Entropy Christmas Toy Guide - Babies
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Here it is - our list of the top 10 toys for Christmas 2010. This selection has been based on play value (first and foremost), value for money, and of course the 'fun factor'.
My number one choice in the store. Every toy library or play room should have a set of these blocks. Hand made in Germany, with a smooth finish, in a variety of shapes. Will be enjoyed by everyone from babies to master architects. These blocks are compatible with the Haba marble run system; and technics blocks. This is a clever system of clamps and ramps that turns blocks into vehicles. There is no end to the creative possibilities. From $129.
The multi award winning Wheely Bug. It is our best selling ride on toy. It moves on castors so it is easier for young children to move around than a traditional ride on. Has a padded sponge seat for comfort. Two sizes available and suits children from 18 months. A multiple award winner of Australian toy of the year. $100 for small. $119 for large.
A great choice for older children. French manufacturer Djeco used artists as the basis for the their quality craft kits. The exquisite illustrations and gift packaging make them a popular gift selection. The instruction booklets are easy to follow as they contain high quality pictures rather than words. This allows for greater creativity and means children below reading age can also enjoy the activities. The range is huge and starts with collage kits for 3 years olds through the detailed kits for teenage children. From $7.95 to $44.95.
Bilibo - no lights, sound or batteries - all you add is imagination. Bilibo is a new kind of toy - the elementary shell leaves room for a child's imagination. Instead of imposing a specific play pattern, Bilibo is open for a wide range of interpretations and encourages children to invent their own games, to play and have fun in an active and creative way. Indoors and outdoors, the sand-pit, at the water or even in the snow - Bilibo is full of surprises. Designed in Switzerland. $44.95
The Wishbone bike is unique as it evolves with each stage of a child's development. It starts at age 12 months as a trike, converts to a running (balance) bike as the child grows, and by 4-5 years of age the frame can be 'flipped' to make it one of the largest running/balance bikes on the market. It is environmentally sustainable and with its '3 bikes in 1 feature', is great value for money. Designed in New Zealand. $289.
Flik Flak is part of the Swatch group and is the world's best selling children's watch. It is the first brand of children's watch to introduce the concept of teaching the time, through the brother and sister characters ‘Flik' (the big hand) and ‘Flak' (the small hand), and colour matching of the hands with watch face numbers. Flik Flak watches are Swiss made with quartz movement, which assures the precision of the timepiece. They are machine washable, shock resistant and water resistant. From $55 to $100.
Mini micro scooters are a perfect first scooter for children. They are great for developing balance, coordination and motor skills. They are especially designed for younger children with low ground clearance in case of a fall. The micro has two wheels at the front so it is more stable for beginner scooters, and is easy to manoeuvre. It has large wheels for a smooth ride and a T-bar steering column that provides for safety and stability. Our best selling Christmas present last year. Designed in Switzerland. From $119. 8. Fiesta Crafts Tellatale theatre
Bring story-time to life with this multi-purpose puppet theatre made of quilted satin. It has fine detailing and by simply turning it around can become a shop front. The top half of the theatre can also be removed to form a table top theatre allowing both children and adults to perform. Great for creative play and puppet shows. Designed in the UK by Fiesta Crafts. $119.
Quadrilla offers educational value as well as awe-inspiring play. Challenge imagination, inspire observation, deductive reasoning, logical thinking and problem solving. Stimulate creativity and manual abilities. A sophisticated learning experience built on simple design. Designed in Germany, Quadrilla is a marble run system of blocks, tracks and accessories that allow for an infinite number of designs. Made from high quality natural wood and brilliant coloured blocks, the marble run is easy to construct, and offers versatile design that allows the child to determine the marble's path. The options are endless, and the process of building is as much fun as the process of playing. From $119.
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