As a toy connoisseur, a child who had toys from all over the world, a mom who kept her kids unpolluted by television dreck, and a step-grandmother who watches how kids play with screens, I will give you my views on the top (iPad and iPod) digital game trends for 2011/2012. These are the top apps according to Toys R Us.
Hot Tech Toys for Kids: Christmas 2011
In general, I eschew tech toys for young children. If you are a parent or a grandparent, and you haven’t promised your child/grandchild a closed-end (uncreative) tech game, try to find something else for a gift. Well, it depends on the age of your grandchild. Teens, tweenies, and older grade-schoolers are the right ages for “screen” apps, but preschoolers should, in my opinion, have limited screen time. Click links for youTube info on each product.
1. Disney Pixar Cars 2 Appmates from Spin Master:
This game is for an iPad, so make sure the child has access to one. I think that some iPad apps are great for younger kids, but this “racing” game looks repetitive and you have to keep track of the toy car. If you lose the “real” Disney Pixar car, you can’t play this game.
Tip: If you don’t want your boy to grow bored with his Disney Pixar Cars app, save it for road trips and plane rides. This is perfect for kids from divorced families, who have to commute between two homes. I would save this app for special occasions.
The toy cars are cheap ($20 for 2) and the racetrack is free as a download at iTunes. Apple is trying to get your family to buy a second iPad (for your kid) by virtually giving this toy away. Actually, buying an iPad for your kid is not, necessarily, a bad idea if you can (easily) afford it and your child takes care of his/her possessions. I recommend this app for kids who travel. Ages 4 years and up.
2. iCade Arcade Cabinet for iPad(TM) from Ion Audio Kids:
This is cool. Insert your iPad into this mini arcade station and play little retro arcade games. It comes with one game (Missile Commands) and you have to buy the rest, but they are inexpensive. Dad may like this more than the kids, so you will need another iPad for him. I recommend buying this arcade cabinet because I would play it, and who can afford a real arcade game? Ages 8 years and up, and up and up.
3. iMarker Digital Stylus + Crayola ColorStudio HD App from Griffin
I, originally, gave this product a bad review based on the above video report. I would like to change my mind after talking to several people. This app works fine if you don't have a screen protector. So, take that into consideration. Tip: You have to make sure your child doesn't try to write on your screen with a real marker.
The iMarker digital pen is about $30, however, the app is a free download, so you might want to get the free download and let your child use this for “fingerpainting” on your iPad. It’s perfect for travel. I recommend the free download and, if you've got the money, the iMarker. Ages 3 years and up.
4. My 3D Viewer for iPhone / iPod Touch from Hasbro:
Basically, your kid needs to have his or her own iPhone or iPod Touch. If you’ve met that goal, this might be an okay app or it might get old fast. From what I’ve seen and read, the viewfinder gives adults headaches, the “educational” popups are difficult to read, the interactive buttons are limited, and the 3D element is nothing great. It’s not good for travel if your child is sitting on a plane or in a car next to another passenger because your child will whap someone in the face when moving around. The viewer is about $35 and most of the downloads are free, but I don’t think this app is all that great, so I recommend waiting for an improved model or just ignoring this boring toy altogether. Ages 8 years and up.
Digital toys are great when used in limited doses. Otherwise, you might as well just plop your child in front of the tube to make him or her into a boring adult/TV robotron. However, I love iPad apps for travel (to save your co-travelers – like me – from hearing hours of whining). Also, you can use time on these games as special rewards for finishing homework or chores.
More Articles:
Most Popular Christmas Toys for 2011 at Amazon: My Reviews
Christina Gregoire - Christina Gregoire writes about divorce, fashion, and baby boomers. Her forte is explaining complex ideas in simple language.
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