I have 3 kids (6, almost 3 & just 1yr) and have so far managed not to purchase any Duplo. Instead my eldest has accumulated Lego.

My DD (about to turn 3) has become quite captivated with her brother's Lego. She builds basic structures, but does struggle a bit to connect the pieces strongly and so can have some sad moments when her creations crumble if bumped etc as they're not pressed together firmly.

With her 3rd birthday (and Christmas) coming up very shortly, I was contemplating getting her some of her own construction - but I'm in two minds about whether I should buy Duplo or just get her a bit of pink Lego. I know that Lego is aimed at 4yrs+ and I can understand why in the sense that DD at 3 is not at the stage of following pictoral instructions &, as I've mentioned, is lacking the manual strength, though can still use it.

Considering I have another daughter waiting in the ranks, perhaps some Duplo would be good for the girls to enjoy while their brother is constructing with Lego - but I had someone recently suggest that I just give Duplo a miss, considering I've got this far without it.

Any thoughts or experience on this?