We first saw this drum in the larger size at my 1 year old son's kindermusic class. He absolutely loved it! The drum is of great quality and makes a great sound. We purchased this smaller size mainly due to price and it is just as great as the larger size. The mallet is a good size, but my son prefers to just hit it with his hands and you sitll get a good clear tone out of the drum. The pattern on the side is very nice and helps blend in with a play room setting.