Top 5 Toy Blocks for Kids 2010

The top 5 toy blocks for kids are a wonderful representation of a basic and classic lineup of children's toys that will probably always be around.  In fact, there may be no better way for even the youngest of little ones to develop eye hand coordination and use their imagination than with this category of playthings.  =)

From the lineup of the top 10 toy blocks for kids this year, below you will find the top 5 picks, based on consumer popularity:

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1. LEGO Ultimate Building Set for Kids

Ages: For kids 4 to 12 years old

Compare Prices:

• Wal-Mart | eBay.com

The ultimate in classic building blocks for kids - LEGO Ultimate Building Set. More than 400 pieces to create with!

Merchant Info: Get busy building! This jam-packed tub features an extensive assortment of LEGO bricks and other fun elements. It includes a building plate, mini figure, windows, doors and wheels. New container allows for easy clean-up and efficient storage. The transparent lid lets builders display their models. Includes building instructions for five models and photo inspiration for 25 more. 405 pieces.

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2. Fisher Price Brilliant Basics Baby's First Blocks

Ages: For kids 6 to 36 months old

Compare Prices:

• Wal-Mart | eBay.com

And - next on the list of the best toy blocks for kids this year is the Fisher Price Brilliant Basics - just for babies. This is a great toy for very little ones - I speak from experience on this one. Plenty of time having fun manipulating shapes, fitting them into matching shapes and building skills at the same time.

Merchant Info: Ten bright blocks are ready for baby to drop into the open bucket or through the shape-sorting lid. Baby will love filling the bucket with blocks, dumping them out, then starting over again. Great for eye-hand coordination and other early skills. Then baby can move on to sorting and stacking and learning about identifying and matching shapes. Includes plastic shape-sorting box with take-anywhere handle and ten colorful blocks.

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3. Melissa and Doug Standard Unit Blocks for Kids

Ages: For kids age 3 and up

Compare Prices:

• ToysRUs.com | eBay.com

This set of blocks is found in many-a-classroom in pre-schools and elementary schools everywhere. They are known to be some of the more creative blocks for kids available, with plenty of pieces having different shapes so kids can unleash their imaginations. =)

Merchant Info: Build a tower, a town or just about anything with these large solid-wood standard unit blocks. The 60 big, smooth-sanded sturdy blocks are naturally finished with a classic look for hours of classic fun. The handsome wooden storage crate makes clean up and storage easy.

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4. LEGO Duplo Basic Bricks for Kids

Ages: For kids 3 to 5 years of age

Compare Prices:

• Target.com | eBay.com

LEGO Duplo Blocks for kids are a good way for even toddler age children to be introduced to the creativity and fun that LEGO sets offer. Includes 80 bricks.

Merchant Info: The fun never stops with these colorful LEGO Duplo bricks! Duplo bricks are sturdy and safe for a toddler’s hands and imagination. Includes 80 basic bricks in different sizes and bright colors.

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5. Melissa and Doug Pattern Blocks (Various Sets)

Ages: (Recommended ages vary by set)

Compare Prices:

• Melissa And Doug | eBay.com

This unique lineup of kids toy blocks is probably my favorite of the bunch. Melissa and Doug Pattern Blocks are available in a few different forms, for different ages. No matter which set is chosen, you can be sure that these are not only fun for little ones, they are excellent "tools" to build ability as well.

Merchant Info: (For the beginner Pattern Blocks set) This set features 10 brightly-painted wooden patterns and 30 colorful shape pieces to replicate the fun pictures. They’re perfect for early development of colors, shapes and matching skills. These puzzles are a tremendous value and a great learning set! Contains one each: fish, dog, butterfly, flowers, bird, and fire engine.

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No matter what a child's age might be, chances are that one off the above top 5 toy blocks for kids 2010 will be a great choice for a gift, or for an educational activity.

If you would like to check out "more of the same" - other popular kids toy blocks this year, here is a great place to check them out:

• Top Ten Toy Blocks for Kids 2010 - Squidoo Parenting and Family

Top 5 Classic Toys for Kids 2010

OK, it's true - the classics will always be around.  However, what the top 5 classic toys for kids 2010 represent are the hottest sellers from that group of toys that not only continue to entice the imagination and basic skills of kids, but also bring back some pretty fond memories for us adults.  =)

One of the beautiful aspects of these toys is the fact that they will likely always be included in the "favorite toys" repertoire of any little one's collection.

From the list of the top 10 classic toys for kids this year, here are the 5 top sellers:

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1. Classic Latches Board (Melissa and Doug)

Ages: Around 3 to 5 years of age
Retail Price: $25
Merchant Discount: Yes
Merchant: Buy.com
eBay: Find it on eBay.com

Latch and unlatch, open and close doors to the delight of finding some very fun pictures underneath. Not one of the oldest of the classics, but is still a great basic and classic toy for little ones from Melissa and Doug.

Merchant Info: Undo a latch, swing open the numbered door, and count on fun when the picture beneath is revealed on this wooden play board! Build fine motor skills while learning colors, numbers, animals and more.

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2. Mr. Potato Head

Ages: For kids 2-12 years of age
Retail Price: About $10
Merchant Discount: Yes
Merchant: KMart
eBay: Find it on eBay.com

Now here is a familiar face! Mr. Potato Head is more popular than ever - having many different forms. But - he also is still quite popular in his original form, as seen here.

Merchant Info: Mix ‘n match fun. Lots of pieces to create funny faces. Includes: 1 hat; 1 set of teeth; 1 moustache; 1 pair of glasses; 1 nose; 1 pair of eyes; 1 potato body; 1 tongue; 2 ears; 1 pair of shoes; 2 arms. Storage compartment for your parts. Create funny faces! Use the silly pieces and your imagination to create all sorts of wacky looks! Fit pieces anywhere on potato body! The Playskool Ages & Stages system makes choosing the right toy at the right time easier than ever. Among the benefits this toy offers – Let’s be Creative: Expressing creativity through play. This Mr. Potato Head product offers all kinds of possibilities for interactive, creative play. Let’s Imagine: Stretching the imagination to better understand our world. This Mr. Potato Head product has parts to help make a great pretend friend. With younger children, you can be the voice, drawing your child into a silly game of make believe. Older children will let their imaginations go wild, which is the essence of learning through play. National Center for Boundless Playgrounds. Let’s all play – it matters! Product and colors may vary.

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3. Classic Red Tricycle

Ages: For kids around 2 to 5 years of age
Retail Price: About $90
Merchant Discount: Yes
Merchant: Buy.com
eBay: Find it on eBay.com

The tricycle shown here is the classic red Dual-Deck from Red Flyer. A great basic toy for little ones and definitely one of the best classic toys for kids this or any year ahead.

Merchant Info: Chrome handlebars and fender Double deck rear step Durable steel spoked wheels with real rubber tires Ringing chrome bell Adjustable seat 12-in front wheel Recommended for ages 2 1/2 – 5 Body: 31 5/8 in x 24 1/2 in x 21 5/8 in Front Wheel: 12 in x 1 1/4 in.

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4. Classic Fisher Price Corn Popper Push Toy

Ages: For kids age 1 to 5
Retail Price: Around $15
Merchant Discount: Yes
Merchant: Buy.com
eBay: Find it on eBay.com

Remember that sound? Boy, it sure does ring some bells here - and this again remains one of the most popular toys for kids toddler age.

Merchant Info: Since 1957, kids haven’t been able to resist the popping action of this push toy! When your child pushes the Corn Popper along, plastic balls strike the inside of the plastic dome creating fun popping sound effects. It will keep your child motivated to keep moving.

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5. Classic Steel and Wood Red Wagon

Ages: For kids 18 months to 5 years
Retail Price: Around $200
Merchant Discount: Yes
Merchant: Sears.com
eBay: Find it on eBay.com

Here is the classic steel and wood red wagon from Red Flyer. Although this is not the original "little red wagon" for kids, it remains that it is a long-standing classic and comes in on the hottest selling classic kids toys this year.

Merchant Info: The original little red wagon with high wooden stake sides and big brawny air tires that can handle any terrain.Full sized, all steel seamless body with no scratch edges.Extra long handle.No pinch ball joint. Handle folds under for easy storage.

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Although this list of the top 5 classic toys for kids represents the most popular of the "retro" toys this year, it is far from representing the entire collection.  Whether you are shopping, or just revisiting old memories, here is a good place to check out the ones above - plus quite a few more:

• Top 10 Classic Toys for Kids 2010 - Squidoo Parenting and Kids

All for today -

Tonya B.  =D

Top 5 Science Toys for Kids 2010

Based on information from the Top 10 Science Toys for Kids this year, the top 5 science toys are - at least in my estimation - wonderful.  =)  It's too bad that many-a-kid (and their parents) are not aware of these toys, having become accustomed to looking only for the latest and greatest in "the most popular" - these toys are a real blast!

Without further adieu, here are the 5 best science toys this year, based on overall consumer popularity in this category:

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1. Insect Lore Live Butterfly Garden

Ages: For kids age 4 to 14
Retail Price: About $25
Merchant Discount: Yes
Merchant: Buy.com
eBay: Find it on eBay.com

The Live Butterfly Garden is a very special toy for kids. Kids can grow butterflies from caterpillars and watch the changes taking place, then set them free. A good hands-on learning experience for kids!

Merchant Info: Observe caterpillars transform into butterflies right before your very eyes! Bring the color and wonder of live butterflies right into the home or classroom in a beautiful, reusable, and collapsible habitat. Watch nature at work as caterpillars turn into colorful Painted Lady butterflies. After watching the caterpillars grow and transform into beautiful butterflies, your child can experience the excitement of lifting the butterfly garden cover and releasing the creatures into their natural habitat.

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2. Snap Circuits Jr (100 Experiments)

Ages: For kids 8 to 12 years old
Retail Price: About $30
Merchant Discount: Yes
Merchant: Buy.com
eBay: Find it on eBay.com

The Snap Circuits Jr set is the basic "Snap Circuits" set for kids. This one has 100 experiments that kids can do, all having to do with electronics.  This toy has been one of the best science toys for kids in terms of popularity for some time now.

Merchant Info: We are fully charged up about this outstanding educational set! Electronic Snap Circuits Jr. contains 30 different and clearly identified electronic components, such as switches, integrated circuits, snap wires, resistors, and more. The accompanying book is very clearly written and illustrated, and will guide you safely through the completion of up to 101 different projects! Learn about how electronics work as you construct a sound-activated switch, a ’space war’ alarm, a blinking flashlight, and dozens more. The pieces easily disassemble for reuse as you work your way through building and rebuilding these fascinating gadgets.

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3. Scientific Explorer Mind Blowing Science Kit

Ages: For kids 4 to 8 years old
Retail Price: About $20
Merchant Discount: Yes
Merchant: Kazoo Toys
eBay: Find it on eBay.com

Oooh and aaaah - here are some "ooey gooey" and extremely fun experiments for kids. Make magic fizzers, erupting volcanoes and more.

Merchant Info: Adult supervision required. Packed with hair-raising experiments! Colors go wild before your eyes! Erupt a color changing volcano! Boost your brain! Make a crystal sunset in a test tube. Mix magic fizzing powders! Make an underwater volcanos! Write secret messages to your friends! Mind blowing experiments to delight and educate young scientists! Erupt a color changing volcano. Mix up magic ooze with a mind of its own. Mix safe chemicals and watch colors change before your eyes. You’ll amaze yourself and your friends as you explore the science behind these truly remarkable reactions. Great for family fun, birthday parties, and science fairs. Contents: red cabbage powder, tub tints, citric acid, baking soda, cooking oil, corn starch, goldenrod paper, cotton swabs, crosslinked polyacrylamide, test tubes and caps, plastic cups, pipette, stir sticks, measuring scoops, science guide.

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4. Be Amazing Lab In A Bag Test Tube Wonders

Ages: For kids 8 years of age and up
Retail Price: About $20
Merchant Discount: Yes
Merchant: Kazoo Toys
eBay: Find it on eBay.com

Here are some fun and safe experiments that kids can do with test tubes - use solar energy to change colors of objects, check out waterproof sand and more.

Merchant Info: Test Tube Wonders Science Kit by Be Amazing Toys comes as a Lab in a Bag. Make up a pile of instant snow. Experiment with water-proof sand. Use the sun to make beads change color. Grow a Test Tube Dinosaur and many other science kit activities.Test Tube Wonders Science Kit by Be Amazing Toys includes: Bag, Test Tube Rack, Giant Plastic Test Tubes with Lids, Insta-Snow Powder, Magic Sand, Energy Beads, Super absorbent Crystals and Instructions. Bag size 8 3/4 X 7 X 2 3/4...

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5. Snap Circuits SC-300

Ages: For kids 8 years old and up
Retail Price: About $60
Merchant Discount: Yes
Merchant: Buy.com (good price!)
eBay: Find it on eBay.com

Here is the second "phase" of the Snap Circuits toys - the SC-300. This kit has more than 300 experiments that kids can do - and have some real fun learning about and using electronics to create some fun gadgets. =)

Merchant Info: Elenco’s new Snap Circuits makes learning electronics easy and fun! Just follow the colorful pictures in our manual and build exciting projects such as AM radios, burglar alarms, doorbells and much more! You can even play electronic games with your friends. All parts are mounted on plastic modules and snap together with ease. Enjoy hours of educational fun while learning about electronics. No tools required. Uses 4 “AA” batteries.

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Being a home schooling mom, I have a particular personal interest in the top 5 science toys for kids this year - I am already planning out what we will be doing with ours!  Fun stuff for kids, with the added benefit of learning and taking a special interest in doing so.

Recommended Resource:

• Science Toys for Kids - 2010 Top 10 Picks @ Squidoo Parenting and Kids

Top 5 LEGO Games 2010

It wasn't until a few months ago that I even became aware of the top 5 LEGO games 2010 - and I am so glad that I have been enlightened!  =)  This is a fun angle on LEGOs, not only for kids, but for entire families.

The general idea of these games is to combine strategy, imagination and some "good ole fashioned" LEGO building.  The different games are unique in terms of their themes/strategies, as well as the different pieces and characters.

What a cool idea!

OK, so from the top 10 LEGO games this year, here are the top 5 picks:

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1. LEGO Game 3841 - Minotaurus

Ages: 7 years and up
Retail Price: Around $25
Merchant Discount: No
Merchant: Sears.com
eBay: Find it on eBay.com

"Minotaurus" is a game that involves avoiding a mythical "minotaur", while making your way to a secret temple. This is definitely the top selling LEGO game this year, and apparently for a good reason! =)

Merchant Info: The mighty Minotaur, a mythical creature, protects a secret temple hidden deep inside a labyrinth. Be the first to lead your heroes to the temple, avoiding the Minotaur and cleverly placing walls to block your opponents. Clear and simple rules make this game great fun for the whole family. Includes 1 buildable LEGO® Dice, 12 LEGO microfigures, 211 LEGO pieces, 1 rule booklet and building instructions.

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2. LEGO Game 3844 - Creationary

Ages: 7 and older
Retail Price: Around $35
Merchant Discount: No
Merchant: Sears
eBay: Find it on eBay.com

"Creationary" is a good name for this game - players most definitely are using their creative skills here.

Merchant Info: Roll the LEGO® Dice to select one of four exciting building categories: Vehicles, buildings, nature or things. With three levels of difficulty you can show off your building skills, while the others guess what you are creating. A great game for family and friends to test your imagination, creativity, building and guessing skills to the max. Includes 1 buildable LEGO Dice, 1 LEGO minifigure, 1 LEGO microfigure, 338 LEGO pieces, 96 cards and rule booklet.

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3. LEGO Game 3837 - Monster 4

Ages: 7 and up
Retail Price: Around $15
Merchant Discount: No
Merchant: Sears
eBay: Find it on eBay.com

Here is a "not so scary" game with a tiny bit of a spooky theme. =)

Merchant Info: Night has fallen in the graveyard and the monsters have come out to play with the skeletons. The first to get four of their monsters in a row wins. But watch out for the big scary spider! A clever and exciting game for 2 to 4 players. Includes 1 buildable LEGO® Dice, 141 LEGO pieces, 1 rule booklet and building instructions.

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4. LEGO Game 3840 - Pirate Code

Ages: 8 and up
Retail Price: Around $20
Merchant Discount: No
Merchant: Sears
eBay: Find it on eBay.com

This is a sort of a "sleuth" game - but with some rather sneaky pirates. =)

Merchant Info: Who can be the most sneaky pirate of them all? Guess the other players secret codes before they discover yours and become the pirate captain. A game of logic and luck, secrets and treasures for 2 to 4 players. Includes 1 buildable LEGO® Dice, 1 LEGO minifigure, 268 LEGO pieces, 1 rule booklet and building instructions.

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5. LEGO Game 3838 - Lava Dragon

Ages: 7 and up
Retail Price: Around $15
Merchant Discount: No
Merchant: Sears
eBay: Find it on eBay.com

Players here have some fun summoning a dragon from the top of a volcano - but look out for the lava!

Merchant Info: Prove you are the bravest knight of all by being the first one to summon the dragon from the top of the volcano. Avoid the lava and block your opponents as you climb to victory. With the unique LEGO® Dice, no two games of Lava Dragon are ever the same. For 2 to 4 players. Includes 1 buildable LEGO Dice, 4 LEGO microfigures, 131 LEGO pieces, rule booklet and 1 building instructions.

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In this particular group of toys/games that I write about, I will say that I definitely recommend the above top 5 LEGO games 2010 more than the rest.

But - there are more to see, in fact there are more than 10 in all. (And - good or bad, none of them are video games.)

If you would like to check out more popular LEGO games this year, here is where to look:

• Top 10 LEGO Games 2010

All for today -

Tonya B.

Top 5 John Deere Toys for Kids 2010

Being from the midwestern part of the US, I have a special liking for farming and aspiring farmers - the top 5 John Deere Toys for kids 2010 are part of a fun trend in kids toys, especially popular with (very) young farmers-to-be.  =)  (And hey, there are some toys this year for the little ladies too.)

(A majority of the very popular toys in this group are along the lines of various types of ride-on toys, with a few other fun playthings thrown into the mix.)

Here they are - from the list of the top 10 John Deere toys for kids this year, the top 5 picks (based on consumer popularity by sales):

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1. John Deere Pickup Haulers

Ages: For kids 3 years old and up
Retail Price: $13 each - more for sets
Merchant Discount: Yes
Merchant: Buy.com
eBay: Find it on eBay.com

There are three different pickup truck haulers (that I was able to find) - each of which haul various John Deere vehicles.

Merchant Info: (For the green dozer hauler set.) Ertl allows junior to recreate everyday worksite scenes! Your child will spend hours re-creating scenes of fun, off-road-themed play with this John Deere set that contains a die-cast pick-up truck with removable trailer and a dozer with real working blade! Manufactured by ERTL and officially licensed by John Deere, the set measures over 15? long and 3? tall.

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2. John Deere Ground Force Ride-On Tractor

Ages: For kids 2-7 years of age
Retail Price: Around $300
Merchant Discount: Yes
Merchant: My Toy Box
eBay: Find it on eBay.com

The Ground Force tractor is a motorized ride-on toy with two different speeds. Parents will like to know that they can actually control the speed for their little one to drive at.

Merchant Info: John Deere Ground Force takes outdoor play excitement to the next level! Kids will delight in listening to the FM radio while driving the large John Deere Ground Force Tractor with full–size detachable trailer! Two to seven year olds will load up the extra large trailer and deliver their payload. The adjustable seat also has flip–up armrests. Two–Speeds – 2¼ or 4½ mph, plus reverse, SmartPedal accelerator, automatic brakes and 4WD farm tractor wheels make driving a breeze. Parents control the speed with the 2nd gear lockout feature.

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3. John Deere Wheelbarrow (For Boys and Girls)

Ages: For kids 2-5 years of age
Retail Price: Around $45
Merchant Discount: Yes
Merchant: Buy.com
eBay: Find it on eBay.com

Here is a toy that both young men and girls can have fun with - the John Deere Wheelbarrow from Learning Curve. This is made exactly like the real thing, and is available in both green and pink versions.

Merchant Info: The John Deere Kids Steel Wheelbarrow provides hauling fun for both indoor and outdoor activities. Your child can fill it with sand, toys, whatever her heart desires. Features a steel body, crafted wood handles and signature John Deere design and logo. Measures approximately 20? x 12? x 15? (not including handles).

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4. John Deere Turf Tractor (with Trailer)

Ages: For kids 3-7 years of age
Retail Price: Around $250
Merchant Discount: Yes
Merchant: Buy.com
eBay: Find it on eBay.com

Another ride on toy tops the list of the top 5 John Deere toys for kids 2010 - this one is also in the form of a motorized tractor, and also has a detachable trailer to go along with it. (Need some help with the yard work, parents? =D)

Merchant Info: Peg Perego and John Deere have teamed up again to give little ones an incredible work and play experience Kids will learn the value of a hard days work with the new John Deere Turf Tractor designed to keep your little maintenance crew busy for hours. Three to seven year olds will pretend to mow and can actually pick up sticks and put them in the detachable trailer. Driving is easy with an accelerator and brake on the same pedal as well as the two rear driving wheels with independent motors for high performance. Parents will appreciate the adult-activated high speed lockout feature as well as the adjustable seat and adjustable armrests to accommodate growing children. Made in the USA.

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5. John Deere Tot Tractor

Ages: For kids 1 1/2 to 5 years of age
Retail Price: Around $26
Merchant Discount: Yes
Merchant: Buy.com
eBay: Find it on eBay.com

Especially for the (very) young ones out there - a ride on toy from John Deere that is known to be quite stable, and a great starter ride on that is easy to control and ride.

Merchant Info: This rugged plastic tractor with authentic John Deere styling is perfect for your little farmer on the go. Features a wide, stable base and narrow seat that’’s easy for toddlers to straddle. Kids provide the foot power, making this ride-on a good way to get exercise. Measures approximately 20? x 12? x 10?. Holds up to 75 pounds.

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Alright - so that is it for the list of the top 5 John Deere toys for kids 2010 - there are more to choose from including a very cute toddler toy (not a ride-on), a very cool motorized ride on from John Deere/Peg Perego and more.

To check out more toys in this lineup, visit:

• Top 10  John Deere Toys for Kids 2010

All for now!  =)

Tonya B.

Top 5 Spy Gadgets for Kids 2010

In terms of entertaining toys, the top 5 spy gadgets for kids may just top the list.  =)  After all, what is more fun than a bit of super secret spy action?

The overall selection of the top 10 spy gadgets for kids 2010 are actually quite something, but what I am listing here on this page are the "tip top 5" picks from that list.  (For those of you who are in shopping mode, I have included what I believe to be the best shopping online for these toys.)

Here they are:

1. Agent Action Briefcase from Wild Planet

Ages: For Kids Ages 7-12
Retail Price: Around $27
Merchant Discount: No
Merchant: Buy.com
eBay: Find it on eBay.com

The Spy Gear Agent Action Briefcase has one "super secret" thing about it - a hidden compartment that only the owner is supposed to know about. There are other fun functions for this briefcase, and it comes with a few other spy action toys to go along with it. =)

Merchant Info: Includes removable scope, flashlight, motion alarm and art launcher with 6 darts and can shoot two at a time. Requires 2 “AAA” batteries, not included...

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2. Spy Gear Evidence Kit from Wild Planet

Ages: For kids 6-10 years
Retail Price: Around $22
Merchant Discount: Yes
Merchant: Buy.com
eBay: Find it on eBay.com

OK, now for those younger detectives out there, a little "CSI" action with the Spy Gear Evidence Kit.

Merchant Info: Uncover top-secret evidence! This all-in-one inspection set is packed with over 12 tools that reveal invisible fingerprints and magnify even the smallest pieces of evidence. Pack it all in the mobile carry case so you can analyze clues on the go.

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3. Spy Gear Night Scope from Wild Planet

Ages: For kids ages 6-13
Retail Price: Around $15
Merchant Discount: Yes
Merchant: Buy.com
eBay: Find it on eBay.com

Here is a fun scope for kids who enjoy the idea of being able to see clearly in the dark - a good setting for some secret agent action (but perhaps not such a good idea at bedtime). =)

Merchant Info: Shed some light on your spy gear collection. This amazing Spy Night Scope allows you to see in the dark with a special night-vision beam. The Spy Night Scope works like binoculars, but has a pop-up spotlight allowing you to see up to 25 feet in the dark. Green-tinted lenses and beam illuminate the night for stealth surveillance. Scope also features 5x power magnification to bring faraway objects up close.

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4. Ultimate Spy Watch from Wild Planet

Ages: For Kids Ages 6-12
Retail Price: Around $15
Merchant Discount: Yes
Merchant: Buy.com
eBay: Find it on eBay.com

Hey, how about a watch that detects motion or even has a secret decoder? Fun stuff.

Merchant Info: The Ultimate Spy Watch 8-in-1 Wrist Gadget from Spy Gear gives you spy tools for all missions! This is a true spy watch for the 21st century, with state-of-the-art electronic gadgets, world time, a motion alarm and a decoder screen — all protected by locking armor. Measures 10? long.

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5. Rearview Spy Glasses from Alex Toys

Ages: (No recommended age given.)
Retail Price: Around $5.50
Merchant Discount: Yes
Merchant: Buy.com
eBay: Find it on eBay.com

I have always been impressed with the creativity with which Alex Toys have been made. And - this might just be the most amusing spy gadget toy for kids this year - the Rearview Sunglasses. (And - hey, they look pretty rockin' too!)

Merchant Info: Alex Rear View Glasses – These super cool rearview spy glasses have specially treated lenses that allow you to stay undercover and see who’s behind you without turning around.

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I have to tell you - and I say this with all of my heart - the top 5 spy gadgets for kids 2010 may just be the most fun I have ever had researching "favorites" in any category of toys.  :-D

There are quite a few of them out there - a number of which are not mentioned on this list.

For more information on spy toys for kids this year, visit:

•  Top Ten Spy Gadgets for Kids 2010 - The Top 10 Store

All for now -

Tonya B.

Top 5 Construction Toys 2010

What would one expect when they see the phrase, "Top 5 Construction Toys"?  Well, that could mean building toys, construction vehicles for outdoor play - or perhaps toys that kids could build and then use for construction, giving the "best of all worlds"!

This year, there are some great choices to pick from.

Based on consumer popularity (sales rankings plus high average reviews) - from the list of the Top 10 Construction Toys this year, here are the top 5 picks for 2010:

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1. LEGO Road Construction Toys

Ages: For kids 4-12 years of age
Retail Price: Around $20
Merchant Discount: Yes
Merchant: Buy.com
eBay: Find it on eBay.com

Here is the first toy on the list of the 5 best construction toys, the LEGO Road Construction set. Kids can build their own construction vehicles, then use them for construction playtime! Fun stuff. =)

Merchant Info: Build a tip truck a front loader a road paver or anything you can imagine with your ultimate LEGO road construction set. Let the building fun begin. Set Includes: 300 assorted bricks in different colors and shapes and one mini figure.

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2. Bruder Caterpillar Construction Toys

Ages: For kids age 3 to 7 years
Retail Price: $20-$60 (depending on toy)
Merchant Discount: Yes
Merchant: Top 10 Store
eBay: Find it on eBay.com

From the Bruder company, there are a number of Caterpillar construction vehicles to choose from. Each of them is lifelike and a good choice for either playing inside or out.

Merchant Info: Constructed out of fade-resistant, high-quality ABS plastic, with no glue or screws, Realistic details and functions encourage imaginative play, Great for use indoors and outdoors.

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3. Matchbox Rocky the Robot Toy

Ages: For kids age 3 and older
Retail Price: $15-$60 (based on version)
Merchant Discount: Yes
Merchant: Sears.com
eBay: Find it on eBay.com

Rocky the robot is much more than a construction toy. It has a number of different mechanical motions, has quite a few different sayings - and he even snores when he goes to sleep! =) Note: There are different versions of "Rocky" - the more elaborate ones have a bit of a higher price and the simpler ones are lower.

Merchant Info: Matchbox Rocky the Robot Truck is a hard-working, interactive dump truck is ready to roll with sensors, motorized movements and 100 phrases. Quickly becoming any child’s best friend, Rocky tells jokes, dances and flashes his headlights as he speaks. With a rugged design and a full-tilting bed, kids can even use Rocky for construction projects like loading up, moving out, hauling and dumping. When the work is done, Rocky even sleeps and snores. 4 C batteries required (included).

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4. Magnext Construction Toys

Ages: For kids age 6 and older
Retail Price: Varies by set
Merchant Discount: Yes
Merchant: Top 10 Store
eBay: Find it on eBay.com

Ooooh - I love these, and so do kids! Using magnets to build and create, which allows quite a bit of flexibility and creativity to unfold. There are quite a few different sets available for kids these days, none of them appear to be a disappointment. =)

Merchant Info: The new revolutionary magnetic system allows for better , more stimulating and innovative building experiences as the new Magnext parts produce bigger, stronger and more realistic builds. Transform a build from a cube to house faster than ever before...

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5. Mack Construction Trucks from Bruder

Ages: For kids about 3 to 8 years
Retail Price: About $70-$100, depending on the truck
Merchant Discount: Yes
Merchant: Buy.com
eBay: Find it on eBay.com

The construction trucks from Bruder are actually pretty amazing in terms of the amount of detail, the durability is also great. These could likely be considered the "ultimate" construction vehicle toys for kids.

Merchant Info: For cement mixer truck) – Now this Bruder classic cement truck comes with the new MACK Granite cab! Operate the crank to make the cement mixer actually spin, open and close the doors or tilt the cab forward to view the engine in full detail. Features tread tires and a movable chute that is actually fed by the drum. All of the MACK truck cabs are compatible with the implements designed for the front of the trucks, like the mower and snow plow. Dim: 25.8?L x 7.3?W x 10.8?H

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With all of the technological innovations these days in toys, it is sometimes rather refreshing to find toys that even though they are quite creative, they are still basically simple, allowing kids to indulge in some playtime that is worth its weight in gold. =)

If you are looking for something perhaps a bit different than what is listed above on the top 5 construction toys, there is a resource to check out for a complete "top 10 list" - and you can compare prices on each of the toys listed.  Here is where to go:

• Top 10 Construction Toys 2010 - The Top 10 Store

Top 5 Train Sets for Kids 2010

(Information from the Top 10 Train Sets for Kids 2010.)  I don't know about you, but I certainly have a few train sets in my own home - and can verify personally the quality and "funnability" of at least a couple of the Top 5 Train Sets for Kids 2010.

Each one of these kids train sets are well known (by name) in terms of quality and safety.

Here they are - the five best selling train sets for kids this year:

1. Wooden Railway Train Set from Melissa and Doug

Ages: Recommended for kids age 3 and up
Retail Price: Around $120
Merchant Discount: Yes
Merchant: My Toy Box
eBay: Find it on eBay.com

I absolutely love the products that Melissa and Doug put out for kids - and this is no exception. A fantastic train set for kids, with wooden track, trains and pieces that complete the setting for a bunch of fun.

Merchant Info: Hours of fun are coming around the bend with this deluxe wooden railway set! Everything is included: a spacious roundhouse engine shed, dozens of tracks in curves and straight lines, trees, workers and even traffic signs! There are multi-piece trains and magnetic tipped cranes, switches and T-junctions for passing lanes! A suspension bridge, trestle bridge, a turn-table too! A tremendous value! Includes all 130 pieces.

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2. Figure 8 Train Set from Melissa and Doug

Ages: Recommended for kids 3 years old and up
Retail Price: Around $35
Merchant Discount: Yes
Merchant: eCost.com
eBay: Find it on eBay.com

Again, an excellent product from Melissa and Doug - the Figure 8 Train Set. This is a simpler set than the one detailed above, and is perhaps a better choice for those on a budget, or for those simply looking for a starter train set for kids.

Merchant Info: Features a wooden engine and coal car, plus 20 pieces of wooden track and a bridge! Great value! Compatible with popular wooden railway systems.

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3. Fisher-Price GeoTrax On The Go Zoo Train Set

Ages: Recommended for 2 to 7 year old kids
Retail Price: Around $30
Merchant Discount: Yes
Merchant: Diapers.com
eBay: Find it on eBay.com

Here is a very handy train set for kids from Fisher-Price - the GeoTrax On the Go Zoo. Kids can create along the lines of a train at the zoo, care for the animals, and the best part is that they can take it with them wherever they go.

Merchant Info: The new GeoTrax On-To-Go Zoo is an exciting addition to the GeoTrax Rail & Road System that allows kids to take their trains & track layout with them wherever they go! As the new zoo keeper, kids can take care of the animals all around the zoo. This set features the “wildest” team in all of GeoTown – Spots, a push-along zoo train with trail car and Leo, the zoo keeper. Pick up food with the trail car and drive Spots around the figure-8 loop of track. Stop to feed the elephant and lion, then travel around to see the water animals in the printed pond graphic! To take the set on-the-go, simply fold it in half – the colorful, printed fabric on one side of the loop and the hollow plastic shell on the other create lots of storage space for all the pieces. Hold the two sides together with an easy-close snap and use the handle on top for easy traveling! For an even bigger GeoTrax world, use the 2 Y-tracks on the end of the figure-8 to connect more track – everything in GeoTrax works together.

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4. Circo Mountain Train Table Set from KidKraft

Ages: For kids age 3 and up
Retail Price: Around $250
Merchant Discount: Yes
Merchant: Toys And Games Online
eBay: Find it on eBay.com

The more that I come across KidKraft toys, the more I am impressed with them. This is an excellent train set (and table) with plenty of pieces that kids can use to create their own "little world" - 120 pieces in all, and great organizing capability with the table.

Merchant Info: Learning while playing is fun with KidKraft’s new wooden Train Table. It includes three bins and a 120 piece mountain train set. KidKraft’s train table is kid-sized for hours of creative play. With a wide, generous play table, our train table has several unique features.

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5. Fisher-Price Thomas and Friends Busy Day Train Set

Ages: For kids ages 3 to 6 years
Retail Price: Around $17
Merchant Discount: Yes
Merchant: Buy.com
eBay: Find it on eBay.com

What would a list of train sets be without "Thomas"? Here is the first on the list of the top 5 train sets for kids this year with the "Thomas and Friends" theme. A very cute set, simple, easy to put together and is a great starter train set, or for those little "Thomas" fans. =)

Merchant Info: The perfect way to start your TrackMaster adventures! Includes everything you need to get going with Thomas and friends! Includes engine, tracks and station house! This beginner set is the perfect introduction to the world of Thomas and Friends TrackMaster. Little engineers can send Thomas chugging around the track and right up to the Station to make special deliveries. Set includes Thomas the Tank Engine motorized engine, station house, 8 pieces of Curved Track, 1 piece of Straight Track and 1 piece of Stop Track. Order yours today! Engine measures about 4 1/2-inches long.

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Alrighty! The list of the top 5 train sets for kids 2010 above is a great start (at least) for those of you who might be looking for a great train set for kids, whether they are as young as 2 years old, or perhaps a bit older.

If you would like to check out some more favorites this year, there are definitely more to choose from, and one of the remainder may be a better choice for you.

Recommended Resource:

• Top Ten Train Sets for Kids 2010  - The Top 10 Store

Top 5 LEGO Star Wars Sets 2010

OK - I already covered the subject of the Top 5 Lego Sets 2010 - now it's time to zero in on the most popular "subsets" - the Top 5 LEGO Star Wars Sets for this year.

As I rather thought would be the case, the "hottest" from last year (2009) is still around, but is lower on the list of the top 10 LEGO Star Wars sets than it was.

Here they are - the "best of the best" for the Star Wars LEGO fans out there - the top 5 sellers: 

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1. LEGO Star Wars Darth Vader TIE Fighter

Ages: Kids 7 to 12 Years
Retail Price: Around $33
Merchant Discount: Yes
Merchant: Buy.com
eBay: Find it on eBay.com

The Darth Vader TIE fighter LEGO set has been holding its own as a top seller for a time now. It is based on the TIE fighter ship from the first Star Wars movie - and is an excellent set for LEGO and Star Wars lovers out there.

Merchant Info: Blast the Rebels with Darth Vaders TIE fighter! Straight from the original Star Wars movie, the TIE Advanced x1 is Darth Vader’s personal starfighter! Even faster than a standard TIE fighter, Vader’s TIE is customized with bent wings, a deflector shield and a hyperdrive. Celebrate 10 years of LEGO Star Wars with this all-new set, featuring incredible movie-accurate details, flick-firing missiles, and the Dark Lord of the Sith himself, Darth Vader

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2. LEGO Star Wars Snow Trooper Army Pack

Ages: For kids 6 years of age and up
Retail Price: Around $13
Merchant Discount: Yes
Merchant: Buy.com
eBay: Find it on eBay.com

The Snow Trooper Army pack is a special LEGO Star Wars set that was released in honor of the30th Anniversary of The Empire Strikes Back. A very cool set, and a good gift for any young LEGO Star Wars fan.

Merchant Info: Build up your Imperial forces with the LEGO Star Wars Snow Trooper Army Pack! Lead the attack on planet Hoth by launching flick fire missiles from the battle station. Celebrate the 30th anniversary of The Empire Strikes Back with this great battle pack! Includes two snowtroopers, one Imperial officer and one AT-AT driver

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3. LEGO Star Wars Rebel Trooper Battle Pack

Ages: Kids age 6 and up
Retail Price: Around $15
Merchant Discount: Yes
Merchant: Buy.com
eBay: Find it on eBay.com

OK, now on to the next of the Top 5 LEGO Star Wars sets this year, the Rebel Trooper Battle Pack. This set is based on the planet "Hoth" (a very cold place), and is another set that was made for the anniversary of The Empire Strikes Back movie.

Merchant Info: Build up your Rebel forces with the LEGO Star Wars Rebel Trooper Army Pack! Add to your defenses on planet Hoth and help keep the Imperial troopers at bay by firing flick missiles from the Rebel combat speeder. Celebrate the 30th anniversary of The Empire Strikes Back with this great battle pack. Includes three Rebel troopers and Rebel pilot Zev Senesca.

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4. LEGO Star Wars clone Walker Battle Pack

Ages: For kids 6 to 12 years old
Retail Price: Around $13
Merchant Discount: No
Merchant: Top 10 Store
eBay: Find it on eBay.com

The next Star Wars LEGO Set consists of a two-man clone walker that shoots missiles. =)

Merchant Info: Build up your battle forces! March across the battlefields of the Clone Wars launching flick-firing missiles from this tough two-man walker. Build up your clone trooper army! Includes three clone troopers and an all-new clone trooper gunner.

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5. LEGO Star Wars Echo Base

Ages: For kids ages 7 to 12
Retail Price: Around $25
Merchant Discount: Yes
Merchant: Buy.com
eBay: Find it on eBay.com

Last on our list of the Top 5 LEGO Star Wars sets is the Echo Base set. This is really a fun one, allowing kids to re-create the Battle of Hoth.

Merchant Info: Recreate the Battle of Hoth! It’s the 10th anniversary of LEGO Star Wars, and Imperial forces are invading the Rebels’ secret base on the ice planet Hoth! As Han Solo leaves for a mission on his tauntaun, snowtroopers attack with their heavy repeating blaster. Its up to the Rebel Alliance troopers to fight back with their missile-firing defense turret and trench with figure-flinging battle action. Includes 2 Snowtroopers, 2 Hoth Rebel Soldiers, Han Solo with Hoth gear, and the first-ever LEGO Tauntaun.

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OK parents and otherwise toy shoppers - I hope that this list of the Top 5 LEGO Star Wars sets has at the very least given you some ideas.

If you would like to check out more for 2010, there are definitely more to pick from. 

Here is a place you can view a longer list and compare prices from some cool merchants to get a good deal:

• Top 10 Star Wars LEGO Sets 2010

All for today -

Tonya B.