This is one of my favorite categories of toy. My mom recently brought out an old pull toy of mine and it is a classic that just keeps on giving. Push and pull toys delight babies, amuse toddlers, and occupy preschoolers. Some, like the sophisticated and clever mix-and-match Automoblox, are collectibles suited for older children, teens, and even adults.

The selections from our Hottest Holiday Toys Awards are engaging, interactive, and made from high-quality and often eco-friendly materials.

Reuse, reduce, and recycle for a more eco-friendly lifestyle. The new Recycling Dump Truck from Green Toys teaches all these concepts by example and through play.

The Green Toys Tea Set is a favorite of ours and Green Toys has rescued more treasure from the trash heap with its new action toys made from recycled milk jugs. Check out this video tour of the new line of Green Toys we previewed at Toy Fair 2009…

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 …

Pre-walkers, toddlers, and preschoolers will enjoy pushing around this WoodPecker Walker from Plan Toys (BabyEarth – $72). 
Every step your tot takes will result in a rewarding clacking sound as the two woodpeckers “peck” at the wooden walker. According to the experts, this walker helps with gross motor development, physical development and postural control. I’m not an expert…but I do know that my son is delighted by the motion of the woodpeckers. And this toy doesn’t even require batteries! 
Parents will be happy to know that the WoodPecker Walker is made by Plan Toys, a green company …

Kids love pushing little toy cars around the room. A great place to push all your little vehicles is the Driving Around Town Play Mat from Rocket Bug Toys (My Lullabug – $29).
Moms know what kids like, and this mom entrepreneur thoroughly kid-tested the play mat, taking special care to create an attractive, functional, fun, and safe toy for your little ones.
An alternative to bulky and often expensive rugs, this inexpensive mat folds easily.  It is thin and compact for storage. Fold the mat as many times as you like …