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Hape make the kind of solid wooden toys that survive being chucked in a box, handed down to a sibling and chewed by a teething baby, and this pounding bench with a slide-out xylophone is one of their most loved pieces. It is bright, sturdy and properly hands-on, so it suits busy toddlers who want to bang, drop and watch something happen. A good first introduction to cause and effect.
What to look for
- Honest materials. Look for solid wood and child-safe, water-based paint rather than thin painted MDF that chips.
- Open-ended play. The best wooden toys do more than one thing, so they stretch across a wider age range and stay in the toy box longer.
- Sensible age fit. Check the stated minimum age, as small pieces and balls are not right for under-ones who still mouth everything.
Our pick
This pounding bench lets little ones hammer wooden balls through the top, which then roll out and chime over a small xylophone. The keyboard slides free so a child can tap out notes on its own, which keeps it useful well past the early pounding stage. It is aimed at roughly 12 months and up, and it works hard on hand-eye coordination, grip strength and a first sense of musical cause and effect. The rounded edges and chunky hammer suit small hands learning to aim.
One honest note: you do not need the most expensive or limited-edition version for this to do its job. The standard bench gives you the same play and the same build quality, so save your money for the next toy.