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.

Imagine a world where toys please the senses and stimulate the imagination. Now imagine a world where all of those toys are made in fair trade facilities from eco-friendly, sustainable materials.

It is easy if you try… just visit ImagiPlay. They make beautiful, clever wooden toys for infants, toddlers, and children…

Classic toys are timeless for good reason. Wooden building blocks never go out of style–durable, creative, open ended toys that allow for hours of exploration.

HABA makes quality toys primarily from cloth and wood. These organic materials, combined with a European aesthetic, lend HABA toys a warmth and charm that encourages tactile play.

The HABA Plug and Pile Royal Tower Wooden Blocks are a fun twist on traditional building blocks…

Unique, funky, and oh-so-chic, Color Zoo from Allen Ave. is a perfect gift forany child or even a kid-at-heart, animal-loving adult.

Exuberantly vivid, retro prints will add flair to any child’s room and, if your kid insists on bring her friend along, you’ll have no problem spotting the brightly-colored plush animal hidden in the jungle gym.

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 …

Natural Pod is one of my favorite boutiques for children’s toys.  All of the products are so lovely and I feel good knowing they are made from eco-friendly and child-safe materials, by fair-wage workers or independent craftsmen.
My preschooler checked out the Wooden Van (CAD $25; about US $19.50), a charmingly simple wooden toy automobile.  Sturdy, solid and easy to grasp, this van is a great choice for even younger babies. The big rubber wheels keep the van on a steady path as your child zooms it across the room.
Toy cars …

Craftsbury Kids is the place to look for unique, handmade toys, clothing, art and decor, and gifts for babies and children.
So it is no surprise we’ve featured some of their selections in our Guide to the Hottest Holiday Toys for 2008.
This gorgeous Caterpillar Pull Toy ($34.00) is handmade of hardwoods in the USA. Stack, pull, and watch the wheels spin–and you’ll still enjoy him as he rests on your shelf.
I think this adorable Plush Matryoshka Doll ($10), made in England, would make a sweet friend for a little one or …

When space and money are in short supply, I love finding products that have multiple uses.
The 3-in-1 Stepping Stone Play Mat from One Step Ahead changes with your baby as he grows and develops.
First, the play mat begins as a great tummy time spot. There are plenty of textures, colors, mirrors, soft toys, and more attached to the mat–including the all-important baby-safe mirror. Because all the action takes place on the mat, it is a great reminder to play on the floor with your child on his stomach so he …

Our Hottest Holiday Toys Guide is here! Check out our picks for the best pretend play, push and pull, building toys, plus the top arts and crafts supplies, non-toxic teethers, and more!
And, of course, there’s swag!
Starting today, we’re hosting 12 Days of Giveaways! Remember to come back everyday for a new giveaway.  Better yet, subscribe to our e-mail digest so you’ll never miss a hip review, chic sweeps, or fabulous deal.
Get into the giving spirit and share our guide and you can earn up to two additional entries in all …