2008 & 2009 - Top Ten Toys for Girls

There are a huge number of new toys for girls in 2008 - and many types of toys to choose from. Even though it's great for kids to have so many different choices it can be quite confusing for those who are shopping to pick out the perfect toy that a certain little girl will love. With the assistance of "Toy Wishes" magazine as well as some research into the most highly rated toys from the hot-sellers lists, I've compiled a list of the 2008 & 2009 Top Ten Toys for Girls:

1. Elmo Live from Fisher Price - This toy is supposed to be the hottest selling toy for kids the entire year of 2008! Following the tradition of earlier Elmo toys, this Elmo is a "higher level" toy - it's even more animated than previous versions and is incredibly lifelike. He moves, sits, talks - even has the same expressions that he does on Sesame Street and has stolen the hearts of many small children. It's a great pick for a girl (or boy) age 18 months or older.

2. Bratz Girlz Really Rock Dolls - For little girls age 6 and older, the Bratz Girlz Really Rock Dolls are extremely popular. The dolls (including Jade, Cloe, Sasha and Yasmin) are in rock-star fashion and come with their own rock and roll instruments. The dolls are based on the popular movie, Bratz Girlz Really Rock! which is a story about girls who live out a dream of becoming rock stars and rising to fame.

3. Hasbro Fur Real Friends Biscuit My Lovin' Pup - The newest and much-loved pup from the Fur Real Friends line for kids. Biscuit is a very special puppy that responds to kids, is playful and very huggable too. Part of his response includes voice recognition, so he responds appropriately to various commands such as lifting his paw when told to "shake". He also wags his tail when he's being particularly playful. An adorable toy, and a great choice for a girl 5-8 years of age.

4. Playskool Kota the Triceratops - Another adorable toy and a brilliant invention from Playskool. Kota is also a very lifelike and animated toy, and has been dubbed the "Twentieth Century Dino" for kids. He responds to voice and touch, he wags his tail, moves his head and is sturdy enough for small children to sit on and play. A great toy for kids around 3-5 years old.

5. Jakks Girl Gourmet Cupcake Maker - This is a great choice for girls who love to be in the kitchen, and is a simple introduction to baking. The cupcakes are easy to make and come with decorating kits so girls can get as creative as they want. Various kits to choose from (some include more refills and tools than others) and there are several different flavors of cupcakes to make. For girls age 8 and older.

6. Sing Together Dolls: High School Musical 3 - Many, many girls love the High School Musical movies and toys. These dolls are the most recent hot-sellers from the toy line, allowing children to participate and sing along with the doll. Dolls include Gabriella, Sharpay and Troy and are either sold separately or together as a set. For girls 6 years and older.

7. Littlest Pet Shop VIP Toys - If you've ever heard of Webkinz, these are quite similar - they have a "dual life" as a real stuffed pet toy as well as having their own home online. A special code is included in the pet's collar, and after the toy is purchased the code can be used to log in online so kids can care for the pet and play games with it. Littlest Pet Shop VIP's have large "love me" eyes and are very sweet. For girls around 10 years and older.

8. Vtech Kidizoom Pink Digital Camera - A special digital camera created just for kids. It's durable and has larger buttons that are simpler to use than an adult digital camera. Kids can take pictures and see them on the camera right after they are taken. This camera has been on the "hot seller" list for a while, and probably will stay there for some time - after all, what child doesn't like to take pictures? A great toy for girls 3 years and up.

9. Liana and Alexa Barbie and the Diamond Castle Dolls - These two dolls are based on characters from the hit kids movie, "Barbie and the Diamond Castle". The dolls dresses can magically transform into beautiful sparkling princess dresses, and have a jewel necklace that lights up as well. The dolls sing songs from the movie, and when purchased as a pair they can hold hands and sing together. This is a great choice for a girl who loves Barbie Dolls. For kids 3 to 8 years.

10. Calico Critters Family Dolls - Cute and cuddly little dolls that come in complete families including the Norwood Mouse Family, Fisher Cat Family and more. They all live in a little town called Cloverleaf Corners and have fun together as friends. Each family is unique, all posable with removable clothing. Many little girls love to collect the Calico Critters, and any of the families available would be a great addition to any girl's collection. For kids around 3-5 years of age.

These 2008 & 2009 Top Ten Toys for Girls are a fun mix of 21st century technology and just plain fun. I hope that this list helps to simplify your shopping efforts for the 2008 holidays and into 2009!