I have students who are crazy for Floam, and so am I. But after great success with it, I bought tons of the large tubs at Michaels (yes, they do carry it) and returned it all when it was disastrously sticky. Except for totally dried out tubs that came with the robot kit, I haven't had a problem with the smaller size. Floam should be SLIGHTLY sticky but not stick to your hands at all, though you need to keep it away from clothes and rugs. Kids can't stop kneading and playing with it, it has such a fantastic feel, and it's wonderful for teaching color combinations. Along with a few styrofoam shapes and other materials, Floam is an excellent medium for kids' creative expression. Just be prepared to return unworkable batches.

Floam is horrible the worst thing I have ever bought for my kid. I will make explaining simple

1. Everytime you use it you have to mix it. The first time you open the package its gel and beads on separate sides.
2. This will not stick to anything! It falls off right away!
3. It is not durable at all! If you get a tiny drop of water in it or leave it in the sun for 5 seconds it will be ruined. We all know kids do all of these things.
Sure the comericals look great but get something more fun and longer lasting for your child.

I finally broke down and purchased this product for my son. It was a huge disappointment. It was so sticky we couldn't even touch it without getting it all over us. Not to mention that we had to SCRUB to get it all off. I felt so ripped off I went to the "floam" website and complained. I was very surprised to get a reply and apology. I was told that I purchased part of a bad batch and was asked if I would like a refund or a replacement. I asked for a replacement. The new tub is fun to play with and not very sticky at all, occasionally I have to get a few bits of slime off. I, however, do not think it's good value. I think I will try the recipe I found on-line. I think that would be more cost effective not to mention educational. I do commend the company on their good customer service.

We bought a four pack of floam from the TV commercial and it lasted about a year before it got dried out. It was for my 8 year old son and he loves it. His older and younger brothers love it, too, as well as friends that come over. I know it is hard to get out of carpet, but we use it on the dining room table and it was not messy. It's about as messy as play-doh. It gets on your hands a little bit. We got it out today and discovered it has become pretty dry so we put just a little water in each color and it took shape again. Ours never came apart into tiny pieces, either. Play-doh is more flexible, but this is fun, too!

I work in Early Intervention so I spend my week with about 20 kids under 3 at their homes. The kids love it, but it can be a real pain at times! The cleanup isn't the best so it's better to stay away from carpeting/upholstery. In general it serves its purpose and lasts really well. I also have to say that the company was really great when I bought a really sticky and gross batch. I emailed them and they sent me a refund without any hassle or even receipt! I recommend waiting until it's on sale or using store coupon rather than spending full price though.