Top Ten Gift Ideas for Sesame Street Lovin' Toddlers and Preschoolers

Young children are so much fun to buy for. Though they're in a mischievous stage right now, they'll love just about any present they receive - including the wrapping paper!

Most of us have grown up watching Sesame Street and it's just one more way we're able to connect with our little ones. Just as many tykes love the show and characters today. Sesame Street has always incorporated learning within their toys and games, which is why they make great gifts. Here are some ideas for any budget:

1. T.M.X. Elmo (English or Spanish Speaking Version) $39.99- This is an extreme version of the older Tickle Me Elmo, now with three different tickle spots and the need to laugh hysterically. He slaps his leg, falls down, rocks himself back up, rolls onto his tummy and hits his hand on the floor - laughing the whole time. Toddlers really get a kick out of this one. Luckily, Elmo is universally loved. Stuffed animals have really come a long way. This toy can be found at most major retailers and online.

2. Sesame Street Sing n' Giggle Toole Bench $39.99 - You may think this gift is only for boys, but my three year old niece loves banging on it as well. At the push of a button Elmo sings a song, while the screws that twist and turn make appropriate noises. The Cookie Monster Drill Press and the Bert and Ernie circular saw also make jokes while your preschooler perfects his carpentry skills. You can also purchase the Giggle Tool belt for $14.99, but the hammer and screwdriver are already included on the bench. Kids will love how loud Elmo sings!

3. Learn Thru Music - Sesame Street $29.99 - This is a must have! You'll actually buy the system, Learn Thru Music, and depending on the one you purchase, it will come with one cartridge - in this case, sesame Street. But for $14.99 you can buy additional cartridges that are age appropriate as well. My two year old has a speech delay and this game really seems to help him practice his vocabulary. It includes a light up screen that is touch sensitive and the all important microphone so that your child may sing along. When taking car rides, this is the first thing my son grabs. Keeps kids entertained for a while.

4. Sesame Street 2-in-1 Giggle Vacuum $24.99 - Toddlers love noise and imitating mommy, making this a great present. This is a double sided vacuum cleaner with both Cookie Monster and Elmo. You can hear phrases, giggles, and watch Oscar the Grouch spin in the middle of trash. It is recommended for ages 18 months through 4 years.

5. Sesame Street Backpack $14.99 - $24.99 - Every child wants their own backpack. These are easier to find online and they come in many different characters. They are even offered in toddler sizes for those little hands. This gift will come in handy for nights spent over Grandma's or plane rides. You can also choose a backpack that comes with wheels to roll it through the airport.

6. Elmo and Friends House (Hideaway Playhut Tent) $19.99 - Toddlers and preschoolers alike want to have their own space, their own hideout. This tent is a perfect place to let their imaginations run wild. Up to four children can fit inside and the best part is it folds up quite nicely when it's time to put away.

7. Sesame Street Singing Pop-Up Pals $19.99 - This gift is a classic. In fact, I think I had a similar one when I was young. Again, children love music and singing along with Ernie, Elmo, Cookie Monster and Oscar the Grouch. Just touch a button and the characters will pop out. Your toddler will be able to play with this for hours on end.

8. V-Smile Cartridge: Sesame Street Bert and Ernie's Imagination Adventure or Elmo's Big Discoveries$19.99 - Before I go any further, you'll want to know that a V-Smile Learning System (3yr - 7yr) is needed for these cartridges ($49.99). This is a bit on the pricey side if your child does not have the learning system yet, but is so worth it. The Elmo game teaches spelling, counting, problem solving, animals, colors, and shapes while your child explores underwater, a circus, farm life and a music studio. Bert and Ernie look for Bert's collectibles - this is more advanced than the Elmo game. The V-Smile connects directly to your TV and combines a joystick along with many buttons to push.

9. Sesame Street MP-123 Player $15.00 - This portable music player is for ages 18 months and up. Six songs play from three different styles - rock n'roll, hip hop, and Caribbean. Children can actually scroll through the song list by turning the click wheel and selecting their favorite tune! The selection lights up and you can even play sound effects over the music. Great buy for the price.

10. Sesame Street Giggle Sound Station $9.99 - Toddlers will appreciate seeing Elmo and Cookie Monster on a portable sound center. There are fifteen buttons, slides, and knobs that will flash or make noises. For under $10, it can't be beat.