Handsqueakers

Is it just me, or does every parent find that the most serious moments are punctuated by surreal squeaks from their toddler's toys? I sit down for a serious talk, only to hear a Teletubby cheerily greet me: "Eh-ohhh!". Or I get into bed ready for deep sleep, and find Tickle-me Elmo has beaten me to it, his laughter scaring me in the darkened room.

My daughter's handsqueaker is another prime culprit, but I'm prepared to live with it, because few other toys have brought her so much glee, even as far back as her baby days. In fact, it's a sure bet if you need to rouse her out of a grumpy tantrum. They're cheap, they can be tucked into a pocket, and they make toddlers and babies laugh. For that, I'll put up with the occasional obnoxious squeak.