Your holiday toy guide for 2019 is officially here.
We’re weeks away from gift-giving season, and some of the most eager people on your shopping list this year have to be children (or those adults who are still kids at heart).
READ MORE: Baby Yoda of ‘The Mandalorian’ is here to unite the internet
Shopping for kids is often easy, many of them have their eyes on that one (or two) toy during the year. But if you’re looking for options this year, we have everything from the on-trend to the best selling toys from major retailers in Canada.
Check out Global News’ top toy picks for 2019.
For the kids eager to know more
Whether your child is curious about mixing potions or experimenting with their first colour-changing volcano, a trend this year is science-based toys. From do-it-yourself boxes to educational kits that promote STEM, these gifts are perfect for shoppers looking for something challenging this holiday season. You may just have to deal with the mess.
Science Experiment Lab Kit, $14.99 available at Winners
Scientific Explorer My First Mind Blowing Science Kit, $9.27, available at Amazon
Osmo Little Genius Starter Kit, $84, available at Indigo
Creatable World Deluxe Character Kit Customizable Doll, $40, available at a variety of retailers
Geode Kit – National Geographic, $50, available at a variety of retailers
For the kids who can’t get enough of the trends
Some kids just know the trendiest, most popular holiday gift before their parents do. From trending options like Pokemon to popular movies and TV shows like Frozen to Avengers to Paw Patrol, these gifts end up being the top of every wish-list. For the kid who is picky about what they want, sometimes the safest option is the best-selling toy. This year we’ve seen everything from a cute plushy Charmander that makes over 20 sounds to a 540-piece LEGO set featuring a robotic walker from the new Star Wars.
LEGO Disney Princess Elsa’s Jewelry Box Creation, $50, available at a variety of retailers
Pokemon Flame Action Charmander Interactive Plush, $45, available at a variety of retailers
Marvel Legends Series Avengers: Endgame Power Gauntlet Articulated Electronic Fist, $150, available at a variety of retailers
Cool Maker, GO GLAM Nail Stamper, $35, available at a variety of retailers
LEGO Star Wars AT-ST Raider from The Mandalorian, $70, available at a variety of retailers
Paw Patrol Mighty Lookout Tower, $103, available at Well.ca
For kids who love surprises
There’s nothing like getting a surprise during the holidays. Unboxing and surprise toys continue to be popular for the holiday season. From mystery eggs to a L.O.L Surprise pop-up shop, these are the toys your kids won’t stop talking about.
READ MORE: Salvation Army’s annual Christmas Kettle Campaign returns with goal of $550,000
L.O.L. SURPRISE! Amazing Surprise 14-Doll Unboxing Experience, $179, available at Indigo
Ryan’s World Mini Mystery Egg, $16, available at Canadian Tire
5 Surprise Unicorn Squad 2 Pack, $14, available at Amazon
Yup, kids still love ‘gross’ things
Newsflash, slime is still cool. While this may be the messiest gift on your child’s wish-list, slime, squishy or pop-themed gifts are still popular and for kids (and some adults), absolutely hilarious.
The Hangrees Mutant Turds Collectible Parody Figure with Slime, $13 to $40, available at a variety of retailers
Poopyhead The Game, $20, available at Walmart
Nickelodeon Extreme Slime Creations Deluxe Kit, $30, available at a variety of retailers
Poopsie Slime Machine Claw Machine, $40, available at Indigo
Rethinking the classics
Remember the games you grew up with? Well, they don’t look the same in 2019. From smart versions of your favourite board games (think voice-activated instructions) to classic ’90s games with a rebrand, some of the most popular trends this year include trendy gifts from the past.
READ MORE: ‘Frozen 2’ review: Lukewarm follow-up is beautiful, but bland
Pictionary Air, $20, available at a variety of retailers
Monopoly Voice Banking, $30, available at Walmart
Bop It Disney Frozen 2 Olaf Edition, $27, available at the Bay
Smart toys that will get all the attention
Toys have come a long way. Sometimes the simple touches work, but for some kids, it’s all about technology. These smart toys not only require the use of apps, tablets or other devices, but they will challenge your child to think outside the box. From smart trains to cool globes to robots, these gifts are perfect for the curious child on your list.
Intelino Smart Train Starter Set, $150, available at Best Buy
Augmented Reality Interactive Globe for Kids, $50, available at Amazon
Sphero Mini Robotic Ball, $40, available at Best Buy
Black Sequin Light Up Boots, $50, available at Marshalls
For more gift ideas, budget tips and the best (and worst) of holiday entertainment, check out our Holidays 2019 guide here.