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Every Christmas there is always that sought-after item that you just have to buy. Last year we saw the rise of the selfie stick, the Star Wars' Sphero BB-8 and adult colouring books, but this year the Hatchimal is what every child is asking for from Santa. And what is a Hatchimal? It's a fluffy toy chick that actually hatches from its own egg (yes, you read that right).
The Hatchimal is a cross between the Tamagotchi of the 1990s and the Furby toy that rose to popularity in the early 2000s. This interactive toy has colour-changing eyes, a 3-stage life-cycle and four games to be unlocked.
Like all popular toys at Christmas the race is on to try and get your hands on a gold-dust-like Hatchimal. Some popular retailers are starting to sell out but it's likely many will restock before Christmas.
One place Australian's can definitely find Hatchimals is on eBay. Many merchants are selling the toys online, however expect to see an inflation in cost, as with anything popular.
Yes! They actually do hatch. When your child first gets their Hatchimal it comes sealed in its egg. It will have to be cuddled, tapped and held for about 25 minutes before the egg starts to crack. The eyes of the Hatchimal will change colour depending on what it needs. Blue means it needs to be cuddled as it's cold. Dark blue means that it's scared. Flashing lights means that it has the hiccups. White means that your Hatchimal is tired and wants to go to sleep.
The Hatchimal can be quite loud, but rest assured you can turn down the volume (phew!). The Hatchimal will go through three life stages: baby, toddler and child. With each life cycle comes a cute Hatchy Birthday song that the Hatchimal will sing to you. Doesn't it just make you so proud when the little ones grow up? Cue teary eyes.
Don't worry, you don't have to wait for the Hatchimal's eye to turn white before you can get some rest. If you want to force the sleep mode, simply turn the Hatchimal upside down for 8 seconds, and just like that, sleep time will be activated. If only putting your child to sleep was so easy!
So far 2016 has seen a rise of toys that get children outdoors and away from TV and computer screens, with scooters and family board games becoming increasingly popular. Hatchimals are a great way for children to get a sense of nurturing and care, while still being fun. Due to the popularity of Hatchimals this season, the cost has generally increased, so consider whether you're happy to pay more before purchasing.
The Hatchimal is a gift designed to keep your child entertained for a long time as they will need to learn how to walk, talk and dance. They also come with four games to unlock once they reach the third and final life stage.
You may also like to read: the top 5 toys trending this Christmas
Hatchimals don't interact with each other but this doesn't mean that children can't play with their Hatchimals together.
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