
has an entrance arch,
animal enclosures,
punch out animals
and people, plus other zoo-themed accessories. Once constructed,
decorate it with markers and fun accessories. Dad Jeff says, “The
girls got to be creative with this toy and were able to color all types
of things like animals, cages, plants and more.”
Silverlicious
Sweet Tooth
Board Game
$14.99; 4+
ThinkPinkalicious.com
Help Pinkalicious get her sweet tooth back! All players work
together to help Pinkalicious, Peter, and her teddy bear reach
the end of the game path by performing special tasks and
completing fun challenges. Kids must collect special Sweet
Tooth Coins before they reach their final destination. Mom Jennifer likes that it is not a competition, but that all
the players work together, and Norah, 5, likes playing with
the bear character the best.
Math Quiz Interactive Game Show
$19.95; Grades 1-3
LakeshoreLearning.com
All the sights and sounds of a real life game show on your home
computer or interactive classroom whiteboard. Perfect for math
review or extra practice, each game show has more than 200
level-appropriate questions. Divide students into teams, select
your categories and let the learning begin! Mom Brenda likes
the variety of math questions, and her daughters like competing
against each other to answer the questions first and win!
11 • www.SanDiegofamily.com • June 2011
Mega Bloks: Diego’s Build & Rescue
$19.99; E for Everyone
2KGames.com/2KPlay
Gamers must collect virtual Mega Bloks to construct bridges, build air,
land and sea rescue vehicles, explore
exciting habitats from the Arctic to
the Rainforest, and rescue stranded
animals. Field journal pages provide
gamers with interesting facts about
the animals they help and a special
picture of it in its home.
Mom Nancy says, “This is a great
game for those new to a DS. There
is a pop up in the corner that tells
players what to do, like climb, touch screen, or blow on screen.” Blake,
5, likes to build things using the Mega Bloks.
Nickelodeon Fit Wii
$39.99; E for Everyone
2KGames.com/2KPlay
One of the first fitness video games designed
specifically for the preschool crowd, this game
offers different exercises to choose from
including hurdles with Kai-lan, jump rope with
The Backyardigans, trampolining with Dora,
skateboarding with Diego and more! There’s also a
parental tracking feature to let parents get involved
in their child’s fitness routine by creating custom
work-outs and monitoring their child’s progress.
Mom Jennifer likes the variety and thinks it will be great for rainy days
when her kids can’t go outside and play. Norah, 5, says, “I like to hula
hoop to earn points.”
Mod Baby Woodle
$15; 3 months+
ManhattanToy.com
The wrap-around
swirl attaches to most
strollers so your baby
can enjoy the Woodle
everywhere. Includes
rattle and squeaker
for added enjoyment.
Leah, 4 months, likes
how soft this toy is
and how it stretches
out when she pulls
on it.
Playmobil Treasure Temple with Guards
$69.99; 3+
PlaymobilUSA.com
With this action-packed set, children can
navigate the treasure hunters through the
guarded, trap-filled, treasure temple. The snake
barrier, drop pit, and falling rocks make it
difficult to pass through the temple to find the
hidden treasure. Tyler, 7, likes the trap doors
the best.
“It makes it interactive so that after you build
it, it is really fun to play with,” says mom Linda.
June 2011 • www.SanDiegofamily.com •
12
Kingdom Hearts Re:coded
$34.99; 10+
Square-enix-shop.com/usa
All eight episodes of the
previous game are on this
single cartridge. This is an
engrossing mix of gameplay
types, including turn-based
RPG, RTS, action and sidescrolling platforming. Other
features and functionality
include: diverse and
entertaining boss battles,
over 800 unlockables, autoaim functionality and more.
Safiya, 16, likes this “very
cool” game that has nice
graphics during the movie
scenes.
ThinkSMART DS
$19.99; E for Everyone
ThinkSmartGames.com
This fun and fast-paced
collection of stimulating
and brain twisting puzzlers
challenge players to
improve their brain power.
Play a variety of brain
teasers, beaters, puzzlers
and mental challenges for
all ages.
Dad Lance says, “I like to
play these brain challenges as much as my kids do!” Trevor, 10, likes
the mouse in the maze challenge the best.
Patrick Hruby Memory Game
$15.95; 3+
AmmoBooks.com
All ages will enjoy this timeless game featuring a selection
of Patrick Hruby’s bold and imaginative illustrations. Players
take turns flipping any two cards up looking for matches.
When all cards
are matched, the
player with the
most pairs wins.
Mom Grace
says, “Beautiful
artwork, well
made and it
enables kids
to use their
imaginations
in interpreting
pictures.”
13 • www.SanDiegofamily.com • June 2011
PAC-MAN Party
$39.99; 10+
Namcobandaigames.com
Set in the theme of a birthday party, PAC-MAN
stars in this new venture with dozens of minigames, challenges and surprises. With something
for the entire family, this game is chock-full of nonstop action as players use their Wii Remote and
reflexes to compete against one another across
unique virtual game boards. Macy, 13, likes that there are 52 mini games to
choose from.
Roary the Racing Car
“Build ‘Em Up Roary”
14.99; 3+
RoarytheRacingCar.com
Young mechanics can test their skills and
build Roary the Racing Car, fix his tires, bumper and
more. Press down his hat to hear familiar sounds
and phrases from the program. Includes removable
pieces and working wrench.
Sebastian, 4, really enjoyed assembling and fixing
the car on his own.
Dora’s Big Birthday Adventure
$29.99; E for Everyone
2Kgames.com/2Kplay
Embark on a journey to help Dora
and Boots get home from Wizzle
World in order to make it to Dora’s
big birthday celebration in time.
Along the way, players magically ride
on a unicorn, explore tree tops as
Boots and even have a dance fiesta,
all while avoiding the mean witch.
Ava, 2, says this game is a lot of
fun.
Play-Doh Flip ‘N Serve Breakfast Playset
$14.99; 3+
HasbroToyShop.com
Order up! This playset includes everything kids
need to make their favorite breakfast foods.
Mold pretend waffles, pancakes, and
eggs on the center griddle and watch
as the food automatically
flips over as it cooks.
Swirl out smoothies, make
whipped cream topping,
and create pretend
extras like bacon and
strawberries!
Caeden, 5, says, “Here
mom, I made you a waffle
with bacon and whipped
cream out of Play-Doh!”
CAT Tough Tracks
$10; 2+
ToyState.com
Young machine enthusiasts will have a blast as they dig and play in
the sand with these free-wheeling construction trucks. Available in
Cat Dump Truck, Cat Bulldozer & Cat Wheel Loader.
Grandma Phyllis like the quality of this product and Ryan, 2, likes
how his truck moves and dumps.
My Little Pony Princess
Celestia
$19.99; 3+
HasbroToyShop.com
This majestic unicorn stands proud
at eight inches tall and wears a
gorgeous gold crown. Push her sun-shaped
cutie mark and watch as her wings illuminate
and flutter. Girls will love to comb her multicolored, lustrous locks and decorate her
mane with beautiful gem and flower
barretts fit for a princess. She
also plays enchanting sounds
and speaks a number of magical
phrases. Jessica likes when her wings
light up and she talks.
GeoPalz
$19.99; Child
GeoPalz.com
This easy-to-use
pedometer sits
on the belt or
waistband and
comes in several
kid-friendly
designs in
various character
groups. Parents
are kept involved
in their child’s
activity through
weekly updates
to show progress
and alerting them
of awards their
kids have won.
Naomi, 9,
says, “It’s fun to
compete with my
friends and log
my steps at the
end of the day!”
June 2011 • www.SanDiegofamily.com •
14
Dinosaur Train: Dino Track Discovery Pack
$12.99; 4+
UncleMilton.com
Simply lay out one of three sets of dinosaur footprints
and follow the tracks to discover which character’s
footprints you tracked. Each footprint includes fun
dinosaur facts about one of 30 different dinosaurs.
Once you’ve reached the end of the trail and discover
who you followed, find the activity egg card for fun
things to do with the whole family!
“This is a great product for children who love dinosaurs,” says mom Christina.
Disney Tangled: The Video Game
$39.99; E for Everyone
DisneyInteractiveStudios.com
Kidnapped and imprisoned by the evil witch Gothel, the
lost princess Rapunzel awaits in her lone, locked tower
to, one day, see her family again. Use Rapunzel and
Flynn’s unique abilities to solve mysteries and challenges
as you meet interesting characters, befriend animals,
and work as a team with up to four players to
guide the unlikely duo through the 3D, storybased world.
Naomi, 9, likes to collect sun drops
for Rapunzel and coins for Flynn.
SpongeBob Alarm Clock
$24.99; 4+
ToysRus.com
This spongy alarm clock features pop up snooze button, four alarm
clock sounds, LED backlight, AM/FM Radio built in, iPod connectivity
and projects images on the ceiling.
McKenna likes that it is spongy and looks really cool in her room.
Expedition Two Hiking Stick
$14.99; 5+
BackyardSafariOutfitters.com
When the trail gets rough a
hiking stick is a must! This 48”
stick helps you keep a steady
foot on the trail. Mom Shannon
says it has a comfortable grip
and is made of sturdy plastic
and Oliver, 5, likes the wolf on
the handle.
15 • www.SanDiegofamily.com • June 2011
Chuggington Wooden Railway
Over & Under Starter Set
$49.99; 3+
LearningCurve.com
This 25-piece set features a 2-in-1
Clock Tower, modular buildings
and tunnels. It encourages kids
to design and reshape their
Chuggington world with simple,
reconfigurable designs. John, 4,
likes that it is
easy to
assemble
and fun to
play with.
Wikki Stix Activity Set
$16.95; 3+
wikkistix.com
Made of wax-infused
yarn, Wikki Stix are
an easy-to-use
creative activity toy.
They are slightly
tacky to the touch
and adhere to almost
any smooth surface with
just fingertip pressure. They
are ideal for learning to form
letters and numbers, creating
flat designs or outlines, and
can be pressed together for
3-dimensional creations.
Sydney, 9, says, “I really like
making the puppets...it’s wikki
fun!”
World of Wheel Pals Spring Stroll
$9.99; 18 months+
HasbroToyShop.com
Enjoy a stroll through the countryside or jungle with this interactive
animal assortment. Lift the bridge to send the hippo through the
Splash ‘N Bath and help the horse refuel on the Filler Up Farmstand set.
Mom Rachel says, “It is so much fun to watch my kids play with this toy!” Gregory, 3, likes
how fast the hippo rolls down the hill.
Balance Bender
$14.99; 6+
ShopWildPlanet.com
Balance Bender is a gravity-fighting game of core strength, flexibility
and coordination. The game comes with 10 colored and numbered pods. These
elevated surfaces serve as safe bases, the only places where players are allowed
to stand. Play a variety of games with the same underlying objective-don’t fall off
the pods!
Mom Shannon says this game gets the kids up and active and it’s healthy for
the core and leg muscles.
WaterRipper
$9.95; 5+
RipperBall.com
Skips like a rock. Catches like a
bag. This new generation of high
performance waterball is kid-tested and
adult approved! Can be played in or out
of the water. Fun for families, vacations
and pool parties all year long.
Dad Tony says, “Lot’s of fun” and
Jacob, 13, says, “This will be great to
use at the beach and on our vacation!”
Nerf Super Soaker Thunderstorm Water Blaster
$14.99; 6+
HasbroToyShop.com
Blast your enemies from up to 35 feet away with the massive power of this water
blaster. Simply pump to pressurize then pull the trigger to let loose a massive burst of
water. Dominic, 7, likes that it makes sounds and sprays water a long way.
June 2011 • www.SanDiegofamily.com •
16
Play-Doh Sesame Street Cookie Monster’s Letter Lunch Playset
$16.99; 3+
HasbroToyShop.com
Kids can help Cookie Monster make a delightful Play-Doh alphabet soup complete
with pretend noodles, veggies and letters, then feed him a spoonful and press
down his mouth to see him gobble it all up! After the meal, the letter molds store
easily inside the bowl until next time. Mom Christy likes that it is easy to assemble
and clean and added that her kids played with this for three hours!
Playskool Weebles on the Bus Playset
$14.99; 12 months+
Hasbro.com
The Weebles are heading to school! This
brightly colored school bus has room for six
Weebles students and features a stop sign
that flips in and out. As kids push the school
bus along, the Weebles figures wobble in their
seats. Press down on the rooftop spinner to
see the figures twirl around in their seats.
Mom Riffi says her 2-year-old daughter
Malia laughs every time the Weebles roll.
Puppy Spa
$19.99; 4+
CreativityForKids.com
Pamper your puppy with a treat
at the spa! This set includes a 6”
plush puppy, grooming bed, brush,
comb, towel and spa mask. You can
decorate the cardboard spa setting
with color-in stickers and markers
then accessorize your pup in a
crown, tutu, and pearl and rhinestone
collar. Ella says this spa set is
super fun and she loves her
new puppy.
Baby GoGo
Moses Bed
$24.99; 3+
BabyGoGoDoll.com
Children will have the
perfect place to put Baby GoGo down for a nap with this cozy Moses
bed. Made of 100 percent cotton material, with straps just the right
length for children to easily carry, this Moses bed will travel from the
bedroom to the playroom and everywhere in between! Yessica, 3,
loves that she can now carry her dolls everywhere with her.
Happy Nappers
$19.99; 3+
HappyNapper.com
Kids ring the sleepy sound doorbell to see if their Happy
Napper is in their Home Sweet Home, then magically unzip
and reverse them into a 21” soft plush that’s ready to play.
Available in Bug Bungalow to Lady Bug, Doghouse to Dog,
Igloo to Penguin and Castle to Dragon. Gregory, 3, loves everything
about this toy, especially when his cow moos.
17 • www.SanDiegofamily.com • June 2011
PJ Tots Frannie Froggie &
Froggie’s Snuggly
$10-$14; 18 months+
ManhattanToy.com
Frannie Frog is a little tot with
adorable pajamas. The silly green
print gives you a glimpse of
her goofy personality. Froggie’s
Snuggly is the perfect place for
her to sleep. Her cozy little bag
features big bug eyes and an
easy to carry handle. Jessica, 4,
especially likes to play with this
toy since she loves frogs.
Trucky 3
$24.99; 3-8 years
SmartTangoes.com
A single-player game for young children, Trucky 3 let’s children rev up their loading skills, while working on spacial
skills. There are 48 exciting challenges to manipulate the pieces to fit within the truck bed. Mom Stacy says this is
a really fun toy that entices her children to think! She also loves the included container that holds all the parts when
her kids are not playing with it.
Shrink Film Jewelry
$24.95; Teen
Fabercastell.com
Use the five Art GRIP Color Pencils to draw on
the shrink film-blend and layer to create an array
of colors. Add details, such as letter, words and
outlining, with the black Multimark Pen. Shrink the
film in an oven, then using the various accessories
turn your charms into unique necklaces, bracelets,
and earrings. Includes a 36-page illustrated
instruction book with coloring techniques and
jewelry ideas. Mom Jenny says, “This is great for
budding fashionistas who love designing!”
Dinosaur Train: Dino Poop
$9.99; 4+
UncleMilton.com
Discover what the Dinosaur Train character had
for lunch by examining their dino poop, just like
paleontologists do today! Once you find the
pieces of what they ate, put them together to
figure it out. Each pile of dino poop comes with
pieces of plant, fish, bones or a combination.
Then, press the bones or leaves into the clay
“poop” to created fossil imprints.
Caeden, 5, likes to make fossils the best and
mom Christina likes the interesting facts.
Groovy Girls Bianca Ballerina
$20; 3+
ManhattanToy.com
Dancing her way in her tutu and sparkly
pink top, Bianca has purple and blue hair
pulled into a neatly placed bun with a cute
little butterfly hair tie to keep it in place.
Madeline likes her purple-haired
ballerina.
June 2011 • www.SanDiegofamily.com •
18
FINAL FANTASY Series Plush CACTUAR
$20.99; 5+
Square-Enix-Shop.com
This plush toy is one of the traditional mascots from the Final Fantasy
series. It has embedded wires that allow for a variety of poses. Tyler, 7,
likes to pose his “cactus friend” into funny positions.
SCRUBLE Cube
$24.95; 8+
ScrubleCube.com
Scruble Cube takes some of the best known play
patterns of some of the most popular word games and
puzzles in history and combines them in a brand new,
unique format to create the World’s Greatest 3-D Word
Game! Includes a cube with 96 individually rotating letters,
a sand timer, scorepad and instructions.
Mom Tianna says, “Challenging for children and adults, it
really makes you think!”
Pretend & Play Ice Cream Shop
$26.99; 3+
LearningResources.com
Plenty of colorful pieces encourage creative thinking,
sharing, teamwork, building connections and other
important social skills. Includes
four scoops of ice cream,
two cones, two ice cream
dishes, two spoons, a
banana that splits, a
scooper, apron, write
& wipe menu card and
chocolate syrup bottle that
squirts mess-free pretend
chocolate. Grandma
Phyllis feels this is a
really good toy that is
fun for her kids to
play.
19 • www.SanDiegofamily.com • June 2011
Battle Boards
$49.98; 4+
HearthSong.com
Have some fabulous fun afloat for
two kids with this head-to-head, kick
powered, dual squirter set with splash
screens. Heavy duty construction. Two
squirters per board. Josh & Tyler love
battling each other in the pool, while
mom Linda is glad there are two squirt
guns per board in case one stops
working or gets lost.
My First Zoo
$24.99; 2+
Lego.com
Little builders construct the zoo to provide a home for the
baby elephant, tiger, polar bear and giraffe. Includes one
figure and vehicle and 60 pieces. Three-year-old DJ likes
the zoo theme and mom Stella likes that it allows DJ to be
creative and use his imagination.
Tonka Chuck & Friends Big Air
Dare DVD and Vehicle Set
$9.99; 12 months+
HasbroToyShop.com
Get ready for action when
Chuck the Dump Truck and
Flip the Race Truck go wheelto-wheel in an exciting stunt
contest. Watch friendship
spark as the stunts escalate!
This fun-filled full length
DVD comes packed with
bonus content including
sing-alongs, character extras, and interactive books.
This set comes complete with an exclusive muddy
Chuck vehicle.
Mom Jennifer likes that it comes with a mini truck and
says this is a great product for truck-loving little boys.
Sesame Street:
Cookie’s
Counting
Carnival
$39.99; EC for
Early Childhood;
WarnerBros.com
Join Cookie
Monster and Big
Bird at a funfilled carnival,
through gameplay steeped in math
skills that include number identification,
counting, shapes and pattern recognition.
Kids journey through the game in the
many areas of the carnival such as The
Grandstand, Midway, Petting Zoo, Food
Court and the Arcade.
Mom Andrea says it is easy for her
2-year-old to understand, and she likes
that it teaches simple math, patterns and
matching.
Charley Harper Nesting Blocks
$24.95; 2+; AmmoBooks.com
Charley Harper’s whimsical and well-loved illustrations are featured here on this classic
set of nesting blocks. The alphabet and numbers 1 through 10 are expressed with
colorful animal illustration that wrap around the surface of each of the 10 nesting
blocks. When completely stacked, the blocks stand almost 3 feet tall, and when they
nest, they become a compact 6 x 6 x 6 inches square.
Mom Rachel likes these sturdy blocks and says her son was able to work on his
stacking and letters at the same time.
June 2011 • www.SanDiegofamily.com •
20
Master Bricklayer Set
$6.95; 18 months+
HapeToys.com
This colorful three piece set will entertain
your child in the sand for hours. Set
includes trowl, float and brick mold.
Mom Rachel likes how her son uses his
imagination to build things with this set.
Gregory, 3, says, “Lay bricks with me,
Mommy!”
Pinto Yearling, Pinto Mare and Pinto Stallion
$7.49 each; 3+
Schleich-s.com
Part of any breed, Pintos are easily recognized by their patches of
white. Usually either piebald or skewbald, these horses have hair
but are characterized by their coloring. These well made figures
will engage kids in hours of imaginative play.
Makenzie, 5, likes that there is a set of Pintos.
Jolly Octopus
$24.99; 4+
Ravensburger.com
Jolly, a happy and ticklish battery-operated octopus sits atop his stash of crabs.
Players try to grab the crabs with the enclosed tongs, while Jolly does his best to
stop them with his moving tentacles. Features two speed settings to double the
challenge. Mom Tracy says this game is harder than it looks and Tyson, 7, likes to
hear Jolly laugh while trying to get his crabs.
HEXBUG Nano Elevation Habitat Set
$59.99; 3+
Hexbug.com
Unleash your creativity as you build and construct this set featuring
a multi-level spiral and bridges that can accommodate an entire
collection. Each Nano bug can stretch its rubber legs as it traverses
through the sizable mini-community. The customized track includes one
spiral ramp that rises two levels up, offering explorative HEXBUG Nano
bugs the best view in town.
Mom Michele says, “This is a super fun toy that the kids can play
with over and over and never get bored because there are so many
ways to design the track.”
21 • www.SanDiegofamily.com • June 2011
Ninjago Spinners
$9.99; 6-14 years
Lego.com
Using strategy and skill to throw the opposing
minifigures off their spinners, builders spin their way
to victory to become Spinjitzu masters. Includes 1
minifigure, spinner, 3 weapons, 5 strategy cards and
LEGO bricks.
David, 7, likes to play with his friends and says, “I
want to collect them all!”
Coursing Around
$14.95; 4+
CoursingAround.com
Coursing Around takes the age old art of
hopscotch and explodes it into heart pumping
play that is like no other. The guide book is filled
with 15 unique and creative courses your kids
can draw with sidewalk chalk wherever space
permits. Two pieces of chalk are included too, so
kids and parents are all set to go outside and get
moving.
Mom Stacy says, “Sidewalk chalk with a
purpose! Great for all ages, exercise built in and
fun for boys and girls alike.” Playmobil Hand-Launch Glider “Extreme Team”
$19.99; 3+; PlaymobilUSA.com
Throw, glide and catch! Made with ultra-light material,
this stable glider provides an opportunity to have fun while being active
outdoors, and can even be used to play catch.
Mom Shannon says it is very easy to assemble, light weight and sturdy. Oliver, 3,
likes that it flies so far when he throws it.
Washable Glow
Chalk
$9.99; 6+
Crayola.com
Kids can create
glowing sidewalk
art that glows for
up to four hours,
giving kids more
hours of active,
creative play in their day with a fun twilight
activity. Simply mix the colored chalk powder,
glow activator and water together, pour into the
chalk mold tray and let set for 30 minutes.
Mom Tonya likes that you get to make the chalk
and Adrian, 5, says, “It really glows!”
Crafting Mama DS
$29.99; E for Everyone
MajescoEntertainment.com
Crafting Mama features 40
different projects across a wide
variety of crafts from aprons,
jewelry, kaleidoscopes and
candles to mini Mama dolls.
Using the stylus as a universal
crafting tool, players can sew,
mold, glue, cut, hammer and
paint under Mama’s masterful direction. Colors and patterns are
available to customize each project and multiplayer support lets
players craft off with friends.
Mom Kirsten likes that you can play games with the crafts you
make, and Safiya, 16, says, “This is a bucket-full of crafting fun!”
June 2011 • www.SanDiegofamily.com •
22
Sneaky Snacky Squirrel Game
$19.99; 3+
EducationalInsights.com
Your forest friends are hungry and they need your
help! Spin the spinner, squeeze the matching colored
acorn with your squirrel squeezers, and place it in your
tree stump. Be the first to fill your tree stump with
delicious acorns and you win! You could also spin “pick
an acorn,” “steal an acorn” or “lose an acorn” so be
strategic, little squirrel!
Mom Sharon says, “This game is very well made,
has beautiful colors, and the spinner worked great!”
Andrew likes using the squirrel to pick up the acorns.
Chuggington Interactive
Railway Wash & Fuel Starter Set
$39.99; 3+
LearningCurve.com
SmartTalk technology allows vehicles and
locations to recognize, react and respond
during play. Take Brewster through the Chug
Wash and hear him react to the different wash
cycles. Then head over to the Fuel Depot where
he can fill up. Also includes an overhead signal
and figure 8 layout.
Mom Carolyn says, “Well made, easy to put
together and you can add more pieces to the
set.” Three-year-old Lucy says, “I love my new
train!”
23 • www.SanDiegofamily.com • June 2011
Disney Epic Mickey
$39.99; E for Everyone
DisneyInteractiveStudios.com
This action-adventure game
sends Mickey Mouse on an
epic journey of creativity and
discovery. As Mickey, the player
is propelled into Wasteland,
an alternate world made up
of Disney’s long forgotten
characters and attractions,
and is given the power to
wield paint and paint thinner to
dynamically change the world
while determining Mickey’s path
to becoming a hero.
Dad Eric cautions that only one player can play at a
time, but says this is a fun, unique game and great for
all Disney lovers.
Sticker Design Studio
$16.99; 8+
Klutz.com
Packed with over 400 die-cut designs, kids can mix, match,
color and layer to create unique stickers. Glittery accents provide
that all-important sparkle, while light gray line work gives the
right amount of artistic help. Once they are inked over, the lines
become nearly invisible, so only your creative genius shows.
Mom Shin says, “The creations are lots of fun and my daughter,
Ashley, played with it for hours!”
Big View Bug Jars
$35.99; 3+
LearningResources.com
Encourage science exploration with these
ladybug observation jars. Wings open to
reveal a 3.5x magnifying lens that supports
up-close viewing. Screw on caps and air
vents keep living critters (and all matter)
secure. Nash, 3, likes the different colored
jars and that he actually got to look at the
caterpillars he caught up close.
Mom Jody says, “They are so cute and I
love how the lids open to be a magnifier!”
PuzzlePyramid
$25.99; 11-99
Ravensburger.com
The puzzlepyramid brings a unique dimension
to puzzle fun with flexible hinged pieces that are
numbered on the inside and snap together easily to
showcase a different design on each side. No glue
required! Available in five different themes.
Mom Ramona says it is a whole different way of
building puzzles and Johanna, 11, says, “This is super
hard, but super fun if you like a challenging puzzle.”
JI GA ZO
$24.99; 8+
Hasbro.com
Translated from Japanese to mean “self
portrait,” JI ZA GO is a unique 300-piece
puzzle that can be solved and rearranged in
under an hour to create an unlimited number
of portraits-from a favorite celebrity to a family
pet. The 300 pieces have varying levels of
sepia-colored gradations on one side, and symbols, such as a smiley face and
an umbrella, on the other. When the symbols are placed side-by-side, the face is
created. Jennifer says it is easy to install and the puzzle is very challenging.
Fabulous Flowers
$19.99; 8+
Klutz.com
This 60-page book
is filled with can’t go
wrong instructions for
making paper flowers
that are, quite possibly,
even prettier than the
real thing. Includes
20 pages of readyto-punch-out paper
petals, sparkly flower
centers, wrapped wire
stems, glue, and the
custom winding toolenough stuff to make
bunches of flowers.
Mom Ramona likes
that it comes with
everything except
scissors and Johanna,
11, says, “It’s so
beautiful!”
June 2011 • www.SanDiegofamily.com •
24