Holiday gifts: Best toys

Death Star Planetarium

Perfect for the young Star Wars fans in the family, this mini planetarium allows them a “choice of projections: Earth’s night sky or a galaxy far, far away.” Runs on three AA batteries.

$30, fredflare.com

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Source:Family Circle

Red Toolbox Soccer Table

This kit “helps children advance their skill sets” even before the games begin. Assembly and finishing require some sawing, gluing, and sanding, but children 8 and older should be up to it.

$50, amazon.com

Source: TheToyInsider.com

Doc McStuffins ‘Time For Your Checkup’ Doll

One of the “hottest holiday toys of 2012” comes from the new Disney Channel show about a 6-year-old girl who plays doctor to her toys. Both ‘Doc’ and her pal Lambie talk, and the aspiring young physician also checks temperature and heartbeat.

$40, toysrus.com

Source: CNNMoney.com

Razor Pocket ModElectric Scooter

Razor’s new electric scooter brings a bit of vintage Italian flair to the cul-de-sac. This mini scooter has twist-grip acceleration and under-seat storage, and can reach 15 mph. Walmart predicts it’ll be one of the season’s most requested toys.

$250, walmart.com

Source: Manchester, N.H., Union Leader

Magnetic Comic Strip Kit

“Instead of just reading comic books, kids write their own using a dry-erase marker and this magnetic comic-strip kit.” The set includes more than 20 flexible comic magnets, including erasable backgrounds and speech balloons.

$28, the-mu.com

Source: New York magazine

Techno Source Glow Crazy Doodle Dome

Better than a pillow fort? This unique indoor tent affords your “little Picassos” some privacy while they draw masterpieces on the walls using a light wand. “When the art fades, it’s time to start all over again.” Stencils are included.

$20, kmart.com

Source: Good Housekeeping