(Creativity for Kids $24.95) Our testers loved this set that comes with a unicorn in a little bag that they could use to carry around their pet -- or use separately "when I leave her home." But wait -- there's more...the kit also comes with a makeup kit that includes washable makeup for the unicorn. Comes with two colors, two sets of eyelashes (that can be removed and reused) as well as some gemstones that have adhesive. The Unicorn can be washed so that the makeup can be r

(Creativity for Kids $15.99) Our testers thought this was a really great kit with lots of things to make and use. Comes with a see through belt bag with purple trim and stickers for decorating. There are also 3 headbands and 4 hair clips that are ready for embellishment. And picking up on a major fashion trend, there are beads and a clip for making your own bag charm and bracelets. Would make a great birthday or holiday gift for the 6 & up crowd. For a smaller kit, look at

(Mattel $31.99) If you have a Barbie and ballet fan in your house, you'll want to check out this very special Barbie in the Nutcracker. She comes in a fun display box where you can make her tutu spin. Barbie's feet are adjustable so she can go en pointe. Her arms are also posable. Her legs lift but do not bend -- so no pliés possible. The company's video shows an African-American Version but we are not finding it online. Ages: Early School Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Gold Awa

(Creativity for Kids $24.99 each) Here's a fun and novel activity kit with a big payoff at the end. The set comes with a fully assembled Unicorn (or Dragon) that is see through. The kit comes with stickers, gems and accessories to add to each. Now here's the payoff -- you plug it and now you have a beautiful night light . Each use a USB Cord for power. Adding the accessories calls for fine motor skills -- that may require some adult assitance depending on your child's age. Sc

(SimplyFun $25) Here's a wonderful new math game from SimplyFun that's a great way to work on building confidence -- without feeling like a drill. The game play is easy to learn. You roll the die and then from the cards in your hand, you add cards to reach the "elevator number. The player that completes the number, gets to take all the cards. The player with the most cards at the end -- wins the game. We wish the elevator had dimension -- to feel more like an elevator - but

(eeBoo $18.99) You'll find a bit of magic being used in many of the rooms of this school setting. For example, the art room has students painting a dragon (happily posing), a science lesson with small planets floating in the air and a dining room with a ocean setting in the ceiling. Lots to talk about as you put this one together. Marked 5 & up but will require adult assistance . A great parent-child project. Also fun for garden-minded kids, Love of Pollinators that features

(eeBoo $18.99) A perfect holiday puzzle to work on together. Our tester loved that it came in a box that looked like a house. The puzzle features a house with Santa, Mrs. Claus, elves, reindeer and tons of presents! The joyful illustration by Kaly Quarles are a treat. While the box has a pointed top (like a roof), the puzzle itself is rectangular (14" x 10"). which makes it easier to put together. Ages: Early School Years Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Gold Seal Award 2026

(Vango $59.99) Here's the perfect summer outdoor game for mixed ages. The idea is to land your cone in the center spot (for which you get three points). All other placements are worth 1 point. But here's the fun -- you can steal your opponent's point by capturing the same spot. First player or team to get to 11 points wins the round. We love that this game can be played in teams and by everyone. Our younger players just stood closer when tossing. You can also play this gam

(RAZOR $118) Here's a really fun new ride-on from RAZOR -- no batteries required. You make it go by moving your feet on the bar that sits in front of the single large wheel that takes you forward. There are two smaller back wheels on the cart. It does come with a safety flag since the cart rides very low to the ground. It's still very important that this toy only be used in a safe "no car" area. You'll also want to be sure that your child has a helmet. Marked 4 and up but

(LEGO $29.97) Fans of LEGO FRIENDS will enjoy this small build and then enjoy playing with this adorable doggie bakery complete with doggie treats, an espresso maker, a working door for going in and out, a doggie door (of course) and a counter area. The set comes with 278 pieces. If your child is younger -- this would be a good parent-child set or an independent build for more experienced LEGO builders. Marked 6 and up. Ages: Early School Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Gold Seal