The best thing about the mixer is the size of the cup. It was nice being able to put two smoothies together at the same time. The mixer itself is not for use by youngsters. The blade turns whether the cup is on it or not. It will turn when the cup isn’t locked in place. The lid doesn’t snap on, you have to hold it in place. This also means you have to hold the lid if you want to shake it up. And you do need to stir or shake it, it doesn’t mix everything up very well. If you try to drink from the cup,without a straw, you will end up wearing your smoothie. The lid easily pops off. 
I would not recommend this at all.