I bought this as a gift for my 13 month old grandson.  When I opened it I thought he might not be ready for it; the steps seemed steep and the drop at the end of the slide seemed as though it might be jarring.  It took him one day with help and guidance and then he was using it on his own.  He still needs supervision but he can do it by himself and he absolutely loves it.  It's sturdy and easy to fold and unfold. It's built to last for years.