The Canberra Times spoke to five local toy store managers to compile the ten top-selling children's gifts in the lead up to Christmas. We made it to the end without any screen-based items... well, almost.

Kidstuff Belconnen store manager, Clare Scott, said a gift as simple as "self-tying water balloons that fill over one hundred balloons in less than second seconds" has been topping wish-lists this year. "Because they are biodegradable, they are a lot more parent-friendly, so when the kids don't pick the balloons up it is not actually the end of the world," she said. Ages 6+

These soft furry friends seem to have become an obsession for many kids. Why? Majura Park Toys"R"Us Babies"R"Us manager, Darron Lewis, believes it is the "big eyes and cleverly marketed collectability". Ages 3+

Unless you've been living under a rock, you would be aware of the huge hype surrounding the new 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens' movie released last Thursday. Mr Lewis said its merchandise has become a hit for adults as well as children, although this X-wing fighter set is designed for Ages 8-14

Most store managers agreed that old school games are making a comeback. Ms Scott observed that parents have been searching for presents that will introduce kids to entertainment from their own pre-Ipad childhoods.

It seems this desire for children to turn to traditional play has also sparked a popularity in wooden items. Director at Super Toyworld & Hobbies in Fyshwick, Jeoffrey Morton, said the Hape range of preschool timber products were selling through the roof. Wooden musical instruments are also doing well at Kidstuff Belconnen.

David Jones is also reporting increasing demand for traditional dress-up dolls, particularly collectible dolls. Store manager of Wolfie in Manuka, Victoria Rattenbury, said Maplewood Dolls are one of her top sellers this Christmas season. "I find it is because parents have been searching for quality products lately," Ms Rattenbury said. Ages 3+

Manager of Little Sprout in Civic, Lisa Boniface, agreed that families are leaning to traditional toys this season, pointing to her tea-sets for girls who enjoy playing grown-ups. Ages 3+

Toy store managers say the upcoming Pixar movie, The good Dinosaur, has influenced store shelves before it has even been released - especially its figure assortments and plush toys. Ages vary

Mr Lewis said this is the latest craze amongst older children. "It takes you into a virtual world such as riding a roller coaster and works with google Cardboard," he said. The 3D system opens up 360-degree views.

These aerial robots have soared in popularity this year for both adults and kids as young as five, Mr Morton said. However, strict rules and regulations apply for flying them, which can be found at the Civil Aviation Safety Authority website. They have also made The Canberra Times' Dangerous Gift Guide, due to the reported injuries they have caused.

While no parents want to disappoint their child, clinical psychologist at the University of Canberra, Vivienne Lewis, emphasised the importance in enforcing boundaries when Christmas shopping.

"A lot of people think they are bad parents if they haven't got their kids what they want, but if you totally indulge your child they will continue to expect to be given everything," she said.

"Talking to your kids and setting limits is good parenting, giving in is not."

* Prices vary across stores and designs