A modified version of the miniature toys test, originally designed by Sheridan (1975), has been standardized on a sample of 425 children in the age range 18 months to 4 1/2 years. The distinctive features are the assessment of symbolic play and the understanding of prepositions when used in verbal instructions. The acquisition of expressive verbal labels for miniature household objects and transport, and comprehension of questions relating to them have been explored. Responses in some of these areas are not always clear-cut or are ambiguous. The test will be more suited to the needs of the developmental paediatrician for assessment of children with developmental delay, than for doctors of primary care and health visitors in screening apparently healthy children.