When you are looking for suitable toys for toddlers there is a confusing amount of choice. I think one of the best presents you can buy a child is a starter tub of Duplo. Duplo is recommended for children from 18 months and is something that will encourage them to use their imagination and is virtually indestructible.

My son was given a Duplo starter tub for his 2nd birthday and he played with the bricks constantly. We still have the tub as the bricks fit the smaller mainstream Lego brick and he sometimes uses them to create his own models.

The Duplo set number 5506 comes in a handy plastic storage tub with transparent lid. The storage tub is quite large and you may be disappointed to open it and find the bricks included barely cover the bottom of the tub. There are 71 pieces in this set, including a window and window frame brick, a male figure, vehicle chassis and various different colured bricks. There is also a small green base plate and ideas booklet included.

Unlike Lego, Duplo bricks are especially designed for young children. They are quite large so don't prevent a chocking hazard. They are also easy for little hands to hold.

I really like the way that this toy grows with your child. My son first learnt to pull the bricks apart, but it wasn't long until he was fitting the bricks together to create his own creations. Following the simple instructions to make one of the suggested models, took a bit longer. I think playing with Duplo has many benefits other than helping to encourage a child to use their imagination. It also helps with concentration, encourages a child to follow simple instruction and increases self esteem as your child produces models they are proud of.

The ideas booklet gives instructions for building a simple house with a window. The widow brick clips into the window frame brick and can really open. There is also a plane and vehicle to build. The male figure can sit in the car and fly the plane. The base plate is useful to build onto to enable you to move your creations once completed.

Overall this is an excellent starter tub of Duplo and can be added to over time. The storage box is very useful and has plenty of room for lots more bricks! I would have liked a female figure to have been included in this set as having a male to drive the vehicle and fly the plane does tend to reinforce stereotypes!

This set is widely available and costs around £25.00.