This nice chunky wooden barrel is a whole heap of fun for young ones who are learning about shapes and problem solving. The wood is a lovely pine colour and it looks like a really classic children's toy. The shapes inside are different colours, adding a colourful touch to the item.
 
The barrel is 14cm high with a diameter of about 15cm. The shapes are all quite different, which I think aids the learning process for young children. They are a red semi-circle, purple circle, blue cross, yellow triangle, green L-shape and an orange cube. One of the bars of the barrel has been replaced with a red band of elastic, meaning the shapes can easily be removed from the barrel (and slipped back in by any cheats!).

There are three shapes cut out of either end of the barrel, so to complete the activity the barrel needs to be turned this way and that.
 
I really like this toy and my daughter, at just under two years, is really enjoying playing with it at the moment. I do help her out with the shapes but she is starting to get them on her own now and I have definitely watched this process develop, which is very rewarding.
 
In terms of appearance I think this is a lovely toy. It's a nice change from brightly coloured plastic and it will last forever (in fact this belonged to my much older nieces for many years, yet it looks as good as new still). The wood gives it a classic feel yet the brightly coloured blocks give it a contemporary edge and ensure it doesn't look old fashioned. I think once MissD has mastered the toy, she will start to lose interest in it, but even then it will still look nice on display, or can be stored away with no danger of it deteriorating or getting damaged.
 
This would make a great gift - it looks smart and expensive and I think would be much loved by all children - both boys and girls. It is suitable from 12 months (although there are no small parts so I think it's fine from a younger age) and costs £12.99 or so.