If I were you I would forget about getting a WII U and go all out with the 3DS. The games on the 3DS are on it's own level compared to the WII U.

I started when I was 3

Thanks all for the feedback. It is mostly in favor of Wii U, and I'm leaning more that way too.

I watched some of the playthroughs of SM3DW and many of the world look like a lot of fun.

3DS, WiiU next year.

Wii U is fun for the whole family, so I say go with that. Save the 3DS for a birthday, and probably don't get Dream Team with it for a kid that young. Or maybe just wait another year or two on it. At eight or so they start to get a bit more into understanding the RPG's and such.

Wii U with Super Mario 3D World and Nintendo Land is my vote. Lego City: Undercover is also a great choice for kids, though it's single-player.

I think your kids would enjoy the Wii U better for a Christmas gift because a home console is more the kind of gift you get at Christmas. Also like people said the 3D effect isnt for kiss under 7.

3DS. The games are cheaper, and it has more games. Get a Wii U next year.

I'd go for a Wii U and a bunch of multiplayer games.

Gotta spend some quality videogame time with the family.

Be responsible and deprave your children of Nintendo.

Wii U for the local multiplayer.