The Very Hungry Caterpillar™ Jack-in-the-Box

The crank is stiff enough that my toddler needs both hands, which keeps him busy for a solid ten minutes before the weasel song finally pops the caterpillar up. That little delay makes the payoff way more exciting for him than a toy that springs instantly.

My 8-month-old lights up the second that caterpillar pops out, and the song has this nostalgic little tinny sound that takes me right back. The crank is easy for her little hands to grab, though I do have to hold the box steady so it doesn't tip.

The crank turns smoothly and the song is just the right volume—not too loud for sensitive ears. My 8-month-old giggles every single time the caterpillar pops up, and I love that it's helping with her hand-eye coordination as she learns to turn it herself.