Clementoni Magnetic Interactive Easel Review

Reviewed by new_mama

The parcel arrived in a large plain cardboard box. The item itself is packaged in a colourful box however in order to allow the item to be seen and buttons to be tested, a large clear plastic cover wraps around it. I personally felt that this excess plastic was unnecessary and the cardboard packaging alone could be re designed to give the same access if wanted. The item itself is very brightly coloured, attractive to the young children it is aimed at and certainly successful in drawing a little ones attention. However as a mother I have tried my best to limit the amount of plastic toys that I buy for my child. In this more environmentally friendly world I do feel that the item could be made with other more eco materials, such as for the large plastic feet that enable the board to stand.

I was impressed that the batteries were included in the toy and allow it to immediately be used upon opening- great for parents not having to ensure batteries are available leading to an unnecessary delay for any young child keen to try their new toy.

The item is designed as an interactive magnetic easel. On first glance the board, which can be used flat or standing, is a magnetic drawing board allowing your child to draw (with the suitably large easy to grip pen). 3 shape stamps are also attached (a circle, triangle and square) as well as the letters ‘a’, ‘b’ and ‘c.’ These can be used to aid your child’s visual creations, with a simple sliding eraser enabling them to clean and re draw as much as they like. The stamps do seem to easily fall off the board, so I hope they won’t go missing too quickly.

However as this is the ‘first speaking magnetic board’ and aimed to be a ‘cute and fun playing companion for your child’ there is much more to it. Aimed at 18 months plus, the board also has a voice which activates to help your child learn their first numbers, among other early words. For me (as a native English speaker) the key benefit of this voice is that it is not only English speaking, but also speaks in Spanish. Like many parents I am aware of the benefits of children being exposed to other languages early on. The board therefore allows your child to hear and maybe even start practicing basic Spanish whilst seemingly playing. The sound element further includes catchy songs, other sounds and music.
If a magnetic easel is the main aspect wanted then I’m not sure I would choose this one due to the rather small drawing area in the centre (some of the pictures appear a bit misleading here so be careful if buying online).[editor’s note – this is the reviewer’s opinion] However I think the voice element of the board makes up for this overall and the item is designed as more than just a surface on which your child can begin to draw. I predict this will remain something that my child enjoys for many years to come.

Easy to wipe clean and I’m sure very durable, this toy will certainly provide hours of educational entertainment.

I would give this product a rating of 4 out of 5.

Rating: 4/5

RRP: £24.99

This product can be purchased from several retailers including Smyths Toys.