The best toys of 2006
We’ve just passed the midpoint of 2006. A survey of major department stores shows that kids ages 12 and under have diverse tastes and preferences when it comes to their favorite toys. The following are some of the ones that have been mentioned frequently.
1. Garfield and his friends (Volume 5)
Among kids ages 5 to 8, the most popular toy is this video collection of episodes of creator Jim Davis’ family-favorite cartoon. This is not a surprise, since Garfield is the most widely circulated comic strip character in the world. Volume Five is the final volume in the series and includes all of the 1993-1994 seasons.
2. The world of Strawberry Shortcake’s friends
Another favorite for kids ages 5-8 is this delicious video from 20th Century Fox featuring Strawberry Shortcake and her new friends from around the world. The video is set in Paris, France, and is an effective vehicle for teaching children the value of friendship.
3. My first sewing kit
Among kids ages 7 to 12, this kit from toymaker Alex ranks as the most popular of 2006. It comes with just about everything a child needs to start learning the art of sewing right away, including pre-cut patterns for five quick and easy projects to follow, eight colors of embroidery floss, shapes to make felt animals and a notebook cover, stuffing, fabric, needles, scissors, tape measure, pins, thimble, pincushion, buttons and a string of pom poms .
4. Super embroidery kit
Another much-loved favorite of Alex’s is this Super Embroidery Kit, especially for kids ages 7-12. Like the sewing kit, the embroidery kit comes with virtually everything your child will need to start the traditional art of embroidery right away. , including twelve colors of floss, plastic embroidery hoop, scissors, needles, ribbon, sequins, buttons, glass beads, flowers, three felt butterflies, five felt colors, felt shapes, practice cloth, construction paper transfer, other supplies, as well as instructions and ideas for embroidery.
5. GeoSafari Talking Globe
Fifth in favorite toys is this much-loved product from the Educational Insights group that teaches geography to kids 12 and under. The globe is actually an interactive geography quiz game with lights and sound effects to guide and reward your child as they play. One to four players can choose up to four different quiz categories (US/Canada, World, World + US/Canada).