What are the popular Christmas gifts for kids for 2008? Both Toys R Us and Amazon released their lists of toys they expect to be popular this Christmas season. Here's a summary of the trends they are predicting.
Electronic Games
As usual electronic games appear on both lists. Some of the more well-known products included are items like the Wii Fit, which combines physical movement with on-screen action, and the Pink 8GB iPod nano, the popular handheld music player and picture and video viewer.
Musical Instruments
A surprise entry on the Amazon list is a 3/4 size guitar, which is a real instrument made by the renowned guitar maker Washburn. It's the Hannah Montana Acoustic Guitar. While it's not a surprise that kids want anything themed with Hannah Montana, it is a surprise that they want something more than just a toy. This guitar looks like it will make a great gift for a budding musician.
DVDs
Of course, DVDs continue to be popular gifts each Christmas. The Wall-E Three-Disc Special Edition + Digital Copy made it onto the Amazon list.
Babies
The Fisher-Price Rainforest Jumperoo is a stander and activity center for young children that has a variety of simulating games and toys for a child's development. This device encourages physical muscle development and mental stimulation.
The Evenflo ExerSaucer 3-in-1 is a competing item to the Fisher-Price Rainforest Jumperoo. Both provide a safe place for baby to play.
A Returning Favorite
Perhaps the most anticipated toy this Christmas 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 might want to order this early to make sure you get yours.
Though not as popular in past years as the Elmo line of dolls, the new Biscuit, My Lovin Pup looks like it could be a real winner. It's a mechanical dog that interacts in fun ways with kids.
LEGO Models
LEGO building sets continue to be a popular item. This year features a variety of vehicles modeled after the Star Wars Clone Wars theme. These can be pricey, but the quality of LEGO building blocks has mostly remained consistent and durable through the years, as evidenced by the company's continued viability.
Kitchen Play
Two gifts come right out of the food preparation part of the house. Check out the 50's Diner and the Girl Gourmet Cupcake Maker.
With popular gifts demand can be high and stock levels can be spotty. Shop early to make sure you get the presents you want in the time frame that you need them.