When the folks at VTech sent us their new 2-in-1 Shop & Cook Playset for review in The Rock Father’s State-of-the-Art Toy Testing Facility (our house), I had some mixed feelings about it. We already have toy kitchens, and we already have toy shopping carts. But this one is different… a transformer of sorts that combines two toys in one, while bringing into the mix the electronic learning element that VTech is famous for. After having ours for nearly a month, the time has come to share some thoughts with all of you.
Right out of the box, I was impressed by the fact that assembly was quick and easy, with no tools required aside from a screwdriver to open the battery door. Five minutes (if that) and the playset was ready to go. The other immediate thing was that I noticed that the set it made of quality plastic. I know that might sound vague – but at this point, I can just tell. We see a lot of toys come through here, and there’s a huge different in the types of plastics used – this one is good.
Getting right into playtime, my wife and I both took note of the included accessories – a wide array of little foods. They’re just the right size for little hands, and that’s something often said but seldom 100% accurate. When we get a toy with a ton of add-ons, there’s usually a couple that end up getting stashed-away in a cabinet full of “choking hazards.” Not the case with this set.
While this is definitely geared more toward my youngest (15-months as of this writing), my four-year-old digs it as well. The electronic features do a great job of walking kids “through the process” of making a meal or doing some shopping, giving kids some goal-based actions that have proven to be a lot of fun. Additionally, the music is a big hit.
A great set for small spaces, the VTech 2-in-1 Shop & Cook Playset is available now from my affiliates VTechKids and Target. Also available as a VtechKids Online Exclusive in Pink.
The Rock Father Rating: 4/5 Stars
FTC Disclosure: Product has been provided to The Rock Father for the purpose of review consideration. All opinions are that of James Zahn with input from his children. Agree with them – they’re usually right.
