I am always delighted to be able to share about a new battery-free toy with my readers. This one is especially unique because it is a flying toy that is geared towards girls, something that is not very common. The Disney Fairies Sky High Tink is a friction-based toy that is activated by pulling a string. When the string is pulled, Tinker Bell starts to spin and soars up into the air.
Because this is a projectile toy, it needs to be used outdoors in an open space away from crowds. In fact, there are several things to which you would want to pay attention while your child is using this toy. The toy needs to be held with the arm straight out from the child's body, so that it will not be too close to his or her face. Tinker Bell needs to be inserted facing away from the child and the toy needs to be pointing towards the sky and not towards the child or anyone else. This is not a toy you would want your child to use unattended. No matter how many times my husband and I explained about where to point (and not point) the toy, I have seen both our kindergartners point it at their own faces because they were curious to see how the toy worked.
(Click any photo to enlarge)
Like with most string toys, you really need to be careful to release the string slowly after pulling it so that it will recoil properly inside the toy. Using this toy takes some practice. The Sky High Tink is recommended for ages 4 years and up, however, my husband and I were able to use it much more easily than our three children (ages 5, 5, and 8). Our 5 year old daughter was only able to make Tinker Bell fly about half the time. Sometimes when she pulled it, the string would jam. I think it may be because she is not doing it in one smooth motion.
Once launched, Tinker Bell flies up quite high. I had attempted to make a video of her, but she flies through the field of vision too quickly. This is a cool toy when our children can get the fairy to launch. I do not recommend this toy for a child who gets frustrated easily.
You can find Sky High Tink by JAKKS Pacific at many major toy retailers, such as Toys"R"Us, Amazon.com, Target, Walmart, and more. This batter-free toy retails for $19.99.
Thank you to JAKKS Pacific for providing a complimentary product sample for us to base this review upon.
