As it gets colder, and more playtime will be spent indoors, you might be thinking about cute new playthings to get your little ones.  These toys are adorable- keep your eye out for them, as they are sure to find their way onto holiday wish lists (those are coming up faster then we think!)

Zoomer has been around for a few years now, first with the arrival of the adorable dog (at the time, just called “Zoomer”) and then with quite a few iterations and species since then.  There are now all kinds, sizes, and colors of “Zoomer” (Zoomers?) that your kids can play with, the newest being Zoomer Jester and Zoomer Chomplingz. The new Zoomer Jester is the all-new interactive Zoomer Dino ( the “Jokeasaurus”), and a silly version that loves to make you laugh.

Jester can detect your movement with his nose as he rolls around balanced on his two wheels.  Like the other “Zoomers”, he can get angry, spin around, chomp, growl, and more (this one giggles, too).  He is controlled by your hands or the remote control- he even “learns” tricks you teach him. Make sure you charge him up when you are done playing so that it’s all ready to go for the next bout of fun.  Prices vary, available in stores like Toys R Us and Amazon.

Zoomer Chomplingz are little versions of the Zoomer Dinos, and just as much fun. They are interactive, having mouth and nose sensors as well to detect motion, and come with a bone to play catch with. These dinos make all sorts of noises- including passing gas.  Yes- gross.  So, you know your kids (and dad) will love it even more.  Chomplingz can also be set into “gaurd mode” to protect your room (or dinner!) and will ferociously growl at those that dare to tread near your belongings. There are 3 versions available everywhere, and 5 that are each exclusive to a certain store (IE Walmart, Toys R Us, etc).  Check out http://zoomerdino.com for info on where to buy your favorite, prices, and more.

When you are ready for bed, check out Cloud Pets. These cuddly companions are good for more then snuggles- mom, dad, or anyone you choose can leave your child a message that can be replayed over and over again- just in case they are being missed. This Bluetooth-enabled plush toy from Jay at Play lets families and friends connect by downloading the free app from the Apple Store or Google Play and then recording a message to your child.  After the message is received by the cloud (where they got the name)  your adorable pet, which is available in Puppy, Kitty, Teddy, Bunny, Elephant, or Unicorn, can play back that message as often as desired. Only one message at a time can be played, and you must be close to the pet when you are making the recording- no sending messages from Alabama to Florida! A blinking red light lets your child know there is a new message waiting for them- they can just squeeze it’s paw to hear it, and even reply back to the sender. Get yours at http://cloudpets.com.

The fun to build littleBits Gizmos & Gadgets Kit is so much fun for kids who enjoy building, tinkering, and inventing. The one kit provides all the materials and instructions to design 15+creations, not to mention what kids can experiment and design on their own.  Kids can build anything from a functioning racecar, or a bubble machine, to just figuring out how the gears work- it’s even good for smaller tinkerers- you know your kids best, but I would say 7 or 8 and above (and adults can play, too).

Yes, mom and dad, there IS and handbook- some of us need it.  Here is a list of what it comes with- “The Gizmos & Gadgets Kit comes with a range of electronic building blocks, a detailed, step-by-step handbook with instructions for 15+ inventions, and all the accessories and craft tools needed.” (From manufacturer) There is more online, on the littleBits website and the free littleBits app.  Get yours at http://littlebits.cc/shop

For the Starawberry Shortcake lover in your life- or the girl who grew up in the 80’s- there are a bunch of awesome options this year, as Strawberry is celebrating her 35th birthday.  In celebration, there are some special toys to mark the occasion. There is a cute Strawberry Shortcake Classic 35^th Anniversary Edition Small Doll, and she looks and smells just like she did when I was a kid- really.  It brings back great memories for me, and she inspires new games and imaginative play for kids today. This special edition reproduction of the original doll can only be found at Target. Retails for $10. 

Looking for something more cuddly?  The Strawberry Shortcake Classic Rag Doll 35^th Anniversary Edition will do the trick, and she is adorable. She is great to take along on trips, put in your “baby” stroller, and tuck in to bed with your child at night.  Also- great for the collector.  She is $20.

Not retro, but still fun for kids (and a great take along toy) is the Strawberry Shortcake’s House Playset.  Of course, with it’s signature “strawberry” scent, this house will be the best place for Strawberry and all her pals to get together for parties. It comes with (an exclusive to this playset) 6 inch Strawberry Shortcake doll and Custard the cat figure to start off the collection. The strawberry shaped house opens up to show off the interior of Starwberry’s  café , and comes with quite a few accessories like cakes, pies, items for Custard, a table, and more.  Retails for $40.