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Hi Gang

Our kids (4 and 2.5) LOVE torches.  I mean REALLY LOVE torches.  They ask for my torch every night but I don't think it's that wise to leave a 3D cell maglite in the hands of two crazy kids (think: "bye-bye windows", "bye-bye telly" etc).

I want to get them torches for christmas but want opinions within the following criterea:

 - I will spend up to £15 max per torch

 - Needs a switch (mini maglites are too hard for them to turn on / off without unscrewing the top off and breaking the lamp - although does anyone have experience of minimag tail switches?)

 - LED is better because they eat batteries slower than halogens

 - I haven't had great experiences with wind up torches, has anyone had any luck with them?

Anyone got any thoughts or opinions?  (Disclaimer: I'm a bit of a torch snob - it's a hard habit to break, but at least I haven't caved in and bought a surefire... yet)

We have a squeeze-charged penguin torch but its not much cop (I think like the ones being sold by Millets) - you have to be pumping the handle on the side now to keep it lit. Only worked as it should for a couple of months.

Our 3 year old loves his (mum's old) light weight Petzl head torch - 3 leds and slider switch.

Helen

Great for kids, but leds are not to be aimed in to the eyes, if there o.k. with rules . Head torches are great in use, but if kids are playing make sure the light is pointing down.

theres loads to choose from

Andy

I got a pink pig wind up torch from morrisons for £3.99 the other day, not tried it as it's a christmas present but a bit of cheap fun anyway.

OK - I ended up going for a Glo Torch.  A tiny bit over budget (once postage is taken into account), but we were given some money for them from a relative.

I may regret spending £17 on a torch for such young kids if they get broken or lost, but on the other hand I like to think that they may still be using them when they go camping with their own kids in 30 odd years time...

For the almost the last decade I've bought my kids torches for Xmas and the ones that have lasted and they love the best are their head torches.  Have purchased one off amazon this year for a nephew - excellent price at £5-£6.  I think it has 8 LED lights that can be switched on in 2's, 4's or the whole 8.  I should have got one for my OH as he is always borrowing the kids. 

Hope whatever Santa brings your little ones will be delighted.  Have a great enlighting christmas !

The Glo torches arrives yesterday - they are fab!  They feel very sturdy -  I just hope they don't get lost.

I may well do head torches next year (come to think of it, I could do with a new one - must mention that to my wife...)