Emotions Buddy and Sensorial Reef Review

Help babies and toddlers explore with two new toys from Miniland. 

Emotions Buddy is a plush pal with changing face, designed to help children from 18 months to 4 years explore emotions. In the buddy’s backpack, you’ll find nine pieces that stick to the buddy’s face to create different faces and learn about five basic emotions: happiness, fear, sadness, anger, and love. Plus, when kids tap the buddy’s tummy, the removable heart-shaped light module will light up in one of five colors. Tap it again to change the color. Kids can use this feature to associate a color with an emotion. The light does come with three button cell batteries.

Sensorial Reef is all about sensory play for babies from birth to 24 months. This toy offers a sea-themed sensory experience. Two straps at the top make it easy to hang this toy on a stroller or activity gym. Whether playing at home or on the go, babies will have fun exploring the removable octopus rattle, the plush Velcro starfish, the dangling fish, the teether, the baby-safe mirror, the hiding crab, and all the different textures and patterns. There is an opening at the bottom of the toy, and we’re not quite sure what it’s for – maybe one of the fish can hide inside.