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We’re in a heatwave, during a pandemic, and we can’t bring ourselves to think about Christmas yet. And yet, here we are.
With just over four months to go until the big day, Argos has announced its highly anticipated top toy predictions for 2020.
According to research conducted by the toy retailer, the time we’ve been spent at home has generated a strong sense of nostalgia.
Half of parents reminisced about their old toys at some point during the nationwide lockdown, and as a result, more than one fifth plan to gift their child something that conjures memories of their own childhood this Christmas.
There are familiar faces (and creatures) on this year’s list, with toys from L.O.L. Surprise! and Paw Patrol making the lineup for a third and fourth year in a row respectively.
Elsewhere on the list, the unstoppable rise of TikTok and YouTube made its presence felt in the KidiZoom Studio entering the top 12.
At least 10 of the toys are available to buy now – with links below – but two of them aren’t yet available to order. Here they all are.
The well-known fashion dolls are back – with added surprises to add to their new “retro” styles.
Star Wars The Child Animatronic Toy, £45
It’s not yet available to order, but this Baby Yoda toy is already set to be a hit. Touching the top of its head activates over 25 sound and motion combinations, including giggles, babbles and more, all while Yoda’s head moves up and down, ears move back and forth, and eyes open and close.
Poopsie Dancing Unicorn, £50
If you press the belly button, this unicorn will sing and dance. A dancing unicorn, what more could you want, even if it’s not yet available to order.
PAW Patrol fans, listen up. This is the first-ever motorised team vehicle from the range. So, when your kids spots a dino in trouble, they can launch the rescue nets.
This interactive flamingo wiggles and jiggles his neck – and repeats what you say. He even tells you he needs a “poop” after he’s fed. This definitely won’t get on parents’ nerves. Not at all.
Remember Hatchimals? There’s a new range on the block – and these are fairies that can fly. Launch them from the base or lift them into the air, then use your hands to guide them.
Your kids can be the star of their own videos – this kit comes complete with green screen to create special effects, too. You can set up the included tripod to film videos, or use the flip-up lens and handle to capture selfie videos.
Laser Battle Hunters, £60
These radio-controlled combat vehicles can move forward, reverse, spin and turn at super-fast speeds. Endless fun.
A starter course for Lego and Mario fans – also featuring an interactive Mario figure. Get building and creating, then knock it all down and start again.
It’s eye-wateringly expensive – but apparently you can build an exact detailed replica of a Lamborghini Sian FKP 37. Kid car fans, rejoice.
For younger kids, this activity toy is an “interactive friend” that should keep playtime exciting. The four play modes are filled with music and activities that encourage babies to get moving.
These dolls love to dance – they have soft bodies but can also raise their arms and legs in “lifelike” positions. An upgrade on your average baby doll, for sure.
