Shine from Yahoo just revealed their latest Get It Guide, perfectly timed for the holiday season:  Hottest Holiday Toys.  The guide features those topics women are searching for and discussing.  Surprisingly, I only recognize one…LeapFrog’s LeapPad Explorer, a tot-sized tablet that combines education and entertainment.  This techie toy has already been a hit in our home and I’m not surprised that it made the list (or that it’s been sold out in a number of stores nationwide).

Other toys that topped the list include Mattel’s Monster High Dolls, which are geared towards teens and tweens, Air Swimmers, which integrate helium and a remote control for life-like motions, and Lego Ninjago, the result of meshing Legos and ninjas.  Be sure to check out real reviews from real women on the hottest toys for 2011 on Shine!

What toys are topping your child’s list this holiday season?

Disclosure: I am a Get It Guide Insider and receive exclusive content and/or products.  All opinions remain my own.

As a mom to a four year old boy, trains come highly recommended, not only because my son could spend quite a bit of time playing with them, but because they are relatively easy to clean up and encourage imagination and interactive play.  Since the hit Disney Junior show Chuggington debuted last year, it’s become a favorite in our home.  The show, which is set in the town of Chuggington, follows Wilson, Brewster, and Koko, three “trainees” who demonstrate important lessons such as telling the truth, listening, resolving conflict, being a good friend, and more.

With the launch of the show here in the US, a line of toys and other products debuted.  My son’s favorite toys are naturally the trains, and recently Learning Curve introduced a play table to accompany the themed sets.  The Lets Ride the Rails Playtable provides a generous space for children to arrange and lay tracks and play with their trains.  The board and table are colorfully decorated with graphics from the show, making it feasible that children could simply play without tracks if desired.

My husband put the table together in about 15 minutes and used both the wrench that comes with it and a screwdriver (an electric one is preferred so that the process goes by quickly).  The table itself is appropriate for children ages 3 and up, and sized so that children can play without having to bend down or stand on tip toes.

Apart from being incredibly sturdy, the table actually looks nice.  We both like the vibrant colors and theme and can’t wait to set up my son’s train tracks on it.  The only thing I wish the table had was a storage drawer.

The table retails for $249.99 and is available at select retailers nationwide.

Win It! One of you will win a Lets Ride the Rails Playtable (WOW!). Simply leave me a comment with the name of another Chuggington toy/product you like from Learning Curve. Comments will close on December 30th, 2011 at 11:59 PM PST.

US Residents only. Duplicates and comments not including the above information will be disqualified. Comments are moderated. If you don’t see your comment in a reasonable amount of time, send me an email. Bloggers and non-bloggers may enter. If you don’t want to leave your email address, please be sure to check back for my announcement on the winner. Please note that winners must respond within 48 hours of being announced/contacted or another winner will be drawn.

Want an extra entry? Do any or all of the following and receive an extra entry for each one. Be sure to leave me a separate comment for each additional entry.

Follow me on Twitter and tweet the following (or something like it) “ I just entered a #giveaway to win a @Chuggington Play Table from @rockinmama http://tinyurl.com/79frcwa ”

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No compensation was received for this post. I am part of the Chuggington Conductor Program and receive products for review and giveaway.

Toys, toys and more toys! Newpapers, television ads, and stores are filled with educational, electronic, and even eccentric toys, hoping to make it home to a special boy or girl. I peruse the ads and glean wisdom from my children, hoping to pick out a few that they’ll play with beyond Christmas morning. Who better to ask than The Toy Guy? Christopher Byrne, who has become renowned for his education and experience as an expert in kid trends and all aspects (from product development to marketing) of the toy industry, spoke to a few local moms about what he thinks will be some of the hottest toys this season.

For Girls:

Crayola Model Magic Jewelry Boutique

Design and create accessories like bracelets, necklaces and earrings by using the Jewelry Spinner which turns Model Magic into swirled beads.

Why I like it? It allows for children to exercise their creativity, it’s relatively easy to use, and allows for a no-mess, hassle-less clean-up. Bonus: The jewelry looks fabulous!

Lalaloopsy Silly Hair Doll

These modern-ish rag dolls each posses “silly” hair that curls, twists, and straightens. She also comes with a pet, who’s tail, of course, matches her hair.

Why I like it? Another toy that allows for creativity and pretend play.

The downside? Her head is very heavy, making her unsuitable for younger tots.

For Boys:

Redakai

This collectible card game features 3D animation in every card.

Why I like it? This is a modern take on the traditional gard game and I like how it encourages friendly competition and use of strategy. Bonus: No batteries required.

DaGeDar

These hypercharged ball bearings feature bright colors and graphics that are cool-ish/scary-ish. Collect them and race them on the track sets which are also available.

Why I like them? The whole concept of racing balls is just cool…and my four and a half year old will love DaGeDar for that reason.

The downside? The “balls” are small…as in my daughter would likely want to put them in her mouth. So be mindful if you have children under three in the household.

For Both:

InnoTab Learning Tablet

This kid-approved tablet combines interactive animated e-books, tilt-sensor learning games, creative activities, and a host of apps into a tech toy that’s sure to be a hot seller this season.

Why I like it? Endless hours of learning fun. What parent wouldn’t like that? : )

PaperJamz Pro Microphone

Sing like a start with this new microphone that comes loaded with 2 songs and features a variety of voice effects.

Why I like it? It allows children the opportunity to explore their musical side.

Kid-Tough See Yourself Camera

This working digital camera makes it easy for even the smallest of tots to take pictures of themselves, their friends, or their environment. Bonus: It shoots video!

Why I like it? My son can drop it a hundred times and it won’t break. Ever. Maybe he’ll take after mommy and grandpa and develop a passion for photography.

Hundreds of toys are vying for your child’s attention this season. For toy recommendations and reviews, be sure to visit Time to Play.

Win It! I have a $25 Kmart gift card to giveaway to one of you! Simply leave me a comment with your favorite toy recommendation from The Toy Guy. Comments will close on December 24th at 11:59 PM PST.

US Residents only. Duplicates and comments not including the above information will be disqualified. Comments are moderated. If you don’t see your comment in a reasonable amount of time, send me an email. Bloggers and non-bloggers may enter. If you don’t want to leave your email address, please be sure to check back for my announcement on the winner. Please note that winners must respond within 48 hours of being announced/contacted or another winner will be drawn.

Want an extra entry? Do any or all of the following and receive an extra entry for each one. Be sure to leave me a separate comment for each additional entry.

Follow me on Twitter and tweet the following (or something like it) “ I just entered a #giveaway to win a Kmart gift card @rockinmama http://tinyurl.com/7ultzat #thetoyguy”

Rockin’ Mama Facebook fans automatically receive an extra entry

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Blog about this giveaway. It doesn’t have to be a separate post. Just include a blurb about it when you blog about other giveaways.

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No compensation was received for this post. Products/Gift Card for review/giveaway provided.

Electronics and toys are very popular during this season, and over the next few weeks I’ll be sharing some of our family’s favorites, including the innovative, inspirational toys you can find at Melissa & Doug. Their collection of over 1,000 toys includes puzzles, puppets, plush, play food, music, and more.

Melissa & Doug want you to tell them which of their educational toys you think is the best!  Just click on the image below to place your vote in the North “Poll!” You’ll Get a Melissa & Doug 25% Off Coupon to use at MelissaAndDoug.com just for voting!

Additionally, Melissa & Doug is hosting a huge Cyber Monday giveaway event on their Facebook page. Beginning at 8 am EST, they’ll be giving away a toy every hour through midnight.  To enter, just visit their Facebook page.

If you plan on shopping at Melissa & Doug, you can use the code NSAVE15 for 15% off any purchase plus FREESHIPZERO for free shipping (no minimum purchase required.)

No compensation was received for this post. A gift certificate was provided.

Like most boys, my son’s favorite toys are those with wheels and those that allow him to use his creativity (i.e. blocks, LEGOS, etc.). There are nights when I still find one of his wheeled vehicles next to him at night on his pillow. The holiday season is just around the corner and I can say with confidence that Defiants 4×4 motorized trucks are going to be extremely popular this year.

These mini motorized 4×4 trucks are operated by a switch (as opposed to a remote control) which allows children the opportunity to pick from one of two gears.  They can then set them loose on a variety of terrains, both indoors and outdoors, or race them on one of the tracks available. My four year old son can easily turn the vehicles on and off or switch between gears and particularly enjoys racing them on the Maximum Mayhem Track we received.

At present, there are 12 Series 1 vehicles and 8 Blitzforce vehicles available, which can be collected if a child desires.  Each vehicle is different and may light up, have removable attachments, or come apart.  While I definitely think that children can enjoy playing with Defiants indoors or outdoors, I am finding that my son prefers to race them and do wheelie tricks on the Maximum Mayhem play set we received.

Even my daughter enjoyed playing with Defiants!

She's totally sneaking off with them!

This set is one of several that are currently available and while it’s relatively easy to put together, there are a number of different parts (20 to be exact).  Defiants can be raced and freewheel across the 7 feet of track.  Of interest is the fact that the track features a magnetic system that keeps the vehicles on the track.  This set includes a special edition Power 4×4 vehicle called 4EverKool. The only thing I’d change about the play set is how easily it comes apart.

Here is a quick video of my son showing the speed and durability of Defiants!

At present, Defiants 4×4 individual trucks and flex tracks area available at Target for $5.99 through November 5th (that’s a savings of $2!).  Visitors to the Defiants website can play the Defiants Danger Rally Game for a chance to win a Limited Production Defiants 4×4.  The code to enter is “4×4″

Win It! One of you will win the Maximum Mayhem playset plus an entire set of trucks!  Simply leave me a comment with the name of one of the other sets you like or a vehicle your child has on his wish list. Comments will close on November 10th, 2011 at 11:59 PM PST.

US Residents only. Duplicates and comments not including the above information will be disqualified. Comments are moderated. If you don’t see your comment in a reasonable amount of time, send me an email. Bloggers and non-bloggers may enter. If you don’t want to leave your email address, please be sure to check back for my announcement on the winner. Please note that winners must respond within 48 hours of being announced/contacted or another winner will be drawn.

Want an extra entry? Do any or all of the following and receive an extra entry for each one. Be sure to leave me a separate comment for each additional entry.

Follow me on Twitter and tweet the following (or something like it) “ I just entered a #giveaway to win a @Defiants4x4s playset + vehicles @rockinmama http://rockinmama.net/2011/10/defiants-1026-giveaway/”

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Blog about this giveaway. It doesn’t have to be a separate post. Just include a blurb about it when you blog about other giveaways.

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“This is a sponsored post on behalf of #Defiants 4x4s via One2One Network. All opinions are my own and the mini, mighty, motorized fun was my kids.”

You likely know that it’s not typical for me to simply post a giveaway, but the company is very interested in connecting with parents and families through social media!  If you “like” their Facebook page, you’ll be entered to win a $50 gift card to the site right here on Rockin’ Mama. Be sure to stop by in November for my holiday gift guide which will feature Educational Insights and a ton amazing gift ideas!

Here are the deets!

Win It! One of you will win a $50 gift card to Educational Insights!  Simply “like” their Facebook page, then leave a comment indicating you did (I will verify the winner has indeed liked the Facebook page at the close of the contest).  Comments will close on November 10th, 2011 at 11:59 PM PST.

US Residents only. Duplicates and comments not including the above information will be disqualified. Comments are moderated. If you don’t see your comment in a reasonable amount of time, send me an email. Bloggers and non-bloggers may enter. If you don’t want to leave your email address, please be sure to check back for my announcement on the winner. Please note that winners must respond within 48 hours of being announced/contacted or another winner will be drawn.

Want an extra entry? Do any or all of the following and receive an extra entry for each one. Be sure to leave me a separate comment for each additional entry.

Follow me on Twitter and tweet the following (or something like it) “ I just entered a #giveaway to win a $50 GC to @ed_insights @rockinmama http://tinyurl.com/3bu8ofk”

Like me on Facebook

Subscribe to my feed via email or reader.

Blog about this giveaway. It doesn’t have to be a separate post. Just include a blurb about it when you blog about other giveaways.

Click on one of the very cute buttons below and digg, stumble, fav, etc. Just let me know what you did in the comments!

No compensation was received for this post. As an Educational Insights blogger, I receive products and gift certificates for review/giveaway. All opinions remain my own.

I can’t believe it’s already October!  Restaurants and stores are adorned with spooky decor in preparation for Halloween.  And some stores, like Sam’s Club, already have holiday items out for sale.  As soon as we’re done trick or treating, we’ll be counting down towards Thanksgiving and Christmas.

If you’re searching for a preschool toy that will be a hit with both you and your child, check out the Chuggington Laptop from Vtech. In an age where computers are the mainstay, it can be expected that children like my son may be drawn to technology.  I am very careful about what types of games and programs my son is exposed to, whether it be on my iPhone or my laptop, and constant supervision is a essential.

The learning laptop, which draws inspiration from the hit Disney Junior show, includes 40 learning activities that teach children letters and words, numbers and counting, memory and matching, shapes and more.  Designed for children ages 3 and up, the laptop is easy for children to navigate with a tot-sized keyboard and Wilson from the show, which is used to switch in between the 5 different modes.  My son’s favorite mode is the Adventure mode which allows him to play games as his favorite character, Wilson.  What’s nice about the laptop is that children can also learn at their own place in the Exploration Mode.

The Chuggington Laptop is available at retailers nationwide and retails for $29.99.

Win It! One of you will win a Vtech Chuggington Laptop. Simply leave me a comment with the name of another Chuggington toy or game your child might like to own.  Comments will close on October 20th, 2011 at 11:59 PM PST.

US Residents only. Duplicates and comments not including the above information will be disqualified. Comments are moderated. If you don’t see your comment in a reasonable amount of time, send me an email. Bloggers and non-bloggers may enter. If you don’t want to leave your email address, please be sure to check back for my announcement on the winner. Please note that winners must respond within 48 hours of being announced/contacted or another winner will be drawn.

Want an extra entry? Do any or all of the following and receive an extra entry for each one. Be sure to leave me a separate comment for each additional entry.

Follow me on Twitter and tweet the following (or something like it) “ I just entered a #giveaway to win a @chuggington laptop from @rockinmama http://tinyurl.com/3g2yvbn ”

Like me on Facebook

Subscribe to my feed via email or reader.

Blog about this giveaway. It doesn’t have to be a separate post. Just include a blurb about it when you blog about other giveaways.

Click on one of the very cute buttons below and digg, stumble, fav, etc. Just let me know what you did in the comments!

No compensation was received for this post. I am part of the Chuggington Conductor Program and receive products for review and giveaway.

My beautiful, brown-eyed little girl received her very first doll last week.  She calls it her “babby” and absolutely adores it.

I had many dolls growing up, some of which my mom still has tucked away in a closet.  I do hope my daughter takes to her “babby” like my son has to “Mr. Bear.”  I think that imaginative play is important for a child’s development and a special doll to sleep with or take on trips provides comfort and security.

Babby…or shall I say Clara, is one of HABA’s newest toys and perfect for toddlers like my daughter.  With her vibrant red hair and stylish polka-dot outfit, she’s adorable.  Clara can be dressed (her shoes, headband, etc., come off) and toted around with my daughter. “Elise” and “Annie” are also available from HABA for $35.

HABA is German company known for making quality children’s toys.  We have a few toys from the company and have always been impressed with their durability and whimsical feel.  I like the fact that they inspire imaginative play and they don’t look like toys you’d find at any popular toy store.

For more information on where you can find HABA toys, visit their website.

No compensation was received for this post. A product sample was provided which helped facilitate this review.

Topping the list of my son’s favorite toys is his Lightning McQueen Die Cast Vehicle.  We bought the car for him long before Cars 2 came out and he carries it with him in his pocket most of the time.  You might even find it next to him on his pillow at night.  Right now, you can find a set of two die-cast vehicles on sale at the Disney Store for just $12.  Be sure to check out the new Lights & Sounds die-cast vehicles by Mattel which feature headlights that turn on for nighttime racing, engines that rev and characters that say their favorite phrases from the film. And, you can collect all 20 of the Cars Toon Die Cast vehicles which feature all the versions of Mater and Lightning McQueen from the film including I-Screamer Tow Mater which lights up and makes sounds.

Speaking of cars, the new Cars 2 Spy Shifters transform right before your child’s eyes for the next secret mission.  Press the button on the back of the vehicle and missiles will pop out, tires will flip up and more (press again to go undercover).  Available in Mater, Finn McMissile, and Rod Torque Redline.

What child (particularly if that child is a boy) doesn’t enjoy crashing vehicles?  The new Cars 2 plush Crash ‘Ems say eight words and phrases when smacked, slammed, tossed or crashed.  The best part is they won’t break and they can be cleaned with a damp cloth. Collect the entire set which includes Tow Mater, Lightning McQueen, Finn McMissile, and Francesco Bernoulli (I just love saying his name). : )

Because education is a top priority when I purchase toys, I would say that my favorite Cars 2 toy is the Lightning McQueen Learning Laptop by VTech.  The laptop is actually shaped like Lightning McQueen, features a full QWERTY keyboard, and a tire-shaped mouse (cute!).  Children can select from 15 activities that teach them letters, words, math, and logic.  The laptop is “turned on” with a knob that resembles an ignition and children can select their activity with one of 3 Cars 2 character buttons.

For some reason, both of my children love microphones.  And apparently, we can’t have too many because despite the fact that we already have 2, my kids have been having a difficult time sharing the new Cars 2 Grand Prix Microphone from First Act. We’re fans of the Boston-based company that creates musical products for children. Along with amplifying your child’s voice, the microphone features cool sound effects and character dialog from the film.

My son is a LEGO fanatic! We can’t walk through Downtown Disney without making a stop at The LEGO Imagination Center to see the latest in Disney-inspired LEGO sets. At present, there are a TON of sets inspired by the film. Over the weekend, I purchased Luigi’s Italian Place which is one of their Duplo sets.  With two little ones, we have yet to venture down the LEGO path and have always opted for the Duplo sets because of their larger, chunkier, and easy-to-put together pieces.  My son still feels like he is getting an authentic LEGO experience and I don’t have to worry that my daughter will choke on any of the pieces. Multiple sets can be purchased and then combined for an even more imaginative experience.

One day, I decided to give my daughter a crayon to see what she would do with it.  At 18 months, she finally has enough dexterity to scribble and she is loving it.  Crayola recently launched their new Color Wonder Deluxe Coloring Kits and now offer a Cars 2 version.  If your children enjoy coloring with markers, but you don’t enjoy the mess that accompanies them, I highly recommend these sets.  The inks and paints are clear and color will only appear on their special Color Wonder paper.  Both of my children enjoy the excitement of color appearing on the pages of their coloring books.

It’s almost too early to talk about Halloween but my son already has a costume. This year, he’s going to be Lightning McQueen.  This adorable (and official) Disney/Pixar costume includes a muscle jumpsuit and a red baseball hat. It’s a bit thin so your child will likely need to wear some clothing underneath.

If your children are fans of Disney/Pixar Cars, what are their favorite toys?

No compensation was received for this post. Product samples (minus the LEGO Duplo set which I purchased) were provided which helped facilitate this review.

This giveaway is now closed. Thanks for stopping by. The winner is Lisa. G. Congrats!

I remember when I used to scour the sale racks at Macy’s and Nordstrom for deals on clothes, shoes, and accessories.  While I still do this, most of my shopping is now completed online.  These days, there aren’t many items that you can’t find a sale or discount on. I am signed up to a host of sites offering discounts on everything from kid’s clothing and toys to live performances and travel.  Most recently, I was introduced to Gilt Groupe.

Gilt Groupe offers up to 60% the retail prices of top designer labels like Furla, Diesel, Portico, Jacadi and more.  Every day you’ll find something new and fresh for women, men, kids, and the home.  On Gilt City Los Angeles, you’ll find deals on local products, services, and experiences.  Are you a foodie? Check out Gilt Taste. Got the travel bug? Check out Jetsetter.

Right now, Gilt Children is hosting a Summer Spectacular with sales on art for kids, gorgeous baby apparel, designer kids’ shoes and more.  Through July 18th (HURRY!), you can get $10 off any purchase of $50 or more at Gilt Children.

Win It! One of you will win a $100 credit to Gilt Children. Simply leave me a comment with the item(s) you would buy if you win! Comments will close on July 22nd at 11:59 PM PST.

US Residents only. Duplicates and comments not including the above information will be disqualified. Comments are moderated. If you don’t see your comment in a reasonable amount of time, send me an email. Bloggers and non-bloggers may enter. If you don’t want to leave your email address, please be sure to check back for my announcement on the winner. Please note that winners must respond within 48 hours of being announced/contacted or another winner will be drawn.

Want an extra entry? Do any or all of the following and receive an extra entry for each one. Be sure to leave me a separate comment for each additional entry.

Follow Gilt Children on Facebook/Twitter

Follow me on Twitter AND tweet about the contest with the hashtag #GiltyMom

Like me on Facebook

Subscribe to my feed via email or reader.

Blog about this giveaway. It doesn’t have to be a separate post. Just include a blurb about it when you blog about other giveaways.

Click on one of the very cute buttons below and digg, stumble, fav, etc. Just let me know what you did in the comments!

Disclosure: This is part of a sponsored campaign with The Motherhood and Gilt Children.