First of all, I didn't buy these for a child, but for an adult friend of mine who makes Jamaican-style music (Reggae and Dub). While these are labeled as a "toy" or for children, they can also be utilized for just about anything music related.The paint is durable, and the diameter is thin enough to accommodate a myriad of hand sizes. The sound is what you would expect from a Rhythm Stick, and to be honest, why would you pay the up-mark for music-specific branded ones?Overall, a solid buy for all ages.