What are the popular Christmas gifts for kids of 2008? Both Toys R Us and Amazon published their lists of toys that they hope will be popular this holiday season. Here is a summary of the trends they predict.
Electronic games
As usual, electronic games appear on both lists. Some of the more popular products included are items such as the Wii Fit, which combines physical movement with on-screen action, and the pink 8GB iPod nano, the popular portable music player and video and image viewer.
Musical instruments
A surprise entry on the Amazon listing is a 3/4 size guitar, which is a real instrument made by renowned guitar maker Washburn. It’s the Hannah Montana acoustic guitar. While it’s no surprise that kids want something Hannah Montana related, it’s a surprise that they want more than just a toy. This guitar seems to be a great gift for a budding musician.
DVD
Of course, DVDs are still popular gifts every Christmas. Wall-E Three-Disc Special Edition + Digital Copy hit the Amazon list.
Babies
The Fisher-Price Rainforest Jumperoo is a booth and activity center for toddlers that has a variety of pretend play and toys for a child’s development. This device encourages physical muscle development and mental stimulation.
The Evenflo ExerSaucer 3-in-1 is an item that competes with the Fisher-Price Rainforest Jumperoo. Both provide a safe place for baby to play.
A returning favorite
Perhaps the most anticipated toy this holiday season, which appeared on both lists, is the Fisher-Price Elmo Live. This toy is the latest in the line of popular Christmas gifts that started with the Tickle Me Elmo doll. Elmo Live includes a dramatic increase in capabilities and interactivity. Demand is expected to be high so you may want to order this early to make sure you get yours.
Although it wasn’t as popular in recent years as the Elmo doll line, it looks like the new Biscuit, My Lovin Pup could be a real winner. It is a mechanical dog that interacts in a fun way with children.
Lego models
LEGO construction sets continue to be a popular item. This year features a variety of vehicles inspired by the Star Wars Clone Wars theme. These can be expensive, but the quality of LEGO building blocks has remained mostly consistent and durable over the years, as evidenced by the continued viability of the company.
Kitchen set
Two gifts come directly from the food prep portion of the house. Check out 50’s Diner and Girl Gourmet Cupcake Maker.
With popular gifts, demand can be high and stock levels can be erratic. Shop ahead to make sure you get the gifts you want in the amount of time you need them.