SmartVille 1-2-3 Treehouse
© 2006 VTech Electronics North America
Shaped like a treehouse, this large plastic playset is designed to be arranged on the floor. It comes with 14 plastic figures, four of which are called "Smart Parts" because they are embedded with sensors in their bases that enable the Treehouse to tell them apart. Like the other components of the SmartVille set, this collection provides an excellent setting for the free exploration of numbers, colors and nursery rhymes. There's no shortage of buttons to explore, and a shape sorter lets children match plastic parts with their outlines; fun even when the batteries run out. Features include a volume control for quieter play and an automatic shut-off when not in use. A slider button lets you choose from two modes. The Discovery Mode includes nursery rhymes such as Humpty Dumpty and Twinkle Twinkle Little Star, which play when the buttons are pressed. A Hopscotch introduces colors. The Learning Mode is not as fun, with small introductions to the button that is pressed. In either mode, when using the Smart Parts characters, you will hear the animal name and then either the color, how it moves, or the sound it makes. The Smart Parts also interact with the SmartVille Alphabet Train Station (sold separately for $50; see review). The Treehouse is a great way to let children explore as they hear common words. One weakness our testers noted: Once a button is pressed, children need to let it play out before they can press another button. We also noticed that the swing on the Treehouse is too sensitive; setting off a song with the slightest motion. However, despite these flaws and the over emphasis on typical content like colors, numbers and shapes, this is an excellent early preschool activity that encourages exploration. Runs on three AA batteries.
$39.99, Smart Toy
Teaches: numbers, shapes, colors, animal names & sounds, music, manners, and object & words
CTR Rating: 86%