***Go to the 2008 Hot Toys List*** Every year, certain toys top the holiday hot list. For parents of multiples, the challenge to find not one -- but two or three! -- of the coveted items can be an effort in frustration and futility. Retailers and "Toy Wishes" magazine have identified the following toys as potential top sellers for the 2007 holiday season. Get 'em before they're hot, to avoid disappointment come December.
2-for-1 Toys for Twins | 3-for-1 Toys for Triplets | Toys That Multiples Can Share | Twin Dolls | All Toys
2-for-1 Toys for Twins | 3-for-1 Toys for Triplets | Toys That Multiples Can Share | Twin Dolls | All Toys
1. EyeClops Handheld Bionic Eye
Plug the EyeClops into your TV and then use the handheld wand to project a magnified image onto the screen. You can view any object up to 200 times it's original size. While this is definitely a toy that twins or multiples can play with together, they will have to take turns operating the "brain case" to scan images. Because the EyeClops connects via a cord to the television set, it must be used in close proximity to the television. However, for about the price of a video game, it can provide hours of entertainment, as well as stimulate curious kids to explore the world around them. Recommended for ages 6 - 12, but will probably be enjoyed by kids (and even adults!) of all ages.
2. Fisher Price Smart Cycle
The Smart Cycle is a video game that is active as well as interactive. Kids to pedal their way through games that teach preschool skills such as counting, spelling and shape matching. The smart cycle is sized for preschool kids up to age six. It plugs into a television set. As kids sit on the stationary bike game console, they can pedal and steer their way through games and races, or take a rest to play games using a joystick controller. Additional software cartridges are sold separately and feature popular characters like Dora the Explorer, Barbie and SpongeBob. While the concept is certainly appealing, the Smart Cycle can only be used by one child at a time. Are your twins willing to take turns? Read a review from About Toys.
3. Transformers Ultimate Bumblebee
The popularity of the 2007 movie "Transformers" has generated a renewed interest in this popular line of toys. The appeal is understandable; Transformers combine two favorite toy elements: vehicles and action figures. The Ultimate Bumblebee is generously sized, standing more than a foot tall when transformed into a robot. It is fully poseable, with advanced animatronic design. It makes speech, music and battle sound effects and has sound detection capabilities. It transforms into a 1/14th scale Camaro with working headlights. If you've got twin boys, you'd better get one for each of them. Read a review of the Transformers Ultimate Bumblebee from Hasbro at About Toys.
4. Zizzle Spotz Maker
The Zizzle Spotz Maker seems incredibly fun to use. What are "Spotz", you might ask? They are small plastic discs -- described as "fashion gems" by the manufacturer -- that can be custom designed with images and used to decorate a variety of accessories. This is a toy with fantastic creative potential; even my twelve-year-olds have it on their wish list. The product is accompanied by a web presence, found at spotz.com, where kids can print and share their personalized designs, then pop them in the Spotz Maker to make gems. Use the gems to trade with friends or to decorate the available accessories like purses and picture frames. This toy could easily be shared by multiples, especially if they each receive their own accessory to decorate.
5. Rubik's Revolution
Many parents remember when the Rubik's Cube was a hot toy. The 2007 edition is quite different, with 2007 innoventions like electronic lights and sound. It plays six games, including a multi-player version. Rather than turning the individual cubes, players manipulate the whole cube and press lights. Rubik's Revolution is more similar to games like Simon or Bop It than the original Rubik's cube, but it's just as fun and addictive to play. Better get two for your twins!
6. Hannah Montana Fashion Dolls
Hannah Montana is a huge hit among girls, from preschool through teens. Fans will go crazy for these dolls, released by Disney and Jakks Pacific. Clad in authentic outfits from the concert tour, the doll also plays a song from the popular television series. The dolls are also available in a Miley Cyrus version, and play sets are also available, including a concert stage and backstage closet. If your twin girls are happy to play the divided roles of Hannah and Miley, these are perfect. If not, take heart. The singing Hannah Montana dolls come in two twin-friendly versions: "Best of Both Worlds" and "The Other Side of Me."
7. Rose Petal Cottage
This toy caught my eye on the television show, Jon and Kate + 8. The Gosselin sextuplets were so cute playing in this toddler-sized playhouse! There is multiple appeal in the cottage; with two halves, there is ample room for twins or more. The two halves nest together and contain the accessories for easy storage. The cottage can be customized with accessories, such as a sink, washing machine or lounge chair, (sold separately, of course) so that you can furnish it in a way that makes every child happy. While outfitted with lots of girly details like roses and lace, the Gosselin boys seemed to enjoy playing house despite the feminine decor.
What's Hot At Your House?
What's on your multiples' wish lists this holiday season? Tell me about the hot toys at your house.










