GIFT GUIDE: Embrace your emotions with the WorryWoos

With Christmas knocking on the front door, everyone is running to the malls for one last shopping spree. Well, if you have any children you’re looking to buy a last-minute gift for, then consider the WorryWoos Monsters.

These adorable and educational plush toys and storybooks are the brainchild of Andi Green, who first introduced the characters in 2001. Ten years later, the WorryWoos have taken over the planet and this latest fad should come as a welcome development to both kids and parents alike.

Too often, children are obsessed with brainless distractions that turn their minds into mush, from Angry Birds to Lalaloopsy. There are a ton of cute offerings out there, but very few that are backed up with a helpful message. (OK, I’ll get off my high horse now).

WorryWoos still have the “fun” factor, but they also provide important lessons to children. Essentially, each character represents a human emotion, and through both the plush dolls and storybooks, the youngsters can begin comprehending some of those adult feelings that are entering their mind. Nothing gets too serious; these are children, after all. The stories serve as simple, effective entry points into the greater emotional world.

These aren’t the typical feelings, like “happy,” “glad” or “content.” The WorryWoos smartly, and somewhat deceptively, teach children about the difficult emotions as well. There’s Nola the Monster of Loneliness, which looks like a baby green dragon, plus Wince the Monster of Worry, a blue cutie with big eyes and yellow wings.

Insecurity, confusion and innocence are all represented, with more monsters coming in 2012.

Inevitably, fans will want to collect them all, like the Beanie Baby craze from a few years ago. However, for the holidays or a child’s birthday, one doll and storybook should do just fine as a starter. Each emotional package costs $36 retail. Click here for more information on where to buy the toys online or in stores throughout the nation.

If you’re stressed this holiday season, sit back and learn some lessons from these cuddly monsters.