Kiran Dodeja Smith

Kiran Dodeja Smith is a freelance writer and mom of four children under the age of 8. Email her.

Gift No. 1: Angry Birds Knock on Wood

11/09/11 19:11

My 7-year-old daughter got me started playing Angry Birds on my iPhone. I'm not a "game player" nor am I good at them - but there's something addicting about it. Obviously, I know we're not the only ones who are keen on the game, so for others who are in the same boat, you'll want to take note and add Mattel's Angry Birds Knock on Wood game to your gift list.

This way, kids of all ages can play their favorite app game in real life. With the same end goal of launching the Angry Birds towards the wooden castles, play is done by drawing cards, constructing the structure on the card, and then trying to knock it down. Freestyle building is also an option and provides opportunity for creative play. Constructing the structure requires patience and isn't always easy … but the rewards are far worth it as are the loads of laughs you'll have throughout.

Be prepared to hunt for pieces as they'll scatter easily, and those with little ones should watch the little pieces. On the flip side, be prepared to be just as obsessed with the board game as you are with the electronic version. This game is a knock-out.

Find it locally at Target and Toys R Us or online at Amazon. Be sure to call local stores ahead of time, as this game has been selling out.

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