If you haven’t noticed yet, kids across the country think Care Bears are cool again.

The retro plush dolls of the ’80s are making a comeback for the holiday season and local retailers are having difficulty keeping them in stock.

“They’re out and we can’t keep them on the shelves,” stated Michelle Peters, assistant manager at Wal-Mart.

“They’re kind of a nostalgia item and I guess people want their kids to have the same toys they had growing up.”

The bears are the result of what experts are calling a “retro” trend in the toy industry.

The new 25th anniversary edition of Trivial Pursuit and a 50th anniversary edition of Matchbox cars are also a part of the escalating trend.

Fisher-Price’s $30 We Did It! Dancin’ Dora is also a big winner with kids of all ages. The Dora doll is a spin-off from the popular Nick Jr. television show, Dora the Explorer.

Standing nearly a foot tall, Dora turns around on her oversize sneakers and talks about color and clothing, blurting out some common words in English and even a little bit of Spanish.

“Parents love the educational and bilingual aspect and kids love pressing buttons and gizmos,” explained Nikki Peterson, North Grand Mall marketing director.

When her button-like shoelace is pressed, she performs the popular “We Did It!” song from the television show.

Dora’s features and overall appeal helped her to receive the 2002 FamilyFun Toy of the Year Award for FamilyFun magazine.

“It’s a novel toy for many reasons — it’s educational, interactive and cute,” stated Peterson.

The hyped-up Tickle Me Elmo of yore is headed for another stint at the top of wish lists this year as “Chicken Dance Elmo.”

Elmo, donned in a furry chicken suit, makes peeping noises, does the chicken dance, and of course, giggles the trademark laugh that made people love him.

Another item, Barbie as Rapunzel, is also listed as one of the big sellers this year. The doll comes complete with a pastel gown, musical hair brush and long, flowing hair that extends with a pull of her ponytail.

Local retailers said that yearly holiday toy “must haves” come and go.

“Once the novelty wears off, sales taper and folks are ready for something new or a new twist on the old. That’s where Chicken Dance Elmo comes from,” Peterson stated.

Peters agrees, explaining that the fads are strictly hype-based.

“It’s one item that someone starts talking about and everyone gets into it. We’ll find out what everyone is tackling for the day after Thanksgiving.”