Hot Holiday Toys For Kids: Expert Picks For 2024

The holiday shopping season is officially underway, and child lifestyle expert Elizabeth Warner has some top picks for parents looking to get ahead on the hottest toys this year.

For creative and self-expression fun, Warner recommends Decora Girlz dolls by Cepia. These dolls, which come in 5-inch and 11-inch sizes, feature trendy clothes and colorful hair that kids can style with stickers and accessories.

“Kids get to create the ultimate doll that screams their own style,” Warner said.

For toddlers, Warner suggests Blockables by Melissa & Doug. These large wooden blocks, designed for ages 2 and up, come with felt accessories that help build imaginative play. The blocks snap together for sturdy constructions, and the set doubles as storage for easy cleanup.

Inspired by kids' movies, Warner highlights the Transformers One Power Flip Optimus Prime. This action figure, celebrating 40 years of Transformers, features lights, sounds, and the ability to convert into four modes. It’s based on the recently released "Transformers One" animated film, currently streaming on Paramount Plus.

For imaginative play, Warner recommends the Play-Doh Pizza Delivery Scooter. This ride-on scooter lets kids create pizzas and ice cream, complete with a play pizza oven and counter.

The Gabby’s Celebration Dollhouse, an upgraded version of the popular "Gabby’s Purrfect Dollhouse," is perfect for preschoolers. It includes six rooms, a secret attic, and a delivery tower, all with music and sounds from the show.

Warner also shares tips for shopping: “Match the gift to the child’s interests, price check online, and grab the item early before it sells out,” she advises.

With these expert recommendations, parents can make sure they’re on track for a fun-filled holiday season.