I bought this for my son last year when he was just about 2 and he hasn't stopped playing with it since. I have hidden the markers for now, because I would prefer they not end up on the furniture, but he has a grand time with the cupcakes, frosting, and candles. The cupcakes are sturdy, of course, and the frosting is cute. The candles are brightly colored and stand upright. I first bought a set of these about 8 years ago for my niece and the three sisters have played with that set since that time. Those candles still stand up-right 8 years later!