Guest Review – Mike the Knight: Mike’s Mission Set

CBeebies have recently launched a brand new programme, from the creators of Bob the Builder, called Mike the Knight.

To celebrate the launch Spud was asked if he would like to receive one of the accompanying toys.  From play sets to fancy dress there is a whole array of toys available and we excitedly said yes and anticipated it’s arrival.  We were sent Mike’s Mission Set, a foam sword and helmet dressing up kit.  Unfortunately Spud isn’t really into dressing up yet and took one look at it before discarding it and running off to play with his toy cars.  We drafted in reinforcements in the form of his little friend Noodle and her older brother and sister.  The set arrived just as they were heading off on their holidays but they excitedly picked it up and took it with them.

Kirsty says:

With the excitement of this new toy appearing just as we were due to embark on a long car journey, it was  no surprise that the children were excited by the “Mike the Knight: Mike’s Mission set.”

The packaging clearly states “Mike’s Mission Set: Foam Sword & Helmet” and “Complete Set for Knights in Training” which seemed odd to me.  To me a complete set would have included everything, perhaps a shield and a cape or tabard.  The sword and helmet require very little unpacking & minor assembly – you literally slot the feather in the slot and give it a little push; common sense really but there is a little picture on box too!  These  provided entertainment for a short time & quickly raised questions, which I was repeatedly asked, ” Where’s the costume?” and ” What else is in the box?”   The children clearly expected more after seeing the box.  Within a very short time my 3.5 year old, Noodle, was sat singing along to her favourite song oblivious to the helmet upon on her head.

The helmet is well proportioned to suit a range of ages the mike the night helmet was huge on Noodle and even with adjustable strap it slipped off my 7 year old’s head. The visor piece stayed put and didn’t slide out of position which is always a benefit on such an item!  Both pieces seem well made but durability of the chin strap may become an issue with continued usage.

The foam sword was described as a dagger by my 5 and 7 year olds as opposed to a sword.  But with the product being aimed at 3-5 year olds it makes sense that it would be shorter.  I think this is a reasonably well made item which a child would be interested after following the tv programme however I think it lacks substance and as a play set it needs something to encourage prolonged usage.

I did not receive any financial reward for writing this post. However, we did receive the product for review purposes. This review is my own honest opinion. For more information please see our Disclosure Policy.