For thoes noisy little monsters (ELC Musical Activity Set)

Member Name: vickigroth

Product:	ELC Musical Activity Set
Date:	12/03/08 (11 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: fun, colourful and educational

Disadvantages: none

Overview
I bought these for my daughter this Christmas when she was just over a year. I must admit it wasn't a well thought out purchase but more of a "oh my god what else can I get her?" moment. However, despite initially being ignored as she was much more interested in learning to climb things she has now become to really like them.
They are a set of 4 percussion musical instruments each with a large hand grip suitable for small children. One has bells, one is like a tambourine (but enclosed so little fingers can't get hurt), one has coloured beads in and sounds like the maraca's and one is kind of like a plastic tambourine. Each one of the triangular instruments can be attached together to be used in pairs or all together (makes a square) or they of course can be used individually - useful when you have several children over to visit as well.

They make sounds easily and are loud enough to be heard but not too annoying for the parents around, so they have yet to be banished to the cupboard where all annoying or noisy toys end up. I find my 2 like to either make music together with them holding one in each hand or bang along with the beat of one of their favourite songs. Its one of the few things that they really do do well together!

Packaging / contents/ availability
These are available at the Early Learning Centre, either at one of their many shops or online at www.elc.co.uk . They cost about £12.50 but there are often online deals or if you sign up to their birthday club you get 20% off before your child's birthday which makes quite a difference.
As they clip together they are easily transportable and storable.

Use
Their website says they are suitable for children aged 1-3 but I think the upper limit on that is a bit restrictive. I can see these being useful for years to come.
Advantages
* Fun, educational
* Colourful

Disadvantages
* None

Price / Value for money
They aren't particularly cheap but have proved more popular than I first imagined. Also they appeal to many age groups and never go out of fashion like many toys.
Overall
I like them. Not sure I'd pay full price (I used a 20% off voucher) but definitely worth having if you need a stocking filler etc.

Summary: Fun and very durable but not one of thoes played with all the time toys.