Hottest Christmas Toys 2009

When it comes to the hottest Christmas toys, 2009 is an incredible year for gift giving. From the simple to spectacular, there is a stunning toy on every child's wish list.

The Hottest Preschool Toys

Elmo has been dominating Christmas for years, and he only got better in 2009. Overpriced but somehow worth every dime when you see your preschooler's face light up, Elmo Live Encore is celebrating the 40th anniversary of Sesame Street with the singing of classic songs, a moving mouth, an animated body and even the ability to cross his legs when he sits. This is above and beyond past Tickle Me Elmos, and your whole family will be amazed at the dynamics built into this Elmo. If you're looking to spend a little less and still bring holiday glee, check out Elmo's Tickle Hands, which your child can actually wear and hear Elmo phrases while experiencing a tickle vibration. They come with a DVD that teaches children how to dance the "Tickle Hand Groove", Elmo's latest dance.

Hot Toys for Girls

Disney is revolutionizing the princess world with its new film, The Princess and the Frog. Featuring its first ever African American princess, the gorgeous Tiana doll will top Barbie this holiday season with girls looking for a doll to identify with. Just in time for the movie release, this doll comes with a frog, and her dress lights up with firefly lights and special sounds.

Webkinz continue to be popular with young girls, including the special Christmas reindeer. Girls love collecting this seemingly endless collection of stuffed animals that come with a special tag that allows for online play and fun. Webkinz go beyond the typical plush toy - providing your daughter with interaction both with her imagination and with her social community as all her friends interact with their pets on the Webkinz website.

Hot Toys for Boys

The Fisher Price My Toon TV allows energetic little boys the chance to interact and perform with their own funny TV character. With a selection of eleven different characters and six programmed songs, you can take pictures with the camera and then watch yourself live on TV. The product also comes with a plug to connect an iPod or any other musical device to play whatever song you'd like.

Matchbox continues to produce quality toys that young boys love. The interactive Rocky the Robot Truck allows kids to interact with a truck that speaks over 100 phrases, including jokes. He even snores when sleeping, making him a lifelike companion for your boy with the built-in fun of dumping and driving.

If your boy prefers creative creatures over talking trucks, you can give him Spike Jr., which is the miniature version of Spike the Ultra Dinosaur. He will sniff, laugh, roar and even yawn, as he independently walks and interacts with your children with the touch of a single button.

The Hottest Christmas Toys, 2009 and Beyond

When shopping for toys, it can be easy to give in to the latest and greatest invention. Your children will place plenty of pressure on you, too, especially with all the flashy commercials being shown during their favorite television shows. Try to overcome guilt and feelings of obligation and evaluate what your child will still be using come April. If an extremely popular toy is something aligned with his/her own interests and enjoyments, then by all means be encouraged to buy if it's within your budget. Just try to remember what is great now will be replaced by something even better in the near future - so really evaluate toy purchases you make as you shop for the hottest Christmas toys, 2009 and beyond.