Kidizoom Digital Camera
'Play All Day' Elmo
Toddlers are really busy people and they need someone or something that can keep up with them. Here to the rescue is "Play All Day" Elmo! And most likely will become your baby's new best friend. He has two modes, pre-school and toddler, with a series of games, songs and actions that will keep even the most attention-span-challenged kiddie, engaged and happy.
To buy: Play All Day Elmo, $43
Chi-Chi Chihuahua
Every kid wants a pet. But not every kid is going to get a pet for the holidays, at least a live one! For those who can't bring a real one home, this little chirping puppy could at least fix some of that yearning (not to mention the mom guilt). The puppy is well-built and about the size of your hand. And yes, it walks and barks much like a real dog. Awesome for the kid and a win (if not a little annoying) for mom.
To buy: Chi-Chi Chihuahua, $11
Laser Maze Logic Game
Writing code requires logic skills that are sometimes best developed away from the computer. This Laser Maze Logic Game is a fun tool for doing just that. From the makers of Rush Hour, players use reasoning and planning skills to best any of the 60 beginner- to expert-level challenges. This game can be played alone or with a small group and, in addition to tapping into logic and reasoning, it's a real test for the Holy Grail learning qualities of the moment, grit and persistence.
To buy: Laser Maze Logic Game, $30
Remote Control Ultimate Millennium Falcon Quad
If your kid is as excited about "The Force Awakens" as well, every other kid in America and they are already pretending to fly the Millennium Falcon through missions and beyond, then this drone is what you've been looking for. Sound, lights and hyperdrive? This piece of flying machine has it all.
MORE: Gift Guides for 9-to-12
To buy: Remote Control Ultimate Millennium Falcon Quad, $100
Light-Up Air Power Soccer Disc
Kids will definitely get a kick out of this soccer ball alternative. A battery-operated toy that looks like an oversized air hockey puck, this indoor-outdoor disc lights up as it seemingly floats across flat surfaces. Lined with protective foam around its edges, boys and girls can feel free to kick it across the floor without worrying about disc damage—it playfully bounces off walls, table legs and furniture. And while the toy is lifted by a small cushion of air, it works better on hard floors than on unpredictably bumpy outdoor surfaces.
To buy: Light-Up Air Power Soccer Disc, $17
Smart Wheels Ultimate RC Speedway
This is a toy out of every toddler's dreams. It's a colorful racetrack filled with enough bells and whistles to keep even the most unimpressed little kid occupied for at least 20 minutes (and that's a huge win for Mom and Dad!). The included Smart Car is controlled either by hand for the younger set, or via remote control for the older toddlers. As it drives over certain points on the racetrack, cool features are activated like an elevator that actually moves up and down. Just know head of time: When fully assembled, the track is over 4.5 feet wide, so it will require a lot of floor space.
To buy: Go! Go! Smart Wheel Ultimate RC Speedway, $40
