What? No Off Button?!
Written: Jan 20 '01 (Updated Jan 20 '01)
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Pros: entertaining, colorful, easy to use and understand, 2 modes of play
Cons: no volume control and no off switch
The Bottom Line: This fun and educational toy makes a great gift, just be aware of the noise factor!
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| rmgood's Full Review: Surprise Sounds Play Store |
Parents Beware -toddlers love this toy, but it just might drive parents to the brink of insanity! Its true, this wonderful toy has no off button and no volume control. So if Cookie Monster's voice gives you a migraine, you may want to pass on this one or at least keep an open spot for it in the closet. However, if you are just a big kid at heart like me, this may be the perfect gift for your child. (Or get one for your nephew to get revenge on your sister for giving your child that annoying squawking stuffed chicken last Christmas!)
Overlooking the whole noise aspect, this toy provides hours of entertainment and is even a great educational tool for the older toddler. Its made of heavy, durable plastic with bright colors and flashing lights. The cash register is complete with nine numbers, a bar to open the cash drawer and an Elmo button to help you change between modes. The cash drawer opens to reveal two sections, one for coins and one for bills. On one side of the register is a slot to slide credit cards and on the other is a "scanner" for identifying the grocery items at check out. Push numbers 1, 4 or 7 and Ernie will speak; 2, 5 or 8 and its Big Bird; 3, 6 or 9 and you'll hear Cookie Monster. The cash bar goes "cha-ching" and slide a credit card for the "beeps" of approval.
This cash register has two modes. First is the play mode. Pressing numbers will identify them as stated above. Put the pickles on the scanner and Elmo will name it for you (or any of the five grocery items included.) Pressing the Elmo button will take you into the learning mode. Elmo will now ask you for specific food, either by color or type. For example, he may ask for the yellow food or he may ask for the cheese. Elmo may also ask you to press a number. To answer, you simply press the correct number or place the correct item on the scanner. If you make a mistake, Elmo will say "uh-oh" and tell you what you pressed and remind you of the correct item.
There are 14 items total included in the set:
-1 yellow basket with a handle to carry the grocery items
-5 large, easy-to-handle grocery items (cheese, juice, ketchup, cookies and pickles)
-4 large, colored coins
-2 thick, plastic money bills
-1 thick, plastic credit card
and of course the actual cash register.
The machine takes 3 AA batteries which are screwed safely into the bottom of the register making it virtually impossible for toddlers to open.
My daughter loves this toy. As for myself, well, it is cute and anything that keeps her entertained is worth the money, but every once in awhile I'd like to choke poor little Elmo! All kidding aside, I would highly recommend this to anyone, just be aware of the noise. The suggested retail price is about $20, however I purchased this recently on sale for $10. Try Target stores or amazon.com for sale prices.
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 10
Type of Toy: Other
Age Range of Child: 12 to 36 Months
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Epinions.com ID:
rmgood
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Member: Raquel
Location: Minnesota
Reviews written: 89
Trusted by: 85 members
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