************Product Information***************
The Galt Frog in a Box is a modern version of the very traditional Jack in the Box
The 'box', measuring approx 20cmx19cmx15cm, is a cylinder, made from blue plastic. It is covered in a padded blue material, decorated with bouncing frogs and vibrant flowers. You lift the lid, which is a white crinkly lily pad and put the frog, inside the 'box' by pushing down the centre. Replace the lid and lift it up again and out bounces 'froggy' (as we like to call it). It is not very heavy so is not going to cause any expletives if dropped on your foot or thrown at someone's head!

It is described as being suitable from 9 months; however I think that it can be used as soon as your baby starts to enjoy peek-a-boo type games. We have been having fun with this since my daughter was about 6 months old.

It can currently be purchased off Amazon for £17.99 plus £5.99p+p. I was lucky enough to receive this as part of a bundle of second hand toys off e-bay, for which I paid £5. So e-bay is definitely worth a look.

*********Developmental Advantages*************
This toy helps to develop babies' concept of 'object permanence'. In other words they learn that even if an item is out of sight, it still exists. This generally happens some time between 4 and 12 months. They also love the element of surprise. It is lovely to see my daughter, who is now 1, giggle when 'froggy' jumps out. She goes to get him again and tries to push him back down. She just loves it and will play again and again.
If I had purchased this brand new, we would have definitely had our money's worth by now!
*************Small Disadvantage***************
Babies will not be able to operate it themselves. You have to push the middle down quite hard to make sure the frog stays down and then pull the lid back far enough so that the middle 'pops' back up, otherwise he wont jump out. This could cause some frustration if your baby was determined to play by themselves. I don't consider it a huge disadvantage, though as it is a good toy to get down on the floor and 'play with' your baby, as the reaction your baby gives is so amusing to watch.

***********Durability and Reliability***************
As I purchased this second hand, I had to ensure it was clean. This was not a problem, the cover came off and I hand washed it in washing powder, reshaped it and dried it out overnight and slipped it back over the box.

Apart from some fading to the material this toy is as good as new. It is fairing well, considering its regular use and some rough handling from my 5 year old boy. We have owned it for about 8 months now. I am not sure how long the previous owner had it for. I expect this to last some time yet and will pass it on to a friend when my daughter has outgrown it.

I would highly recommend.