This review will cover everything you may want to know about the Playskool Friends Sesame Street Tickle Me Elmo Doll.
Sesame Street has gained a massive following over the years. Debuting in 1969, it has long been a favorite television show for people of all ages.
Kids love the engaging characters and storylines. Parents appreciate that the show teaches their children ethical values. And teachers love that it enables kids to learn in a fun way.
While there’s no doubt that the show’s success is due mainly to the adorable furry and feathery cast members, Elmo, the big red-haired character, is a particular favorite of many kids worldwide, my niece included. Think of the biggest Elmo fan you can imagine, and that’s Amber.
Amber’s 2nd birthday was fast approaching, and I was having trouble finding the right gift. I logged on to Amazon looking for inspiration and found several Elmo toys. As soon as I saw the Fisher Price Tickle Me Elmo doll and its many positive customer reviews, I knew my search was over.
I purchased the toy, and to say it was well-received is an understatement. My sister told me that the little guy hasn’t been far from Amber’s sight since I gave him to her a few months ago.
The next part of this review will cover the toy’s specs, then an overview, followed by its pros and cons.
Playskool Friends Sesame Street Tickle Me Elmo Doll Specs
Dimensions – Playskool Sesame Street Tickle Me Elmo measures 4″ x 8″ x 15″
Weight – He weighs 1 pound
Suited to – The toy suits kids aged between 18 months and four years
Batteries – You will need 2 x AA batteries (1 set is included) for the audio component to work
Fisher Price Tickle Me Elmo TV Commercial
Tickle Me Elmo Overview
If your little one is a giggler, as most young kids are, they’ll be wild about Tickle Me Elmo.
An upgraded 
version of the classic 1996 toy, which took the toy world by storm, Elmo has bright red fur, a squishy nose, and big googly eyes.
He is soft and lush with shaggy fur and the perfect size for little kids to hold and cuddle.
The toy comes with twenty different sounds and phrases, but his real appeal lies in his contagious laugh that will have everyone in the household joining in.
When you receive Elmo, he will be in Try Me mode with two batteries installed. You will be able to get him to giggle, but not much more.
To activate all his features, access the battery compartment on his back (beneath his fur) and move the switch to the on position.
Lightly press and tickle Elmo’s tummy, hands, or feet, and he will vibrate and chuckle or giggle. Tickle him three times in a row, and he will quiver, shake, and elicit a belly laugh.
Elmo also talks, saying things such as “More, more,” “Again, again,” “Elmo loves to laugh,” “Keep tickling Elmo,” “Tickle me under my chin,” and “Elmo is one ticklish monster.” To silence him, move the switch to the off position.
The primary downside is that to replace the batteries; you will need to undo the cover of the battery compartment with a screwdriver, then screw it back on when the new batteries are inside. This will only be a big deal if you don’t have a tool to remove the screws.
The plus side is that it would be virtually impossible for a young child to unscrew the cover, take out the batteries, put them in their mouth, and choke.
Another minor negative is that the toy can’t be machine-washed.
NB: Young children should not play with battery-operated toys unsupervised.
Pros
- The toy is simple and fun
- Keeps toddlers engaged
- It has a feel-good vibe
- Elmo appeals to both males and females
- It’s extremely difficult for kids to access the batteries
Cons
- Older children may tire of Elmo quickly
- It is only suitable for cleaning by hand
Final Thoughts on the Tickle Me Elmo Doll
The Tickle Me Elmo Doll is one of many Hasbro toys inspired by the Sesame Street characters. A firm favorite with toddlers and their parents who grew up with their own Tickle Me Elmo, younger infants also love the toy. They should not, however, be allowed to play with it unsupervised due to the risk of them biting off and choking on the eyes.
Prefer something more girly? Click here to read a review of My Little Pony Princess Twilight Sparkle.
