When I was growing up one of my favourite toys was my Ballerina Sindy. She wasn't very different from a normal Sindy (apart from the tutu) but what she could do was 'point' her feet. Unfortunately, her ankle quickly snapped, resulting in feet that would neither bend nor go flat. (Many of my friends' Sindys had the same joint problem so I know it wasn't just me making her practice Swan Lake again and again.)
Today's kids are really spoiled for choice in the toy department, and as Woody and Jessie found out, it's not enough just to look good, you have to have a little more going on if you want to keep this discerning generation entertained.
|
Of the current crop of dolls, most of whom come with their own interactive computer games, one of the best has to be the Moxie Girlz™ (!), who are on a mission to encourage 'positive attitude and confidence'. Moxie comes in various styles and with various talents, but six-year-old Elsa's favourite is 'Avery', shown here in her 'Art-titude' guise (£19.99). It's not just her fashion sense (although really love those flower-patterned leathers) - but she also comes with her own motorbike and coloured markers. (In your face, Ballerina Sindy).
|
|
 |
 |
|
Meanwhile little ones will absolutely love the fabulous WotWots, made popular by the Channel5 series. These plush toys are cute and soft, of course, but they also sing, giggle and make adorable sounds. Spotty is blue and Dotty is pink, and I can imagine any child would be thrilled to receive either one on Christmas Day (suitable for 18 months plus, £17.99).
|
You can get both toys from Toys 'R' Us - which is celebrating its 25th Christmas this year (I know, I can still remember the theme tune to the advert - if you're too young, it's being shown again on TV tonight).
Over the next few weeks I'll be highlighting lots of the best toys to find under the tree this Christmas - but meanwhile, what were your favourite toys when you were a kid? Anyone else have a Ballerina Sindy?