I purchased this for my daughter, who is 15 months old. The characters are easy for her to grip as she scribbles away on the board. They are difficult to get in and out of their holders though, even for me. Also the board seems to be very cheaply made, with thin plastic and a screen that doesn't entirely erase the magnetic sand unless you slide the erasing piece (heart) over several times until the screen clears. I think there must be similiar products made that are of better quality. I know my daughter is young, but I used it myself and am a little disappointed in the quality.