Holiday Gift Guide for Children

We love V Tech toys and have purchased several of their electronic educational toys for Christmas every year. Last year we bought the V Smile and it is one of Nolan’s favorite toys. It is like video game system, but educational and made for his age range (3-7). The V Motion is basically the same type of system, if fact the games are compatible with each other, but promises to make your child more active while playing the games.

First, it is very user friendly. Just install the batteries, then plug the console into the TV using three color-coded plugs. It’s also very easy to select your game and start playing. Nolan was able to master it quickly. He enjoyed the game that came with it, but loved the Disney UP game we bought even more. I have to say he didn’t work up a sweat or anything, I expected he would be jumping around. The movement is more about moving the controller with his arms. Maybe some of the other games have more active play.

Mom Likes:

Easy to connect and sturdy

Educational and active play

Compatible with V Smile cartridges

Variety of fun games and popular characters

Cons:

Limited age range

Product Description:

Don’t just park your child in front of the TV – put them in motion! The V.Smile Learning System gets kids moving while driving home lessons in math, reading, science, spelling and more. This brilliant breakthrough gaming console combines wireless, motion-activated play, Web connectivity and educational gaming into a system that plugs directly into your television. Get into the game with all your classic characters like Scooby-Doo, Thomas and Friends, and Spider-Man; plus some new ones like Kung Fu Panda, Wall.E, and Wonder Pets. Using the included controller, children can enjoy wireless action-packed play with animated friends that guide them through age-appropriate skill levels and developmental activities. Includes one controller and Action Mania software. Double the fun with an additional controller, sold separately. Additional software sold separately. Requires 4 “AA” batteries, not included. Measures 1.5″L x 3.25″W x 5″H.  You can purchase the V Motion at stores everywhere and online at Amazon. The VTech Kids website has great offers and a club to join for savings now and year round at www.vtechkids.com.

“I was given a V-Motion by VTech for my review. I was allowed to keep the product, but the opinion I am sharing remains my own.

Playskool is a leading and respected provider of classic and innovative children’s toys.  I wanted to let you know about a couple new toys that would make a perfect fit under the tree for little ones.

WHEEL PALS CLASSIC Assortment

Available this fall, the Wheel Pals Classic Assortment is designed for ages 12 and up with a very affordable suggested retail price of $3.99.

Soft and squeezable, tots will love to move these colorful roll-along friends across the floor.  The cute little WHEEL PALS CLASSIC critters are sized specially for inquisitive toddler hands.  Little ones can choose from an assortment of 12 different characters, each sold separately.  Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.

CLASSIC THEMED MR. POTATO HEAD Assortment

The classic themed Mr. Potato Head Assortment is another Playskool classic for ages two years and older.  Also available this fall, the retail price is just $9.99.

The newest members of the MR. POTATO HEAD family offer tons of imaginative fun for playful toddlers. The FRYER FIGHTER tater is ready to squelch flames with his handy fire extinguisher.  Swashbuckling spud CAPTAIN POTATO CHIPS figurine has a peg leg, eye patch, and hooked hand and is eager for action-packed expeditions.  Each figure sold separately.  Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.

What’s great about a reintroduction of the classic Mr. Potato Head is that its wonderful legacy continues.  Our five year old had so much fun with this set that it inspired him to want some similar types of build and block toys.