To our NY area members, thanks for the many queries about our Holiday Rap and Wrap event with Toys ‘R Us. We did wind up bypassing it this year… but knowing that many of you are missing it, we’ll definitely look to bring it back next year. In the meantime, and for everyone, regardless of location, we asked our friends at Toys ‘R Us for their picks for the best new toys of the year. We’ve picked a few of our favorites, below, with varying age appeal.

Or you can see the complete list on our blog…

Classic Lights and Sounds Tricycle

From Radio Flyer, this very cool, stylized scooter trike has the classic construction and functionality of a great first set of wheels for young children, with some additional bells and whistles (well, bells at least, and lights) that lend extra fun. Under-the-seat storage would appear to be an excellent place to discover a favorite forgotten toy a few months from now. Recommended 18 months to 3 years. $59.99

Bakugan BakuBelt Action Kit

Just in time for an economic crunch, the hottest of hot toys for boys (and surely plenty of girls too) are Bakugan balls, at around $8 piece. For the first time collector or aficionado of several weeks, this Action Kit should delight. It offers great anime bang for the buck, as it includes a cool action belt, 2 Bakugan balls, 2 metal cards, 2 paper cards and 1 clip, for $16.99. Recommended for ages 5-9.

Pink Tag™ Reading System from LeapFrog

A fun new way for little learners to learn how to read, this educational tool looks like a pen and lets kids hear an entire story, individual words or play learning games when scrolling over the words or pictures in a story. Kids can choose from a 20-volume library that includes “The Little Engine That Could” and “Olivia” … and parents can get in on the act by connecting the Tag Reading System to a computer. For Ages 4 to 8 years. $49.99

EyeClops® Night Vision Infrared Stealth Goggles

Powered by real night vision technology, Eye Clops Night Vision Goggles from Jakks Pacific allow kids to see up to 50-feet away in absolute darkness, creating unlimited possibilites for play– most of which you might actually approve. Invisible infrared illumination lets junior secret agents go on special missions and perform night maneuvers, preferably in their backyards versus your bedroom. Battery-operated, and recommended for ages 8 and up. $69.99

50s Diner

It’s hard not to be nostalgic these days for what we can fancy to have been sweeter, simpler times, so like the slightly retro scooter above, we get why this playet modeled on a 50s diner hit the hot toy list this year. Its retro chicness has huge parent appeal (Really, how cute is this)? … while its many opportunities for imaginary play (with a kitchen on one side and booth on the other) should delight the toddler set and beyond. Comes fully stocked with pretend food and cooking supplies, and even a plastic jukebox that plays 3 tunes. Just not recommended for the spatially challenged. From Step 2. Ages 2 and up. $149.99

All of these picks are available at toysrus.com. Having trouble with an item or need a little special help? We’re giving you the direct line to the head of Personal Shopping at Toys ‘R Us Times Square: 866-742-6425. Make sure to mention you are an “executive mom” when you call.