I bought this for my daughter's third birthday and it was by far the greatest gift she received all year. She has spent hours playing, creating, imagining and 2 years later it is still a favorite. I am amazed at the designs she comes up with. I have given this as a gift to others several several times with rave reviews . It does contain small pieces - but I purchased a dinner tray from Ikea with raised edges for $4 & I just enforce the rules that the beads must stay on the tray. (We try our best!) 5 stars - excellent...