TOY-BUYING GUIDES

The Best Toys, Books, and Videos for Kids, by Joanne and Stephane Oppenheim (HarperPerennial, $12). This paperback reviews 1,000-plus ``kid-tested, classic, and new products'' for children from birth to 10 years old.

Consumer Reports. The magazine's current issue includes an in-depth look at popular toys. Its magazine for kids, ``Zillions,'' also examines the toy scene. Available at libraries and newsstands.

Dr. Toy's 100 Best Children's Products - 1994. Stevanne Auerbach`s list is free. Send a self-addressed, stamped envelope to: Dr. Toy, c/o Institute for Childhood Resources, 220 Montgomery St. No. 2811, San Francisco, CA 94104.

The Duracell Kids' Choice National Toy Survey. The batterymaker annually sponsors this survey of new toys. Four of the top 10 - believe it or not - need no batteries. For results (and some product-pitching), call: 1-800-BESTTOY.

Parents' Choice magazine. The current issue surveys top toys, books, videos, and more. It's available at libraries, or by mail for $4: Parents Choice Awards Issue, Box 185, Newton, MA 02168.