Tomy Megasketcher

The Megasketcher measures roughly 45 cm x 30 cm (18 in x 12 in), with the magnetised "screen" taking up most of the surface area. A magic "pen" (attached by a piece of string to avoid losing it under the sofa) allows children to draw, scribble and write, while the four magnetised stamps--a star, a heart, a car and a circle--add a different dimension to youngsters' designs. Once a composition is complete, or if one too many mistakes has been made, just drag the "eraser" button down its slide and, hey presto, it slides back up automatically, wiping out the redundant drawings.

This kind of drawing aid has become a firm favourite, thanks mainly to its ability to be used over and over again, no matter how many mistakes are made. Not suitable for children under three years old due to safety restrictions, the Megasketcher is a fun, practical way of developing artistic awareness, creativity and fine and gross motor skills in children above that age. Perfect for long car journeys or rainy afternoons, this is a toy that will provide hours of play value--a must-have for every creative tot. --Lucie Naylor