The best holiday toys of 2018, picked by kids for kids
Want to win Christmas? You can, with the help of Walmart.
Earlier this year, the go-to toy spot released its annual Top Rated by Kids list, a compilation of the hottest toys of the season, voted on by hundreds of kids and road-tested by 25 pint-sized experts, aka toy influencers: Among the panelists were Ryan Secret, 7, whose stylish Instagram went viral; Kyle, 9, whose YouTube channel Kyle’s Toys and Games boasts more than half a million subscribers; and Ava Ryan, 8, a former Vine star whose videos include parodies like Bossy Boss Lady.
Sure, parents know what makes their kids happy. But the inside track of Walmart’s young influencers can help you hit a home run, because kids catch things that we might miss — pros and cons — like gender stereotyping that may turn off a child or subtle details that make a toy a win.
Here are some favorites from the Top Rated by Kids list to help ensure big smiles in your home this holiday season. Yahoo Lifestyle may receive a share from purchases made via links on this page, but we love these toys as much as your kids will.
Peppa Pig Fun Fair Playset, $34 (ages 2 and up)
Your little one will squeal with delight over this set featuring the beloved character from the animated series. The spinning Ferris wheel promises hours of amusement.
Hatchimals HatchiBabies, $49 (ages 5 and up)
Inside the speckled egg is a boy or girl critter waiting to be cared for. Your child will keep it warm till it hatches, fill out its birth certificate, brush its hair, and give it a bottle. It makes adorable sounds and bonds with your child instantly.
Air Hogs Supernova (Gravity Defying Hand-Controlled Flying Orb), $30 (ages 8 and up)
Remote control? What remote control? This flyer responds to your hand movements. Throw it in the air, and it awaits your command. Big kids will love showing off their maneuvering of this magical orb to their friends.
Untamed T-Rex by Fingerlings, $15 (ages 5 to 15)
Avoid a repeat of the 2017 Fingerlings mad rush and shop now! These roaring dinosaurs respond when attached to your finger.
Paw Patrol Ultimate Rescue Fire Truck, $13 (ages 3 and up)
The beloved show comes to life in this vehicle with an extendable ladder and flashing lights— it even has a mini fire hose for all your little hero’s rescue missions.
L.O.L. Surprise House, $189 (ages 5 to 13 years)
The brand L.O.L Surprise has feverish fans, and if your child is among them, she or he will be thrilled with this luxe playhouse. In this world, babies rule. Their dream domicile includes a pool, a space, a walk-in closet, and a working elevator!
Treasure X Adventure Pack, $9 (ages 5 to 15)
This is a budding archaeologist’s dream. But be warned — it’s messy. The kids dig and dig to unearth a special treasure. Eleven-year-old Gavster, a dancer and model, critiqued the collectible Treasure X, saying, “It’s a surprise toy, and there are not a lot of boy surprise toys, but there are many girl surprise toys. It comes with a treasure inside — and you get real treasures!”
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