The pegs in this toy are way too loose in the holes. They give almost no resistance, so it takes away all the fun for the child when the peg practically slides out without being hit with the mallet. I should have listened to the negative reviews. Melissa and Doug products are usually so wonderful, I just couldn't imagine not being pleased with something they put out. This, however, is not a good pound-a-peg. It might work for a young baby (7-10 months or so) but is just too easy for a child any older. I would not purchase this product again, nor would I recommend it.