With summer winding down, here are a few fun items that are sure to delight even the pickiest members of the family.
Pomsies (Pomsies)
While these adorable, creatures might be aimed at girls, we all know that gender marketing is ridiculous, and we know plenty of boys who like playing with Pomsies. Wearable, interactive, and sweet, these could be the next Fingerlings, or Furby. Pomsies have a long fuzzy tail that can be wrapped around your wrist, suitcase, backpack, or whatever works for your child. They also have eyes that light up and change color to express their mood or state of “mind” (such as being hungry, silly, or happy) and they react in 50 different ways when you play with them. They purr when you interact with them, and love it when you brush them with their included brush. Available at all major retailers for about $15. http://www.pomsies.com/
Grumblies (Grumbliesmeltdown)
For the exact opposite of Pomsies, check out Grumblies. Much like your cranky 2-year old, there is no pleasing a Grumblies. Grumblies are short-tempered trouble makers who don’t want to hear a word about it. They have more than 40 reactions when you play with them, but unlike their better-behaved cousins Pomsies, you can’t cuddle or nurture Grumblies. The more you interact with them, the angrier they get. Each Grumbly has its own personality and sounds. $20 at major retailers. https://grumbliesmeltdown.com/
Waggables (Waggables)
Adorable, of course, but these pets are also quite unique and fun to make. It all starts with a visit to the Waggables website, where the customizer lets you design a pet that looks just like yours, from nose to tail. About four weeks later, you’ll receive a plush ball of adorableness that your child will love snuggling up with. In the meantime, you’ll get email updates telling you about your pet’s progress. Perfection takes time, after all. The notifications are really cute and the kids will enjoy them. $40 at https://www.waggables.com
Soccerborg (TOMY)
Can’t get enough of the World Cup? Perfect for soccer fans of any age or ablility, Soccerborg is an innovative game that lets you and your opponent battle it out even when you’re stuck indoors. Your favorite soccer players are replaced by robots, which go head-to-head in a game of skill. Work your robot’s corresponding remote control to dribble, shoot, pass, and more. Soccerborg combines the fun of playing soccer with RC technology, and your FIFA fan will love it. And if you’re playing against your child, it’s a little more evenly matched then on the real soccer field. Requires 10 AAA batteries. About $60 at major retailers or https://tomy.com/soccerborg/soccerborg
Lucky’s Happy Home (Playmobil)
When they make their big move to the countryside, Lucky lives with her dad, her Aunt Cora, and her courageous horse, Spirit, in their new home in Miradero. If your child is a fan of the new animated series by Dreamworks, or of horses in general, this playset by Playmobil is sure to be a huge kit. This set (No. 9475), is a true-to-the-show replica, complete with an equipped kitchen and secret hideout. The set is really lovely, and comes with Lucky, Aunt Cora, Spirit, a goose, and everything you need for a kitchen (Aunt Cora is famous for her meals and is intent on teaching Lucky how to be a “proper lady,” so the kitchen is kind of a big deal here). Don’t worry, though, Lucky has plenty of spunk, and we all know that well-behaved women rarely make history…. About $100 at https://www.playmobil.us
(Armin and Samantha are the authors of the popular parenting blogs: http://www.mrdad.com and http://www.havesippywilltravel.com.
For more reviews of toys and games, visit http://www.parentsatplay.com/)