It’s that time of year again and, if you have children, they’re probably telling you they want every single toy they see on television. Here on Cape Cod, we have some wonderful and unique toy stores and specialty shops that may carry what you’re looking for without you needing to stand in those long lines at the big box stores. So, what’s flying off the shelves locally? Here is just a sampling:
At Red Balloon Toy Shop, with locations in Orleans and Mashpee, the top toys this year are all things Pokemon (they’ve already had to restock), LEGO products, which have stood the test of time, and Crazy Aaron’s Thinking Putty. This is the futuristic version of the play putty of decades past, with an assortment of varieties that include magnetic, illusionist, glow-in-the-dark, and several other types – all created to awaken the scientist, artist, mathematician and great thinker in your child.
The Village Toy Store in Brewster has already sold 10 cases of Mobi, which is a fun, fast-paced number tile game that comes in soft, blue whale pouch. The goal is to make simple math equations as quickly as possible – a great way for kids or grown-ups to apply math skills. Another toy that’s flying off their shelves (48 so far!) is Flappy, an adorable gray elephant from Gund. Flappy is an animated plush toy that plays peek-a-boo, sings Do Your Ears Hang Low,” and whose ears flap during play to delight your baby.
At Puzzle Me This, in Provincetown, Bananagrams are serious sellers. In this game, players race against each other to build crossword grids. It requires no pencil, paper, or board. The tiles come in a small portable banana-shaped pouch and is perfect for everyone 7 and up; at home or on the go. Other big sellers this year at Pusheens, Minions, Finding Dory products, and the new Harry Potter Clue game! Additionally, classic toys like Matchbox cars and Rubik’s Cubes are also in high demand.
If you’re looking for what’s hot in the big box stores this year for toys, all you need to do is check out the Toys R Us Hot Toy List for 2016. According to the Hot Toy List, these are a few of the toys (also called the “Fabulous 15”), in no particular order, that are flying off the shelves this year:
PJ Masks Headquarters Playset – Become a superhero and capture culprits, just like in the Disney Junior TV show. Kids can make everything right with this double-sided, 3-level play set that stands over 2 feet tall.
Fisher Price Think & Learn Code-a-Pillar – Which way will it go? Young children determine Code-a-pillar’s path by using the easy-to-connect segments to configure endless combinations. Lights and sounds add to the fun.
Little Tikes Light ‘n Go 3-in-1 Activity Walker – Sit. Stand. Walk. Play. Sparkly lights help lead the way. This walker features activities, songs and sounds that inspire little ones to move and play.
Paw Patrol Zoomer Marshall – Get ready for ruff-ruff rescue missions with this walking, talking, interactive pup, complete with pack! From phrases to working water cannons, Marshall’s on duty to save the day.
Shopkins Tall Mall Storage Case – Take Shopkins fun on the go with this fold-down case/stand-tall play set! Three themed floors hold enough Shopkins comes with two exclusive figures.
Little Live Pets Snuggles My Dream Puppy – So life-like, it’s easy to forget it’s not. Ready for belly rubs and naps in your arms. And Snuggles is looking for a fur-ever home with an adoption certificate for kids to fill out!
Hatchimals – What’s inside? That’s the surprise. But, whatever it is needs TLC to break out of its shell! Once hatched, nurture and teach these interactive creatures to walk, talk and more.
DreamWorks Trolls Hug Time Poppy – Straight from the movie screen and into your arms, this delightful doll is always ready for a hug. And with matching light-up bracelets, Poppy helps you keep to the music’s beat.
Num Noms Lip Gloss Truck – Personalize your lips. Personalize your taste! Create custom-flavored lip gloss and dispense like soft-serve ice cream … even add toppings! Plus, portions are perfect for sharing.
SelfieMic Music Set – Black or Pink – Aspiring pop stars can take center stage with this mic and selfie stick. Create music videos as you choose from over 3 million songs to sing. The only thing missing is the phone!
NERF N-Strike Elite TerraScout RC Drone Blaster – Do a reconnaissance of your target’s position before the battle! This blaster features a live video feed that lets players view out-of-sight targets, and then record the action once it begins.
Sky Viper v2400 HD Streaming Drone with FPV Headset – Easy to fly. Totally awesome! Soar, stream – and experience it all from the drone’s POV! Take 360-degree views from up to 350 feet away in 720p hi-def, while executing flips and rolls.
Power Wheels 12-volt Wild Thing – Everyone, get wild! For kids: 360 degrees of exciting spins, 5 mph maximum speed and dual joystick controls. For parents: three adult-controlled speed settings and stabilizer sensor for added safety.
Star Wars InteracTech Stormtrooper – Strap on his jetpack, load his blaster and get ready to bring your Star Wars stories to life! Over 70 light and sound effects, plus motion sensors and phrases help create the perfect Storm!
Pokémon Z-Ring Set – Lights, sounds and vibrations… it’s a new way to play Pokémon! Insert a Z-CRYSTAL into the Z-RING and experience the Z-MOVE at the same time it appears in the game.
Hot Toy List from toysrus.com.
By Ann Luongo
