The best books and toys of 2005

ATM Machine by Small World Toys ($49.99): Children learn the value of a dollar (and coins) with this savings bank (below), which functions like a real ATM machine, complete with an ATM card. The item will recognize your child by name and respond only to her PIN. Ages 8+; visit smallworldtoys.com for store locations.

The Sims 2 Nightlife by Electronic Arts ($34.95): Teens get an interactive lesson in social and driving skills (bottom) in this latest update to the best-selling computer game. (Requires The Sims 2 software to play.) Ages 13+; at eastore.ea.com.

Children's imagination

He's Got the Whole World in His Hands by Kadir Nelson (Dial Books for Young Readers, $16.99): The noted spiritual comes to life with beautiful illustrations. Ages: 4+; at bookstores nationwide.

Little Stevie Wonder by Quincy Troupe (Houghton Mifflin, $18): This ode is as engaging as Wonder's music. Ages 5-9; at bookstores nationwide.

Jazz ABZ by Wynton Marsalis (Candlewick Press, $24.99): The author pays tribute to 26 music icons. Ages 12+; at bookstores nationwide.

YPT-300 Digital Keyboard by Yamaha ($149.95): Designed for the beginner, the keyboard has built-in software that includes interactive "listen and learn" exercises. Ages 8+; at Toys R Us.

Ultimate Pottery Wheel by Discovery Kids ($79.95): Budding artists can throw clay like a pro with this perfectly-sized pottery wheel and accessories. Ages 8+; at Discovery Channel stores.

Self-esteem

Girls Hold Up This World by Jada Pinkett Smith (Scholastic, $16,95): Each inspiring photograph captures the beauty of African-American girls and women. Ages 4-9; at bookstores nationwide.

What I Like About Me! by Allia Zobel-Nolan (Reader's Digest Children's Books, $14.99): Touch-and-learn details play up each person's uniqueness and help children understand that it's cool to be different. Ages 3-7; at bookstores nationwide.

The Skin You Live In by Michael Tyler (Chicago Children's Museum, $14.95): By celebrating our different hues, the book teaches valuable lessons about self-acceptance. Ages 4-8; at bookstores nationwide.

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