At the 2008 Toy Fair in New York City, Mattel presented a wide array of playthings for children based on their four "toy trends" for 2008. The "toy trends" are toys that connect to the internet; toys that utilize technology to enrich role-playing and inspire imagination; toys that create and provide learning experiences; toys utilizing technology for realistic, life-like features and extreme interactive fun.

From a stunningly realistic "Elmo Live" (walking, talking, singing and telling jokes), to kid-magnets Dora The Explorer and Diego, the 2008 Toy Fair offered children, and their adults, the beautiful and exciting flights of imagination that people have come to expect from Mattel.

For Mattel, the message is clear: to learn while having fun. To that end, Mattel's 2008 products offer interactive-learning, in both English and Spanish. But shh! Don't tell the kids that they may actually be learning something even as they play.

Jennifer Santiago has more from the Mattel Gallery in NYC...