Learning a musical instrument opens up new worlds for children. As the granddaughter of a professional musician, music has played an important role in my life since I was a very young child. And this is a gift I am excited to share with my children, as well. The musical toys from our Hottest Holiday Toys Awards allow the child to create his own rhythms and melodies, rather than simply play a song at the push of a button…

Like many kids, I wanted to be a guitar hero, jamming with friends and soaking up the spotlight. Although I already enjoyed the piano and the flute, but I struggled to get my small fingers to stretch to reach the guitar chords. And all due respect to Jethro Tull, it is hard to rock out with the flute.

Learning a musical instrument is far easier during childhood and First Act Discovery makes a series of high quality steel-string acoustic guitars sized just right (30″) for little hands. And at $30 these guitars are sized just right for your budget…

Children of the 80s fondly remember Teddy Ruxpin, the storytelling bear. Now our children can fall in love with the new Smart-e Bear. 
Smart-e Bear is akin to a plush iPod. This soft stuffed animal has a hidden USB port which connects to your computer. You can program the Smart-e Bear to say your child’s name, and you can select from thousands of songs, games and stories. 
iPod users customize their playlists, but Smart-e Bear users create customized “playdates.” In just a few minutes, I created a “playdate” full of energetic songs, interactive stories and games (like Simon Says) as well as a “playdate” of …

Natural Pod has one of the most unique selections of heirloom-quality, natural and organic toys, clothing, and gifts.
This Canadian-based store only stocks eco-friendly and child-safe wooden and cloth toys, organic clothing, and sustainable items, most of which are made in Canada, the USA, or Europe.
My tot checked out a few of Natural Pod’s toddler toys and pre-schooler favorites.
She’s carrying around the Poot & Boogie Doll from their Natural and Organic Dolls section. Poot & Boogie dolls are handcrafted and natural–even the fiberfill is an eco-friendly corn-based material. …

As we search for products for their families that are wholesome and natural, we also realize that we can reduce waste and simplify our lives. Just a few, heirloom quality toys can replace the clutter.
Natural Pod offers parents toys and other products for daily living that stimulate the mind, while keeping your family safe. The eco-friendly selections are organic, durable, and simply beautiful, promoting both imaginative play and an appreciation for quality and beauty. The kids will have to watch out or we may snatch these toys to …

The to-do list of the average parent seems endless. My cousin has two daughters, ages 7 and 8. In addition to working outside the home, helping with homework, keeping a clean house and cooking healthy dinners, she is a full-time chauffeur as she shuttles her girls to and from soccer, swimming, karate, singing, Girl Scouts, and more. I can’t even remember all the activities—let alone comprehend how my cousin coordinates the family schedule while maintaining her sanity.
Since the girls are interested in music, I thought Piano Made Easy would be …

Music hath charms to soothe the cranky baby…Baby Diva already has a soundtrack. Every night she we ease her off to bed with her goodnight music. We listen to play music, relaxing music, and music in other languages. She enjoys Kindermusik class and we dance and sing at home a lot. She already has mini-instruments and Super Dad helps her play the guitar. Music appreciation and making is a daily part of our lives.
Some of our favourite instruments for baby are collected in this fun “Hohner Baby Band” ($17). All …

Baby Diva loves her Tiny Love Musical Stack & Play. At first, she was not entirely sure what to do with her new toy. So, she did what any self-respecting baby would do–she tried to eat it.
After a couple of tries, however, she figured out that dropping the ball inside the elephant produces a fun tune and flashing lights.
The toy is well-made and colorful. The only downside is the ball may miss the musical “trigger” when baby tilts the toy towards her. Also, it is fairly easy for a baby …