It is less than 2 months until Christmas and already the advertising is filtering slowly onto our televisions, computers and even in some of our local shop windows. The seeds are being sewn and you are already thinking, ‘What will the children have on their Santa list this year?’ Here at Pampered Presents we like to be organised and we are here to help you get ahead, ensuring you can sit back and enjoy Christmas and the festivities that ensue. So, the per ultimate question, ‘What is hot this Christmas?’ We have had several suggestions which really impressed us and we have some fabulous gift ideas for children of all ages.

Playmobil Shopping Mall.

One of my favorite childhood toys has got to be a Playmobil playground. This toy never seemed to be returned to the box like the others and was played with constantly from morning to night. I love that, 35 years on, it is still to be found on the floor of my Mum’s sitting room where the grand kids are having just as much fun with it as my sisters and I had all those years ago.

If you are looking for a toy that stands the test of time there is none better than Playmobil. Regardless of the strength and durability of the figures, the playsets never seem to date. They do change and Playmobil are always releasing new sets but the older ones have just as much appeal as always.

The variety of Playmobil toys is vast so you will find something to suit all children but I was particularly drawn to the Shopping Mall – well, who wouldn’t be??

Have a look at the photos!! This is the most fab set I have even seen – I so wish this was around when I was a little girl. The set is basically a shopping mall with figures, man equine, clothes, shoes, bags and, you will never guess, an ATM with MONEY! This really ‘took the biscuit’!

I have 2 girls and 1 boy. We all love shopping, some more than others, but they all shop ’till they drop’ in the Playmobil Mall. The set is made up of 2 floors with an elevator to escort the figures and their shopping up and down.

I adore the hats and bags – these are just so cute! On the ground level you have a cafe where the mums can grab a quick coffee before carrying on with their shopping.

The mannequins are fab! Dressed with the latest trends and the figures can actually try on the clothes – the girls loved this part! If you have a look on the website below there is a brilliant video showing the figures trying on the clothes – this will appeal to anyone who has ever discovered the joy of retail therapy!

I must say I don’t think I have ever come across as enjoyable a toy as this. The design and layout complete with realistic accessories make this the perfect gift for your children this Christmas.

For further information visit www.playmobil.co.uk  RRP £99

Lego Ultra Agents Hurricane Heist.

Lego – I am so glad I kept mine for 35 years – it never goes out of date, but it certainly gets updated!! Both my daughters and my son love Lego. They play with this constantly and never tire of it. I have resorted to grocery shopping alone as my son won’t leave without one of the mini Lego sets!

New in 2014 the Ultra Agents set 70164 Hurricane Heist was released and it has been flying off the shelves both in store and online since. There is no doubt this will become difficult to find nearer Christmas so don’t delay!

Hurricane Heist contains 589 piece LEGO and includes Agents Jack Fury and Caila Phoenix, Psyclone the Super Villian and an Astor City Guard.

I love the mini fugures included – the colours are new to this set and they really are super cool looking. My son gets carried away in his make believe world with this set and why wouldn’t he? The opening cockpit is just fab! The mini figures can be accessorised with the handcuffs, oxygen mask, propeller backpack and banknotes.

Isn’t the cyclone backpack fab?

The motorbike is my daughters favourite and she has claimed this as her own. As for value for money, 589 pieces for £49.99!! This set is worth every penny. The Hurricane Heist Lego set will be sure to keep the kids entertained for hours on end and well into the new year.

Box contents:

• Includes 4 minifigures with accessories: Psyclone, Astor City Guard, Agent Caila Phoenix and Agent Jack Fury
• Psyclone’s flyer features an opening cockpit, 2 huge spinning rotor blades, 2 quad laser cannons, 2 automatic missile shooters including an extra missile, storage compartment for banknotes, and mech mode transformation function
• Motorbike features folding translucent blue energy wheels, twin stud shooters and fold-out wings for fly mode
• Also includes a big plasma cannon
• Accessories include Psyclone’s oxygen mask, handcuffs, propeller backpack and 3 banknotes
• Turn the reactor to spin the giant rotor blades and whip up a whirling tornado!
• Evade missiles from the flyer’s automatic missile shooters
• Activate fly mode on Agent Caila Phoenix’s motorbike and take the battle to the skies
• Instantly transform Psyclone’s aircraft into a threatening mech
• Download the free LEGO® Ultra Agents app for the ultimate digital experience where you become the agent!
• Accomplish challenging missions, create your own graphic novel and search for hidden clues
• Psyclone’s flyer measures over 4” (12cm) high, 10” (27cm) long and 15” (40cm) wide in fly mode, and over 10” (27cm) high, 6” (16cm) long and 15” (40cm) wide in mech mode
• Motorbike measures over 1” (4cm) high, 3” (9cm) long and 1” (4cm) wide

For further information visit www.lego.com/UltraAgents

 

Build-A-Bear for Christmas 2014.

How could I resist these gorgeous bears this Christmas? Build-A-Bear have stolen my heart long ago and I am continually delighted when my children write to Santa and they are, yet again, on the list.

This year Build-A-Bear have some very festive additions to delight and, with the coordinating accessories, everyone will be thrilled with these cuter than cute animals.

I adore Pinky the Penguin. 

When she arrived in the post in her Build-A-Bear box I was thrilled to bits. I had no idea she would be so big – 41cms.  She is absolutely gorgeous, my 3 year old niece fell in love instantly!  Pinky is available online for the tiny price of £9!  The accessories are fabulous, a beautiful glitter and lace pink knitted dress.

Extra clothes can also be bought from Build-A-Bear Workshop so  the various toys can be dressed and undressed to the delight of yourself or your children.

Now, could you possibly get any ‘merrier’ than this gorgeous ‘Merry Mouse’?

Merry Mouse can also be dressed in coordinating clothing to suit. You can opt for a snuggly sleep suit like my daughter has below for her Build-A-Bear panda.

However, there are wonderful festive accessories available that I would recommend for this time of year. This super little Elf outfit is only £5 and I think it is perfect for Christmas.

Santa’s suit is £10 and looks so cute with the little Santa sack included.

 

 

 

Cait my 9 year old daughter has Paulette Rabbit (41cms). This is simply the softest cutest soft toy I have ever seen. She is now called Twinkle and she has her own birth certificate to prove it. Twinkle is always the toy Cait chooses to sleep with at night and is never forgotten no matter how many toys and teddies Santa brings into the house.   She is a great Build-A-Bear to have and can be dressed in a variety of outfits to suit all occasions.

 

Twinkle retails at only £13.50.  Build-A-Bears are excellent value and I can highly recommend them as the perfect gift this Christmas. They have given my family so much joy over the years – Merry Christmas Build-A-Bear!

For further information visit www.buildabear.co.uk or you can go to your nearest store and enjoy a bear building experience.

Disney for Christmas 2014.

Christmas just wouldn’t be Christmas without Disney. Every year Disney steels the show whether its a new hit TV release or a new range of toys – Disney always features high on everyone’s Christmas list. Why? I hear you ask. Disney is simply unbeatable!

I remember my first ever teddy and the all time favourite, Micky Mouse. I still have this old fellow and he still has all his arms and legs, despite being cuddled every night for almost 15 years! Disney toys last and last. When you buy Disney you are buying into the make-believe that will never let your children down.

This year Disney have yet again a superb selection of toys for both boys and girls of all ages. I have a few selected to discuss in particular and this is because I thought these toys were of exceptional quality, great value for money and a whole lot of fun!

Disney Planes Fire Blasting Dusty.

Dusty is the kind of toy kids can really get interactive with. He is inspired by the Disney movie – Planes. My first impression was that he looked absolutely fab. His eye catching red and white paintwork along with his ‘serious looking’ expression makes him a rather attractive looking toy I was instantly drawn to.  He is also a good size (38×38 cms) so easily maneuvered by younger children as well as older. He is officially recommended for children from 3 yrs and up.

Dusty, the super fire blasting plane, is really a toy and game in one. With your childs help he can scoop up the ‘water balls’ and use these to put out the flames – literally!

The fire is represented by red flame pieces which prop up waiting to be knocked down or ‘blasted’ by Dusty’s water balls. The set includes 3 fire targets and 6 plastic water-balls so plenty to keep children entertained and enough so that if one target/ball gets mislaid the toy can still be enjoyed.

The lever action requires some skill but this is easily mastered by younger children. My son is 5yrs and he had no bother shooting and bringing down the flames.  I have to mention that the sound effects are brilliant and add to the excitement! Dusty has over 20 sounds and phrases from the movie so any Planes fan would be delighted to play with him and get caught up in the fire fighting excitement.

 

 

 

Dusty is not only aimed at boys. I can vouch that toys are more unisex now than ever. My younger daughter has played with him as much, if not more, than my son. He would be a fab Christmas gift and at £49.99 he is worth every penny.

Action Armour Buzz Lightyear.

 

Another action toy from Disney, Buzz Lightyear will take your kids to another planet with excitement. He is 12 inches tall so this is another toy that won’t get lost under the sofa! He is not likely to get forgotten about with with his 3 modes of play and over 30 sounds – yes, over 30!

Buzz stands alone in his impressive suit but wait till you hear what he can do – aside from all his cool phrases – he can fly! (not exactly really fly but he has an impressive set of wings!)

 

The wings are a new addition to the Buzz Lightyear figure and they are fab fun to play with, along with his megs-blasters. The wings are deployed when Buzz is in flight mode along with an array of accompanying sounds. The mega-blasters are very handy for when the battle is on as they light up and really do take Buzz into intergalactic warfare in style.

If your child is not feeling like an adventurous day, Buzz will comply in his space ranger mode where is will recite phrases from the Toy Story movie. Action Armour Buzz Lightyear is a really super toy. He has been on the go in our household for a few weeks now and he continues to be the first toy my son picks up when he comes in from school. I have had quite a few mums also comment on him. His familiarity and connection to one of the best, (in my opinion), Disney movies of all time will ensure he remains a firm favourite – go Buzz go!!!  Excellent value at £49.99

 

 

Disney Princess Palace Pets.

Palace Pets are just what you need if you are looking for Christmas stocking fillers or even as a small inexpensive but lovable gift for your childrens school friends. Each of the Disney Princesses have their very own Palace Pet and Aurora is no exception with her beautiful little kitten, rightly named, Beauty.

Beauty comes perfectly presented with a brush for grooming and a tiara which can be removed. She would appeal to any little girl with her long fluffy sparkly tail and gorgeous features.

There are several Palace Pets to choose from and at £6 each you can have them all!

 

Disney Frozen Toddler Doll – Elsa.

You would have to be just returning from a year long trip to the moon to not have missed that Disney released the ultimate childrens movie of all time – Frozen. My household is just any other in that my children are completely obsessed with this story and have been singing ‘Let it go’ at the tops of their voices for the past 8 months.

We first watched Frozin in April – we were in London for my 40th birthday and the hotel had the film on demand. Every night for 3 nights the kids selected the same movie to watch – yes, Frozen!! 3 nights in a row!

This obviously was not enough as when we returned home they ‘bought’ it from my Bt Vision box and now they have the DVD as well – well and truly ‘Frozen’ we are!

I have to be honest and admit that I love the movie as well and have enjoyed countless u Tube clips of people from all over the world have a go at singing the theme tune, some of these were absolutely hilarious to watch!

Its pretty obvious then that the Frozen dolls will be on many Christmas lists this year. My daughter has her heart set on the Elsa Doll which is an excellent choice as she is simply beautiful.

Frozen Elsa Toddler Doll.

 

Both the Princesses are available and they are fab! They are suitable for children from the age of 3 yrs and up. My daughter is 9 yrs and Elsa is top of her list.

Elsa comes dressed in the clothes from the film and her dress is gorgeous – sparking and glam just like her. With beautiful long blond hair and her sparkling tiara, she is every bit the Princess she is on TV.

She is obviously accompanied by Olaf – who can resist this little guy and his innocent take on summer!

If you have to shop for either of these dolls don’t delay – time is running out and they will certainly sell out long before Christmas.

RRP £24.99

For further information on these and other Disney toys visit www.disneystore.co.uk Disney toys can also be found online from good toyshops, amazon and also in many supermarkets for your convenience.

 

Topps Trading Cards.

 

Topps Trading Cards are perfect for stocking fillers. My children have these on their Santa list and they have their individual requests as to which cards they collect. Cait collects football cards, as does Adam. Jenny loves the Disney cards, in particular, the Frozen cards. I love the holographic ones shown below.

Topps have a great range of cards available in a variety of pack sizes and some even with a commemorative tin to keep your cards stored away safely.

The Frozen cards and tins have flew off the shelves this winter and I was lucky enough to get my hands on some of these.

For Christmas this year, why not pick up one of the special packs of cards? These are great value and there are so many cards included.

 

 

Will this ‘Frozen’ epidemic ever end? I don’t think this will be any time soon soon but I am certain Frozen toys and accessories are the most collectible items to date. Everyone wants a piece of the movie to cherish and with these cards from Topps, you can have several keepsakes for a minimum spend.

For further information visit www.toppsdirect.com

Cards are available from £1 for a pack of 8.

 

Great Little Trading  Company Lili Rose Tea Party.

This is one of the most beautiful tea sets I have seen. I love that it is wooden and not plastic and the colours used are just beautiful. I have a little niece who would be delighted with this this Christmas.

Perfect for the world of make believe parties, the set includes all your little girl will need to throw her own spread this Christmas. Every part of this set is sturdy and this will last so excellent value for money at only £25.

Have a look on site as there are lots more you can buy to add to this set and there is 30% off selected items at the moment.

www.gltc.co.uk

 

Thunderbirds 500ml Thermal Flask.

This is a gift with a use other than play. I love these type of gifts as they ultimately save us money – we are giving a present yet it is something we probably need to buy for our kids anyway!

 

This Thunderbirds flask is really fab looking. I don’t know a child who doesn’t enjoy watching this popular programme and I remember loving it as a child as well.

I have tested this flask to the limit. I have watched my kids go through many flasks and this one has lasted well.  It’s quite an achievement as my son has been taking this to school every day in his lunchbox and I have not had a breakage so I am delighted.

The thermal properties allow me to fill this with anything from  hot chocolate to spaghetti hoops! As we are now well into winter its very handy to be able to send warm food and drinks in with the children so they can have something to heat them up at lunchtime.

With regards to this flask in particular, my son has had a few friends asking where he got his ‘cool’ flask!

For further information visit www.temptationgifts.com

RRP £14.95

 

Thunderbirds Alarm Clock

In keeping with the Thunderbirds theme I am including this co-ordinating Thunderbirds alarm clock.

 

 

5,4,3,2,1…. Thunderbirds are go! This clock would look good in any little boys room and I am sure the bigger boys would love it as well!

Officially licensed, this clock features co-ordinating red and blue hands and, as they are on a white face, the time is easily read. My son is five and he has this on his bedside locker. He sets it every night and even though I am up long before him in the mornings he won’t rise until the alarm sounds – which is the Thunderbirds launch sequence!

The clock requires 2 AA batteries. For further information visit www.menkind.co.uk  RRP £22.99

 

Loom Twister Bands – Creative Case from HGL.

Loom bands, they occupy every room in my house! My children love them and they have made so many bracelets and rings, not to mention phone charms including turtles and cats. I enjoy the little creations and I am delighted my children have something to play with that does not require a battery!

 

There isn’t a child on the planet who woundn’t be delighted with loom bands this Christmas. HGL have a brilliant case  full of brightly coloured bands for all your children’s looming needs – the Creative Case 200 with 500 extra bands. I have bought the bands separately in little bags but this case is much better value at £12.99.

 

Loom bands from HGL are latex free.

 

For further information and looming ideas visit www.loomtwister.com

 

The Anki DRIVE from Anki.

The Anki DRIVE is, without doubt, the most ingenious toy of the century. Designed by Boris Sofman, Mark Palatucci and Hanns Tappeiner who all majored in robotics at University together, you can be certain, this technology will certainly leave a lasting impression. 

Harald Belker, the brains behind Batmobile (1996), the cars from Minority Report, Tron Legacy and various other well known movies designed the cars.   Is it a race track or a combat zone? It actually happens to tick both these very popular categories. The Anki DRIVE is a race track like no other.

There are no slots on which to run the cars, no magnets or electrics. The ‘Artificial Intelligence’, (AI), allows the car to ‘know’ where it is on the track allowing it to speed along to within 1/10 of an inch clearance giving the ultimate race experience to the users.

A huge plus of ‘AI’ is that the cars will not leave the track – I recall my younger days of playing a Scalextric on my mum’s dining room table and every 2 minutes a car went zooming off the track narrowly missing various vases and crockery on its way to the floor!

If you are wondering how the cars actually ‘know’ where they are on track I have one word for you – APPLE! Don’t we all love our iPhones? –our favourite device now has another use! Your iPhone controls the cars giving the most amazing steering experience known to man!

To fully grasp the technology have a look at the video. This is a huge addition to race track technology and it will appeal to every family member, not just the boys. The combat theme comes into its own when the cars literally ‘battle’ to the finish.

Weapons can be used to disenable the competition making this the perfect interactive ‘game’ combining mind blowing software with the ultimate hardware, giving effects that will make it difficult to resort back to traditional race track technology. But what did Pampered Presents reallythink of the Anki DRIVE?

When the Anki DRIVE arrived the men stepped in and completely took over. It was some time before any children got anywhere near it. To describe the Anki DRIVE as ‘addictive’ would certainly be an understatement!

The initial set up was minimal, which is always a good thing, especially on Christmas morning! Within 5 minutes or so the race was in full swing with loud roars of encouragement coming from the spectators. The entire track is no more than 8 foot which is brilliant as it can be set up with minimal disruption to the rest of the room. The number of laps is set and the cars race against each other to win.Similar to Scalextric, the game can be played by one or more players and the first to pass the chequered flag is declared the winner. However, that’s where the similarities end! The cars can only be described as superb! The ultra modern design equates to the raciest cars on the planet.

The kids get so excited when they are racing and in the past 3 weeks this game had almost been played constant. Rules have had to be set – ‘No Anki-DRIVE before breakfast’ ! I have 3 children aged 11yrs, 9yrs and 5yrs and they can all play the Anki Drive without difficulty. Steering is easy and my 5yr old can control his car to the finish without mishap.

However, the technology offers much more than a straight forward racing experience – combat technology adds to the intensity of the race. This may be a little complicated for young children although my 9 yr old can certainly compete with her dad and has won on more than one occasion! However, the real competition ensues when the children are in bed.

‘Let the battle begin’ says dad grinning, as mum calmly selects her car and scans through her weapon systems – the different cars have various combat capabilities so racing is taken to yet another level. Play can last and last but it can also be over very quickly! The more you practice the better the game can be.

The technology is quite intense and cannot possible be discovered in just a few races. After 2 or 3 weeks of play I was amazed at the newly discovered weapons systems and additional ways to better your opponent.

The Anki DRIVE is something you will not fully grasp the complexity of until you are standing in front of the track with your iPhone in your hand ready to battle to the finish.

This will give you an insight into how advanced technology really is and you will undoubtly be impressed as never before. The intensity of the race, the combat systems and even the speed will ‘knock your socks off’! In my opinion there is absolutely no ‘toy’ on the market as advanced as the Anki DRIVE and I cannot envisage anyone who wouldn’t want this for Christmas. RRP £150 for the track and 2 cars, extra cars £50.

Newsflash – new information on the Anki DRIVE! ( 22nd Sept)

‘New car: Brand new car Spektrix is coming. With a mischievous personality, Spektrix has clever hacks that will wreak havoc on the competition, with special powers including Scrambler that disables opponent’s steering and Chaos Pulse that causes victim’s weapons to fire uncontrollably. Spektrix will retail for £49.99 alongside the other cars in Anki DRIVE’s world

For further information visit www.Anki.com

TOBAR online.

If electrical items are featuring on the kids lists again this year have a look at some of the super remote control toys from Tobar.

‘Founded in 1973, TOBAR celebrates over 40 years dedicated solely to finding innovative toys, gifts and gadgets. TOBAR is continuously searching worldwide to bring exciting; desirable and fun products which will have mass market appeal’ (TOBAR)

For boys min particular but not exclusively they have a brilliant Robot. My 5 yr old son has this as no.1 on his list this year. I can see everyone in the family having a lot of fun with it – including dad!

The Space bot 3000 definitely looks the part with his groovy moves, lights and disc shooting action.

‘Infrared remote control robot with walking, talking and shooting functions. Controlled via the intuitive remote control, the robot can walk back and forth, turn left and right, and rotate his head to take aim with the head mounted disc launcher’ (Tobar)

Once you have a go with this there will be no stopping you. Space bot lights up when he moves, dances to his own music and has an array of ‘realistic’ robot noises to accompany him on his merry way around your living room. Trusty me, your children will be delighted with Space bot! RRP £17

Again for boys, but will probably appeal to girls also,  Tobar have the ultimate in easy care fish! Robo Fish is exactly as the title implies – a robotic fish. He can be navigated around the tank with the remote control with the obvious benefit of not fouling in the water and causing considerable distress when he ‘passes away’ – like fish that have came to live with us in the past.

The ‘tank’ is just the right size so it will easily find a home on a shelf and then you can let the fun begin! My children have tested this out for weeks and still they have yet to tire from it. Robo fish was also the highlight of the last birthday party we held with a que of children quickly lining up to try their hand at leading him round the tank.

The fish are pretty realistic looking and ours has been named Nemo!

Excellent value at £30.

Revellutions Redback from Revell.

Another super remote control toy that has simply got to have a huge mention is this Revellutions Redback off road buggy from Revell. I have included this in the children gift guide although feel I have to let you know this is what my dad wants from Santa and he is almost 70yrs! However, the redback is suitable for children from the age of 10 and up.

This fab looking machine travels at speeds of 20 km per hour so hold onto your hat and prepare for the remote control experience of your life! 2 speeds allow for adjustments to different terrains although this buggy is up for anything. A big bonus has to be the fact the electronics are splash proof – so come rain, hail or snow you can take this outside on Christmas morning.

The charging time is 30 minutes which is another huge plus. There is nothing as frustrating as toys which run for 10 mins and then ‘die’. 30 minutes charge will allow for 45 minutes play.

As for the handling, this has to be tried to be believed – we have had such fun with this car. With revolutionary 2.4 GHz technology  this will impress anyone who manages to get their hands on it. The suspension is strong and it corners extremely well. The redback will negotiate rocks, hills, dirt piles and sandy terrain so an excellent toy all round.

Features
Overload protection (Servo Saver) for long lasting steering
2-wheel-drive with differential gear
Mechanical 2-shift gear – for full engine power at all times
Ultra-stable construction, made of high-tech polymer plastic
Solid front- and rear-bumpers
Full suspension w/ exchangeable springs
Tires w/ tool-free quick change-system 
Offroad tires
Dust- and splash-proof electronics
LiPo battery in plug-free hard case – quick charging and ultra-safe
2-CH 2.4 GHz pistol transmitter 
Transmitter suitable for right/left-handed users
Desktop LiPo-charger (110-220V) 
Power Saver – automatic switch off, if car has not been moved for 10 minutes
Multilingual instructions
Multilingual box

Available from www.amazon.co.uk

 RRP £44.99

For further information visit www.revellutions.de

Sondico Aerolite FIFA Approved Ball

Although  I doubt this ball would fit into a stocking, it is a perfect ‘stocking filler’!

For kids who enjoy getting outside and playing football, the Sondico Aerolite is what you need this Christmas.

Suitable for use in all weathers, always a bonus, this football looks the part with its Sondico logo. The ball is available in several colours. It also comes  in 2 sizes – 4 and 5- with 18 hand stitched panels.  FIFA approved, this ball is designed to last and last.

My kids don’t watch football on the telly but they love getting outside and playing together. This is a perfect little (almost sneaky) gift which will entice your kids to play outside when you are snuggling on the sofa after your Christmas dinner with an Irish coffee. Literally for nothing at a mere £17.99

Available from store.sondico.com

Vtriker Elite.

Another great toy for the outdoors is the Vtriker Elite. Winner of a Dad’s Choice award, this scooter has what it takes to have your kids happily outdoors for hours on end. Toys like this are always a bonus – we all know the benefits of fresh air, exercise and less ‘screen time’.

My kids have the Vtriker Elite in green and they all love it. Jenny is 11 yrs, Cait 9yrs and Adam 5yrs, this scooter is perfect for all my children.

There is no better scooter than this. Kids don’t push themselves along, nor do they pedal. They use their feet on the back wheels to move in and out to propel forwards. This is such fun, not to mention fantastic exercise. The 3 wheels allows the children who may not have full balance yet to use this scooter just as easily  as the older children.

The Vtriker Elite is available in several colours from UKayed. For further information visit www.vtriker.com

RRP £69.99

Magical Mermaid.

For the younger child I would recommend something a little simplier to use – a Magical Mairmaid. All it takes is water to have this girl splashing around and enjoying herself. The various mermaids have names and ours is called Corissa.

She would add fun to any little girls bathtime with her gorgeous tail and swimming action. Various styles are available. RRP £10

All these items can be found on www.tobar.co.uk or purchased from amazon and other online retailers.

Baby Annabell.

Now, on to a Christmas classic – Baby Annabell!

Wow, this doll will have every little girl on the planet smiling on Christmas morning. Baby Annabell has been around for some time now and she is a personal favourite of mine – the only doll my second daughter adored – and adore her she did!

Baby Annabell …the most famous of Zapf’s products, this doll comes with a variety of accessories and has a large product line which includes extra bits and bobs, outfits and furniture pieces (Wikipedia)

This could be a good indication of why she is the doll most children have on their Santa lists year after year. The Baby Annabell of 2014 has so many extras. She can cry, laugh, burp, gurgle and slurp in response to many activities. The interaction she provides places her way ahead of many other popular dolls on the market today and I am convinced she will be a firm favourite this Christmas. Who wouldn’t want a dolly who respond to us? Aside from her many ‘talents’, Baby Annabell will steel your heart even when she is on the toy shop shelf.

The presentation is fab – she comes in a gorgeous pink ruffled baby grow with matching accessories. I love that she also comes with her bottle – this is sometimes an ‘extra’ purchase with other dolls. The ultimate touch has got to be her locket. This locket is worn around her lucky owners neck and opens like a traditional locket for a photo to be inserted. My daughters would have loved this!

Other accessories included are a bib and dummy. The doll retails at £49.99 and various stores have offers on at the moment so you could be lucky and swipe her up for a little less. However, take my advice and don’t delay – she will sell out for certain!

Lalaloopsey Girls Jewel Sparkles Deluxe Doll.

I adore Lalaloopsey – in all shapes and sizes. My kids have a huge selection of the mini dolls and a few of the larger dolls as well. The doll I have chosen for this feature is a little larger than a barbie doll and she is really gorgeous! Don’t you agree?

Jewel Sparkles has all your little one will need for lots of fun. She comes with Pix E Flutters, butterfly hair clips, printed pyjamas and firefly- her cute little pink cat.

Her hair is beautiful and the colour can be changed by simply adding water – what little girl wouldn’t love this on Christmas morning?

Despite the size of the doll and all the accessories, you can snap this up for a mere £19.99 from Argos, Asda, House of Frazer, Ebay and many other retailers.

For further information on both these dolls visit www.us.zapfcreation.com

Breyer Shadowbox.

Now for something for girls a little older – this has got to be the most beautifully presented set of horses there is! The Shadowbox from the well known company Breyer would be any little girls dream gift.

My children loved this set and have played with the various horses for weeks. I have found them in all sorts of unusual places from the dining room table to the top of the washing machine, this was really very popular with them! The set itself is quite impressive as well as beautiful to look at. Each and every horse is expertly hand painted, the detail exact and with very realistic features.

The variety within the set allows for ample imaginative play scenarios and the horses stand alone easily. If you are on the lookout for something for the horse lover do not let the Shadowbox set from Breyer escape you.

Another variation in this range worthy of a mention is the Wind Dancers. These are similar sized to the Shadowbox so would work quite well together.

The addition of glitter makes this set even more appealing to children, the wings adorned with sparkles adds that special magical touch all little girls adore. The Wind Dancer horses come with a really great full colour story booklet.

The Breyer Shadowbox is excellently priced at £29.99 and available from several well known retailers – Amazon, Argos, Ebay etc.

Kleeneze – Personalised ‘Monster High’ Towel.

My 2nd daughter is ‘Monster High’ mad and has over 30 dolls now. Needless to say her Christmas list will have lots more dolls on it as well, with a few accessories to match.

If this scanerio sounds familar I have a brilliant suggestion for you this Christmas. My daughter has recently started to go swimming at school with her class and she is so in envy of the other girls with her very own personalised ‘Monster High’ swimming towel!

There are quite a few reasons I love this towel. The first and most obvious is that it is personalised – her name is clearly printed in co-ordinating pink writing. Cait holds the world record for losing things – she has even lost an entire school uniform in the past, including the shoes!  However, this won’t happen to her swimming towel thanks to Kleeneze excellent personalisation service.

I also recommend this as a swimming towel as although large enough to protect the dignity of a 9 year old girl, it is not too large to fit neatly into a swim bag. The texture is velvet soft and not too thick – another plus.

Now, the most important point according to Cait – its a ‘Monster High’ towel!! There are a few out there but don’t even think about it – trust me – this one from Kleeneze is by far the best quality I have seen.

Kleeneze has been on the go for 90 years and they are a direct selling company. This means that you don’t have to trawl the shops looking for good quality household and family items – a catalogue is delivered direct to your door and collected again along with your orders. Our local Kleeneze rep doesn’t even knock – the catalogue is put through the letterbox and if I purchase or not  I just leave it back at the front door on the specified date without any fuss.

Orders can also me made online at www.kleeneze.co.uk

Soul Headphones.

For the older child/teenager and those appreciative of music while on the go I have something truly groundbreaking – Transform headphones from Soul Electronics, the first ever ‘over ear’ headphones designed specifically for sports! Yes, these do not budge when you are running the roads, at the gym, rollerblading etc – they will stay put and deliver exceptional sound quality.

These impressed from the outset. I adore jogging – I am in no way a runner but I dress like I am! I am used to the tiny ear phones I shove as far as possible into my ears for fear they fall out mid run, so I loved having the opportunity to try these innovative headphones from Soul Electronics.

Where do I start?? They sure look the part, wouldn’t you agree?

The headband is rubber and sweat proof as is the audio cable. They fit snugly and they really do not move even when you are running. The memory foam ear pads ensure a comfortable and neat fit thus brilliant sound delivery and these really do feel amazing on.

My run is usually about 4 miles and this takes me 45 minutes. During this time I do not need to adjust these headphones once – I find this absolutely fab! I am also able to answer my calls and adjust volume etc easily and while on the move. Why am I only discovering these now? I must add that the ear pads are washable – a major plus as these are so well suited for sports. This was also my first experience of a ‘tangle free’ cable – another impressive feature that comes in handy when on the move.

I would recommend my Transform Soul headphones for anyone who is out and about and enjoys listening to music. I am delighted with them and will not be resorting back to the usual ‘in ear’ phones I used previous. Despite the exceptional and innovative quality and design these are selling for only £69.99. I have just got my hubby his own set as he was rather impressed with mine and I wouldn’t part with them.

For further information visit www.soulelectronics.com

Urbanz NEON headphones.

If you are looking for a more affordable pair of heaphones but don’t want to compromise on quality I can recommend Urbanz. Their NEON headphone range is available for £29.99 from www.cyw-urbanz.com and they really look well.

They are available in 5 colours – we have the neon blue.

The frame of these headphones is lovely to wear, so wearable and light. The ear pads are ‘soft-to-touch’ and this has to be tried to be believe just how comfortable these are. Compatible with a variety of devices and with an anti-tangle cord, these would be a perfect gift for a teenager or even mum!

My daughter loves her set, especially as they are blue, exactly the match of her Super dry jacket!  When I have the kids in bed I enjoy a walk with the dog and now I never leave without my Urbanz headphones either.

Excellent clear sound and exceptional tone, these are well prices and an excellent buy for Christmas 2014.

Just want to mention Urbanz also have neon in-ear phones for those who prefer them.

H and A Handa-uk.com

Children are not children for very long these days. I have a 9yr old going on 15yrs and I am sure I’m not alone in this. Cait knows what she wants from Santa and has her list written for some time now. However, I like to have a few little surprises from mum and dad – nothing that will compete with the big man himself but something she will like and not discard on Boxing day.

Handa-uk.com have a great selection of gift sets for kids – they are easily picked up in supermarkets and even Boots chemist. The prices are perfect, for what I am looking for, and you will find many familiar favourites among the selection.

I love this Juicy Lucy Lip Balm Duo.

What little girl doesn’t like make-up and lip balms? The packaging is rather cute, a little house shaped box, and the lip balms are even cuter! They smell so good and only retail at £4. Pick this little set up while doing your weekly shop at Sainsbury’s.

For your little Disney Princess fan why not go for the Disney Princess Ariel Beauty Treasure set from Wilkinson.

This set is surly treasure to a little girl with its shimmering seashell lip balm, sparkling earrings and hair clips. A beaded charm bracelet completes the set. RRP £5

Is there a Doctor in the house?? YES – who doesn’t adore Dr McStuffins? Why not steer Santa in the right direction this year with this bumper bath time set featuring none other than the brave Dr herself?

Filled with lots of treats to keep bath time fun this is a super little stocking filler. The set includes a magnifying lens, a name badge, bath crayon and glitter bath sprinkles – just the remedy for any little Princess feeling under the weather. Available from Tesco and Boots chemist for £6

Superdrug Christmas Gifts 2014.

Filling an older child’s stocking was somewhat difficult until I discovered Superdrug. Once again, the intention was not to shop unless for the necessities, I picked up a few bargains locally. So many people shop online and I have to admit it is the ultimate in convenience but I like the traditional retail experience where I browse from shop to shop popping into little coffee shops on my route!

Superdrug have loads and loads of stocking fillers for that ‘awkward age’. My eldest daughter is 11 yrs and she loves a little shopping trip to Superdrug. I have selected a few of the best but they have so much you should really have a look in store or online.

Sweet Snuggles is a fab range of cosy gifts. The colours are pink and yellow and the fleece is as soft as I have ever felt. The range includes socks, blanket, hot water bottle and ear muffs.

RRP £10

I have the socks and blanket and I know they will perfectly add to any stocking this Christmas – although the socks may find themselves in my sock drawer. I love toastie feet at Christmas and these are so warm and snuggly.

RRP £6

Another range I love – probably my favourite – are the Flutter products.

The bag set is gorgeous with lots of little dogs on a pastel background. This would appeal to any little girl and would make a great make-up bag or toilet bag. Snap this up quick as it is now £16 reduced to £7 !!

To compliment the bags why not add a nail polish set RRP £7 reduced to £4.50 or a lovely lip gloss RRP £2.50 now £1.50?

These prices are hard to beat and the gifts are so well presented. The value for money you are getting is just what we all need coming up to Christmas.

For further information visit your local Superdrug or online at www.superdrug.com

Mustard – perfect stocking fillers for 2014.

Mustard is the site to look up if you are short of a few stocking fillers for older children. I picked up a load of really cool and original gifts from www.justmustard.com

My eldest daughter is 11yrs and there was lots of choice for kids her age, both boys and girls. In particular I love the Glow Your Own, a permanent glow in the dark paint for only £5.

This can literally be used anywhere and I have to admit it appealed to myself as well! How clever will my plant pots look at the front door with my mad glow in the dark graffiti? I have had a lot of fun with this.

Another great and rather unusual item was the pack of highlighter pens. These look fab as they are ‘disguised’ as nail polish. My daughter has said her friends thought these were ‘so cool’.

This set is only priced at £7. There are a few varieties and I will be purchasing these again. They would be perfect party bag fillers for older children.

The ‘photomug’ is an awesome gift for adults as well as teenagers. This is very popular with people shopping for gifts for the photo addict, photographers and generally anyone who would appreciate the style of the mug. Our friend collects old cameras and this was the gift I selected for him this year and I know he will be so chuffed.

Drumond Park  SHOUT, Articulate for Kids and Logo Grab.

Recently I have been lucky to be asked to rate some games from Drumond Park. This is always fun as my children love board games – its almost a Sunday afternoon ritual in our house!

New for 2014 Drumond Park have released SHOUT RRP £29.99

SHOUT is suitable for ages 12 yrs and over although my 9 year old managed it quite well. The object of the game is to look at a card, link the image and SHOUT the answer but there is only 60 seconds to do this! My daughter loves this game and she has a distinct advantage over her dad as the wording is rather modern. BFF and LOL are thrown into the mix which keeps the game ‘young’ and ‘fun’. This terminology certainly appeals to the children. An excellent game which will be very popular with all the family this Christmas.

Another game new for 2014 is the fast and furious Logo Grab.

The Logo games have always been a big hit with our family. My children are logo mad and you will find all the familiar ones such as Rolo, Rice Krispies and Jammie Dodgers! This game takes board games to another level with the tricky dice. There are 8 dice included but 2 have secret bells inside. So, if you think you have scored, you may still come a cropper if you shake the dice with the bell inside. What a fab twist! Another game worth having RRP £14.99

Last but not least we have Articulate for Kids. This game is a spin off from the original and ever popular Articulate.

I like this game as it is suitable for players from 6 yrs and upwards and up to 20 can play! My son is 5yrs and he can hold his own against his sisters – its so funny to listen to him sounding out the words. He is learning through play without even knowing.

The fun begins with the players being split into 2 categories – the ‘guessers’ and the ‘describers’. However, its not as straight forward as you think – there is a 30 second time limit and a strict set of rules to ensure there is no cheating. Articulate for Kids retails at £19.99 and this is really good value. We have had so much fun with this, it is never packed away.

For further information on these games and others from Drumond Park visit www.drumondpark.com

Books for Christmas stockings.

To finish this gift guide I am suggesting a few books which can be slipped into a stocking or under a tree.

Boris and the Dumb skulls RRP £7.99

My daughters both read this book and they could be heard laughing from one end of the house to the other. The story includes some unusual and magical characters from a witch, mummies and vampires to name but a few. The fun and wit of this book is perfect for the targeted age group, 7+, and they will honestly not set this book down until they are finished.

The 2 latest books from the series ‘What do the Grown-ups do?’ would be an excellent stocking filler. ‘Richard the Vet’ and ‘Fiona the Doctor’, as well as the fun factor of seeing into the life of a real life doctor and vet, these books tell the story in a fun way which is both entertaining and informative.

Your kids will learn why people have smelly feet and discover the antics of a large animal vet on a farm. My kids love these books and always look forward to the next books to be released.

‘What do the grown-ups do?’ Children’s book series has recently won ‘Bronze medal winner 2014 for BEST SERIES NON-FICTION Moonbeam Children’s Book Awards’

RRP £7.99 from all good book stores.