Editorial Review

Fully equipped for the uber rescue mission, this souped-up spacecraft doubles as a jet and a Rescue Heroes command center. The top of the jet flips open to reveal an electronic screen and an operations deck, where Keytron, a robot, plugs into the control board to relay missions to the team. Included are two tethered backpacks which, as Rescue Heroes fans know, allow the action figures to communicate. What's more, the jet itself transforms into a giant robot, with a deployable space pod as the head and a tank-like tough-terrain vehicle down below. This is a sturdy, sizable toy that those who enjoy Rescue Heroes ought to love, and it contains plenty of moving parts. Also included is a C.D. Moon action figure in a red space suit. --Andy Boynton ... Read more

Reviews (14)

i love this toy!
hi, im 10 years old and i really like this toy! there are so many diffrent things it can do, it is well worth the money!!! there is a little vehicle thing that a rescue hero can ride on, the front of the ship can be used as a spacepod (the ship is NOT a good flying toy but the space pod is simple to fly),the front and the vehicle can be made into a giant robot,the top can be made into a hang glider, and one of my favorite parts: IT HAS A COMMAND CENTER WHERE THE RESCUE HEROES REALLY INTERACT WITH EACHOTHER!!!! I have two mission select robots with thing i call "backpacks" and their names are matt medic and gil gripper. they are also compatible with the command center. i also have a cool robot called fire stomper and billy blazes. NOTE (the fire stomper comes with billy blazes and neither are compatible with the command center but fire stomper can move in a neat way!) then i have the robot that came with the ship.

in my opinion out of all the people i have billy is the best :)

you may be wondering why a 10 yr old is playing with this but i know a 12 year old and many other 10 and 11 yr. olds with this toy. i don't play with it like let's go put out the fire, or something, i play with it like the robots are attacking and stuff, very fun toy! i totally recommened this toy and these other toys below:

rescue heroes hyper jet
Gil gripper (with mission select backpack)
Matt medic (with mission select backpack)
Billy blazes and fire stomper
rescue heroes mission car
geotrax Tracktown Railway
geotrax Fire station
geotrax remote controlled fire truck
spiderman and friends super hero playset
spiderman and friends wolverine with motorcycle
imaginex castle (and alot of knights...i have like 20)
imaginex dragon
imaginex deluxe pirate ship
imaginex ghost raider
imaginex glow in the dark shark
animal planets big bucket o' dinosaurs


they aren't exact names but they are some of the alot toys i have here at home. I reccomend them ALL!!!!!!!

very disapointed
This was the only toy my son requested from Santa and what a letdown. I think that Fisher Proce rushed it for the holiday season because it does not compare to the quality of the other toys. It falls apart and really does not do much for the size or promise of the ads. I hate this hunk of junk that now takes up a lot of space and I have learned my lesson for next year.

To Collette
I thought my console didnt work at first, too.It turned out I just needed to switch the on/off button which is annoyingly hidden behind one of the 2 attached backpacks (the one on the right). ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Vehicles    2. Play Sets   

Editorial Review

It may not feature any loop-de-loops or terrifying hairpin turns, butpreschoolers will likely find this 10-foot-long roller coaster every bit asthrilling as grownups find the amusement park version. Molded in brightlycolored plastic, it's built for years of wear in either the backyard or theplayroom. The set's components fit together to form a downhill ride with anothersmaller hill about halfway through. What we loved most about this set is thefact that the individual parts are just as much fun as the fully assembled kit.The car, bright yellow with a sturdy handle, could just as easily be used aroundthe house if the child is too young for the coaster. And the ramp system isplenty of fun to roll cars, balls, or anything else. Perhaps our tiny toy testersaid it best: "Wheee!" --John Moe ... Read more

Reviews (74)

This is a toy that grows with your child
We bought the roller coaster for our grandson when he was just over a year old. He's now three and a half and still loves it.

It has been out in the backyard for all this time; it is somewhat faded but otherwise still going strong.

Hours of Fun
My 20-month old absolutely loves this toy. It took me only 3 minutes to assemble and then he was riding down the ramp.After helping him push the Coaster car back up the ramp twice, I taught him how to do it himself.My son pushs the car up backwards then runs down the ramp and around to go up the step to get on.Then he rides down the roller coaster and starts all over.He played for hours and hours the first day and it is the first thing he does every morning now.He also uses it to roll balls down, play with his cars and trucks, etc.He loves it.The toy is true Step 2 quality and will last for years.

Big Smile
My son received this Up and Down roller Coaster for his 2nd Birthday. He LOVES it! I think the age they recommend is spot on (although we've had 7 year olds play on it as well, but at that age their legs get a little to long for it). My son can use this toy all by himself, once he was shown the proper procedure. It does take up a lot of space, but is very easy to assemble and take down. My son ask's to play with it fairly often "Ride Coaster Mommy". I'll leave it up for the day and he'll play with it on and off all day long. Be prepared for the HUGE smile your child will give when they ride it. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Ride-Ons    2. Preschool   

Editorial Review

Fully equipped for looting and plundering across the high seas, this pirate ship sports a massive wooden hull powered forward by six sails, three adorned with skulls and crossbones. Triple-firing cannons lay above and below deck, while a sword-wielding captain commands two crew members. A parrot can rest atop the captain's shoulder. There's also a working wench for hauling up all that misbegotten treasure and a removable dinghy for one-off raids. Other elements include a deployable anchor, a walking plank, and a yellow guard rail that circles the deck. The boat measures over 2 feet long once assembled, and can be put together in several ways, outlined in the accompanying booklet. --Andy Boynton ... Read more

Reviews (26)

FUN - BUT ONLY IF YOU DON'T ACTUALLY PLAY WITH IT!
I BOUGHT THIS TOY FOR MY 5 YEAR OLD, TOOK A BIT TO PUT IT TOGETHER, AND THAT IS EXACTLY WHAT YOU WILL SPEND MOST OF YOUR TIME DOING...PUTTING IT BACK TOGETHER. SO, IF YOUR KIDS DON'T ACTUALLY WANT TO PLAY WITH IT, JUST PUT IT TOGETHER, OVER AND OVER AGAIN, IT'S GREAT. BUT IF THEY ACTUALLY WANT TO HAVE THE "PIRATE ADVENTURE" , IT COMES UP A BIT SHORT.
SAME GOES FOR THE ISLAND.

great for imagination
My son got this for xmas and absolutely loves it, we are now moving onto the knights and castle.He(4) and his sister(3) spend hours having pirate wars and finding treasure. GREAT toy, LOTS of little pieces,so just be careful of younger siblings.Would definately recommend to anyone whose interested in pirates.

This one's for Momma!
Well - we have the entire Medieval line and most of the Pirates.This ship I saw and had to have!! She's a beauty!So, my wonderful husband made sure that it was under the tree for me.The kids are drooling!

We have had battles and voyages for cargo with the smaller ship and then the skeletal crew attacks!Great fun.Again my family is two girls two boys and two parents.We range from 38 to 4 years old and ALL love Imanigext. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Vehicles    2. Boats    3. Construction    4. Building Sets   

Editorial Review

Getting young children interested in toy trains is a wonderful way to teach as well as to have a lot of fun. By playing with train sets, young minds learn how to fit things together, how transportation works, how cities and communities are created, all the while enhancing their imagination through pretend play. This sizable and table kit features a smooth, easy to clean melamine surface on the top with convenient storage compartment underneath. The 83-piece train set sports a wide variety of train cars plus buses, police cars, dump trucks, and other vehicles to operate on the pieces of road, which are included in addition to the track. Filling stations, gates, buildings, bridges, and other modular components add to the magic. Since all the pieces fit together so handily, young train enthusiasts can spend hours designing their own sprawling networks and configurations. We liked how complete this set is and how handily it all stores when playtime is done. Compatible with Thomas the Tank Engine and Brio train sets. --Charlie Williams ... Read more

Reviews (19)

table and train set ... a great value
We priced the expensive name brand tables and train sets well into the $500 range.This table and train set is really great.Besides being reasonably priced, it comes with everything that is pictured.Within 1/2 hr. we had a great sturdy table, with a track set up and a small village to go with it!We have kids ages 3,5,9 and they all enjoy it.Grandma and Grandpa are pitching in a few Thomas pieces to inhance it, but it really isn't necessary.This is a really great value, good quality, easy assembly, don't really have any complaints.I'm sure it will provide many hours of fun for our gang!

My 2yo's favorite toy
We got my son this set after many meltdowns when we would leave toy and model stores.He usually played with Thomas but it was just too expensive.When we found this one hidden behind a bin, we knew we had to get it.However, we lost the directions after one week but still had the picture from the box.I searched and searched for directions online about how to put the tracks back together - but couldn't find any.Using the picture and my memmory - this is what I came up with.I don't know if its right - but it works.There are a total of 28 pieces.
4 short curves; 8 long curves
2 short, solid rams; 2 long ramps
2 switches; one rail road crossing (with flashing lights and sound)
2 short, straight; 4 medimum straight
2 long, straight; one overpass
Start with the cirle that goes over the lake.Place the switch on the long side near the lake, large ramp (up and on the red things), long curve,(these connect on the second red thing) long curve,(connecting large red things)large ramp, short curve long curve, small ramp (up), overpass, small ramp (down), medimum strait, medimum straigt, short curve, switch, long straight, long curve, long curve, short straight, short straight.You are now back to the switch you placed first and will begin with the inside circle.long curve, rail road crossing, long straight, short curve, short curve, medium straight, medimum striaght.You are now back to the second switch.Now your kids can take it apart again.

k.young
After pricing train tables for the last month I am so happy to have found this one. I put it together myself in less than a half hour. The price was great and it came with a bonus set of train pieces. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Train Set Accessories    2. Vehicles    3. Trains    4. Train Accessories   

Reviews (14)

Great fun for a three year old!
This is a fabulous gift for a little boy.Our son awoke Christmas morning to this gift, after looking at it for months on the computer.He was extremely delighted!It is pretty durable and he continually has all his other Christmas toys piled in the loader portion and will dump everything out and put it back in.The directions were a nightmare.It is just little pictures and a one sentence written direction, but it requires a lot of common sense and referrencing to the picture.Give yourself some time to put it together!It was well worth it as the joy of our son overpowered the hour of putting it together.

watch for thieves
This toy was so great and appealing that 2 grown men stole it from my 3 year old grandson.I would strongly recommend that you not leave this toy out in the open for the horrible people that will steal from a baby.

Heartsick Grandmother.

Does the steering wheel actually steer this tractor?
I don't know where else to post this question so I'll ask it here. I know the pedals move the tractor but does the steering wheel move the front wheels left and right? Seems like an obvious question but you wouldn't believe how many toys don't have steering! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Preschool    2. Ride-Ons   

Editorial Review

Just like the real front loaders you might see working along the highway, the Mighty Front Loader was designed to dig, dump, and haul. With its large working bucket, deep-cleated tires, and heavy-duty steel construction, this solid truck is guaranteed for life and built for endless hours of fun in the sandbox or yard. Two handles let you control the angle of the work bucket so you can dig or dump sand and dirt, or move rocks around. Or you can set the bucket in a middle position when you want to haul things for a while without holding the handle. The cab and engine sections swivel, making it easy to steer the front loader to where the work is. The large wheels (4.5-inch diameter) have been mounted over strong steel axles, tested for up to 50 pounds. Realistically styled, the front loader measures 22 inches long by 8 inches wide by 9.5 inches high. --Chris Burns ... Read more

Reviews (21)

Tonka Toys are Tough!
This is a GREAT toy for a rough little boy which is exactly what we have here! My son received this for Christmas a year ago & it still looks great & works great! That is saying lots!! He can destroy a lot of toys quickly b/c he is all boy!! For example, he received a truck for his birthday a month ago which was supposed to be a good rugged truck well it has been pronounced dead & retired to the trash already after just a month, but not his Tonka toys! But then we always buy the metal ones for him! I dont think you can go wrong with this toy! We are actly buying him a few more in this same line for this Christmas b/c they are so rugged!

The best construction toys
After much research I'm back to the old steadfast Tonka for my 3 year old.

These are the best construction toys for kids. I gave it a 4 for the plastic parts. I still have my Tonka loader in perfect condition from 1970, it has a metal loader bucket and mechanism. Although you could argue that the plastic bucket might be more safe if it gets plowed into anything other than dirt or it won't get scraped up from digging and corrode if left out in the elements too often. I like all metal.

But these are still just great construction toys. The competitors use too much plastic in places where they'll actually break. They feel like they're going to fall apart unless sitting foreven on a shelf.

Kids will push anything to it's limit, at least smaller kids. So expect any flimsy plastic, realistic looking parts to get broken, unless it's building blocks or something like that.

There's a difference between hard plastic and softer plastic in terms of durability. Most of the competitor trucks feel like hard plastic. The harder plastic snaps frm fatigue. The bucket on the loader is a bit softer, it's more pliable so it shouldn't snap from moderate abuse

I'd also stay away from the Tonkas that look more realistic but are all plastic, a harder plastic, and battery operated. Although alittle more realistic looking, those aren't really made for digging or pushing or anything but pretending to dig on a carpet inside only. Perhaps for older kids who play more realistically than forcefully. I've seen some with all of their realistic brittle plastic loader parts just broked off where they attach from over use from preschoolers.

These look much more durable, and they are. My sons still look pretty darn good and they've seen much use.

Buy it
These are the BEST toys in the world for kids who love transportation.I got this on special with the free dump truck and they have been all over the house, yard and even went on display for show and tell in grade K.All the kids love it.

If this is on special with the free dump truck as it is several times then don't hesitate get two and save it for a birthday gift.Both girls and boys love 'em.Great buy. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Vehicles    2. Construction Vehicles    3. Preschool    4. Push and Pull Toys    5. Die-Cast   

Reviews (3)

GARBAGE!
This is a piece of junk. For starters the track will not stay together. We were constantly putting pieces back together. We'd snap one piece back and on the other side of the layout another piece of track would come apart. When we did get it together it was almost impossible to keep the cars on the track. My son and I attempted to play with this for about an hour and if we made it around the track twice without the cars coming off it was a lot.Like most hot wheels racing sets this one falls far short of expections.

My Three Year Old Daughter Even Loves This Slot Car Set
Yes, I taught my three year old daughter to race this set and she loves it!

These cars are very tough and despite numerous crashes while learning the best throttle position to take the tight twisting corners, these is no perceivable damage or scatching on the bodies. The trick is to balance the throttle in the corners but have enough drive to make the loops.

I noticed that there is a slight decrease in speed when both cars are racing at full throttle. Anyway, I ditched the battery pack for a mobile phone charger to power the set, which has made a huge difference. I still reckon it will perform better if I build a power pack with a regulator to smooth out the voltage, but it is heaps of fun anyway.

You can experiment with all sorts of track layouts, but the trick is to have a figure eight so that the cars have the same track length to cover. I am searching for accessories, but finding them hard to come by. Maybe someone else knows where I can get extra track pieces and spare cars?

Now, I played around with the cars to test performance and roughed up the rear tyres on one of them. This helps with traction as they are constantly spinning the rear wheels and oversteering when using full throttle in corners. Changing the slot pins makes no difference since they are at the front of the car. I even took out the taction magnet to see what difference it would make, but then had to tippy toe around all the corners at low speeds as it just would not stay on the track. Once I had some momentum up, the cars travelled at phenomenal speeds, similar to the Tyco Turbo Trains from the mid 1980s.

In summary, this is a great electric racing set from Mattel Hot Wheels which is fun for all ages. I was so impressed that my daughter was able to understand that she had to slow the car down for the corners!

Be sure to have someone handy near when 1st used!
This track was exactly what my nephew described, the cool twists and turns -- I thought I had found the ideal track.Once it was put together (~1 hour and no written directions), it was put to use for the first time and the green car flew off the track.The peg which holds the car is too short and can't keep the cars on.A handy dad can repair and have the track operational.Good luck if you decide to give it a go. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Vehicles    2. Play Sets   

Reviews (15)

Great starter or addition for any child
I bought this set for my son for Christmas.At the time of purchase it included a Thomas and Percy wooden train as well as a VHS.When I first bought it I underestimated it's size and was pleased to find out how much of my son's train table it actually covered.The other great thing was that it fit in perfectly with my son's older clickty-clack tracks and bridges.My son plays with this toy every day.Compared to other Thomas the Train sets this one is by far the best for the money.It's also very easy to assemble.My two and a half year old son easily puts the figure eight track together.Every day he is excited to get to his train table and play whith his "choo-choo"it is the main part of our large Thomas set.I would suggest this buy to anyone thinking of starting a Thomas set for their child.I also find that older children that come over to play are just as excited to play with the Thomas tracks as my son is.I would also like to mention the track is incredibly durable as my son has done nearly everything a two year old could do to a toy.I am very pleased with this purchase.

Imagination Galore
I am a big fan of toys that encourage imagination.Girls and boys will love these train sets.A little pricey, but the quality and workmanship prevail.These train sets can be passed generation to generation.An eager child and imagination are the only requirments to hours of play time.All the train sets can be mixed and matched, added to, and built upon.The possibilities are endless

Great fun, but....
OK, my son loves Thomas.He really, really loves this starter set.STARTER SET!I had tried to avoid the whole Thomas thing because it is kind of a money pit, but my husband said, "it's just a train, he won't need any more than this" - famous last words.Truth is - he loves it, he plays with it, he wants all of it, every accessory, every car - EVERYTHING!!!It is another in the long line of toys that require fifty additional purchases at 30 bucks a pop - but it is durable, fun and has alot of repeat play value - and collectibility.Someday we can sell it all on eBay! :) ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Vehicles    2. Wooden Train Sets    3. Trains    4. Train Accessories   

Reviews (11)

Fun toy!
This is a fun toy... My daughter is a Thomas fan & she loves this. She plays with it for hours at a time. It could be a little more stable, but these kind of toys never are!

Great toy for Thomas Lovers
I bought this toy at another store $10 cheaper than remarked online here. Its great! My son is 21 months old and he absolutely loves it.Being an active 21 month old the toy can withstand his activity level! I would have prefered nylon myself, but the material used is not really that flimsy at all. I've three very large dogs that climb in and out of it too! So that should account for something also. Great toy, colorful, large and fun for all!

Not worth it
My 4-year-old is so disappointed. Thomas is ripping after only a few uses. I was disappointed when we opened the package and saw that it was made from the thin papery material used in disposable medical booties and gowns.

While I'm sure I can return it, that won't fix my son's disappointment. This toy was not worth it. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Outdoor Play    2. Playtents    3. Camping   

Reviews (4)

Must have for Scooby Doo fans!
The mystery machine may be made of plastic, but it is pretty sturdy. My 4 year old son can vouch for that! He absolutely loves this van! The back of the van flips open so you can trap the 2 glow in the dark monsters in the cage, and it has a door that can lock them in! My son loves it that he got his 2 favorite characters (Scooby Doo and Shaggy) with this van. The front doors of the van open so the characters can go inside. This is a wonderful toy for any scooby doo fan!

Disappointed in toy
Although my son loves the Mystery Machine, it is made of CHEAP, CHEAP, plastic.Shaggy's arms keep falling off, the scooter is already broken, and the ghose cage is always coming apart.If I had known it was going to be like this, I would have never ordered the van.

Alans scooby
My 2 year old son got this toy for christmas and he loves it. He has not put this toy down. My 3 year old daughter loves it as well, so much Im going to order her one as well. Out of all the toys they both got this one seems to be the top pick for both. My son has really put this toy through the test, it is very sturdy. We think it is great!!!! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Action Figures    2. Animals    3. Dogs    4. Vehicles    5. Play Sets   

Reviews (3)

Great Truck!!!
We bought this truck for our 1 year old son yesterday. He loves it. He has been pushing it around all day. It is very durable and my future grandchildren will probaly play with this. It is totaly worth the money. Plus it is big enough that you can put your child in it and push it around. With adult supervision only. I am also going to use this for my sons second birthday party, I am going to put the cake in the back of it because it is a construction theme.

Nice Truck!
We bought this for our 16 month old son's Christmas present, after much deliberation. We bought this truck, instead of a softer, all plastic one for several reasons.
The metal(steel?) bed has rolled edges, and very few corners. It's coated with some kind of enamel, so it should last awhile.
The rest of the truck is made of some kind of really heavy plastic; I can't imagine a child being able to break it if they tried. The tippy part of the bed is suspended above the truck, to leave about an inch of space, making it almost impossible to pinch little fingers. It's big enough for my almost three year old to sit in, and I can hardly wait for Christmas!
~Incandesia

Awesome Truck!
Boy, what a great investment this was!We bought this along with the front loader and wow, does it get used a lot!My little one just loves filling up that front loader and dumping stuff into the back of this dump truck.The dump truck then goes all over the place delivering whatever is in the back, and comes back for more.He goes through sand, mud, you name it and looks great.These trucks clean up very easily and don't marr hardwood floors.It's pretty cute seeing how many things he can do with this truck - it just provides hours of fun for him. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Vehicles    2. Die-Cast    3. Trucks   

Reviews (16)

Worth every penny!
Because this was such an expensive item I did my homework before purchasing the table. I looked at some cheaper tables to begin with but found that they couldn't come close to the Thomas table by Learning Curve. This table is made of solid wood and took me about 5 minutes to put together. I was able to get the playmat for free with the table through a promotion Toys R Us was having at the time of purchase. Another thing that sold me on the Thomas table was that this is the same table they have at Barrnes and Noble and you can imagine how many children play on that day after day. We have the table set up in our son's playroom since it is such a large piece. Unlike many other toys we have purchased in the past, this is one that we will save for years to come. They are expensive, but they are also made well and come with a lifetime guarantee. If you have a problem with one of their products you simply send it to them with a letter and within about 1-2 business weeks they will send you a brand new item. If you are looking to buy a train table I would highly recommend this one. Though it is more expensive, it is worth it in the long run. Why spend $80-$100 on a table that is only going to last a year or so when you can spend a little more and save it forever? One other hint...Michael's Arts and Crafts and A.C. Moore Craft Stores also carry a decent amount of the wooden Thomas toys. Look in your local paper for their 40% off coupons. They apply to Thomas and Friends which makes it a lot more affordable. :)

$$$ TRAIN TABLE PRICE IS EXTREMELY TOO HIGH****
Hello, my son is 3 and just was newly introduced to Thomas, he loves it, there are so many trains to collect from 2004 and past years. This table is so over priced, we decided also to build one $60 for materials (all oak) and a few hours and its done, personally its beautiful and stained it looks like an expensive piece, (thanks to my brother-in-law builder and my husband), if you are not as lucky to have someone in your family build it for you here is a suggestion..get in touch with your local school, or the woodshop teacher and see if you can get one of the students to build it as a project (they get graded for this) and your helping that student learn, or get plans and build it yourself, dont have the saws? your local home store may cut the wood for you. Its just a suggestion because thomas stuff is great but I would rather spend my money on the trains (which is the REAL enjoyment. Hope this helps

Time For Thomas
The Thomas train sets are great modern versions of the classic indestructible wooden train sets.Simple enough to avoid the toddler age frustrations of getting the cars to run on the track yet complex enough to engage a wide range of ages (up to and including Grandpas).All the stories help with the imagination part....the books & videos provide an endless source of adventures that can be acted out, although most kids are perfectly capable of inventing their own episodes.

Here is my advice, if you are trying to work your way through the maze of start-up options:

First of all, you can spend a fortune on a huge set....even if you can afford it, I would start with something small and give the child the joy of receiving a chain of small but intriguing presents over a long period of time.It fosters the joy of giving/receiving and helps teach them to come back again and again to the same toy...watching it grow, asking for specific items from the stories they hear, etc.Several reviewers suggest painting an old coffee table and this is a great idea.

I suggest the Figure 8 set (the most popular one) or if you want to spend a little bit more, the Conductors Figure 8 set.Both are complex enough to be interesting, but simple enough to give lots of room for growth.Almost immediately I would add a new present of one of the inexpensive engines (you can ask the child which story they like best and get that engine for them....or buy the engine to go with the video or book in the same gift)....these would be Percy The Small Engine, Bill The Yellow Engine, Treavor, (or a bit more $ for:) The Lady Engine, James The Red Engine, Gordon The Express Engine (he's one of the best stories, I think), or Henry The Green Engine.

Now for the good stuff!Give it a month or so, and then reward the child with something really cool like the Barrel Loader or Rusty the Construction 3 Car Set.

I honestly can't see the point in the huge multi hundred dollar system sets.If you want to impress the neighbors or something, go for it, but I'm telling you.....most kids will enjoy a large number of small thoughtful gifts, not a "keep-up-with-the-Jones" effort on your part.

Good behavior can be rewarded with a pick-your-own trip to the store (there are sometimes when a real time shopping trip can't be beat)

By the way, the Thomas stories are based on real restored engines that run in England on the Mid-Hants Railway Watercress line near Winchester (you can read about them an even plan a trip to ride on the real Thomas trains by checking outwatercressline.co.uk).They are a day trip from the London rail stations, although I recommend using a B&B in the Winchester area and staying overnight if you decide to go.Winchester was the center of the old Saxon kingdom of Wessex of King Alfred as well as a major early medieval site (the Cathedral has the tombs of many of the Saxon Kings as well as Jayne Austen and Izaac Walton and it was where Richard the Lionhearted was crowned.)

... Read more

Subjects:  1. Furniture    2. Wood    3. Train Set Accessories    4. Preschool    5. Vehicles    6. Trains    7. Train Accessories   

Reviews (5)

Great Puzzle for Little Ones
My 28 month old son got this puzzle for Christmas and loves it.He put it together the first time out of the box himself. It is the first thing he does every morning and then several times a day.My almost 5 year old likes it too. It is not as sturdy as the Melissa & Doug floor puzzles, but it still really sturdy.

Nice picture making for an easier puzzle
My 2 year old daughter has this puzzle and thinks its wonderful.

Unlike many puzzles, with just one character on it, the picture is brilliant having lots of different trains, etc on it.It is easy to fit togehter, with parts of a different character or scene on every piece.She can easily put Thomas, the sheds, Harold, etc together thus eventually making the whole puzzle.

This is by far her favourite puzzle.For one, it's Thomas!And for 2, it's well-made and 'easy' to work out how to put together.

Most Beloved Toy
My son who just turned 4 years old in December received this for Christmas.I'm amazed at the beauty and durability of the pieces.He put it together about three times (with help) the first time we opened it!I never seen him so excited about a toy and to my greater surprise--a puzzle!Each time he placed a new piece in (sometimes with my assistance and sometimes not), he'd ask me to turn around and then ask me to look.When I looked I praised him for his accomplishment and he squealed with excitement.He literally jumped up and down almost after each piece was placed!He told me this was his favorite gift for Christmas and believe me he had quite a few more that were more expensive.I'll be buying more Thomas puzzles from this company in the near future as I'm very impressed. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Preschool    2. Puzzles    3. Floor Puzzles    4. Jigsaw Puzzles    5. Easy Puzzles    6. Toddler    7. Activity   

Editorial Review

After longs days of travel and adventure, Thomas the Tank Engine and friends need a place to rest. The Roundhouse is built in exactly the same way as it was when part of the British Railway, solidly constructed in wood and decorated with brick decals. Five trains fit inside the wooden train shelter, and the green plastic doors open and close. It connects to any of the Clickity-Clack Tracks from the Thomas Wooden Railway System with a five-way switch track. There are almost as many pieces to this line of train sets (sold separately) as there are books in the Thomas the Tank Engine series--all contained in carrying cases. All of these toys allow children to engage in imaginative, thoughtful play. --Lynne Sampson ... Read more

Reviews (13)

Expensive...Yes...and worth every penny!
I purchased this roundhouse for my 3 year old daughter.She loves anything Thomas!She began her Thomas collection with the figure 8 set and a couple of trains.As I realized how much she loved Thomas, I began to purchase more pieces to add to her collection.Rather than spend a lot of money upfront on a big set, I recommend starting small on a figure 8 set.As your child's interest in Thomas grows or solidifies, add items such as the table, roundhouse, other buildings, etc.I will caution that when you buy items "a la carte", it is very difficult to have everything fit nicely on the table.The roundhouse is her favorite building and all of her friends who come over to play, love it as well.The roundhouse does come with a 5 switch as pictured on the box, the red turntable is a separate item.The turntable is also a great addition to the roundhouse, but not a necessity.The roundhouse will not disappoint for any Thomas enthusiast!!!

Time For Thomas
The Thomas train sets are great modern versions of the classic indestructible wooden train sets.Simple enough to avoid the toddler age frustrations of getting the cars to run on the track yet complex enough to engage a wide range of ages (up to and including Grandpas).All the stories help with the imagination part....the books & videos provide an endless source of adventures that can be acted out, although most kids are perfectly capable of inventing their own episodes.

Here is my advice, if you are trying to work your way through the maze of start-up options:

First of all, you can spend a fortune on a huge set....even if you can afford it, I would start with something small and give the child the joy of receiving a chain of small but intriguing presents over a long period of time.It fosters the joy of giving/receiving and helps teach them to come back again and again to the same toy...watching it grow, asking for specific items from the stories they hear, etc.Several reviewers suggest painting an old coffee table and this is a great idea.

I suggest the Figure 8 set (the most popular one) or if you want to spend a little bit more, the Conductors Figure 8 set.Both are complex enough to be interesting, but simple enough to give lots of room for growth.Almost immediately I would add a new present of one of the inexpensive engines (you can ask the child which story they like best and get that engine for them....or buy the engine to go with the video or book in the same gift)....these would be Percy The Small Engine, Bill The Yellow Engine, Treavor, (or a bit more $ for:) The Lady Engine, James The Red Engine, Gordon The Express Engine (he's one of the best stories, I think), or Henry The Green Engine.

Now for the good stuff!Give it a month or so, and then reward the child with something really cool like the Barrel Loader or Rusty the Construction 3 Car Set.

I honestly can't see the point in the huge multi hundred dollar system sets.If you want to impress the neighbors or something, go for it, but I'm telling you.....most kids will enjoy a large number of small thoughtful gifts, not a "keep-up-with-the-Jones" effort on your part.

Good behavior can be rewarded with a pick-your-own trip to the store (there are sometimes when a real time shopping trip can't be beat)

By the way, the Thomas stories are based on real restored engines that run in England on the Mid-Hants Railway Watercress line near Winchester (you can read about them an even plan a trip to ride on the real Thomas trains by checking outwatercressline.co.uk).They are a day trip from the London rail stations, although I recommend using a B&B in the Winchester area and staying overnight if you decide to go.Winchester was the center of the old Saxon kingdom of Wessex of King Alfred as well as a major early medieval site (the Cathedral has the tombs of many of the Saxon Kings as well as Jayne Austen and Izaac Walton and it was where Richard the Lionhearted was crowned.)

Fantasic but Pricey!
When I ordered the roundhouse I believed that the red 5-way switch track was also included, especially when it is pictured on the box, but was disappointed to find that it wasn't. As my 4 year old son believes, as I am sure most do, that this is a very necessary piece of the building he will have to wait until his birthday to receive it (...). A little upsetting.
Apart from this one thing the Roundhouse is a fantastic piece to have on any Thomas layout, my son loves it and plays with it for hours. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Wooden Train Sets    2. Train Set Accessories    3. Wood    4. Preschool    5. Activity    6. Push and Pull Toys    7. Vehicles    8. Trains    9. Train Accessories   

Editorial Review

Mighty indeed! This Tonka backhoe is aptly named. Riding high above the ground (11 inches) on large, rugged tires (4.5 inches indiameter), it's constructed of heavy-duty steel and durable plastic. Realistically styled after a full-size backhoe, it has a long steel arm for digging deep or scooping up rocks and dirt. The backhoe can swivel a full 360 degrees on the truck bed, making it easy to load dirt into other trucks or get to those hard-to-reach rock piles. There's a sure-grip handle on the side of the arm for lifting and lowering, and another handle at the base of the arm lets the "driver" extend or retract the work bucket for scooping and dumping. The backhoe sits on strong steel axles that have been tested with a 50-pound load. With a lifetime guarantee to back it up, the Mighty Backhoe is built to withstand all the rough play your kids can dish out. --Chris Burns ... Read more

Reviews (14)

But .....its not a backhoe.
It looks like a cool toy, but it really isn't anything like a backhoe you would normally see on a construction site.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Backhoe
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Cat-backhoe-loader07.jpg

Built Strong for Hours of Play
We purchased the Tonka Mighty Backhoe and the Tonka Mighty Dump Truck for my son for Christmas this year.As a child, I had numerous Tonka trucks, and I can remember how much fun I had playing with them.Although plastic has replaced some of the parts that used to be steel, these trucks are still built strong for hours of fun play, either indoors or outdoors.As for the backhoe, it has a strongly-built cab and handles for the child to hold on to while operating the backhoe.This is an improvement from when I was a child.The backhoe bends in two places, so picking up small objects is very easy.The wheels are made of a sturdy plastic.I highly recommend this fun toy.Combine it with another Tonka vehicle to give your child hours of construction fun.

My 3 year old grandson loves favorite trucks
I bought the backhoe, dump truck and the back loader and recently purchase the crane for him.He takes them everywhere he goes. His father takes him to see the real ones at work and he know what each one is called.

They are very durable.Great trucks. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Vehicles    2. Construction Vehicles    3. Preschool    4. Push and Pull Toys    5. Die-Cast   

Editorial Review

As kids move their Matchbox cars along this circular snowy mountain road, the cars hit the hazards along the way. This playset lets your child control the rescue mission. Easy-to-work knobs operate the motorized lift, which rescues cars that have crashed or sunken into the pool of thin ice in the center of Ice Mountain. An included rescue vehicle assists cars that have been buried under the avalanche on the lower level of the roadway. Kids can use this set on its own or combine it with other Hero City vehicles and play centers to create a bigger city. This set requires three C batteries (not included) to operate. --Cristina Vaamonde ... Read more

Reviews (55)

It's great as long as you can keep it working
My 5 year old son received this toy as a gift for his birthday.He had asked for something else (the slimecano), but due to the bad reveiws of that product we purchased this instead.He surprised us all by forgetting all about the slimecano.He loved this toy.He plays with it and the Matchbox Ferris Wheel set (his other favorite) all day long.. atleast he did until this broke.

The Crane mechanism is poorly designed.The gearing inside of it does not handle the stress of being moved manually, or being hung up (as will happen when a car falls under its path of travel - a common occurrance).After 3 weeks of regular play, one of the gears inside the crane broke loose from its anchor (in the side of the crane body), leaving the works a jumbled and broken mess.No more crane.

I was extremely surprised to see this happen so quickly.My son has been playing with the ferris wheel (another motorized matchbox set in the same line) since Christmas, and the rotating wheel has stood up to considerable punishment from him without a problem.It still works after being jammed and turned by hand often.This, however, is not so forgiving.

I contacted Mattel today to see if I could purchase a replacement crane (or body with the proper gear anchor intact, only to find out that they are sold out.I can only imagine, based upon a quick glance at the reviews on this site that their stock was depleated by warantee replacements.For further evidence of this, the Mattel rep did agree to send me a 'voucher' for $23 (the supposed average retail price of the toy - not from where I'm sitting, look at the price on this site!).When I asked her if I could use it to purchase another ice mountain, she said yes, but I might want to consider a different toy, and that I could purchase multiple toys up to the limit of the voucher (I'm not sure, but I think she even suggested a 'hot wheels' car or 2...no promotion for that phone rep!

All in all, he was delighted to receive it and despondent when it broke.Mattel is trying to make good without alot of arguing on my part, so I'm not too unhappy.The only thing they could have done better, in my opinion, was better engineer the toy from the start.

A big hit with our kids!
My husband and I gave this toy to our 6-year-old on his birthday.Since I had read some of the reviews, I expected it to be quite difficult to assemble.My husband was at work so I had to put it together myself while our three kids "helped."There were a lot of steps to assembly (and 29 pieces) but it went together quite well.I wouldn't discourage any parent from purchasing this product.It's worth the money and initial effort!Our kids ages 8, 6, and 3 are enjoying all the different levers, lifts, roads, and great sound effects. It sparks their imaginations.

Bad
I ordered this gift for my son for Christmas.Had the toy all put together less then an hour and it stopped working.Had a replacement sent out and that one didn't work from the start.Was not a happy parent. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Vehicles    2. Die-Cast    3. Play Sets   

Reviews (4)

Cool but Ionly wanted the construction cars
What I meant by my title is that I already had Rusty and I just wanted the Construction Cars. The cars sway from side to side and they can survive a lot of damage. I was suprised at how durable these were. The sets are a lot of fun because you don't need any additional things to go with it for immediate fun. These toys are really good for a car trip to keep a child busy when they are bored. I would higly recommend getting this set but don't buy Rusty first.

Rusty is good
Rusty is great. i got him as a present for christmas one year he has 3 cars - rusty a dumper and a cement mixer you can use him with cranky or anything with a magnet. he is also in some episodes on a video.

Rusty & Construction Cars!!
The Thomas & Friends wooden railroad gives you Rusty and 2 Construction Cars. This set provides hours of fun for your children because they can use this set to recreate stories about Rusty and his construction fun. Its educational value shows children how man-made things are built and they will probably use this set with thier Lincoln Logs and other construction kits. This is also a very sturdy set, but sometimes the mixer's top will come off and will need a frequent fix-up! Other than that, it's a wonderful set and a great gift idea! ... Read more

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

Reviews (10)

Really Nice Add-On
Unlike so many Geotrax accessories that connect with a single piece of track, this accessory becomes a major part of your track set up.You get six pieces of track in addition to the mountain itself.If you flip the two switcher tracks outward, you can integrate these track pieces more easily with the existing track.The coal car's load will push down, and pop back up when you pull the hook-connector.For the money, Mt. Blast is one of the best accessories you can add to your Geotrax set up.

3 yr old loves
We got this piece first, and only played with it a little until we got the starter set this christmas.Now we play with it every day!I love that he can put the pieces together himself, and he loves to change the layouts.We will definately be adding more once they become available!

A great add on for a great train set!!
My 3 year old son is into all types of trucks so this was a must have to add to the Christmas pile.This is a great accessory to his geotrax rapidly growing collection.This set had quite a few accessories to it other than actual track pcs - trucks, boulders, etc.He is able to connect track with minimal help and once set up he will sit and play for long periods of time on his own.Add on sets like this make it so it's not just a "train set" and he has incorporated using his little people sets to make a whole "city".His little sister even has fun with this one! ... Read more

Reviews (3)

rear wing falls off
My son was SO excited to get this for his birthday. I put it together with ease.However the rear wing keeps falling off.It fell off within thefirst 5-10 minutes of EASY play.It does click back on but continues to fall off with ease.The front wheel has also come off.The ear muffs and hat do not fit the ground crew man very well.There are very cute mugs and juice boxes that store in the plane that are very easy to lose.One of the juice boxes is actually stuck in between the rear seat and the wall and we cannot get it out.Anyhow We did take the mugs and drinks away and have just been dealing with putting the wing and wheel back on. For the price I would think it should stay on much better.If I had the choice to get another one of these I would not.This was a gift and had I known it would fall apart this easy I would have returned it without opening it and gotten something different.

falls apart
My son recieved this airplane as a gift because he loves airplanes.However much he liked it I didn't like it at all because he was constantly coming to me to put the wings back on or the tail or the door.It was very annoying and eventually the parts begain to come up missing.There are tiny little red squares that keep these parts on and they began to come up missing first.My son loved it but we had to throw it out because it was in pieces in the end with no way to put it back together.I won't buy this or any other playmobile products for this reason.

Sturdy, high quality and lots of fun!
This playmobil airplane is a really great toy. It is made out of high quality plastic, is easy to put together, and stays together (pretty well) during "enthusiastic" play. It comes with the two airline employees (pilot and steward/co-pilot) and the orange-vested tarmac agent. So funny! There are three little play cartons of juice, and four little cups for attending your customers (easy to lose), the tarmac agent has those yellow paddles and ear protectors for guiding the plane in for a landing. The plane has a side door that opens up but also the entire top comes off for easy passenger seating. There's an undercarriage storage area for any luggage that your passengers might carry.
My boy absolutely loves this airplane toy. He has gathered up a whole airport utilizing his Playmobil taxi, some generic helicopters and passengers from various other playsets (Lego, etc). I think the Playmobil Airport Security Screener set is in his near future (yes! I kid you not!). I am happy that he prefers imaginative play with this airplane than with his structured Hot Wheels playsets. A bit thumbs up!
... Read more

Subjects:  1. Preschool    2. Vehicles    3. Activity    4. Pretend Play    5. Play Sets   

Editorial Review

While Thomas the Tank Engine and his various friends have been featured quite nicely in a variety of toys, games, stories, videos, books, and pajamas, it's as a train set that Thomas really makes the most sense. And this sprawling ensemble is certain to delight any Thomas fan. Measuring 62 by 90 inches when laid out in full, it features Thomas and several of his pals including Percy, Harold, Annie and Clarabel, Terrence, Trevor, and Cranky, all of whom are motorized. Tunnels, bridges, and houses add to the authenticity of the set as do three engine sheds positioned around a large turntable with directional switch. 26 pieces of road let you arrange the town according to the prescribed plan or design your own unique layout. --Charlie Williams ... Read more

Reviews (6)

greatest toy i have ever had
my son loves this toy so much even forgot his favorite icecream when he was playing. not only he loves this toy, i am crazy about this`too. we had a lot of fun since we got this toy.

Thomas Crazy
My 3 yr old son is Thomas crazy. He has the wooden railway which he loves and we just recently bought this one. He seems to like the larger trains made by Tomy better than the wooden ones. I like this set, but I agree with previous reviewers that you'll have to find a way to re-configure it. It is VERY LARGE and my 3yr old tends to knock over and disconnect the track fairly frequently.The only other thing that I would add is that the box and picture of the vehicles is very misleading, 3 of the vehicles trevor, terrance and caroline are miniature. They are smaller even then both the wooden and metal trains by learning curve. This was a little upsetting to us because that was one of the reason we bought the set for the rare vehicles. All in all it most be pretty good because my sons plays with it from the time he wakes up until he goes to bed. You can hear him playing out the stories that he watches on the tapes.Also, although it is motorized you can put the trains in the off position and they can push it just like the wooden trains. We don't even put the batteries in anymore because like another reviewer we found that he just watched. It promtes much more imagination this way.

Really keeps our 3 year old busy
Although this set took a while to put together, my son absolutely loves it.He received it as a gift from a friend and he plays and plays and plays with it.It really helps stimulate learning in different areas and he doesn't even know it!

... Read more

Subjects:  1. Vehicles    2. Ride-Ons    3. Trains