Christmas shopping for the kids is simple, right?  It should be as easy as strolling into Toys 'R Us and voila - the perfect gift is right there front and center.  The truth is, Aunties and Uncles of the world, it's not.  Take a page from your own childhood and look to revamped favourites and engaging new tech as sure bets for the tikes and teens of 2009.


(1) Cake Beauty Winter Wonderland Flavoured Lip Gloss Trio (from $10)

A Lip Smackers upgrade: this triple pack of glossy shine comes from one of our big-girl favourites and formulated with rosemary and pomegranate, but without phthalates and parabens.

(2) FujiFilm FinePix Z35 10MP digital camera ($179)

The latest FinePix from FujiFilm has all the techy features to baffle her parents, but all the classic fun of experimenting with photography.  10 megapixel resolution, face detection, and (like, OMG!) Blog Mode makes you a perfect "Favourite Auntie" candidate.

(3) OPI for Dell Inspiron Mini Laptop ($414)

26 gorgeous saturated nail polish hues for when Daddy's old work laptop just won't do.  Pampered pretty?  Yes.  Will you steal it for yourself?  Quite possibly.  Oh, and all the top features from Dell, by the way (etc etc etc).


(1) Bean Bag Chair (from $100)

Beanbag chairs are making a major comeback - no longer the relics of Charlie Brown's past.  Go for a fully customized version from a local vendor or try a gaming chair with hookups to most major video platforms plus sound or (for the parents' sake) headphones.

(2) FujiFilm FinePix Fashion & Flare for GenY 10MP digital camera ($179)

Learn this now: sometimes it really is best to buy both kids in the family the same toy.  Your gadget geek nephew will appreciate this latest in compact digital cameras, with auto red-eye reduction, face detection, and multi-playback options.

(3) Apple iPod Nano 8GB with Video Camera ($169)

Larger screen, video camera with audio, special effects editing, and all the classic fun of holding his entire music library in his pocket.  He'll be uploading to YouTube 24/7 (um, waitasecond...)


(1) LeapFrog My Pal Scout ($25)

The tiniest ones may not have their Santa lists quite together, but parents will appreciate Scout's personalizable functions, including Baby's name, favourite foods and lullabies, and more.

(2) The Body Shop Buriti Baby Mini Essentials ($25)

All of Baby's bathtime needs are covered in this 5-piece set that includes Baby Body Butter, Body Wash, Shampoo, Massage Oil and carrying case.

(3) Animal Parade ABC Cards, by Eeboo ($34)

Junior gets his first look at the alphabet with this classy redo of flash cards Mom can use to decorate, then learn the ABCs together when he's older.


(1) Leapfrog Text & Learn ($25)
(2) Leapfrog Scribble & Write ($25)
(3) Leapfrog Zippity ($90)

So let's start with a 'Given', that little Princess will swipe Daddy's Blackberry and attempt to hijack Brother's video game system at some point.  Help her feel like a Big Girl with her own Text & Learn, where she'll SMS with her Pal Scout.  Get her tushie moving with a high-energy Zippity game system, or give her a head start in learning to print her letters with Scribble & Write.


(1) PlasmaCar, by Plasmart ($65)

Zooming around the house screeching like a police siren is what little boys do best.  No advice currently available on how to repair your relationship with Mom & Dad afterward...

(2) Ben 10 Omnitrix Illuminator ($30)

The old View-Master with the wheel of 3D images has passed into old-school toy memory, but the Omnitrix Illuminator brings back the fun with a glow-in-the-dark wristwatch projector.  This gizmo, though, holds 30 images.

(3) Recycle Truck, by Green Toys ($30)

Set your eco-agenda in motion early with a recycling truck made of (what else?) recycled materials.  All the fun of a classic big truck toy with a feel-good message!


(1) Bandai Harumika Style Your Imagination Bridal Collection ($35)

Weddings and fashion - little girls still dream like we did when we were younger.  She'll learn to design wedding and attendant gowns with this fun, hands-on set that includes dress forms, fabric, and accessories.

(2) Melissa & Doug Grocery Stand ($135)

Melissa & Doug is known for quality wood products.  This cute grocer's stand comes with bins, awning, and chalkboard (fruits & veggies sold separately).  Lemonade stand is also available.  This is one toy that will be passed down to eager cousins for many extra years of play.

(3) Zipfy Freestyle Mini Luge Snow Sled ($40)

The kids love a snow day, and this fun new sled design will easily tempt Uncle Jeff to snatch it for a "test drive".  Good thing it's rated to 250 lbs - great for the whole family.

Do you have a great gift idea for Kids?  Share yours with us!

by Claire Rahn