Turn him on and he'll say "Hi I'm Baby Tad, Lets Sing" and begin his enthusiastic play. In "Daytime" play mode, babies can press the smiley shapes on his bib has six buttons for a response. Babies are encouraged to press the button which is lit, and are rewarded with enthusiastic greetings and songs. Baby Tad also says cute phrases that babies will love at random times, such as "Peekaboo, I see you" and "Lets Snuggle". Press, or kiss the pink lip button on his cheek and Baby Tad kisses back, saying "mmmwahh, I love you!"

Possibly the most useful feature on the new and improved Baby Tad is the brand new "Night-time" phrase, a brilliant idea for babies who like familiar songs to go to sleep to. This mode is calming rather than interactive. Baby Tad can be programmed play up to six minutes of soothing classical music and lights, simply by pressing his hand, once, twice, and so on, up to six times for six minutes. He will announce "one minute to night night, two minutes to night night" etc: and the music then plays for the allotted time and stops without ceremony, a comforting series of tunes which will help lull little ones to sleep.

While using the toy, children can develop perceptual and reasoning skills; motor skills are also enhanced as children physically push a flashing shape, song and "kiss" buttons. Playing with Baby Tad also provides opportunities for exploration, creativity and social development, all necessary ingredients for children's learning. The toy is accompanied by an excellent parents' guide and instruction manual which is straightforward and easy to follow, has a handy volume control on the battery box and comes complete with three AA batteries.

This toy is recommended by the manufacturer for toddlers aged nine months and over. --Susan Naylor