There is nothing quite like watching a child's eyes light up when they are opening their presents during the holidays. It's especially delightful when they turn the corner to see what Santa has left them under the tree on Christmas morning. We combed the island in search of toys that are guaranteed to wow, and we're pretty certain that these will bring lots of joy to both boys and girls for many years to come. 

Board Games: There are at least a few dozen board games for children and adults available at Goodies By The Sea, but we narrowed them down to three that are sure to please. Zimmbos ($24.99) makes stacking colorful elephants and other animals a fun game while also building on creativity, fine motor skills, counting and logic; for ages 3 and up. Bendomino ($12.99) is similar to dominos but with a curved style that adds a new level of strategy to the game. Whoever gets to 100 points first is the winner; for ages 5 and up. Disney Cranium ($34.99) combines a fun and creative popular family game with your favorite Disney characters. With 16 activities and 400 Disney themed cards, it is sure to provide hours of fun; for ages 8 and up.

For Goodness Sake: Local children's author Dorothy Kirwin presents her new holiday tale For Goodness Sake, about how a boy and his friends who help a young family over the holidays. Available at Groovy Gator; $22.

Funtime Tractor: Push the orange button on the front of the tractor and watch it travel across the room as it makes real tractor sounds. Animals are nestled into their own special spot in the trailer and when pushed down, each one makes its sound. Infants and toddlers love this toy that is both fun and educational. Available at Walrus & Carpenter Toys; $34.99.

Kid-o Blocks: There may be no toy that is more of a  classic than a set of wooden blocks. This set of perfectly carved and finished blocks with primary colors included is guaranteed to provide hours of imaginative play for all ages. Available at Groovy Gator; $56.

Deluxe Pirate Ship: This toy pirate ship by Melissa & Doug includes three figures, a spinning wheel, two mainsails, and many other features to encourage pretend play in the pirate world. Available at Michael Hayes for Kids; $69.99.

Cook's Corner Kitchen: This full-service all-in-one kitchen is perfect for your future chef. With a sink, cutting board, kitchen timer, three burner stove, oven and fridge all within easy reach, your little chef is certain to be whipping up some specialties in no time. Available at Michael Hayes for Kids; $139.99.

Green Dollhouse with Furniture: Even dollhouses are looking to the future of building green. This Green Dollhouse by Plan Toys features a windmill, recycling center, solar panels, rain barrels and a shade canopy. Some furniture is included and many more sets are available for an additional cost. Available at Goodies By The Sea; $179.99.

Firetruck Toy Box: While this Firetruck Toy Box can't be ordered in time to go under the tree, we still think it has to be on the list. We know a lot of little ones who would have it at the top of their list. The box can be personalized with the fire department or even the little fire fighter of your choice. Available by special order at Groovy Gator; $550.

Stay tuned for more of our favorite picks for pets, home and more each week leading up to Christmas Day. In case you missed it, here's the 2010 Holiday Gift Guide: Gifts for Women and the 2010 Holiday Gift Guide: Gifts for Men.

Holiday Gift Guide is a series by Sarah Fernandez written throughout the holiday season. Check back with Patch this week for her next article, Holiday Gift Guide: Pets.