Consumer Reports: Tech Toys for Kids

It’s toy season! Eighty percent of the toy industry’s $20 billion in sales comes during the last six weeks of the year. And increasingly, those toys are high-tech. But which ones are worth it? Consumer Reports ShopSmart magazine can help!

The $50 Imaginext Apptivity Fortress from Fisher-Price would be fun for any kid. But adding in an iPad makes it irresistible. When you put the iPad in, it becomes a whole different game because you are actually playing video games in conjunction with the fortress. ShopSmart says it’s a terrific choice.

Classic toys such as Barbie have integrated LED technology, bringing her little black dress to a whole new level. Young designers pick colors and animate their creations. Barbie and her digital dress cost $50.

Another kid favorite is the LittleBits kit, a box of magnetized electronic modules that let you build a working circuit. The starter kit, at $90, contains a lot of inspiration.

A really good science book becomes a really great interactive science book when you download amazing animations on your smartphone. And at $20, the Interactive Planets 3D from Popar brings the solar system alive.

Complete ratings and recommendations on all kinds of products, including appliances, cars and trucks, and electronic gear, are available on Consumer Reports’ website.

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