Holiday Gift Guide

Suspend Family Game ($16.99)

This tricky game is a test of nerves and steady hands. Players vie to be the first to add all their game pieces to the metal stand before it all falls down. 1–4 players, 8+, available at melissaanddoug.com.

Tapple ($19.95)

This fast-paced word game challenges players to think quickly, giving just 10 seconds to find a word that fits the category before time runs out and it’s the next person’s turn. 2–8 players, 8+, available at usaopoly.com.

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer® Collector’s Editions

Rudolph Monopoly ($40, 2–8 players, ages 8+) has a Christmas-themed board. In Operation ($30, 1 or more players, ages 6+), the “patient” is Bumble the Abominable Snow Monster.  Both available at chasing-fireflies.com.

Micro Microscope ($9.99)

This pocket microscope is small and portable, and yet powerful, with a sharp focus so kids can see even the smallest details in their discoveries. Ages 3+, available at landofnod.com.

LEGO Creator Mini Speeder ($6.99)

So much play in a little package! The 3-in-1 Mini Speeder can be used as a car, or rebuilt into a rugged off-road vehicle or a powerful truck. Ages 6–12, available at shop.lego.com

Tegu Pocket Pouch Prism ($30)

These magnetic blocks come in sets of all sizes, but this choice of six blocks with a carrying case is just right for on-the-go fun. All ages, available at tegu.com.

Children’s Book Pantry of Orange 

With two locations in Orange, NJ, the book pantry provides gently-used books to local children, many who would have no books at all without this free service. Organizer Carol Lukoff accepts donations year-round. For more information, email Carol at crlukoff@aol.com.

R Baby Foundation

This New Jersey-based organization focuses on saving babies lives through improving pediatric emergency care.  Support this important cause and learn more at rbabyfoundation.org.

Kiva

Supporters can purchase a “Kiva Card,” and the recipient can decide who inspires them, and make a loan to that borrower. When this initial loan is repaid, the funds can be used again and again to make additional Kiva loans. Learn more at kiva.org.

Marvel Universe Super Hero Collection ($49.99)

Marvel’s Titan Hero Series has six of the most coveted superheroes, including Iron Man Stealth Strike. The figures have movable limbs, which are ideal for realistic play and posing possibilities. Ages 4+, available at target.com.

Barbie Dreamhouse ($184.99)

Brand-new and just renovated, Barbie’s  three-story Dreamhouse® has six fully furnished pink-tastic rooms and lots of amazing features, including a working doorbell and two elevators. Just beware: major assembly required. Ages 3+, available at amazon.com.

Rescue City Center ($50)

Kids will love Fisher-Price’s Imaginext® Rescue City Center that has buildings with plenty of moving parts, and technology that enables lots
of responsive lights and sounds. There’s also a fire truck, two figures, and lots of accessories. Ages 3–8, available at kmart.com.

Pinkie Cooper and the Jet Set Pets Travel Collection ($19.99)

Featuring three cities, London, Paris, and Beverly Hills, each Travel Collection set includes a fashionable Pinkie doll, a Li’l Pinkie pet, and lots of accessories. Ages 4+, learn more at pinkiecooper.com.

Kid Made Modern Studio in a Box ($19.99)

This great set lives up to its name! It
comes with everything a young artist needs to be creative—drawing paper, colored pencils, crayons, and more! Ages 6+, available at target.com.

Little Tikes Lil Cooks Kitchen ($29.99)

Young chefs will enjoy preparing food in this activity-filled Lil Cooks Kitchen, complete with fun sounds and plenty to explore and enjoy. 18 months+, available at littletikes.com.