Nearly three-quarters of children ages 7 to 12 wanted a gaming system as part of their back-to-school supplies; 70% wanted a new computer and 69% wanted a new mobile phone, according to a survey conducted by the comparison shopping Web site ShopLocal.com in July 2007.

Boys and girls had different ideas about what parents should get them first: 88% of the girls wanted clothes or accessories, while 80% of boys wanted a gaming system.

Preteens show brand consciousness as well. Of the preteens who wanted a musical device, 83% mentioned they wanted an iPod in particular. Of those who most wanted a gaming system, 64% opted for Nintendo's Wii by name.

Eva Yusa of ShopLocal.com said, "Wants and perceptions have changed dramatically from even a few years ago. With the growing popularity of consumer electronics, children have different ideas about what is acceptable, and what are 'must haves' for the back-to-school season."