Build it with Bob Live at the Science Museum

The mere sight of the colossal Bob the Builder logo was enough to send Toby charging towards it, whooping with delight. Such is the power of those familiar blue and yellow letters that the rest of the Science Museum's exhibits were as nothing! This was the first live show Toby had been to, so the sight of the giant Bob, Wendy and Spud costumes were initially mildly intimidating. However the familiar Bob music and encouragement of the friendly and engaging actors were enough to have everyone clapping along and joining in with  "Can We Fix It? Yes We Can!"

The children were divided into four teams to help Bob and crew recycle wood, build walls, lay paving stones and plant flowers in Sunflower Valley. Toby loved the singing and interactive elements. He happily went with his red team to help Bob build a wall and plant sunflowers.

The 45-minute show seems to be pitched perfectly at three to five year-olds and teaches the Key Stage 1 science curriculum in as fun a way as possible, although at two and a half Toby and his friend Benjamin were perhaps a little young to stay interested the whole way through. However, the show is just right for reception and nursery groups; all the children we saw were entranced. Toby and Benjamin were keen to join every group's quest to construct Sunflower Valley but less enthusiastic about watching the other children build while they had to sit still!

As might be expected the merchandising opportunities are extensive. The exit leads directly into a temporary shop packed everything a junior Bob needs. On the positive side every child is given a Build it with Bob certificate and happily this gift was enough to distract a couple of two year olds from the surrounding delights.

If you've never been to the Science Museum before don't leave without exploring the rest of the building - the permanent collection along with the fabulous Garden and Discovery Zone in the basement are all free to enter and make a great day out. Otherwise it's a lot of money for an hour's entertainment, even if you make it through the shop unscathed.

Essential information

• Nearest tube: South Kensington
• Dates: 26 May to Friday 7 September 2007
• Prices: Adults and children £7.50 each, weekends and 21 July to 7 September, £6 all other times second adult goes free. Every four children must be accompanied by at least one adult.
• Timed tickets apply, book 0870 870 4868 (booking fee applies).
•  shows start at: 10.45am, 11.45am, 12.45pm, 2.45pm, 3.45pm and 4.45pm.