Playskool Busy Ball Popper

It’s basically a hair dryer inside some plastic tubing, but nearly every kid I’ve ever seen has loved this thing. You turn it on, the motor blows air through the tubing, some music plays, and the plastic balls go flying out— allowing parents the opportunity to chase these under couches, behind TVs, and who knows where, until your child is old enough to chase them himself. (My advice: purchase extra balls.)

The manufacturer’s recommended age is 9months and up, but our daughter F. found it fascinating even before that—and don’t worry that older toddlers won’t like it: they will. This will still be a great gift for that two- or even three-year old and, I’d venture to say, even the four-and-up crowd. There is something fascinating about watching the balls go through the tubing, about putting your hand over the open end to build up the pressures so that – when you remove your hand – the balls really fly. The music isn’t that bad (although it can, and will, get stuck in your head). The toy is a bit loud, since that music has to be heard over the sound of the motor. Nevertheless, this has been (and will continue to be) a favorite toy.

Four stars out of five
Pros: Fun for all ages; sturdy; visually stimulating
Cons: Hair dryer + music = loudness