What toys are worth your money?

This is not a newcomer-related post. I do write unrelated stories and I am looking for help with one on holiday toy shopping. It's for our annual holiday guide.

The theme this year: frugal picks. Doesn't mean cheap. But rather good values. It's about choosing a few quality toys rather than a slew of so-so stuff that will fall apart or won't hold a kid's interest past December.

Anyhow, I'm looking for suggestions from parents. What toys do you recommend? What's really worth the money? Please post your thoughts here or e-mail me at abaldwin@charlotteobserver.com. If you e-mail please include your name and daytime phone number in case I want to follow up.

Thanks.