Play value key for tots

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Paul Irish

With three young children, Jennifer Chizick says any toy she purchases must have incredible "play value" and, ideally, be easy to share.

That's why the Happy Dog Rocker, $60, could be under her family's Christmas tree this year.

The durable, lightweight rocking toy made in Denmark is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.

But the big attraction for tots this year is one with a familiar face. In Elmo Live, $80, the popular Sesame Street character can now speak his mind and move. His mouth even opens and closes.

Every tot loves a snuggly toy, and if it can talk, all the better. Blanket Time Igglepiggle, $35, is a perfect bedtime companion. He carries his red blanket with him everywhere, and sings, dances and plays.

What's Christmas without a train? Kid Galaxy's My First RC Go Go Train, $23, is a squeezable, soft and chunky toy – perfect for little hands. Controlled by a simple remote, the train goes forward or turns in a circle, but never goes off the track.

The Yookidoo Discovery Plahouse, $100, features activities inside and out.