Spike The Fine Motor Hedgehog Review: A Must-Have Toddler Learning Toy
As a parent, I'm always on the lookout for toys that are not just fun but educational too. It's a bonus if they can keep my toddler engaged for more than five minutes. That's why I was thrilled to discover Learning Resources Spike The Fine Motor Hedgehog. This toy has been a game-changer in our household and I'm excited to share my experience with you.
The moment we unboxed Spike, I was impressed by its quality and design. The hedgehog itself is a cute, friendly face that immediately caught the attention of my little one. The 2-piece hedgehog is about 6” in diameter, making it the perfect size for tiny hands. The 12 colorful quills were a hit too, not just for their vibrant colors but because they're chunky and easy to grasp.
Everything about Spike felt designed with toddlers in mind, from the size of the quills to the easy storage solution when playtime is over. The fact that it's recommended for kids ages 18 months to 4 years gave me confidence that we'd get a lot of use out of it.
What sets Spike apart from other toys is its focus on developing fine motor skills. Each time my child places a quill into Spike's back, I can see the concentration and the development happening right before my eyes. It's not just about pushing in and pulling out the quills; it's about the coordination and the muscle development in those tiny hands.
Moreover, Spike isn't just a one-trick pony. It's a multifaceted educational tool that also teaches color recognition, sorting, and counting skills. We've spent hours sorting the quills by color, counting them as we place them into Spike's back, and even using them for simple math exercises. It's truly a versatile toy that grows with your child.
One aspect I particularly appreciate is how Spike is also a great toy for visually impaired children. The tactile nature of the quills and the ease of handling them make it accessible and enjoyable for kids with visual impairments. It's wonderful to see a toy that's so inclusive and thoughtfully designed.
Let's talk about storage because, as parents, we know how quickly toys can take over the house. Spike nails it in this department. The quills easily fit back into the hedgehog, making cleanup a breeze. It's such a simple feature, but it makes a huge difference in keeping our play area tidy.
I've already recommended Spike to all my parent friends and even gifted it for birthdays and holidays. It's an ideal gift that's not only fun but educational. Whether it's for Halloween, Christmas, or just because, Spike is a gift that keeps on giving. It's not just a toy; it's an investment in your child's development.
After months of play, Spike The Fine Motor Hedgehog has proven to be a durable, engaging, and educational toy that has earned its place in our home. It's rare to find a toy that ticks all the boxes for both parents and toddlers, but Spike does just that. If you're looking for a toy that will entertain, educate, and grow with your child, Spike is the way to go.
Product Dimensions: 9.1 x 9.1 x 3.9 inches
Item Weight: 0.8 ounces
Country of Origin: China
ASIN: B078WM314M
Item model number: LER8904
Manufacturer recommended age: 18 months - 4 years
Best Sellers Rank: #183 in Toys & Games
Customer Reviews: 4.7 out of 5 stars
Release date: April 1, 2019
Manufacturer: Learning Resources
If you've fallen in love with Spike, don't forget to explore the rest of the Spike the Hedgehog Collection. From the pink version to the sensory treehouse, there's something to further enhance your child's learning and enjoyment. Each product is designed with the same care and educational focus as the original Spike, promising long-lasting skills and fun.