Gaskett's Dream Racer - ELC

This wooden foot-powered car from ELC is fab and is perfect for a little girl (and boy obviously) who loves to role-play. With me being the practical one in the house (Tom has the intellect) I am always the one to check the oil, fill the water container, fill up with petrol etc. So when Betty was presented with this little car which has a lifting bonnet, and tools etc she was thrilled that she could be just like me! You can also buy a petrol pump and garage separately, taking the role-play to new heights!

This is a really cool little car, well made and is very tasteful (and looks a little bit similar to the red car that The Wiggles drive - which for Betty is definitely an added bonus!)

Betty loves it, and I love it!

Pop-up toaster - ELC

This toaster from ELC is pretty realistic (for a toy) with its dial that ticks, and when done pops out the toast causing Betty to laugh hysterically. I have supplied her with an emply Marmite jar and an empty margarine carton and she now spends many a happy hour making the toast, and then spreading butter and marmtite onto it and feeding it to baby Dolly (who is very receptive to this whole daily ritual). I think at just £8 this is a real bargain. And it also comes in pink.

I often gaze at Betty's play kitchen with all its accessories: toaster, cooker, kettle, microwave, pots and pans, tea sets, and copious amounts of play food and think about how lucky she is. I didn't have any of this when I was little. I don't think it existed. Either that, or I spoil Betty far too much.

Spotty pink tea set - ELC

This lovely tea set from ELC is great value for money at only £10. For this you get a teapot, four cups, saucers, and teaspoons, a sugar bowl and a milk jug.

Betty had the same tea set in blue and has played with it constantly, and so was thrilled when ELC brought out this new pink one - perfect for a little girl who loves pink!

Having tried and tested the blue set for the last two years, I can say that these sets are very hard-wearing and has survived many grueling situations...