The Hottest Toys for 2007

Year after year more and more toys flood the market, new trends rise, new trends die. Finally a trend comes along that will probably last for a while; Webkinz. Ok I must admit at first glance these look like a total gimmick to suck parents dry of every last dollar this year. However this toy crosses a barrier not many toys have been able to do. Not only are they cool, educational and fun, kids and parents alike seem to love them. Unlike many toy trends this one will last more than 1-2 years and you're about to find out why.

I know you are probably saying to yourself now (yeah right) but webkinz are different than other toys. They seem to come to life and children everywhere can't wait to get home and finish their homework to play with their webkinz online. So what is going to make them last you might ask? Tickle Me Elmo didn't last more than 2 years beanie babies they were great for a short time. Well the answer is simple; creation. When you go online with your webkinz pet you give it life into a game and then build your pet up and earn kinz cash after creating their pet and their world. Think of it as almost role playing a character that you created. Its also an interactive world that has limitless potential as long as Ganz continually updates the enviroment kids will be hooked at the changes. So you build your pet up in a new world and bring it all to life. Sure it could get dull at some point and it will as kids get older they won't want to play anymore, but new recruits can be brought in everyday. Unlike most toys that are just a physical doll or toy this brings entertainment to a new level. You get the physical products and the mental product of going into your own little world.

I see this trend lasting awhile I'd estimate about 5 years. Even after 5 years however it won't be dead it will have life for upwards of 7-8 years before fading out with the next new hot product that takes the world by storm. Webkinz bring a whole new element to the interactive experience that kids have longed for for years that outside of a video game or console system never really existed. Ganz will create new products each year that revolve in the webkinz universe that collectors and kids alike will have to get their hands on. Even as we speak some of the collectors pieces are going for over $200!

The trend will be determined by supply and demand right now supplies are low and eventually supply will meet demand and the trend will level off and fade away. It won't fade away for quite some time however because this product simply has it all. Parents think of it as a way to keep your kids out of trouble and away from violence all while enjoying their own virtual world.

Mikey Simms

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11 Activities to Build Math Skills Using Art, Games, and Books

Homeschoolers have a wonderful opportunity to explore the world in a way that sitting at a desk can never do. A hands-on approach to mathematics helps a child not only learn the concept but to really understand it.

In our home, we have just started a new math skill: ordering. So to prepare for these lessons on ordering, I planned a few art projects, some games, and ordered some really good books.

Listed below, you will find the books, projects, and games that I used.

Full list of books:

I always like using stories to teach math concepts. There is something that triggers comprehension when you can experience it in a book. Maybe books word things better than I can. Maybe it is the pictures. Or maybe it is because stories always make an impact on children. Most likely, it is actually the connection children make with the characters.

The Best Bug Parade by Stuart J. Murphy

The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle

Who Sank the Boat? by Pamela Allen

How Big Is a Foot? by Rolf Myller

One Was Johnny by Maurice Sendak

Mighty Maddie by Stuart J. Murphy

Full list of games:

Game #1:

You will need toys of various sizes. We used stuffed animals. Children put them in order from tallest to shortest, and then shortest to tallest. Key words: short, shorter, shortest, tall, taller, tallest.

Game #2:

You will need building blocks (plastic connecting blocks or wooden stacking blocks will do). Build a series of towers where each tower is taller or shorter than the next one. Children like to build stairs, so this would work too. Key words: short, shorter, shortest, tall, taller, tallest.

Game #3:

You will need stairs to climb. With each step up, talk about how much higher you are, and at the top, you are the highest. With each step down, talk about how much lower you are, and at the bottom, you are the lowest. Key words: high, higher, highest, low, lower, lowest.

Game #4:

You will need various items from your pantry. I used a jar of peanut butter, a can of peanuts, a container of hot chocolate mix, an empty mug, and a coffee tin. I picked items that were both heavy and light and where the size had no bearing on the weight. I had the children order them by weight (estimating the weight by picking it up). Key words: heavy, heavier, heaviest, light, lighter, lightest.

Game #5:

You will need 6 Mason jars (or other glass jars that are all the same size), water, and a metal spoon. Set up tone bottles with various amounts of water and then listen to the pitch of each jar by tapping it with a metal spoon. Make note that the lower the pitch the higher the water level. Key words: high, higher, highest, low, lower, lowest.

Game #6:

Play with stacking cups, stacking rings, and Russian nesting dolls.

Full list of art projects:

Art Project #1:

You will need glue, string, and construction paper. I cut the string by inches (i.e. 1 inch, 2 inches, 3 inches, etc.) until I had 8 strings for each child. The children put them in order by length and then used a ruler to measure them. Then they wrote the number of inches by each string and then glued the string onto the paper. Key words: short, shorter, shortest, long, longer, longest.

Art Project #2:

You will need markers, construction paper, and varying sizes of round lids. Centering a lid on the middle of the page, trace it with a marker. Continue to do this for all lids so that the smallest circle is in the center of the largest circle. The child should be able to see the growing sizes of circles. Key words: small, smaller, smallest, big, bigger, biggest, large, larger, largest.

Art Project #3:

You will need varying sizes of shapes drawn on a paper, scissors, glue, and construction paper. Cut out the shapes and glue them in order by size on the construction paper. Key words: small, smaller, smallest, big, bigger, biggest, large, larger, largest.

Art Project #4:

You will need construction paper, scissors, glue, and cutouts of varying shapes. I recommend that the cutouts have a different number available for each shape (i.e. 1 circle, 2 squares, 3 hearts, etc.) Draw a butterfly on a piece of construction paper. Have the children cut out the butterfly and then glue shapes on their wings. When finished, compare the number of shapes on each butterfly. Key words: more, most, less, least.

Art Project #5:

You will need multiple toys of multiple types (i.e. 5 balls, 3 cars, 6 dolls, and 7 stuffed animals). Make a graph where you have a row for each type of toy and fill in a box for each number of that toy. Compare the lines, determining which row has the most and which row has the least. Key words: more, most, less, least.

A Look at the New Mindflex Mind Game

If you want to buy the most amazing game this year then it has to be the mattel mindflex game.

It has to be experienced to be believed. You really are controlling the game with the power of your mind. This is the only game of its type at the present time. You connect a headset with a sensor over your left eyebrow and two clips attach to your ears. The kids love it as it is simply so futuristic.

Your brainwave patterns are then read and this is how the ball is moved. By concentrating you can raise the ball and try to complete a large variety of courses. In fact over 100 courses can be made and this means that as players get better they can make harder courses and compete to see who can do it in the best possible time.

Children are totally engrossed in this game and it is little wonder that it is now one of the best selling toys this year. If you have yet to try it then you truly will be amazed. This is the only telekinetic game on the market but as it is so popular it will not be long before other toys appear that work in a similar manner.

If you are not totally convinced then watch a few of the many videos and you will see just how amazing it really is. The mindflex game is a revolution in games for children and is sure to stay on the top sellers list for some time to come. For something totally different nothing can really beat this new toy from mindflex.

The mattel Mindflex game really is amazing. For the mindflex game cheap please see the mattel mindflex game review.

Interactive Toys Make Learning Fun

The days of G.I. Joe's, Barbie's and board games fulfilling children's playtime activities seems to be a thing of the past. Today's kids are tech savvy and need hi-tech interactive games that supply instant gratification.

Sure, little boys still love to play with their trucks in the mud, while little girls dress their dolls up for tea dates, but today children are computer smart. But that's anything but negative; the best part about them - children are developing their minds and sharpening their intellect while they play games! As a parent it's like getting your cake and eating it too. Now if you could just get them to eat their vegetables!

The best toys for children are indeed those that are interactive and foster learning and playing in one. Interactive toys give children the opportunity to explore, talk, and learn while having fun!

The fourth annual "Hot Holiday: Toys, Game and Video Games" survey from Play-Date, a marketing service firm, found that little boys will be asking for more video game and interactive toys this year then in years past.

With the popularity of the Leapfrog Learning System, educational games have never been so much fun. These learning tools are turning to the TV in a video game format to teach children the basics like colors, animals, the alphabet and more. Today, industry shifts have now moved to computer learning games as well.

One of the most popular interactive toys, if not the most popular of 2007, Webkinz, have taken the industry by storm like none other since the Tamagotchi's craze in the 90's. They are adorable stuffed animals that transport kids into a world of virtual friends, fun, learning and game playing!

Visiting their kid-friendly website, children get to play educational learning games, visit with friends and learn responsibility by taking care of their virtual pet. If you haven't seen one yet, just wait. And if you're a parent with a child who has one, we know you're playing right along with them! Big brothers and sisters are volunteering to help out with the Webkinz just to get a crack at the secret code to enter the Webkinz world.

Following Webkinz has been a whole assortment of interactive computer related games for children like the Lil Kinz, Shining Stars, Ty Girls and Zoobie pets.

While parents might be slow to adapt to kids tech savvy learning of the 21st century - no imaginary friends, less board games - interactive games and toys are an asset to your child's learning and development. Gift them with education by introducing them to the newest developments and latest technologies in learning fun!

PamelasBoutique.biz carries tons of interactive toys at low prices, including Webkinz [http://www.pamelasboutique.biz/webkinz-pets-for-sale.html] and Shining Stars [http://www.pamelasboutique.biz/shining-stars-for-sale.html]. That darling child in your life will have a huge smile on their face when you present him or her with a cuddly interactive plush toy!

Written by Alicia M.

Top 10 Christmas Toys for 2009

Children have already started making their Christmas lists. Yes, okay, Christmas is about sharing, but children see Christmas as the time of getting presents. The rest are mostly adults' preoccupations. Sometimes parents have difficulty finding great presents for their little ones as they hardly know what is in fashion or a great hit with children. If you need help this year then you are at the right page. We give you the top 10 Christmas toys which are great for boys and girls of all ages. This year you can actually satisfy your child more than you can imagine. Let's take a look at these top toys.

1. Kidizoom Digital Camera Pink from Vtech. If your little girl is all about taking pictures and is always nagging to get your digital camera then this is the best present for her. She can take as many pictures as she likes and all that with a very sophisticated camera. This Kidizoom camera is designed for small hands and is also very sturdy so no matter how many times it falls down it will survive. If it is too early for your little girl to have a normal digital camera then this is what you should get her.

2. Rubik's 360. This new puzzle craze  has the shape of a sphere. This is a large plastic sphere which has six coloured domes around the main surface. Inside the large sphere there are two more spheres which are smaller, one inside the other. Just like the original version of the Rubik's cube this one will also get you hooked up and you will not be bale to put it down. This is a very clever gift that anyone will like and you will make them use their brains a little bit. This is for children above 8.

3. Transformer's Bumblebee Helmet. If your child likes Transformers then he actually be one with this new helmet.  The helmet is very detailed so that you look just like Transformers Bumblebee and apart from that there are also the phrases from the movie. You can also make your voice sound like Bumblebee. Get ready to eliminate all the Decepticons as you become a real Transformer.

4. Bop It Extreme 2. This is a great game for children above 8 but adults can also have tons of fun with it. This looks like a wheel but it is a lot more than that. The game sounds easy but are you able to handle it and follow the instructions as you listen to them? As you play the instructions come out faster and you need to be really quick to keep up. You can play on your own or have your friends over and have lots of fun.

5. Tomy Pop Up Pirate. This is a classic game that can be played by the whole family and it is great fun. You have to push the sword into the barrel and hope that you will not be the one that will make the pirate pop up. Because if this happens you lose. And this game doesn't need any batteries so this is the all the better for you and your pocket.

6. Picooz Radio Controlled Helicopter. If you are into flying but you are far from becoming a pilot then this is your chance to practice. You can have your very own helicopter and fly it even indoors. This is a great pastime as it will give you lots of fun and action. The helicopter is  very light so it will not damage any furniture or walls that it might hit on. If the weather is good you can also fly this outdoors. It is also very affordable for what it offers.

7. Screature Dinosaur. Screature has  a bad nature and is not afraid to show that. If you pet him on the wrong place he will show and may even attack you. But if you pet him right he will be your trusted friend. He will even be your guard, of the room and your stuff. This Christmas this will be a big hit as all children like dinosaurs as they are huge and mighty. 

8. Fluffy Go Walkies. This is a little dog that you can take out on walks. It can also bark if you press the right button. The head glows and sparkles. This is more than a walk dog, it is a friend. If you can't take a little puppy for your child then this is the next best thing.

9. Battle Strikers Tournament set. The Battle Strikers are spinning tops which you can control with magnets. You just wear the magnet on your finger and you lead where you want to the tops to go. With the launchers you can send the tops very far and the battles can begin. The arena can be any surface that you choose. There are 16 spinning strikers that can be customised. This year the battles will fiercer  than ever before.

10. Barbie and the Three Musketeers. Now the stylish fragile Barbie becomes a ninja with matching clothes. She can use her necklace and hairpin to destroy the enemies. And she has her friends as her trusted companions. They all have very stylish outfits. At first they are ball gowns but they can become musketeer outfits. They have capes and boots and everything they need to be stylish Barbie warriors. They are able to destroy the enemies as it is only  natural. Barbie dolls are classic so another version of them is always welcomed.

You can find a lot of toys in the market but it is always useful to know which toys are the top Christmas toys for 2009. This way you can pick something that your child will definitely like. After all, it is all about the top 10 Christmas toys this year and you can see them right here on our website.

Get Them While You Can - Top 3 Christmas 2009 Action Figures and Toys

What are the hot top 3 Christmas 2009 action figures and toys? Are they the expected ones or are they new action figures and toys that have exploded onto the scene?

The Top Position Belongs to the Toy Zhu Zhu Pets

Oh boy, the Zhu Zhu Pets hamsters have truly exploded onto the scene in the last month or so. Demand has already been so high that some of the hamster accessories have become scarce...or have gone for very high prices.

The prices are pretty much back to normal now, but who's to say what will happen as we creep closer to the holidays?

Zhu Zhu Pets are toy hamsters that interact with their environment (and that means with your kids, too). They roam around, make funny noises and entertain the children for hours with their antics. Ask your youngster in the 3 to 8 year age range and it's almost guaranteed that at the top of their Christmas list will be the Zhu Zhu hamsters.

And in Second Place We Have Bakugan

If you're not familiar with Bakugan, it's been named to the list as one of the top toys for 2009. It's a game that involves cards, spheres and action figures (which can nestle inside the spheres).

The number one gotta-have Bakugan action figure is the Maxus Dragonoid 7 in 1. He's hot because he's a group of 7 figures that can be used separately or in combination. Yes, 7 in 1 does describe this Dragonoid correctly!

Third Place Belongs to the Transformers

The movie was a huge hit, and naturally, so are the action figures!

Not only are Bumblebee, Optimus Prime and Megatron still popular, but the new Transformers 2 characters like Jetfire and Devastator are on the most-wanted list.

Why You Should Shop Now for Hot Action Figures and Toys!

If you're of a certain age, you probably remember the Cabbage Patch Doll phenomenon...as well as the store fights that broke out when someone grabbed the last Cabbage Patch doll in the store. It was a madhouse, and there were all too many disappointed faces on Christmas morning.

Don't put yourself in the same position! At Action Figures and Toys you can get information, see what's available and get the lowest prices on the Christmas 2009 hot toys.

Don't delay, and you'll see happy smiles around the tree.

20 Hot Toys for Christmas 2010

Finding the hottest toys is an art form in the modern world. When a toy becomes popular, it becomes harder to find most of the time. And when it becomes harder to find, kids end up wanting it even more. The sooner you can figure out what is going to be hot for 2010 when it comes to toys, the better chance you have of actually finding the toy and buying it. To help out, here is a list of twenty must-have toys for Christmas 2010.

20 Hot Toys for Christmas 2010

Here is a list (from various sources) of the hottest toys for 2010.

• Hot Wheels Stealth Rides - This tiny RC car from Mattel is actually priced under $30. This makes it a great value. This is in addition to it being loads of fun.


• Nerf N-Strike Stampede Blaster - Nerf toys are classic in many different ways. This is a new Nerf gun that is both safe and fun for kids. You'll want to make sure you get the right one as there are a few variations out there.


• Scrabble Flash - A modern version of the classic Scrabble, word lovers are going to have a blast with this modernized, high-tech version of the letter and word game.


• Paper Jamz - This is an outstanding new toy from WowWee. They are guitars and drum sets that are made out of cardboard and plastic. They have a great sound and kids, tweens and teens all love them. They are reasonably priced - under $30 - and come in 12 different styles. These are sure to be one of the hottest toys in 2010.


• Monster High Dolls - Safe for kids age six and older, these collectible dolls may be more popular around Halloween, but there will be some kids who want them for Christmas. They're set to be a really hot toy.


• Sing-A-Ma-Jigs - Cute and available at a low price is a great combination. They actually harmonize when you put more than one of them together.


• Squinkies -With a low price point and the collecting feature added, they're set to be one of the must-have toys for 2010. They are priced under $10, and there are quite a few variations available to collect. Keep your eyes open for these toys. At this price, they may be very hard to find in the coming months.


• Leapster Explorer - The latest and greatest hand held learning system from LeapFrog is more expensive than a lot of other hot toys this year, but when you consider the educational value of the system, it's an easy decision to choose this toy.


• Pillow Pets - These have been around for a while, but they have some great new designs for 2010 and are more popular than ever before this year. It's a pillow. It's a pet. It's a Pillow Pet!


• New LEGO Sets - The White House (for older kids) and the LEGO Harry Potter Hogwart's Castle are super hot this year. Also, the new LEGO Universe game is coming out later this year.


• Loopz - Mattel - Memory game with lights that works with motion detecting devices. As with a lot of other tech toys this year, the price point on this one is very low - which is great!.


• Minotaurus -Lego Systems Inc. - LEGO Board Game that you create then play. Hours of fun for kids.


• Disney Princess & Me dolls - These large, 18 inch dolls are collectible, but they're fun to play with as well.


• Rubik's Cube Slide - An update of the classic Runik's Cube - now 30 years old. Happy birthday to Rubik's Cube!


• Kung Zhu Hamsters - If you remember Zhu Zhu pets, they're back this year and hotter than ever. There are a few changes, but they should be easier to find. There is a new battle arena play set out this year too.


• Imaginext Bigfoot the Monster - This large Bigfoot throws tantrums, and will be a big hit with small boys.


• Squinkies Cupcake Surprise Bake Shop - Cool toy vending machine for kids that will help teach them about money.


• Tomica Hypercity Mega Station Set - This is only available officially through Toys R Us, but it's a great train set that's going to be hot in 2010.


• Silly Bandz - You might think this was just a summer craze in 2010, but there are likely going to be a lot of holiday themed Silly Bandz coming out in the months ahead. Keep your eyes open for them and collect, collect, collect!


• Monopoly City - The new, 21st century edition of Monopoly is a great board game for tweens, teens, and adults.

There you have it - twenty must-have toys for Christmas 2010. Now get out there and buy them before they're gone.

K. Paul Mallasch is the publisher of Top Toys Blog, where you can find out about RC toys many other top toys for Christmas 2010. If you want to find the perfect gift, check it out and prepare to find the perfect gift - whoever is on your list.

Help Kids Earn Money and Learn Responsibility

Parents are often stuck with saying "No" or giving in and fearing the lesson we are teaching the children. The constant questions from the kids of; "Can I have...? I really want...? Will you buy me...?" can get tiring and wear a family down. What if you could make a game of it learning the responsibility of earning money? Make earning money a family affair!

Even though kids are always begging for candy, toys, games, and whatever else their eyes see or their minds dream, there truly is Good News! As they get older, their wants and desires can be turned into a great way of teaching them responsibility.

Depending on the age of your child, laws prohibit children from being employed under a certain age. Those laws are there for very good reasons. However, that doesn't mean there aren't other ways for your child to earn some of their own money through their own efforts.

Although any venture with the kids does require parental assistance, the lesson the children will learn can be so huge! If they work to earn the extra niceties, it is far more likely they will sooner, rather than later, learn the true value of money.

lemonade/ kool-aid/ food stand- This has been a fun activity and a good way to earn money since we were little. All they have to do is make up some sort of beverage or some brownies and put up their little stand on the sidewalk in front of the house.

soda-can collecting- Most states have a recycle plant you can bring cans to and get a few cents a piece for them. Have them pick up cans around the house, or they can make a special trash can for everyone to put their soda cans in. You can also make a family day where the whole family goes and picks up cans at a park or any local public area. You would be helping the environment, teaching responsibility and helping them make a little money.

yard work- At whatever age you believe is safe, children can start to shovel snow, rake leaves, mow, water flowers, pull weeds, etc. When they become good at the family lawn, have them try one of the neighbor's yard work. After awhile, they can do lawn chores for people around the community. This can be great money if they work hard.

babysit- If your child is the oldest and you have younger children, let them babysit for you while you do household projects. When they get old enough and you are comfortable with their ability and experience, take short outings while you go to dinner. Again, with experience and ability, add a movie (it's a win-win!). If there are no younger siblings, let the neighbors know that you would like to help your child learn to babysit. Offer to have the neighbor child come to your home, under your supervision. Let the neighbor know that you will be there at all times but your child is practicing babysitting. Let them earn a little money while learning.

arts and crafts stand- Most kids have fun making arts and crafts, so why not make a little money for it? They can make greeting cards, bracelets, origami, pictures, or any other creative idea they can think of. Set up a little stand in front of your house. Kids know what other kids want and if they are good at it, let them sell their craft projects for 50 cents to their peers and neighbors.

pet sitting or walking- Let them start off with their own pets. Teach them the proper food and water responsibilities for the family pets. When they are more experienced and a little older, let them walk the pets, with you along. When you are comfortable, help them make a flyer for your neighbors announcing minor pet care. For a small fee, there will be neighbors who would truly appreciate some help with their pets.

garage sale- All children grow out of their toys and typically they are just shoved in a closet somewhere. Why not gather them up and put on a little garage sale and make some other child happy they got a good deal on a toy? You will get your house decluttered why your child earned some extra money.

Of course prices are a big part of these little jobs and it's a great way to teach them a little bit about a business. It all depends on how good of a job they do and how much effort they put in to their project while they are experiencing the responsibility of having to work for money. Doing little jobs like these is an essential part of a kid's life and a window of their adult life.

Chris Lowrey

Author and Editor of Family Time Charm

A truly unique family magazine. Family Time Charm is absolutely designed for the entire family.

For more parenting articles, fun games for kids and educational activities for all, visit our website: http://www.familytimecharm.com

Coach Bleecker Handbags - Vintage Never Looked So Good!

Coach Bleecker handbags have swept the nation with it's latest look from Coach. Coach has re-defined the look of sophistication. The new Coach Bleecker handbags are the hottest bag for the cool season approaching. These bags are certainly going to be very popular this season.

The Bleecker handbag is a reminder to us all that there is no stopping Coach when it comes to offering luxury at an affordable price to women all over the world. Even though the prices may have risen, it just means that the quality of the bags has evolved. What would you expect with such high-end fashion.

These bags offer the designer handbag lover the ability to work style and versatility into their look. The bags look more sophisticated with their more subtle and earthy tones. They are designed with the signature styles such as the hobo, shoppers, totes, medium to XL duffles, flaps in many styles.

The Collection starts at $238 for the Coach Bleecker Signature Small Flap Hobo and goes as high as $748 for the Coach Bleecker Elisa Laced Leather XL Slim Duffle and even higher for the Coach Bleecker Alligator Shopper which can be bought for a cool $20,000. This here ladies is one fabulous handbag!

There is good news for the price conscious that do not care to pay full price for these fabulous designer bags. Luckily, there is a place where you too can bask in the glory of carrying such quality. You can save 50%-60% on Coach handbags by shopping on specific live online auction sites.

The Bleecker duffles have really taken a more modern look from it's previous vintage style. You will see many of these bags being worn this fall season. These bags look great worn with your grey's and neutral colors. The straps on the duffle make it easy to overlap them across your body or short. This handbag has been given a massive transformation with its functional pockets, roomier interiors and adjustable straps.

Coach handbags are sweeping the nation with great success. Inspired by Coach's traditional rich, vintage styles-crafted from soft, brushed leathers and signature fabrics. The Bleecker bags still carry the history, craftsmanship and true American style of Coach.

The Bleecker line exemplifies glamour along with sophistication and style. Women who carry the Bleecker handbags show a sense of classiness and self-worth in their demeanor. There is such luxury in the bags, which allows each individual woman carrying it to emulate the bag. Just take a look at the meticulous work that was put into each bag made through its detailed design. The trimming and stitching is perfect in every way.

You are sure to fall in love with the style and new designs of the Coach Bleeker handbags. There is a bag out there for each individual style and personality. Look for yourself and join in on the joy of owning a Coach handbag.

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Great Childrens Games

It can be difficult to keep your children entertained without putting them in front of a computer game or the television so I've written the following article to help advise and remind you of games that can be played with young children which doesn't involve a computer game or television. I hope you find the following article informative and helpful.

I always loved Duck, Duck Goose. The idea of the game is that the children (and you if you wish) site in a circle facing the inside of the circle. One person is 'it' and goes around the outside of the circle and tap each head in turn and says 'duck' on everyone's head or 'goose'. Once 'goose' is names the person has to chase the person who as just tapped them on the head. The idea is to tap that person so they have to continue being 'it'. If the person who is 'it' isn't tapped and they manage to sit in the spare space the person left on the outer site of the circle is now 'it'.

I would also recommend Four Square which is another great child's game. In this game there should be 4 8"x8" boxes on the ground. Don't worry about them being an exact measurement this is just a guideline. You will also need a ball. There should be four players and each one should stand in a square. Each square has a position in a rank and the highest ranking square is called the King or Ace, the following Prime Minister, The third Queen and the fourth can be Prince or Princess. The King serves the ball first and bounces it only once in their box and then throws it to the Prime Minister, Queen or Prince this continues until someone either forgets to bounce it first, it bounces twice or the ball goes out of bounds. That player is then dead and they move back to the lowest ranking square. And then everyone else moves to a higher position.

I hope this article has been informative.

John Cooper would advise you to purchase from Paddy Power Bingo

Pokemon Birthday Party Games

So you've got young boys who love Pokemon and their birthday is fast approaching? Never fear, help is here. Both of my young sons love Pokemon, they are ages 6 and 9. What is Pokemon you say? Pokemon means "Pocket Monster" in Japanese. The crazy characters evolve into different characters and they use pokemon moves to "fight" each other causing "damage". This craze has originated in Japan, but is highly popular here in the US. The Pokemon characters all have an HP number, how much the Pokemon is worth and the higher HP cards are highly coveted young boys. Anyway, back to your party issue. I just threw a great Pokemon party for my son's 9th birthday. He loved it and his friends had a blast. Below are some great ideas for you and they are EASY and INEXPENSIVE to do. I sat down one night and came up with some games that I could easily make the supplies for and they would be fun to play. Below is a summary list of the games we came up with and read on to get the details of each one. Keep in mind, these are EASY, FUN and INEXPENSIVE and I will tell you exactly how I did it and what you need:

o Pass the Pokeball
o Pin the Tail on Pikachu
o Pokemon Balloon Dart Throw
o Pokemon Master Tracking
o Gliscor Bean Bag Score

1. Pass the Pokeball If you are remotely familiar with Pokemon, you will know about pokeballs. To play this game, I went to a craft store and purchased a LARGE Styrofoam ball, they seem to range in price from $5 to $11. I also bought some red washable craft paint while I was at the craft store. Paint half the ball with the red craft paint, let it dry, then use black electrical tape to tape around the circumference of the ball right where the white Styrofoam joins up with the red paint. This made the PERFECT pokeball. Quick and easy and inexpensive. Then we had a small keyboard (cheap one) that could be automatically set to play music. If you don't have a keyboard, use anything that can make music, cd player, musical instrument, drum set, guitar, anything that plays music and can be stopped and started. Have all the boys sit in a circle and they have to hand the pokeball to each other in a circular fashion. They cannot throw the ball. I would then start the music on the keyboard and close my eyes and stop it after 20 to 30 seconds. I closed my eyes, so I wouldn't know who was going to be holding the ball when the music stopped. Whoever is holding the ball when the music stops is out, then play again until there is only 1 player left. Give the player who is left a party prize.

Supplies recap:
i. Large Styrofoam ball
ii. Red craft paint
iii. Electrical tape

2. Pin the Tail on Pikachu - Pikachu is one of the main pokemon characters and if your kids like Pokemon they like Pikachu. For this game, I found a good picture of Pikachu. I used a picture out of the Pokemon Handbook that we have, but if you don't have one of those, use a pokemon card of Pikachu, or print a picture of Pikachu at pokemon.com. I bought a package of 10 white posterboards at a discount store. Look at the picture and draw a large picture of Pikachu to cover most of the posterboard (1 sheet). Don't draw his tail. Use a separate posterboard to draw enough Pikachu tails (shaped like a lightning bolt) for each party guest to have one. After I drew the Pikachu and then drew the tails, I had my kids color the Pikachu and tails, they loved helping. Cut out the Pikachu tails. I had an old cork board that I was able to mount this Pin the Tail on the Pikachu game onto so it had a sturdy back and could be hung up outside. Put the name of each party guest on one of the tails and right before they play, add a single strip of double sided tape. When you are ready to play this, use a bandana to cover the eyes of your party guests, spin them around in a circle twice and direct them towards the Pikachu. Don't allow them to feel their way around, wherever they touch the Pikachu they must put the tail on there, otherwise the kids who go last will be able to tell where to put the tails by feeling where the other kids tails are pinned. Give a prize to the party guest who gets Pikachu's tail closest to the right spot.

Supplies recap:

i. Picture of Pikachu
ii. Large white posterboard for drawing picture of Pikachu
iii. Large white posterboard for drawing multiple Pikachu tails only
iv. Double sided tape
v. Bandana

3. Pokemon Balloon Dart Throw - Kids love to pop balloons and throw darts, so put these two things together in a fun and easy activity. The night before the party I bought 50 balloons at a party store. Each Pokemon character has an HP value, or a points value. For example, Pikachu might be 60 HP, Shadowlugia 300 HP, etc... You can find the names of many Pokemon characters in a Pokemon handbook or you can find them online at Pokemon.com. Take some plain white paper and cut it into strips that are about 1 inch high by 3 inches long. Write the name of a different Pokemon and their HP Number on the strips. We had 6 boys at the party and I blew up 45 balloons. For example, you might write Ryperior 90 HP on a slip. Make each slip of paper with a different character and add the HP number (use multiples of 10 only for the HP values). We used each character name only once but reused the HP 50, HP60, HP70, HP80, HP90, etc... However we only had 1 character (Shadowlugia) that had the highest HP of HP300, no other card had the HP300 on it. Fold the slips of paper small and poke it inside the balloon prior to blowing up the balloon. I then used an air compressor to blow up the balloons quickly and tie them in a knot. You will see the little slips of paper inside. I stored the balloons overnight in large trash bags and they stayed aired up fine. I purchased a set of 6 darts at a sports store to use for this game. If you have a large cork board, attach the balloons with push pins to the cork board. Have the party guests stand back about 8 feet and throw 2 darts a piece and try to pop the balloons (like a traditional carnival game). If they pop a balloon have them gather up and keep the slip of paper with the Pokemon character on it and the HP number (see the next Pokemon Master tracking as to what to do with the slips of paper and keeping track of the HP numbers). They loved to pop these balloons and they loved finding the slips of paper to find out which Pokemon character they had and what was the HP number. We played several rounds of this game!

Supplies recap:

i. Bunch of balloons (have at least 40 or more)
ii. Plain white paper
iii. Names of Pokemon characters and made up HP numbers (I did not take the time to look up each characters real HP number, that is too much work, just put down any HP number you want, but only have one character with the highest HP
iv. Package of 6 darts (about $2.50)

4. Pokemon Master tracking - There is no doubt your kids are familiar with Ash Ketchum if they like Pokemon, he is a Pokemon master. In order to make it fun and to get the boys to want to get the slips of paper I put inside the balloons, I created a Pokemon Master chart to track each party guests characters and HP values. I used a large white posterboard and wrote Pokemon Masters at the top and used some Pokemon stickers to decorate with. You can buy Pokemon stickers, or use sticker paper in your printer and just print some Pokemon cards or Pokemon characters from the internet. I then divided (using a black market) the posterboard into how many party guests I have a made a large square for each of them. As the boys gathered the Pokemon character slips from popping the balloons, I had another adult log in their Pokemon characters and their associated HP Values onto the Pokemon Master chart. I just had it taped to my back door and the boys loved coming over to see what their Pokemon scores were. I gave a prizes for the highest HP sum in each round of darts. One child may pop a balloon with the Pokemon character slip of paper that said Metagross 90 HP and his second pop may have been Snover 60 HP, we recorded these both onto his square on the Pokemon Master tracking posterboard and his total HP for the round was 150 HP. If he had the highest score that round, he got a prize. I let the boys throw 2 darts a piece for each turn. I also gave a prize for the lowest HP score, so noone felt left out. Have an adult record the names and HP numbers to keep it moving. At the end of all the balloon popping I gave a prize to party guest who found the Shadowlugia 300 HP slip of paper, as it was our highest HP value "card".

Supplies recap:

i. Large white poster board
ii. Sharpie Marker
iii. Pokemon stickers to decorate the tracking poster with

5. Gliscor Bean Bag Score - If you have any type of existing bean bag toss game at your home, commandeer it for this game. We had a bean bag toss game that had 6 small bean bags. If you don't have one, you can make bean bags easily out of old socks and uncooked beans, just tie the socks in a knot after putting in the uncooked beans, PERFECT!. I used another white poster board to draw a Pokemon character on. We chose Glico for his shape as it would be good to toss the bean bags into his belly! I used the Gliscor Pokemon card to look at to draw the character on a large white poster board, then we colored with crayons based on how the character looks on the card. Then I lined up the existing bean bag game hole and cut a similar hole in the character's belly and taped the two together. If you don't have a bean bag game you can attach your poster board to, you can cut a hole in an old piece of plywood, or tape your posterboard Pokemon character with the hole in it to a laundry basket, anything that will basically catch the bean bags. You want the bean bag catch place to be tilted up slightly at the top, so the game is doable for the boys. Have the boys throw the bean bags from about 12-15 feet back and try to get a Gliscor score!!! Any Pokemon character will work for this game, just cut a hole about 6 inches wide in the posterboard wherever you are wanting the bean bags to go through. They played this a lot and several of them scored by getting a bean bag in the hole of Gliscor's tummy! I gave prizes to the ones who scored in the hole, if noone got it in the hole, I gave a prize each round for the party guest with the bean bag closest to the hole. You can knock off the bean bags of other players! They loved this competition.

Supplies recap:

i. Existing Bean Bag toss game if you have one
ii. If not, plywood with hole, or laundry basket and something to hold the board or basket on an angle with the top tilted up off the ground a bit to make the game doable for the boys
iii. White poster board
iv. Picture of desired Pokemon character
v. Crayons/markets
vi. Bean bags (existing or home made)

The boys at this party were between the ages of 6 and 9 and they absolutely loved playing these game. We also ordered a Pokemon cake from a local supermarket bakery and it looked awesome. I had also ordered Pokemon birthday theme plates, cups and napkins and a tablecloth. It was all very easy and looked great.

PRIZES
For prizes, I went to several of the dollar stores and discount stores and bought cheap glow sticks, light up pens, blow up baseballs and footballs, crazy bounce balls, sound makers that make poot sounds (they loved those!), glow in the dark aliens, stretchy snakes, packages of gummy worms. I decided which prizes to give and I put a sign on the prize bowl that said "Momma's prize bowl, hands off please!" That way they couldn't pick through the goodies that were prizes, they did trade a few prizes between each other. I recommend looking for fun cheap items that are about $1.00 or less, stay away from the truly junky toys that break immediately or noone in their right mind would want, that will just waste your money.

GOODY BAGS
For goody bags, I added candy like individual starburst, small M&M's packages, and gummies. I also found small silver alien stuffed toys ($1.00 a piece) and I had ordered Pokemon wrist sweat bands from an online party supply, these were very cool! Last but not least, I bought two 10 card each packs of Pokemon cards and divided those up so each goody bag got 3 Pokemon cards in it as well. I divided them up so not all the higher HP cards were in a single goody bag, spread around the fun! They loved these cards in their goody bags and it was an absolute blast of a party. Don't let this sound hard, I did all of this listed above plus I blew up 100 water balloons for use in the water balloon launcher just by doing a little bit in the evenings starting about 1 week before the party. You can do this too and give your son the best Pokemon party ever! I hope these ideas are useful to you, they really are EASY to do, low cost and fun, your party goers will love it!

This article was written by Kimberly Hedrick, mom to two great boys.

Visit http://www.squidoo.com/Pokemonbirthdaypartygames for cool pictures of all these games plus great Pokemon party supplies. Here's to a great party!