We look after my niece on a regular basis so I am always on the lookout for cheap little items that will help amuse her and keep her entertained rather than staring at the TV for hours. She adores Peppa Pig. (Along with Dora The Explorer of course!) And went through a period where everything was Peppa Pig. Pyjamas, knife & fork, books etc. So when I saw these while browsing on Amazon I had to give them a go!

** Peppa Pig Giant Playing Cards **

Peppa Pig is an animated character that has won the hearts of many children. These giant playing cards are about the twice the size of normal playing cards. The cards are bright and quite thick, making them durable and easy for little ones to hold and pick. My niece is now 5 but had no problems with these when she was 4 and still plays with them.

There are 36 cards in the pack, with 8 characters each having 4 cards each. The characters are easily recognisable and each card has the character's name written in large lettering on the front of the cards. The characters are Peppa Pig, George Pig, Rebecca Rabbit, Zoe Zebra, Emily Elephant, Candy Cat, Suzy Sheep and Pedro Pony. The pictures are clear and look just the same as in the TV programme.

The pack of cards comes with game 'ideas'. The main ones that my niece and I play are snap and pairs. The cards are big and clear enough to play snap and they can withhold the bending from my niece being a bit over enthusiastic. The pair's game is also good if my niece wants to keep herself occupied. She throws them on the floor and then keeps going until she has found all the character pairs. She will choose the cards two at a time, if they match she puts them in the box, if not, then she puts them back down and chooses another 2 cards. This is great for her trying to use her memory and she enjoys playing by herself at times.

With these cards children can have fun while developing their reflexes, memory skills, patience and also about fairness and learning to share.

** Price & Availability **

I bought these for a bargain price of £2.40 from Amazon, with free delivery! An absolute bargain. They are £3.97 in ASDA, £3.99 from the Early Learning Centre and the Peppa Pig online store. The prices vary a lot so make sure you have a good look around. Amazon seems to be the cheapest at the moment.

** Recommendation **

This really is a simple and fun game that the whole family can take part in or the child can keep themselves occupied. The cards can be used over and over again,

The cards look fun and appealing, they are good quality so will last a while and are easy to put away in a draw or cupboard.

The cards are aimed at children 3 years or over. I am sure 2 year olds can have a bit of fun with these even if they don't quite get the idea of the games. My niece is 5 and still plays with the cards.

These are a perfect stocking filler coming up to Christmas and will excite any Peppa Pig fan!