<p>I just went thru this too. My problem was, I REALLY didn't want to shell out $$$$$$$ for a couple games, especially if they were duds. I found this <a href="http://dsiware.nintendolife.com/games" target="_blank">review website</a> for the cheaper DSiWare games ($2-$8 for most). It took forever to weed out the best games for my dd - and unfortunately I was looking more for math-based stuff not artsy. But if you focus on the games that scored 8/10 or higher, you should find a few winners. Note, however, that the scores are based on mature players' opinions. They didn't think much of the Littlest Pet Shop game, but I'm SURE my 6yo would love it! (Didn't get it though - I figure she can use Christmas $ to buy a full size retail game)</p>
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<p>A couple DSiWare games that come to mind for your are Glow Artisan, Save the Turtles, and maybe My Farm (not a great review, but lots of animals). Glow Artisan and some of the newer Ware games use pictures you take with the DSi camera - sounds like a lot of fun for an 8yo! And don't forget the DSi comes with FlipNote Studio (or you can download it for free) - it's a very basic drawing program that lets you draw "animated" flip note books. </p>
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<p>On the <a href="http://ds.nintendolife.com/games" target="_blank">same website, different tab</a> are reviews of retail games. I noticed that not every game has a review... </p>
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<p>If you decide to go with some DSiWare, I highly recommend you set up its internet connection before you give it to your dd. It took me hours to figure out why my WPA security code wasn't working properly. Not fun on Christmas day! And when you download DSiWare, the games initially show up on the screen as little wrapped present icons. Cute! Only problem was, I really wanted to play the games before I gave the DSi to my dd! Oh well...</p>
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<p>I also found <a href="http://hubpages.com/hub/Nintendo-DS-Games-for-Children" target="_blank">this blog</a> that reviews some kid games. </p>
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<p>Hope this helps!</p>