Did I mention I liked Hape toys? Yes I believe I have ‘hape’d on about them rather a lot.  Well their Einstein range is something else and I was quite taken aback by their Color Mixer Bead Maze.  Whilst retaining the simplicity of a good old-fashioned toy, Hape have introduced some really clever features, which will hold a child’s attention and keep them learning well into their toddler years.

At first sight it is the tried and tested bead maze – where the child can move different colored beads along a wire, all set attractively in an eye-catching wooden frame. But, hello, what is that white disc at the bottom? Well it’s the first clue that this is not a simple mechanical toy, although it certainly does help develop fine-motor skills.

As your child moves the beads along, the white disc flashes a different colour, and a voice says the colour name – in English, then Spanish, then French – how cool is that? There are so many initiatives for introducing children to foreign languages at a very early age, and this toy really complements these – and maybe the parents can learn a few words too? Who knew that amarillo meant yellow, in Spanish? Yes, OK, quite a high percentage of the world’s population I suppose…

And to keep the younger kids interested, the toy also plays attractive tunes and flashes rainbow sequences.  This novel and yet robust toy will maintain a toddler’s interest for a long time.  At £19.99 from Amazon it is well worth considering for Christmas.

By Dr K Thompson, author of From Both Ends of the Stethoscope: Getting through breast cancer – by a doctor who knows

http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01A7DM42Q http://www.amazon.com/dp/B01A7DM42Q

http://faitobooks.co.uk

Note: These articles express personal views. No warranty is made as to the accuracy or completeness of information given and you should always consult a doctor if you need medical advice.