Freddy is a proper lad when it comes to toy choices. I know all the gender neutral parenting arguments and he does have access to more stereotypically feminine toys, but what he really likes is trucks. His eyes light up at the sight of a digger, tractor, train or car. He likes to push them along, he studies their wheels, he bashes them against each other or whizzes them across the laminate floor.
When I attended the fabulous Christmas in July event earlier this month I was very excited by the Golden Bear Stand. Not only is this a fantastic toy company that is located in my home county of Shropshire, but it also had on display the most wonderful toys from their My First JCB range. The iconic brand has been beautifully characterized and brought to life in a collection of working vehicles, each with their own personality. I knew Freddy would adore them and I was delighted when Golden Bear agreed for him to test out My First Talking Joey JCB and Doug the Dump Truck.
Open it please mum!!
The toys are made from chunky and durable plastic and are ideal for little hands. The wheels are very sturdy. With articulated parts, flashing lights and a button which when pressed makes them say one of five unique phrases, Joey and Doug were a huge hit with Freddy. They gave rise to some great interactive play, each vehicle having its own personality. Doug is a very sensible, traditional, old truck, whereas Joey is an energetic young hero and up for anything...the muddier the better! There are more vehicles in the range including Larry Loadall, Freddie Fastrac, Rex Roller and Roxy Robot.
Exploring his new toy!
The range is suitable from ages 12 months and up. They need 2 x AAA batteries, which are included...I think more toy companies should take note of that. Well done Golden Bear :) The packaging was not excessive and mostly consisted of recyclable cardboard.
Doug and Joey
In addition to the Talking My First JCB vehicles, Golden Bear have pull back versions, water squirting bath toy versions and the soon to be released remote controlled JCB. There are also some gorgeous puzzles and games featuring the workforce.
I love the attention to detail and think that giving each vehicle its own personality adds to the play value. Freddy loved the friendly characters and enjoyed listening to their chatter!
The My First JCB Talking Joey and Doug retail at £9.99 which is excellent value. They can be purchased from good toy shops or buy online at Golden Bear Toys' website.
Golden Bear produce a whole host of other branded toys including Ben and Holly's Little Kingdom, Peppa Pig and an exciting range of mascots for the London 2012 Olympics and Paralympics.
Ben and Holly's Little Kingdom at Christmas in July
Wenlock and Mandeville the London 2012 Olympic Mascots
A Driver Dan's Story Train collection is due to be released soon! The Story Train play set is tipped to be a Christmas must have in the Pre-School category with the Mum's Choice seal of approval.
Driver Dan's Story Train...Mum's Choice for Pre-Schoole
