remove the batteries between uses. i've noticed with "toys" that if you leave the batteries in all the time, they're dead in a week. if you take them out between uses, you'll be like the energizer bunny when you put them back in
That's why I buy rechargeables. I use to buy an 8 pack of batteries almost weekly. Then I discovered rechargeable batteries. In 15 minutes they are up to speed again.