imagesMinimals are aptly named as the micro-goat, elephant, pig, zebra, rhino and giraffe join in play or choose others from the zoo of 12. These bamboo buddies have interchangeable rubber body parts–ears, feet, tails and necks–that sometimes stay with the right animal. Kids took off right away, entering their land of imagination, talking for their hippo, rabbit and lion as they ventured outside and played just as well on the couch! These little animals encouraged storytelling, getting kids ready for reading and writing. Little adjustments allow the mini-mals to sit, stand, lie down or twist. The only drawback was when my little playmates couldn’t find their mini-mals and everything halted until we discovered where they had left them. Perfect for travel or a little treat from grandma when the kids arrive, mini-mals are big on play potential.

Available at Hape