Every year on Dec. 25, kids wake up to find brightly wrapped gifts under the tree, courtesy of old St. Nick.

Over the years, some old favourites have stood the test of time, while other new and popular items top children’s wish lists.

Rick Hunter, manager at Midland’s Wal-Mart, said items like Baby Alive Learn to Potty and the latest Tickle Me Elmo are some of this year’s biggest sellers, but classics like the Easy Bake Oven, Cabbage Patch Kids and G.I. Joes continue to be in high demand.

“They are just great, classic toys. (The Easy Bake Oven) is easy to use, it’s fun and it’s something to do as a family,” he said, adding Lego is back and is also a big hit.

Also popular this year, added Hunter, are video games like “Rock Band” and “Guitar Hero.”
Mike LeBlanc, assistant manager for EB Games, agreed the music games are flying off the shelves.

“The Wii console (is also) really booming this year as the ‘in’ thing to get,” he said. “(It’s) so popular because (it’s) reaching out to the casual gamers – people who don’t traditionally play video games.”

Also in high demand, he noted, are games such as “Gears of War” and “World of Warcraft.”

“(World of Warcraft) has 12 million people playing it. It’s huge. We had a midnight release for that and we had about 100 people in the parking lot that night.”

Janet and Jeff Weersink, owners of Minds Alive on King Street, said customers have been seeking out environmentally friendly and made-in-Canada items.

“The Sprig has been selling really well because it’s … made from recycled plastic and wood and it’s made in Midland,” said Janet Weersink.

“People are pretty keen to have something that’s not made in China,” added Jeff Weersink. “We have the recycled tea set, too … and people are starting to ask for that.”

Also big, they noted, are craft kits, traditional wood blocks, Lego and Mechano.

“People are looking for things to stimulate their kids’ minds and imaginations,” said Janet Weersink.

With Christmas just weeks away, parents might find it difficult to find items that top their kids’ wish lists.

Wal-Mart has already sold out of Easy Bake Ovens, Hunter said last week, and only had one Tickle Me Elmo left on the shelves. The good news, though, is that they are expected to get more in before Christmas.

nmillion@simcoe.com