Stocking Stuffers & Last-Minute Gift Ideas for Every Kid on Your List

(ARA) - From advanced cell phones to hip MP3 players, gifts for kids just keep getting bigger and more expensive every year. While it’s clear that they want the hottest toys, newest video games and the most popular gadgets, it’s difficult for parents to break through the clutter - and crowds - to find that perfect present.

Even though the holiday shopping season unofficially kicks off after the Thanksgiving holiday, it always seems like the malls are that much more crowded in the few days right before Christmas. “Shoppers often wait until the very last minute to pick up those stocking stuffers and other gifts,” says Nichole Kaley, spokesperson for KB Toys. “Our sales staff is highly trained and ready to help these last-minute shoppers buy great toys that parents approve of and that kids will love. The last minute shopper sometimes loses sight of what makes a good gift, and our staff is here to help customers make the right purchase.”

So, if you decide to wait until the last minute to pick up the gifts for the kids, how do you know exactly what’s the right toy for them? And how can you shop without breaking the bank?

Here are a few tips to help you find the trendiest toys, video games and gadgets for every good girl and boy on your list this holiday season. All you have to do is know the top names in games and fun.

Hot Toys for Boys

Young boys can’t seem to get enough of action figures. To expand their infinite collections, get them the Power Rangers SPD Battlized Figures. Based on the ever-popular television franchise, these figures have armor that transforms them into battlized mode. Kids can also configure the armor separately to form an alien figure. (Suggested retail price: $8.99; ages four and up).

For the comic book aficionado, the Teen Titans T-Vehicles are sure to be a hit. Join Robin, Beast Boy, Cyborg and the entire Titans team from the DC Comics hit in the Rock Slider or Hyper Skimmer. Both vehicles feature transforming action and can be combined together to form a larger machine. (Suggested retail price: $12.99; ages four and up).

Tech Toys

Tech toys are a hot trend in the tween age category this year. So, for kids who are “in the know” on the playground, they’ll ask for the Tamagotchi Connection Version 2 virtual pet. The Tamagotchi simulates the life cycle of a real pet, letting kids experience the fun and responsibility of caring for one. Lots of cool design styles, and “Gotchi” points and secret codes that you use to shop for treats, mean lots of play value. There’s also a “Mini” version that girls can attach to keychains, backpacks, clothing and more. (Suggested retail price: $14.99; Mini suggested retail price: $7.99; ages eight and up).

Video Games for the Anime Enthusiast

Kids today have grown up watching Japanese animation, called “anime,” on a daily basis. If your video game addict is also a fan of anime, one popular title that won’t make them “walk the plank” is One Piece: Grand Battle. This pirate adventure sees Monkey D. Luffy set out to sea in a rowboat in search of “One Piece,” the greatest treasure in the world. Available on Game Cube and Playstation 2. (Suggested retail price: $39.99; rated T for teen).

Or if they’re more into traditional games, try the Zatch Bell! collectible card game. This game, based on a popular anime television series, involves a unique spell book that kids use to battle their opponents. A starter set comes with 32 cards, a spell book, collectible coin and playmat. (Suggested retail price: $9.99; ages six and up).

Home Entertainment

Pop one into the car’s entertainment system on a holiday road trip, or gather together as a family on Christmas night and watch something that everyone can enjoy. One great suggestion is the animated tale, The Polar Express. This movie tells the story of one boy who doubts the existence of Santa Claus, but finds himself on a magical train on the way up to the North Pole on Christmas Eve. (Retail price varies; rated G)

All the above gift ideas can be found online and at all major retailers nationwide. Just don’t wait until the last minute, or you might miss out on all the hottest toys, games and trends that your kids want this holiday season. Happy shopping!

Log onto KBToys.com, Amazon.com, Target.com, Walmart.com and for more information.

Courtesy of ARA Content