Review: Twirly Whirly Rainbow Ramp
Simple, Entertaining & Educational
Firstly... This is NOT a paid review. Kmart gives me nothing. Kmart, if you are reading this... Feel free to load me up, as you have awesome stuff... Until then, this is just my honest review, as I bought this toy recently.
I didn't really think I should write a review on a basic $10 piece of plastic. But my son absolutely loves this thing. Not to mention, it was one of his first STEM toys. So think of this as a product endorsement and recommendation, rather than a product review.
The Twirly Whirly Rainbow Ramp is a Ten buck toy from Kmart. It's already set up, so there is nothing for you do to but unbox it. It comes with three balls: Two solid ones that my son hates and never really uses... And one totally awesome one that is clear with other tiny balls inside that makes a rattling sound when it rolls.
Related: Build a Kinetic Garden Hose Coaster
Developing Skills & early STEM Education
This toy is recommended for 12 months and older. After looking over the toy, I presumed the age recommendation was due to ability rather than safety. I bought this for my son when he was 10 months, and supervised his play. He watched me use this just two or three times, and then he knew exactly what to do. He played with this over and over again and was so excited to watch the ball roll to the bottom. This was the first toy where he showed real skill, and it was amazing to see him playing with it.
Kmart describes the development benefits as: 'Helps develop fine motor skills, sensory and tactile skills, auditory skills and understanding of cause and effect'. However, there is plenty of science going on here too. In particular, Kinetic Energy and Potential energy. Whilst there is no way you will be teaching this to a 12-month-old, it will be fun to look back at this toy when they get older and talk about the science and engineering of this toy.
Playing with the Twirly Whirly Rainbow Ramp
Here is a picture of Ashton playing with this toy. If your kids like these types of toys, you should take a look at our kinetic energy posts. They are fun as well as educational.
Get This Toy
I can't recommend this toy enough. I certainly noticed it developing my son's skills, and it was only $10. And because it is just plastic, I am looking forward to using it with water and sand and anything else I can think of.
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