what is the youngest age you'd recommend this for?
1961011
No younger than 8 due to complexity of setting up and operating machine. Wonderful beginners' machine, but still requires maturity of handling machine with care and respect.
1857058
the youngest age I would recommend is the same as Hector (see other answer) --the child does not put pieces in mouth. The good thing about this puzzle is that a person can put it together several different ways.--it comes with a small booklet with instructions for putting the pieces together to make people, animals, buildings--all very abstract but fun--an adult would be entertained.
1381911
My daughter was 3 years when using this, so in my view 3 - 5 is more appropriate.
199978
It would be vary some based on the patience and skill level of the child, but I would say 7 or 8 would be good ages. My daughter got hers at age 6, and she likes it and plays with it, but is not able to complete it....although she is improving.
1918609
I'd say 8+. Maybe 10+. Kids younger than 8 will have problems. Adults will enjoy as well.
2173025
personally, i would say age 3 to 6, but older kids might like it too, like if they are visiting your house, or helping a younger kid with it. my daughter is 5 1/2 and still plays with it often. of course she has the motor skills down, but she still is entertained by making designs, and just using the tools, really.
2111245
My son is two and enjoys it but it might be a bit young for a three young old. He also has an imaginex plane that he likes that might be better suited for a three year old.
1524126
My daughter just turned 5 and loves it. A 3 year old might get frustrated with it, but with help from an adult or older child would probably be ok.
1848204
In my opinion, the average child that age would only be able to use a few of the features. The manufacturer suggests ages 6 and up, but I would say it would be more worthwhile for even a slightly older child like 7. A 5-6 year old would surely enjoy it, just probably not use all of the features.
302147
I purchased this for my four year old. My twelve and nine year old play with him as does my two year old :) I would say it's best for 3-5 year olds.
1413100
I would say probably 12 and up, definitely a little in depth for any younger, maybe even too much so for 12
1416169
I'd say 2-5 yr olds. My 4.5 yr old still loves it, but some things will be almost too small soon. My 2 yr old loves it but some things are a little too fragile for her and she damages things.
247175
According to the manufacturer, it's best for ages 3-8. I'd say that's about right, too. In our house, it's a huge hit with the 4 and 6yos. This thing is tough and continues to work despite the multiple falls it's taken. By 8 they will be ready for a better camera.
149160
Ages 7 and up would be best. My 5 year old nephew tries to play, but it's pretty difficult for him.
722823
My twins (17 months) love this music set, but I haven't let them play with the xylophone yet. I don't really see how they could get cut with it though. I think you just need to use your judgement about what's age appropriate. The xylophone is a nicer one and I think they'll really enjoy it when they're around 2. For now, a cheaper/more baby friendly one that we purchased is good enough.
1911456
I would put an age of 3+. No end age since this could benefit a child who needs to increase and build on poor motor function. Hope this helps.
1194736
My grandson just turned three, and he loved it! But the older kids at his birthday party were having fun with it, too. Heck, I was having fun playing with it. I really think three to eight would be the optimal ages for this.