The hat was nice enough. It isn't educational, it is just a fun thing for children. My great niece had too many other gifts to open, so the cake hat was not a big deal to her. My great grandson has one the birthday cake hat since he was 1 year. He is now 4 and plays with his hat several times a year.(only child) He will put it on to walk through the house singing Happy Birthday to himself.It is a fun thing for children...since most have everything already...except the Birthday Cake Hat. :)