It seems hard to believe, but Christmas is just over one month away. Of course, no one gets more excited about the holidays than kids. While kids will no doubt be asking for toys related to hot properties like the Avengers or Frozen, there will be lots of other popular toys popping up on Christmas lists this season. Before you rush out to do your Christmas shopping, we have provided a list of some of this year’s must-have toys.
Everything Baby Shark
By now, most parents are sick of hearing the infectious and unavoidable tune that is Baby Shark. The song even served as an anthem of sorts for the Washington Nationals during their incredible run to the World Series a few weeks ago. Baby Shark is a huge hit on YouTube, amassing over 3.7 billion views. Of course, you knew it was only a matter of time before Pinkfong, the Korean company behind the song, would find a way to produce merchandise.
You can get Baby Shark books, bath toys, and there is even a Baby Shark cereal. Among the more popular choices this holiday season will be the Baby Shark Play-Doh set ($14), Fingerlings ($16), and the singing plush puppets ($20, available in Mommy, Daddy, or Baby Shark).
Fortnite Nerf Toys
Nerf, itself a popular brand, has teamed up with the hit video game Fortnite to create a series of toys designed to look like the weapons used in the game. Kids will love the various dart blasters and targeting sets. Depending on which gun you buy, the cost will run anywhere between $15 and $50. You can also pick up a pack of refill darts for around $12. Most of these blasters are for kids eight and up.
Nintendo Switch
The Nintendo Switch has proven to be a hot commodity in the video gaming industry and it is now one of the best-selling consoles on the market. Kids particularly love the portability and overall functionality of the Switch, while Nintendo has a knack for producing family-friendly games. Given the popularity of video games and of this particular piece of hardware, it’s quite likely the Switch will be a must-have item this Christmas.
Popular games for the Switch include Mario Kart 8, Luigi’s Mansion 3, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, Super Mario Odyssey, and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. The newly released Pokémon Sword and Shield games will also probably be a hit with kids.
The Switch retails for approximately $399.99. There is also a handheld only version of the console, known as the Switch Lite, which retails for about $259.99.
Juno My Baby Elephant
There are lots of interactive toys these days, so it can be hard to stand out. Juno accomplishes this task with a cute and cuddly appearance, along with some great technology. Juno’s personality will supposedly evolve over time, becoming more playful as she gets to know you better. Juno makes trumpet noises, you can feed her a peanut, play games, or interact with her toy mouse. The manufacturers say she can perform up to 150 sounds and movements. Juno requires four AA batteries, which are not included. The price tag on this one is steep, however— Juno retails for about $100.
Looking for something interactive that is a bit cheaper? There are lots of options, including the walking Buzz Lightyear ($33), the Moving Lips Mr. Potato Head ($30), or the remote control D-O droid from the upcoming Star Wars flick ($60-70).
If you have a baby nine months or older, try the Linkimals Smooth Move Sloth, which is available for around $30.
Blume Dolls
These toys are very popular and may prove hard to find. Blume Dolls come in a flower pot. Simply water the pot and watch your doll emerge. There are currently 22 different varieties to collect (some more rare than others) and they each come with a playset, stickers, and accessories. Part of the thrill is finding out which doll you have. They cost about $12-22, depending on where you shop.
Need a few more ideas? Check out this list of the hottest toys the Christmas season.
Be sure to get your shopping done early if you hope to find these items on store shelves. And, no matter what you are buying, don’t forget to shop local whenever possible!
