Editorial Review

James the Red Engine is one of the Thomas the Tank Engine series of train cars and is made of real wood. James has a cheery, smiling face on the front of the engine, promising an adventure as soon as the train leaves the station. James the Red Engine pulls his own coal car, so he won't run out of fuel. The cars attach to each other with magnets. This is a toy that encourages imaginative play and requires no batteries. Engine with attached coal car measures 5.75 inches in length. --Margaret Quinn ... Read more

Reviews (12)

Great toy - Great size!
My two-year-old son loves all his wooden Thomas trains!They keep him busy for hours and are extremely durable.Someone gave us some metal/plastic Thomas trains, and he plays with them too, but their plastic parts break quickly (ie: Harold's plastic helicopter blades, the plastic "link-ups", etc.)The wooden ones with the magnets seem to last forever, with only minor paint wear resulting from lots and lots of playtime!

Used in conjunction with the videos or books, they teach things like proper behavior and all those good "moral" examples.Plus, they teach colors and numbers because of the design of each individual train.He loves James' bright red color.

The fact that they are not battery-powered and do not absolutely require a track is a huge "plus" to me.They can go anywhere, and anything in the house can serve as a railway track.It's only limited by your child's imagination (and climbing ability.) We did visit a friend's house recently who had a battery-powered Thomas, and my son did enjoy it also, so we may possibly be getting a few of those to add to the collection at the holidays.

Another reviewer felt they were "dinky" and was disappointed by the size of the trains.To me, that is one of the best features.As I said, they can go anywhere (keeps him busy at a restaurant!) and they are perfectly proportioned to fit very well into small hands.Plus, they don't take up so much space in your house, especially if you start a whole collection!However, be warned that they WILL be underfoot at all times because your kids will love to play with them so much, so watch your step.

Sometimes the simplest thing is the best thing, and I think that's definitely the case with the Thomas trains.

Hooray for James
James does a great job pulling the coaches along the track. He can pull pretty much anything at a fast pace. I've had my Jame sfor 9 years and it looks almost new. He's a great engine andyou can live the episodes with these trains.

Grandma's Magic Accident
I purchased Thomas the engine without realizing that it was not battery operated.I gave it to my 2 year old grandson for his birthday because I had nothing else to give, and the twinkle in his eyes let me know I had hit upon a winner.The adventures for Thomas and his friends have not ended.I have since purchsed, Skarloey, Ben & Bill, Douglas, Percy, Toby and Bertie.The adventures just don't seem to end for my grandson.He plays with this toy for hours.His vocabulary has increased at the same pace as his adventures.The fact that this is not battery operated is the joy of the toy.I need not turn on the television to keep him occupied, he has Thomas and his many friends and that is good enough for me. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Vehicles    2. Trains    3. Preschool    4. Wooden Train Sets    5. Activity    6. Push and Pull Toys    7. Train Accessories   

Editorial Review

If you're 3 years old, and your main mission in life is toarrest all the Bad Guys, it's a shame not to have the transportation tocatch up with them. The Tikes Patrol Police Car is the cruiser youneed. Powered by your own two feet sticking through the floor, it's aserious blue machine with blue-and-red fake lights on the 36-inch-highwhite roof. Thirty-two inches long by 17 inches wide, it has one doorthat opens, a squeaky horn on the steering wheel, and a handheld radiounit with sound effects (requires two AA batteries, not included). Thetoy holds a maximum weight of 50 pounds. The car is all plastic, exceptfor wheel struts and screws. Adult assembly is required. --RichardFarr ... Read more

Reviews (34)

one of the favorite toys in the house
I bought this for my oldest son 2 years ago, just before he turned 2, and it has always been a hit with all the kids who come to our house.At first, my son mostly liked to sit in it in the house, not getting how to push himself around.when we put it outside during a playdate with his friends, they all took turns sitting inside, while someone else pushed from behind.To this day, whether at playdates, birthday parties, or just daily play time on the patio, my boys (now 3.5 and 1) both love this car.Definitely a worthwhile purchase.In fact, we have considered getting a second (maybe a regular car or the firetruck) since this one is such a hit during play time with more than one child.Also very durable -- it's been an indoor toy, an outdoor toy, and has made it through lots of long walks (albeit slow walks, as the little guy does his shimmy-shimmy, Fred Flintstone pedaling!).A good purchase, used daily!

Great Car, awful assembly
My son recieved this for his 2 year birthday. He absolutely loves it. The car is great. So far no problems, everything seems secure and of good quality. The siren is a nice touch, and it's not to loud or abnoxious, although the lights on top don't turn on (the picture on the website is deceiving). The horn works good and there's a "trunk" in back for him to put stuff in.

But there's always a catch! Assembly was a nightmare. While putting this together, I discovered that the hole where the gas tank snaps on had a piece of plastic missing around the edge (it was cracked). So I had to return it and get a new one. That was a total pain and the people at Toys R Us actually gave me a hard time when i wanted to exchange it for another one that wasn't defective (what???!!!) Aside from that, the actual assembly process went very slow. Not a fun thing to do. Some of the parts were really difficult to screw together and putting the wheels on was the worst. But it's still a really cute and fun toy, so just be prepared to be there awhile putting it together. I think it took me an hour!

PROBLEM PUTTING TOGETHER
Great toy, cute concept. My two year old loves it! However, maybe It was just me, but I felt misled by the lights on top. They have reflectors in them. Not lights. And the speaker...doesn't do anything but play a siren. It was VERY difficult to put together because not all the holes that were supposed to be there for assembly were. My husband created them with his own tools rather than return such a big item that we were half way through putting together ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Ride-Ons    2. Preschool    3. Cars    4. Police   

Reviews (4)

nice car not good for hilly areas
My husband and I bought this car for our daughter for christmas...she was 13 months old.We used it for the first time a few eeks ago when the snow finally melted and was warm enough to be outside without gloves.We thought it would be good because it goes with a push button and had a handle to steer.Well I was dissapointed...the car barely moves on the grass or going uphill, also when you let go of the button the car will coast downhill which is upsetting.I charged it exactly to the instructions and everything.I guess if you live on a flat area then it would be a great buy.However if you have hilly terrain i'd wait and get a more powerful one as this isn't much fun.

Love it
My daughter received this as a gift for her first birthday.SHE loves her car.When we get home she goes over to her car and she sits in it and presses the button.We have been around the block in it and she loves it!!!One thing that I did not like about the car is that even when the parent controll is on the child can still press their button and go - minor detail.This is by far her favorite gift.

LOVE THIS CAR!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
My parents bought this for my 15 1/2 month old, who doesn't like sit on toys.We were alittle concerned whether he would like it.He was so excited, he was ready to jump on it as soon as it was done.He loves to go over to it and sit in the seat to tell me he wants to drive.He also loves to drive it in front of the television and sit and watch his favorite shows in it. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Ride-Ons    2. Motorized   

Editorial Review

Excellent as a first bike, the Ready-to-Ride comes in bright, friendly primary colors and the classic Radio Flyer stylings that remind parents of the little red tricycles of their youths. As with all Radio Flyer trikes, the Ready-to-Ride is built to last with a durable steel frame and heavy-duty treaded tires. Plastic bucket seats provide a comfortable ride and rubber handles offer a secure grip. Kids can tow a doll or load toys into the yellow storage bin on back and announce that they're coming through with the loud bell on the handlebar. Parents will appreciate the trike's low center of gravity and controlled turning radius that prevents it from tipping during speedy turns. The lightweight and portable Ready-to-Ride also easily folds up for storage and has a handy grip in the back of the seat for carrying or hanging. A reliable safety latch ensures that the trike won't begin to fold up midway through a ride. The Ready-to-Ride trike comes fully assembled and is covered by a one-year warranty. --Cristina Vaamonde ... Read more

Reviews (17)

Cute Bike But High Seat A Problem
Looking for a 2nd Tricycle for my 2 yr. old daughter's daycare, we went to TRU last evening to take a look.She absolutely loved the look of this one, but unfortunately could not swing her leg over the seat to get on and off easily.We have a 10" Radio Flyer Classic at home that she has no problem with and rides all over the place (we love it).Also, while riding in the store the handlebar bumped against something and tipped right over (as almost all do).I was also concerned with the plastic compartment on the back as my crazy girl would be standing on it (I'm sure)and could break it or hurt herself.

After checking all of them out I decided to go with the Kiddi-o Simba ST1 for only $29.99, didn't want to spend to much since this will be an extra bike.Just called the store, they had one left and it's assembled and waiting for me.Hopefully it will be worth all the research.

great trike, when working
My daughter got this tricycle as a gift.It was great- even though the handle doesn't help turn the bike, my 2 year old was really enjoying it.After less than 6 months of use however,the wheel fell off the bike.I've heard it's nearly impossible to find this part and essentially IT is non-existent.

I don't have the owners manual and I haven't been able to use the bike since.It just sits in our garage gathering up dust.I'll probably donate it just to get it out of our garage.maybe a mechanic can make a part for it.

It Does Tip Easily.
My husband and I went to the local Toysrus store to see which side of the mixed reviews is right.This is a cute tricycle for sure.When we were looking at it in the store, an employee aproached us and said, "I wouldn't recommend you that.Unfortunately, it tips easily." I pushed one side of the handle down, and it did tip SO easily.The employee went on and said, "I'm a mother, too.I can't recommend something I wouldn't buy for my own children."She showed us another trike, which was around $60, if I remember right. This was MUCH stabler than the Fold-2-Go, and didn't move a bit even when I pushed one side hard enough in the attempt to make it tip.We didn't make any purchase that day after all, but we sure appreciated the honesty and kindness of the store clerk. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Preschool    2. Push and Pull Toys    3. Ride-Ons    4. Outdoor Play    5. Baby and Infant    6. Toddler    7. Wagons   

Editorial Review

This sturdy plastic car gives toddlers and young preschoolers the basic thrills of a real car, while parents can relax, knowing that this cherry-red sports car can go only as fast as their kids' little feet can carry them. Children sit on a bench-style driver's seat and poke their legs through to the ground. When they start walking, the car begins to scoot. The front wheels swirl like stroller wheels, making them especially responsive to the steering wheel. The front dash features a pretend key with a Little Tikes key chain and a horn button that beeps when pushed. A small storage bin in back can carry traveling gear or simply a stash of road snacks. Approximately 35 inches tall, 25 inches long, and 16 inches wide. --Gail Hudson ... Read more

Reviews (130)

I must have got a lemon...
I just went through all 129 reviews for this toy, and most of them were glowing.My son received this car for his 2nd b-day and absolutely loves it.The only frustrating thing is that the steering wheel keeps coming off!Believe me, it wasn't easy to figure out how to put it on in the first place!It comes off almost every time he plays with it, and when that happens we have to wait for daddy to come home and fix it, because mommy is clueless.Just thought you potential buyers should know.

Best Riding Toy Ever!!
My son love this foot powered ride on!He was quite disappointed as he slowly realized that it doesn't really fit him any more.He is now almost 6 and I would say if you have a tall child, or larger footed child then they will out grow it faster.My son started to feel cramped by late four yearsor early five years of age.His feet would get stuck coming out if he had shoes on, but bare foot worked great.Head was getting pretty close to roof as well.But then again he is in the 90% for height!!

This is an awesome toy, and is sturdy, fun, imaginative.You can't go wrong!

not a good first ride on.
My son recieved this as a Christmas gift.I really wanted to wait until his 2nd birthday, but a family member bought it without telling us. Anyways...
I was looking at the Little tike race car toys for a first ride on, not this.This car was difficult to put together.The instructions were horrible (no words all pictures).After a few hours dh and I got it together.My son loves it, he jumped in turned the wheel, but the car didn't move.He plays in the car everyday, but has no clue how to get it to move.He also holds the door while getting his foot in and the car toppled over twice (on level ground).I have to walk around and push it for him.He also slid out from under the car afew times.The more he tried to get up or me help him get up, the more the car would move over him. He does push it himself, but he would rather ride in it than push it. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Noise-Making    2. Preschool    3. Vehicles    4. Cars    5. Ride-Ons    6. Pretend Play   

Reviews (16)

Love this bike - don't worry about brakes
We found that the pedals on most trikes are too far from the seat, and other little bikes have pedals on the front wheel which are hard to reach and which turn the wheel left and right when the child pedals.My daughter used this bike at 2 1/2 but we still had to push her a little bit.Although the bike *is* heavy, I think the problem was more in her coordination because early in the second summer she used it, one week it "clicked" and she just took off on it.She rode it everywhere the summer that she was 3 1/2.We have a fairly sloped driveway and by pushing the pedals backwards she could stop the bike at the bottom.(Also enjoyed making it go backwards.)She has a little brother and I love that he will be able to use this bike next, because it is gender neutral.

Also worth noting: we ran over one training wheel with the car and the company replaced it for just $3.50 including shipping.

AWSOME 1ST bike for 2 year old!
We got this 10" bike for our son for Christmas when he was 20 months old.It only took a couple days of practice and he was whizzing all over the place in it.We chose this over the tricycle because when we tested them out in the store, the 10" with training wheels was much easier for him to control.All the bikes with the pedals attached to the wheel seemed to be more difficult to pedal.We also love the fact that instead of brakes, the bike pedals backward.Our son quickly learned how to manouver out of tight spots buy pedaling backward then forward again without ever having to get off the bike.When he is a bit older we will probably buy him a bike with brakes, but for a little guy who isn't out riding in the street alone, this bike is perfect.

We had to leave off the red plastic piece under the seat for him to be able to reach the pedals at first.That made the height just perfect.He is now almost 3 years old and still LOVES this bike.We have adjusted the height a couple times since he got it and lifted the training wheels a bit so he can start learning to balance without them.

The only thing on this bike that has broken in the 15 months we've had it is the bell.It broke after about 8 months of hard play.That's okay though.We didn't buy the bike for the bell.

All in all, this is THE BEST CHOICE when buying a child their first bike.It's not only a beautiful bike, but it is very durable and SUPER-EASY for little ones to ride.I recommend this for any little BOY or GIRL as their first bike.

Adorable but way too heavy (and, no, there are no breaks....
We bought this bike for our son a year ago, for his third birthday.I liked that it was a nice small size and the look was gender neutral and gorgeous.However, we have been very disappointed with the bike's performance.It is just so HEAVY.My son has a really hard time getting going on it and going uphill just doesn't seem to work for him on this bike.One mistake that I won't make again is trying to surprise him with the bike and not trying it out ahead of time in the store.We will soon buy him a new bike and this time will take him to a real bike shop to be fitted and to try out the bike. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Bicycles    2. Preschool    3. Push and Pull Toys    4. Ride-Ons    5. Outdoor Play    6. Baby and Infant    7. Toddler    8. Wagons   

Reviews (7)

Entertaining and Educational
My daughter got this for her 12 month old birthday and she loves it.She loves the song Old McDonald and wants to play it over and over again as she dances to it.The animals are great for her to learn the noises but mostly to identify the animal.I'll tell her to go get the horse and she'll come back with it!It also goes great with the Baby Einstein video Baby McDonald because they use that toy in it and she recognizes it and will go push the button to make the song.Our daughter loves it and has had it for 2 months now and has not gotten bored with it.

dangerous choking hazard
My son loved this toy also.HOWEVER, this morning as he was playing he started coughing.I looked over to find the small hand piece missing off the farmer.When initially examining the toy upon purchase all the pieces appeared safe for a toddler as the package indicated.Obviously that is not the case as one hand piece had come off completely.I plan to contact the manufactor, however I strongly caution anyone who chooses to purchase this toy.As fun as it may seem it is obviously a choking hazard.

Get this toy!
Not only did my 1 year old love this toy when he got it, (as did his big sister) but he has been riding around the house on it for over a year and it is still in good shape!He thinks the trailer is great for sitting on and pushes himself around on it. (And he weighs 25 pounds!)The mechanism for moving itself forward automatically finally gave out recently due to his misuse, but he doesn't seem to mind. The animals are all included.(One person seems to have gotten an open package.) ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Preschool    2. Push and Pull Toys    3. Vehicles    4. Learning    5. Baby and Infant    6. Toddler    7. Activity    8. Pretend Play    9. Play Sets   

Editorial Review

Watch out for falling rock! Railroad construction ahead!Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends Big Loader will bring out the train conductor in any child. When the big loader is running, use the control buttons on the track to make the train change direction. Itsy-bitsy engineers control whatever it does next. The track includes hoppers, loading docks, and transfer ramps. The motorized chassis fits under Thomas, Percy, and Terrance, the toys' included companions. After parents take a few minutes to read the simple instructions, make sure a 2-by-2-foot space is available for construction. Requires one AA battery for operation. --Andrea Linsky ... Read more

Features

• Requires at least a 2-by-2-foot space
• Thomas, Percy, and Terrence cars included

Reviews (99)

Never works!!!
I just spent an hour with my two boys (4 and 2) "playing" with this train set.I was able to put it together relatively quickly, despite the directions being perfectly unclear.But the trains don't work at all.The tops keep falling off the chassis, and we have to push Thomas up the ramp every single time; whatever is supposed to aid the train against gravity isn't working.I can sit there with the kids and repeatedly fix, push, pull, aid, and assist the trains, but the point was kind of for them to have something to do WITHOUT me.I'm going back to the wooden Thomas sets.

Piece of junk!
Waste of time and money.Very frustrating.Keeps jumping off the track.Wish I had read the reviews before purchasing at the store.I will be taking this piece of junk back!

Save your money
After months of asking, I finally caved in and bought this set for my son's fourth birthday.It was tedious to put together and the pieces are poorly made.After finally getting the track assembled, my son was anxious to enjoy his new toy.I will say that it was somewhat entertaining to watch the train travel around the track a few times while changing to the different characters.The problem for me is that everytime my son accidentally touched or shifted slightly against the track there would be a malfunction where the train would go off the track or the top pieces of the train would fall off.The pieces are flimsy and my son became increasingly frustrated. My husband at one point had to tell my son to stay away from the toy and that he couldn't touch it, but to just simply watch it go around the track.If you want a "toy" that you can't engage in and do not get frustrated easily during the assembly process than this is the toy for you.MY son likes to actively engage in his play, so this didn't fit our needs. We finally put the pieces back in the box, and I told him we would return it for something else tomorrow. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Push and Pull Toys    2. Vehicles    3. Trains    4. Preschool    5. Activity   

Reviews (74)

disapointed!
steering mechanism is faulty. It tips over very easily. Don't forget your protective gear when riding. The push bar is okay. I expected more from radio flyer.

dangerous trike!
My son loves the trike.It is cute, stylish, and the push bar is great when he "lets" use it.But when he rides it himself it falls over with every turn.He has benn scratched and bruised from this fatal flaw. I reccomend it be recalled.

Great idea - poor execution for Radio Flyer
We received the trike as a gift and it seemed so perfect for our toddler.Assembly was a little difficult and we had to improvise.After 3 weeks of occasional use, the plastic steering parts began to crack.Radio Flyer was quick to send out new parts stating there has been a problem with the plastic parts.Reassembled with new parts and it worked again for another 4 weeks.We took off the steering bar and hoped to use the trike that way.Unfortunately that didn't work either.We just set it out with the garbage which possessed me to write a review. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Preschool    2. Push and Pull Toys    3. Ride-Ons    4. Outdoor Play    5. Baby and Infant    6. Toddler    7. Tricycles    8. Wagons   

Reviews (1)

The Puurfect Rocker
This toy is excellent i brought this for my 1 year old daugther for her first birthday and she loves it. She plays on it everyday when she comes in from daycare. She drags it all around the house with her rocking all around. I recommend this toy to all the mothers who really love Winnie the Pooh. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Preschool    2. Ride-Ons    3. Animals    4. Horses   

Reviews (1)

Cute for toddlers
My 1 yr old daughter got this as a gift for her first christmas.It was her favorite gift!The music and sounds first got her interest, and now at 16 mos, she can sit and push the jeep on her own.The only thing I'd change is the lights on the back, the whole piece keeps coming off, not too secure.Other than that a fun first ride-on toy. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Ride-Ons    2. Preschool   

Editorial Review

This action-packed, energy burning rider offers a playground of thrills in even the smallest backyard. Bringing together three popular activities in one unique high-energy ride--bouncing on an oversized inflatable ball, rocking on a teeter-totter, and whirling on a merry-go-round--this rider is sure to please the playground connoisseur. Hop on the seat, bounce on the ball, and pivot right, left, or even spin completely around. For stability the stay-put base must be weighted with a minimum of 90 pounds of dry sand (not included). Only for use by children under 70 pounds. Winner of the 2002 Parents' Choice Foundation Silver Honor Award. --Deb Oroszlan ... Read more

Reviews (23)

Lots of fun for 3 year old!
I was suprised by the number of negative reviews on this item. I actually purchased mine secondhand so I did not have to go through the filling of the base with sand, this was already done.We have had it for about a week and my daughter has bounced on it every day.She just turned three and is pretty big for her age, and she does not have any trouble at all reaching the floor. She really enjoys bouncing on it so I think your child would need to be at least three to be able to enjoy this toy.She has not been able to spin it at all, but since she just enjoys bouncing, I don't think it is necessary.Overall, I think it is an enjoyable toy as long as your child is big enough and old enough to play with it.I do not think I would have paid 60.00 for it though.

My little guy loves it
I read all the reviews but decided to see for myself.First of all, the playground sand was not that difficult to get in, it just took a while to do it but I have spent much more time putting other toys together.With the ball completely inflated, my son, who is almost two, couldn't quite reach the floor.I let some air out of the ball and he could reach the floor and still had plenty of bounce.He still enjoys Mommy helping him bounce but he can do it himself too.In a couple of months, I'm sure he will be able to spin around by himself too.Overall, I think this is a great toy.

whirlybouncer rider
My kids did not enjoy this product at all. It did not bounce and whirl. my kids were tired and bored on it they did not stay on it long because they had to push and work very hard for it to bounce at all for them to have a little enjoyment out of it.the item does not go high they have to use there legs to do all the work i give this product a thumbs down, and alot of my friends bought this for their children and they all said the same thing. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Ride-Ons    2. Outdoor Play    3. Furniture   

Editorial Review

Nothing gets a kid's attention like a fire engine racing by, and nowhere's a bright red version that's pleasingly kid size. The Fire Engine for Twois bright red, 31 inches long, 32 inches tall, and made of tough and ruggedplastic. The ignition key turns with a satisfying ratchety sound, the steeringwheel rotates, and the front wheels are entirely mobile, making quick turns andsudden reversals a snap. It's powered, in the best Flintstones tradition, byyour little one's feet moving under the seat, and there's an extra seat in backfor a friend to ride along. Like any proper emergency vehicle, it also has asiren and flashing red light, located right on the dashboard, that activate withthe press of a button. Whether it's an emergency run to the cookie jar or a dollthat needs a trip to the hospital, the Fire Engine for Two will get a couple ofkids going in a hurry. --John Longenbaugh ... Read more

Reviews (18)

Fire Engine for 2
I really think the construction of this is very poor and when you go to install the roof supports the fasteners that they give you are the kind that once you install them they will never come out. I think the company should have dome some more thought into it. There are diifernt kinds of fasteners that are safe for the kids that can be removed like a nylon screw with a nut. Also the roof support does not sit flush in the hole so when you go and tap the bolt in the hole the pole will shift upwards and you can miss the hole. I even tried to contact the company through their e-mail and also tried to call and no one has called me back. This was a birthday gift that I now have to try to get the roof support secured so it is safe. I will never again buy a step 2 product based on this experience. Also the front wheels they are very hard to turn. I tried to move it with nobody in it and the wheels went where ever they wanted to go except the direction that I was heading.

price check
couldn't find your " let us know icon" Your price for this toy on line is 59.99 at walmart.com it is 49.94 and at target.com it is 49.99. Since I have always had great success with amazon/toysrus I would rather purchase this item through you, but this is a huge price difference. Especially when you have to add shipping costs. Thank you Erica Strahl.

Daycare mom
I have had three of this item in the past 3 months and am not happy with any of them .I am returning the third one soon. Steering and wheels are not working correctly. Two children can tip it over also. I bought it for my grandchildren and the kids in my daycare center.A BIG disappointment for me and a BIG hassle to keep returning it to the factory.
I have the Police car and the kids LOVE it and play with it every day.
I have lots of climbers made by this same company and they have held up for years. 30 years experience in buying childrens toys. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Pedals    2. Fire Trucks    3. Preschool    4. Ride-Ons    5. Firefighting   

Reviews (36)

The wheels on the bus.......
Adorable music, lights and sounds from this toy-keeps the kids glued to it for long periods of time.

Time for school!
My three-year-old son loves this school bus.He likes to load the kids on the bus and make the bus driver talk and sing songs.He has learned empathy by helping the little people with disabilities (with the wheelchair) on and off the bus.It is good exposure to the idea that not everyone is the same.However, it was shocking to have to describe that to a, then, two-year-old.One of the first questions he had that I really had to think about the best way to answer.Other good features are the stop sign and two doors that open and close.

One of my kids' favorites
We bought this for our now three year old, who loves it, but is having to get used to sharing it with his 1 year old sister.This toy gets played with often throughout the day - every day, so I definately think it was a good purchase.I like that it it teaching my daughter fine motor skills when she puts the people in their seats.We've had it for almost 2 years now, and it has held up very well, and doesn't show any wear.The music and voice is a little annoying, but my kids love it.I am suprised with the age reccomendation though. ... Read more

Editorial Review

This sturdy plastic car gives toddlers and young preschoolers the basic thrills of a real car, while parents can relax, knowing that this cherry-red sports car can go only as fast as their kids' little feet can carry them. Children sit on a bench-style driver's seat and poke their legs through to the ground. When they start walking, the car begins to scoot. The front wheels swirl like stroller wheels, making them especially responsive to the steering wheel. The front dash features a pretend key with a Little Tikes key chain and a horn button that beeps when pushed. A small storage bin in back can carry traveling gear or simply a stash of road snacks. Approximately 35 inches tall, 25 inches long, and 16 inches wide. --Gail Hudson ... Read more

Features

• Front-wheel steering
• Storage bin for toys or snacks
• Fun, attention-getting colors
• Foot-powered motion

Reviews (7)

Pain to Assemble!!!!!!!!!
I would buy this only if I had carving knife or something to melt plastic like a rod iron
Yes, that's right the parts won't fit!!!!
Not wonder its $40 dollars.

Kids love it!
We have had this toy for over 3 years, since my son was 1. Now at 4, he STILL is enjoying it, along with my 2 yr old daughter. They both play with it just about every day, and it is still in great shape. Every single child who comes over to play, gravitates to the car and loves it. I think it is nice to have a toy that doesn't do everything for you and make all the noises for you. The kids can actually be kids and use their imaginations and coordination skills! Definitely worth the money, and then some!

Great Gift
Ihesitated to buy this car for my granddaughter after seeing all the reviews on how hard this car was to put together.My husband and I assembled the car according to the directions and were relieved that it went together so well.My 15 month granddaughter loved the car and wouldn't get out of it all Christmas Day.She opened her other presents in the car, ate in the car and has a wonderful time playing in it.This was a great purchase and I'm glad I ignored the other reviews and bought it for her. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Ride-Ons    2. Preschool   

Editorial Review

When little wobblers are bored with walls and sofa edges, andthere's no one to offer a hand, they can two-foot it safely across thatopen ocean of living-room floor with the help of the Step Start walker.This dual-purpose toy acts as stable support as they learn to walk,then lets them roll along when they want to ride. Once they are secureon their legs, the walker converts easily to a first ride-on toy. (Onlyadults can operate the wheel-lock mechanism.) A flexible antenna,spinning drum, clicking gear, and other sight-touch-sound featuresprovide sit-down play fun. Assembly requires a Phillips screwdriver.--Ava Natov ... Read more

Reviews (137)

Her first car.....
Yes, my daughter treated this as her very first car. She parked it, and was very territorial with it. This all lasted about 6-8 months. Now she just uses it as a secret storage. If we can't find something of hers, we can always look in the little compartment and find what's missing!! I love this item as she played with all of the features on it. She didn't push herself until she was almost 18 months old, laziness is my guess. I recommend this as an indoor ride on.

It Gets the Job Done
We bought this for our son when he started cruising at about 8 months.At first he was only interested in the noise makers but as he gained confidence he started to really move around with it and now he LOVES it.It has also helped him increase his balance.The base isn't really wide enough for new walkers as they tend to walk with their legs wider apart but our son didn't have any problem working around that.You do need to be careful on floors that aren't carpeted since the wheels will move fast - maybe too fast for a little one.I chose this particular model because it's one of the few on the market WITHOUT noise and lights, etc.It was easy enough to put together but it does take some practice to make the conversion from ride-on to walker.Once you get it, it's a breeze - just make sure you test it with a tug before you let baby have at it.It's very cute and our son loves the toys on it and likes to make a game of "hiding" toys in the storage compartment.

Son loved this car!
Our son loved this car.He used it a lot when learning to walk.Just make sure you get it snapped into position when using it for walking.After using it for walking he used it as a car.He got good use out of it. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Ride-Ons    2. Preschool    3. Baby and Infant    4. Toddler    5. Push and Pull Toys   

Reviews (3)

The paint wears off quickly!
This is a cute little fire engine.However, we have been very disapointed because the paint wore off after just 1-2 months!It is so faded that someone asked us if it was an antique!!

Fun toy but difficult to ride
My son loves this fire engine! He likes to play with the bell and the horn, but it is difficult for a parent to push due to the turning radius. It's hard to steer, and barely able to push it in a straight path. This toy is fun, but hard work for the parent and child.

Very cute, but very hard to steer
This is an adorable lil' fire engine, and my twin sons love the look of the toy, and enjoy playing with the bell and the horn. But it is also VERY heavy, awkward and has very little in the way of turning radius. The steering wheel just barely turns left and right. This frusterates them more often than not, which is why I rate the toy only a 2 for fun. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Preschool    2. Push and Pull Toys    3. Ride-Ons    4. Outdoor Play    5. Baby and Infant    6. Toddler    7. Wagons   

Features

• Easy-to-remove push handle
• "Ignition" switch and ke
• Locking and unlocking door

Reviews (10)

The Cons...
The assembly instructions are vague at points. Here are some pointers so you don't make the same mistakes I did:
1) Put the tire stickers on BEFORE you put steel axle through!

2) Be careful how you put on the front wheels. I got left and right wrong and had to diassemble and redo. B/c of this, one piece broke but it came with an extra so I was lucky.
3) Part "N" is not a screw, it's the bigger plastic orange piece.
4) There are 2 ways to set the door. One is to nail only 1 screw so you can slide and lock door. The other is to nail 2 screws so your child can open/close as they please.
As I said, they give you only visual instructions so you get confused at some points, but if you follow my tips you can do it yourself in no time. Oh and my 17 month old son LOVES his new car.

Not for very long walks
I bought this toy as an alternative to my stroller for taking walks around the neighborhood.My son (I bought this for him at 17 months) would get bored in the stroller, so I thought this would be fun.Well, he does really like this car, but there are some issues with it. First, there is no safety belt, so your child can attempt to stand whenever the desire moves them.Second, when pushing him on cement it is extremely loud (my husband wanted me to stop using it for this reason alone--I cannot overemphasize how loud this thing is!We were concerned with hearing loss).Last, although there is a cup holder on the inside for baby, it would be nice to have some type of holder on the exterior for the parents--to hold a beverage, or keys or something. If the wheels were redesigned to make this toy quieter, an exterior cup holder added, and especially a safety belt added I would give this 5 stars.For now, I give it 3.

Really needs a seatbelt
My husband and I really loved this toy, especially the functionality of the removable handle, so we took our son to the local Toys R' Us to try it out.My son absolutely loved it, but he kept sliding down in the seat and trying to climb out.We looked at a few other competitor's models and found them to have safety belts, which made them preferable.We cannot understand why a company as large as Little Tykes that specializes in children's toys does not comprehend the need for a safety belt on their ride on toys!Anyway, we read one of the reviews on this toy where a woman ordered a replacement belt for the toddler high back swing from the Little Tykes website and drilled and cut holes in this car and added this seat belt to make it safer.Well, we found a better way of installing a seat belt.A competitor, Step 2, has a product called the "Push Around Buggy" which has a seat belt that screws into the car.I went to their website and called their phone number and ordered a replacement belt for their item, which only costs around $2.50!What a deal!Well, all you have to do is screw the seat belt straps into each side of the car and viola', you have a safer version of the Little Tykes Cozy Push and Ride Car.We sincerely hope Little Tykes will catch on to parent's concerns about the safety of their little ones and make sure all of their ride on toys are equipped with a safety belt! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Ride-Ons   

Editorial Review

This little cop cycle can rock. Hang onto the handlebars and blast alongon a blue police cycle complete with a transparent blue windshield and flashingred lights. This toddler rocker has a seven-function instrument panel thatincludes ignition key (with revving engine sounds), flashing lights, a siren,and three message buttons (e.g., "Calling officer: report to headquarters.") Theengine sounds rev faster or slower depending on the rocking motion. This cycleholds up to 50 pounds. It is 32 inches long and about 6 inches high at thesaddle-style seat. The sound effects require three AA batteries (not included).--Richard Farr ... Read more

Reviews (36)

AWESOME!!
MY SON RECEIVED THIS ROCKER FOR HIS FIRST BIRTHDAY. HE IS NOW 3 1/2 AND STILL LOVES THIS THING. IT'S VERY SAFE AND STURDY. THE LOUD SIREN NOISES CAN BECOME IRRITATING AFTER A WHILE, BUT IT'S STILL HIGHLY RECCOMENDED!

Fun, durable toy! For boys & Girls.
My son received this as gift for his first birthday.He took to it immediately!He had just begun walking but it was easy enough for him to climb on/off. The various buttons/knobs with various sounds intrigued him. One year later he still enjoys riding on it.Even the girls in our playgroup love to play on it, and it has endured many obstacles.Highly recommended.

Great size for 1-year old rocker...
We LOVE this rocker, and so does my son. We bought this for his 1st Christmas, when he was almost 12 months old. He didn't take much interest in it then, but about a month later when he learnt to get on and off it, he took great delight in getting on and starting to rock with a huge smile on his face. It's the perfect size too - a friend bought him a fisher price rocking bike that converts to a trike, and at 14-months he still cannot get on that by himself. The only real problem with this bike is that the key does not always work - Adam can never get it to work and I can only do it if I pull it slightly towards me while turning. I'm sure that Little Tikes would replace it, if only I could find the time to call them.... Also, it's extremely loud, so be warned if that's of concern to you. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Ride-Ons    2. Preschool   

Subjects:  1. Vehicles    2. Play Sets