Got this abacus when my son was 15 months. He was playing by shaking it. But now, he's 20 months and he started to divide all the same colors and pretending he was counting (he can only say "too"). I love it not only for its bright color and cuteness, but also my good experience with Haba. The paint stays there forever. I feel safe to give it to the kids. I plan to keep it on my desk when my sons don't need it anymore.