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Zhu Zhu Hamsters are cute, interactive, intelligent toys; and they're preparing to invade our homes. Already, stores are selling out of Zhu Zhu pets and their accessories, suggesting that the 2009 holiday season might be overtaken by "Zhu Zhu-mania."
The realistic looking mechanical plush animals are being billed as pets without the mess. They emit sounds and use sensors to participate in two modes of play. In "nurture" mode, they purr. In "adventure" mode they explore your house or habitat you have build for them.
Sure, they're cute, but, like so many mania-inducing holiday toys that have caused parents grief over the years, the Zhu Zhu Hamster is destined for the bottom of the toy bin after the holiday excitement has subsided. Videos of the Zhu Zhu Hamsters show that they are, well, less exciting then they sound. As a parent, you will risk life and limb to acquire the robo-pets, only to find them lodged behind a dresser a month later, whimpering helplessly until the toxic batteries are drained.
I say: "Stand up against the Zhu Zhu invasion!"
Fight the Zhu Zhu Hamster Invasion
Your weapon in the dire fight against this latest harbinger of holiday overconsumption, are classic homemade gifts. While these gifts occasionally lack flash, they make up for it with longevity.
Instead of aiming for the "wow on opening," something that animatronic critters excel at, aim for things that are, if not exciting, immediately engaging. Try some of these ideas:
- A felt board with a couple dozen pre-cut shapes and characters provides a canvas for imaginative play that never expires.
- Gather some old clothes and make a dress-up box.
- Set up a little kitchen with homemade play-food.
- Use found objects to create your own versions of classic games. Whether travel-sized or not, games are a winner.
Have a Great Homemade Gift? Share it with Fellow Readers!
Read more about green gifting:
Show Off Before You Give: Submit Your Best DIY Holiday Gifts
How to Go Green: Gift Giving
How To Go Green: Kids' Toys
Rainy Day? Entertain the Kids with Green Activities for Under $25
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