Pretend Play Reviews

Whether your child prefers the traditional version of the Three Little Pigs or something a bit more unconventional (such as The True Story of the 3 Little Pigs), he or she will enjoy reenacting the entire plot with this outstanding playset. Undo the Velcro seam on the roof of the third little pig's house to reveal a 16-by-23-inch play mat depicting colorfully printed and embroidered set pieces for staging the story. Three freestanding pigs and the big bad wolf are each recreated on weighted pillows and nicely enhanced by a touch of bright outline stitching. Houses of hay and sticks (cardboard-covered fabric) readily succumb to the wolf's huffing and puffing, and the much larger, quilted house of bricks sports a wolf-sized chimney. A traditional retelling of the classic story--made of printed fabric and easily stored inside the brick house with the mat, characters, and props--is included. --Liane Thomas

Whether it's used as a secret underground passageway to a magic kingdom or as the transporter tube on board an Earth-orbiting spaceship, this 12-foot play tunnel will provide your kids with endless possibilities for imaginative play. With a 22-inch diameter, the tunnel's lightweight spring steel frame is sheathed in a flame-retardant, breathable nylon material that provides natural ventilation inside. Designed for indoor and outdoor play, the play tunnel can be set up in less than one minute and features an attractive wild animal motif, including colorful images of giraffes, zebras, lions, and hippos. Surface washable. --Chris Burns

Barbie has gone cellular with this pretend wireless phone that is every bit as hip and happening as the lady in pink herself. The phone, which features three different fashionable covers, allows kids to make Barbie not just a close personal friend, but also a close personal friend who calls frequently. After an adult programs the phone, Barbie will "call" and leave a message, which can be heard by pressing the talk/send button. Because she's a considerate icon, she'll never call during school hours or late at night. But this is no one-way relationship: you can call or page Barbie also and hear her responses. A choice of ringing options adds to the fun. --John Moe