Showing posts with label toy train. Show all posts
Showing posts with label toy train. Show all posts
Saturday, December 6, 2014
Sunfish Guitar Review
Outstanding! Great tone, nice sustain, Smooth neck, great action, nice minimalistic, single pickup & volume control that's just as loud as any guitar out there. Awesome, black sunburst look. Machine heads move with ease when tuning. My only three caveats would be the cheaply constructed cord (even though it hasn't failed me yet) to watch for it going out of tune often, but even that is only going to happen if you have big hands, a heavy, sweep picking playing style & play metal with a heavy pick (yours truly). The final warning is the design's lack of access to the very bottom frets (which again matters very little considering that the default strings are so pliable that they bend into some wickedly high screams anyway.) I can see why it was placed in the toy section as it would be a great starter guitar for kids, but it's just as practical as a travel/jam guitar for adults & maybe even more (I wouldn't be ashamed to play out with it or scared to record with it either!) The bottom line is that this axe is just fun as hell to play anywhere, for any reason, by anybody of any age. Don't be mislead by the section it's been placed in. You will also find it in the instruments section & it's worth the price & then some!
Thursday, November 20, 2014
LeapFrog LeapPad2 Explorer Kids' Learning Tablet Reviews
Customer Ratings: 
List Price: $99.99
Sale Price: $79.00
Today's Bonus: 21% Off

We gave the original leappad to my 4yo daughter last Christmas. She absolutely loved it. In fact she loved it a little too much, as it started to interfere with bedtime. Unfortunately I accidentally left her leappad on an airplane. She was crushed.
Fast forward to a few weeks ago. I saw the announcement for the leappad2 and thought this might be a way to make up for my mistake. We preordered from Amazon, and it arrived today. If you have the original leappad, here are some differences that I noticed:
* I couldn't open the box without tearing/cutting it. Leapfrog seems to have glued down every flap. I was hoping to open it, download the apps, configure it, and repackage it so i could wrap it up as a present. But that wasn't possible without damaging the box.
* It is definitely faster/snappier. The upgraded CPU is a noticeable improvement.
* The battery covers are significantly improved. With the old one, you could use the stylus to pop off the covers. The new ones snap firmly into place. There's no way my daughter will be able to remove these...
* Just like the original, you get to pick one app. But I'm pretty sure the app selection has changed. The choices now are roly poly picnic, hamster music, a leapfrog video, or an ebook.
* Unlike the original leappad, The package only comes with one stylus, which is already connected to the leappad with the included string.
* Leapfrog appears to have added a new connector for the stylus string below the stylus slot. This should help children who are lefties. (like my daughter)
That's all I can think of for now. I'll update this review as my daughter plays with it. I am certain she is going to love the front camera.
PS I am just an average person that actually paid for this. I'm not some professional mommy-blogger that got a free 'sample' in exchange for writing a glowing review. All of these reviews that predate 8/1/2012 seem a little contrived, don't you think?
EDIT #1 (8/3/2012) Within the leappad connect app, I could install all apps that I PURCHASED for our original leappad on to the new one. It would not allow me to install the free, selectable app that came with the purchase of the original leappad.
EDIT #2 (8/5/2012) If you search the internet you can find two codes for two free apps, "Alphabet Soup", and "The Book of Super Awesome Stuff." I had previously downloaded these apps to our first (lost) leappad. Leappad Connect would not allow me to install these on the new Leappad 2. Not sure why. I am going to open a support ticket with Leap Frog. I've already had an open ticket regarding the lost leappad, so this might be related to that. I guess what I'm saying is that this might not be a problem for others...
EDIT #3 (8/8/2012) One of my daughter's favorite apps is the Music app. There are 5 songs that are preloaded. She plays them all the time. She loves music, so I can't wait for the official MP3 upgrade thats supposed to come out this fall. I hope Leapfrog will not overcharge for it...
Speaking of overcharging... I was in Target the other day and was surprised to see two "Recharger Packs" for the Leappad 2 on sale. They were $40 each. $40!!! Come on Leapfrog! $30 is at the high-end of what I will pay for a battery. Replacement laptop batteries are cheaper than this. They should be more like $20. It's antics like this that will drive loyal customers to the flood of cheap android devices that will be coming in the next several months...
EDIT #4 (8/17/2012) This is my last edit. My daughter LOVES the new creativity app. Basically it lets you create animated stories. You get to pick the background, props, and characters. From there you can add movement and action, and a dialog. You can use the camera to replace the face of the characters with a photo. I was impressed. I've also seen that many of the apps are lefty friendly, meaning it will allow you to turn the leappad over so the string isn't stretched when using the left hand. I'm happy with the purchase, and my daughter is happy too.
I have little doubt these will be a hot item this Christmas. If you are thinking you want to get this for your child, don't wait. Otherwise the scalpers will be your only option. (That, or waiting until after Christmas.
First, the LeapPad is more rugged and more child-friendly compared to an iPad, iPod, or Android tablet. I know parents who prefer to let their kids play apps on those more sophisticated devices, but if you go that route, you're taking a risk with a more expensive and more fragile device. You're also opening up a potential can of worms since those devices usually include unrestricted access to the internet (which may expose your child to inappropriate material or allow him/her to accidentally make purchases, etc.). The LeapPad's more durable casing allows young children to hold and carry it with less likelihood of damage. Since it has a fairly wide bezel all the way around the screen, it also offers space for a child to rest his/her palm when writing with the stylus, with fewer "false taps" that can occur when their palm or fingers touch the screen instead of the stylus. And, of course, since it is not wireless-connectivity enabled, you don't have to worry about your child stumbling across objectionable content or making accidental purchases. You control the content on the device by syncing to your computer and deciding what to install (the sync cable is included, and plugs into a standard USB slot on your computer).
Second, the LeapPad is much more responsive than any of the other child tablets we've tested. We bought our 2.5-year-old daughter a FisherPrice iXL, which was cheaper and came with 6 very basic apps that we thought would be plenty sufficient. However, after a few weeks, she was still struggling to learn how to use the apps due to noticeable lag/unresponsiveness during screen taps. The inconsistent results when she interacted with the screen made it hard for her to learn the interface. Sometimes tapping an icon would do what she wanted, but often, multiple taps would not produce the desired effect. Often, she had to ask "Daddy can you help me draw?" or "Daddy can you help me play music?" in order to access or use a program. When she tried a friend's LeapPad1, however, it was noticeably more responsive, allowing her to understand the interface MUCH better. When we purchased a LeapPad2 we were delighted to find that it's even snappier than the LeapPad1. Within a few hours, our daughter had mastered how to access all of the applications and she also understood about 50 60% of the more advanced functions within each program (such as choosing the small, medium, or large eraser in the Art Studio drawing program). I'm certain she learned it so quickly because the screen and stylus respond faster and more consistently (about 95% of all taps register correctly, even in the hands of our 2.5-year old).
Third, the LeapPad has a decent array of basic apps/features already included. When you unbox it, you'll need to install four AA batteries, create a new "profile" for your child, then connect to an Internet-connected computer to load on some of the apps and register the device. The applications included are:
1. CARTRIDGE: which accesses the content on a cartridge, which must be purchased separately
2. PETPAD: allows you to customize the type, color, and features of a small electronic pet, who can then be fed, bathed, or used to learn how to draw upperand lower-case letters.
3. CAMERA: allows you to use the frontor rear-facing lenses to capture photos or videos of decent quality under ideal lighting conditions (decent enough to delight a young child, that is).
4. MYSTUFF: a consolidated inventory of MyPhotos, MyArt, MyVideos, and MyStories, all of which are created in other apps.
5. MYBOOKS: a bookshelf-style interface that links to eBooks which must be purchased separately
6. MUSIC: a jukebox-style interface that includes one album with five songs about topics like punctuation, vowels, the alphabet, etc.
7. SNEAKPEEKS: a link to various advertisements for add-on content including downloadable and cartridge-style eBooks, games, etc. (Some parents may feel annoyed to have a link to advertisements at all, but I appreciate that they've been confined to an app you must click on to launch. Thankfully, the ads are NOT displayed elsewhere on the device and do NOT intrude upon the functionality or appearance of other apps.)
8. ARTSTUDIO: a simple but decently-featured drawing program much like the basic Paint program on most computers.
9. CREATIVITY: allows you to make short 3-, 4-, or 5-section animated cartoons that include your own photos and voice if desired (this is the most complex app, but plenty accessible for children 4 and older, or with adult assistance).
10. One FREE APP of your choosing from a list of three provided when you sync and register the device. The three options were a game, an eBook, or a video. I had assumed there would already be eBooks on the device, so I chose the free video (a 38-minute tour of the "Letter Factory" that teaches the sounds each letter of the alphabet makes). Had I known the MYBOOKS app would not include an eBook, I would've selected the eBook instead.
Certainly, the LeapPad is a larger investment up front ($99) than many other similar kid-friendly electronics; however, I was pleased to find that the add-ons are lower in price that many competitors. For example, the add-ons for the FisherPrice iXL averaged $25 per title. Although each title included 6 features, the main lure was the eBook and the rest were mainly re-skinned options with very little added content for the built-in programs. That's exactly why we never bought any add-ons for the iXL. With the LeapPad, however, I was delighted to learn that you can buy an eBook alone for approximately $5 $7.50. So we can buy our daughter three nice eBooks for the price of one add-on title for her FisherPrice iXL. There are also other apps, such as a story creator that allows you to use your own photos and voice to create your own stories, for $20 or less. Although the costs could add up quickly, keep in mind that for a young child like ours, you won't need to buy ANY additional content to keep him/her occupied for many dozens (probably hundreds) of hours. The included apps--especially the PETPAD, ARTSTUDIO, and CAMERA--will keep a lot of three year olds happy for a LONG time. Our daughter spent three hours just walking around the house snapping photos and giggling.
Fourth, the LeapPad interface is very child friendly. The physical buttons are minimalist and positioned well out of the way. They include a POWER button for turning the device on/off, an INCREASE and a DECREASE button for controlling the volume, a four-way NAVIGATION button (presumably for games or navigating menus, but we haven't had to use it at all yet), and a HOME button for returning to the main page. The buttons are sufficiently recessed or placed so that accidental button-presses are very rare. This is important because few things are more frustrating for a child than having their e-activity interrupted because they leaned on a button that returned them to the home screen, or some other such issue. Instead, most of the buttons they'll actually use are on-screen and controlled with the stylus. There are very few redundant buttons (some apps have a virtual home button, despite the device already having a physical button for that purpose) and many response options are standardized (to "accept" an option is always a green checkmark, and to "reject" or "close" an option is always a red X). This is good because it minimizes confusion related to the interface, and it also shows that Leap Frog has invested a lot of care and thought in the design of the apps. The LeapPad also has a built-in gyro to reorient the screen as you tilt/turn the device, as well as to play certain motion-sensitive games.
Fifth, the LeapPad has a very large (2.5"W x 4.5"L), bright, colorful screen. The one major shortcoming here is that it really isn't very suitable for use outdoors in bright sunlight, which washes it out so badly it can't really be used. If you're in shade or normal room-level brightness, however, it is very clear and colorful. Although it is not incredibly high resolution or high contrast, it is definitely crisp enough to provide a very pleasant user experience. Shapes, animations, and videos all render very clearly, without annoying jagged lines or pixelation. Watching the letter factory video we installed for free, there was a slightly muted color cast, much like streaming a video at mid-resolution on Netflix, but the animation was still very colorful and impressively smooth. I don't know if the slight lack of crispness was due to the limitations of the screen or the quality of the video file, but either way it did not detract from the viewing experience.
Sixth, the sound is quite good. Since the front-mounted speaker is aimed directly at the user, the lowest volume setting is still quite audible without being likely to annoy others nearby (It could be fairly described as "airplane friendly" even without the use of headphones!) At the highest volume level, it projects sound well enough to fill a small room, which is great if your child likes to turn on music for a "dance party" with friends or family. There are eight steps in the volume besides mute, so finding an appropriate sound level should not be a problem. One of my greatest complaints about children's electronic toys is usually the lack of sound control, but not so here. Well done Leap Frog!
DOWNSIDES? There are few things to complain about here because, compared to other toys in the $99 range, I suspect this will be one of the best investments (in "dollars per hour of enjoyment") you can make, and it should prove modestly educational as well. However, here are the shortcomings most likely to annoy parents...
1. No batteries or included charger. Right out of the box, you'll need four AA batteries. You can expect about 10 hours of use out of a set of batteries (my estimate based on actual use), which is certainly respectable; however, that will go quicker than you think if your child uses the device often. It would be nice if Leap Frog included rechargeable batteries and a charging cable, which would've made this a killer value. As it stands, you'll have to purchase those separately--and I definitely recommend doing so.
2. No included eBooks. Given Leap Frog's reputation and marketing as an education-centered company, I really think the LeapPad ought to include one or two eBooks, which would further justify the $99 price tag, but also send a powerful message about the importance of reading (a message getting increasingly lost in our digital-tool obsessed society, which includes people likely to buy this kind of device). It's sad how many kids' parents don't read to them consistently, but Leap Frog could at least make sure those kids have one or two books that they can have this device read to them. I'm a college professor and I will tell you, hands down, there is no more cognitively beneficial experience in early childhood than to be read aloud to by, and to read with, parents (or some other guide) as often as possible.
3. On-device advertisements. As I noted above, I respect Leap Frog for at least confining the included advertisements to an app that must be launched in order to view the ads. That is infinitely more preferable than having ads that intrude onto the rest of the user experience. So I'm fine with this, even though I know my daughter will watch the ads on her own and then ask me to purchase some of the add-ons. (If she asks for eBooks, I'll probably say yes.) Nonetheless, I mention it as a negative here because I know many parents will wish that no advertisements appeared anywhere on the device. They will also be frustrated to learn that a very few features (in particular, the "treats" and "supplies" for the virtual pet in the PETPAD app) are designed to run out so that you need to sync to the computer to replenish them. I suspect this allows Leap Frog to update the advertisements and to retrieve usage statistics about the device. Again, I realize this could be annoying, but I am grateful that it is not entirely mandatory. If you do NOT sync to a computer, the apps all remain usable, and about once every three days, some of the pet supplies will naturally reappear. However, if your daughter is dead set on having a strawberry to feed to her virtual dragon-dog-sheep pet, you should expect to be asked repeatedly until you sync to the computer to replenish the supplies sooner. :)
[4. Some add-ons, such as the Ultra-eBooks we've tried, are high in production value, but designed in a way that seriously detracts from their educational benefits. See my review of the "Ultra eBook Learn to Read Collection: Fairy Tales" for a detailed explanation that wouldn't fit here. --ADDED 10/29/2012.]
All in all, the LeapPad2 is an outstanding device for its intended niche. More affordable, more durable, and more child-friendly than more sophisticated Apple or Android tablets, considerably more responsive and enjoyable than competing kid tablets, and richly featured enough to provide a tremendous amount of entertainment and education for the cost.
A final word of CAUTION: As someone who has taught college for over a decade and is extremely well read on the cultural and cognitive impact of digital technology, let me warn parents that, despite what they've undoubtedly been told by marketers and educators, it is NOT healthy to allow too frequent use of digital screen devices. Mountains of data show that frequent use of screen-equipped devices like the LeapPad (phones, iPods, computers, etc.) has a very detrimental impact on concentration, memory, precision of thought, patience, and other vital aspects of intellectual growth. In fact, the average teenager of the digital generation is likely to experience withdrawal-like symptoms (akin to substance abusers!) when denied access to some kind of screen for more than 20 minutes! Let your child enjoy the LeapPad, but do NOT let it become a replacement for a LOT of other, traditional developmentally-vital activities, including a LOT of traditional book reading, outdoor play, socialization events, engaging conversations with older peers (including parents), slow-paced board and strategy games, and even an occasional long, boring car ride on vacation. (Yes, I know screens are the easiest way to keep a child quiet and content on a long trip, but allowing them to get bored and be forced to entertain themselves in other, imaginative ways--without the quick fix of a screen to distract them--is immensely important to their cognitive development, especially their capacity to concentrate for prolonged periods, which is a vital ability for most successful people.) I don't mean to seem preachy at the end of my (very positive) review of the screen-equipped LeapPad2; however, an astonishing majority of parents are disturbingly uninformed about how detrimental constant, repeated exposure to digital screens can be. It's not that digital screens are evil; it's that they literally train the brain to follow shorter and shorter attention cycles, as well as to depend on lights, color, sounds, and other superficially stimulating cues. This needs to be offset with at least as many hours spent on quiet reading, which is still the only known way to effectively improve the brain's ability to recognize the subtle nuances of different arguments and perspectives, to develop one's own line of reasoning, to concentrate for an extended period of time, and other indispensable elements of advanced reasoning.
Firstly, we own the original LeapPad, which was a huge disappointment. My main complaint was how slow it was. The LeapPad2, I'm happy to report, is much quicker! Not as quick as an iPad, but quicker than the original version. Setting both side by side the LeapPad2 reaches the main screen and loads games much quicker. Also, the resolution on the LeapPad2 is significantly clearer than the original.
Right out of the box I had to add 4 AA batteries (not included) and connect to a computer for setup; all easy enough. I was able to download some new apps for my son and gave it to him to play with the next morning.
The included stylus is easy for him to use, but he still prefers to use his finger. I imagine he'll want to use the stylus more as he gets older. I like that the games are educational and challenging. At the moment he's obsessed with Jewel Train; trying to connect the tracks so the train can make it to the station. He also likes to trace the alphabets in PetPad, and "read" his Thomas Ultrabook.
The original LeapPad used the stylus to click open the battery compartment. LeapPad2 just has sliding compartments. My son can't open it, so that's a plus. Also, the new way helps him hold the LeapPad better because it creates a raised backing for his hands.
The original LeapPad came with two styluses, LeapPad2 only one. LeapPad2 has an optional rope loop on the bottom for lefties. My 3 year old is a righty, but my 16 month old is leaning towards a leftie; since they'll have to share this it's good to have the option.
The front and back camera is a nice touch. My son isn't into using it yet, but I love that when he is, he can click away on his LeapPad2 and have fun.
As a parent I like LeapFrog's Learning Path. When you plug in your child's device on your computer it will tell you what games your child has played, how long they have played them, and how successful they were. It's a nice touch.
My only problem at the moment is that not all of our games are showing. All of the games I purchased are there, but the games that automatically come with the LeapPad2 are not (any advice?). For instance, we should have Roly Poly Picnic. I saw it before I added my son's account to the device, and now it's not there. We have plenty of memory space, so I don't know where it went or how to get it back without paying for it. Also, I think the MP3 Player app should be included, and not have to pay an additional $3.75 for it. One thing to know, is when you buy this device, don't expect a user manual, it doesn't come with one.
I wish the LeapPad2 had an internal rechargeable battery.
I wish it came with the required 4 AA batteries.
I wish it came with a wall charger.
I wish it came with 2 stylus' in case we loose/break one.
I wish it had rubber around the sides for less chance of slipping out of a child's hand (though you can purchase a Gel Skin for it).
I wish the apps were cheaper.
AND...
I wish I had a case.
Overall this is a great educational product for little kids and keeps my son off my iPad. Really love it and recommend it. Certainly something my sons will grow with. I'm giving it 4 stars out of 5 because I'm always going to wish it would respond quicker when starting and loading, and the apps were cheaper. My son would give it 5 billion stars because he likes it so much.
And just so you wont have to search for these, here are two FREE app codes:
The Book of Super Awesome Stuff (e-book): 5813 1140 1518 1413
Alphabet Stew (game): 5813 0790 4610 4973
Other than the battery issue, we are loving the Leap Pad 2. We own several other Leap Frog products, including the Tagg Reader Pen, Leapster2, Leapster Explorer, the original Leap Pad and now the Leap Pad2. It amazes me how Leap Frog keeps up with the times and keeps updating it's toys so that they remain desirable to pre-schoolers. I purchased the Leap Pad for my granddaughter last year for Xmas after I purchased an iPad for myself. She was so excited that she had an "iPad for kids"! She would spend hours playing the various games, taking care of her pet, reading along with Cinderella or Tinkerbell, listening to music or creating art work from the pictures that she took with the onboard camera.
With the Leap Pad 2, she is still able to do all of these things, plus so much more. An additional camera has been added so kids can now take pics without having to turn the Pad around, having to take a pic without seeing the image on the screen (and unlike an iPad or iPhone, or other android device, the front & rear facing cameras on the Leap Pad take pics of the same quality). The internal storage has been doubled (a good thing as the last time we purchased an App, we had to delete something else in order to make room). The image and video quality is somewhat improved, and the reaction time/speed of use has been increased, so kids aren't twiddling their fingers waiting for their games to load. The Leap Pad 2 does feel a little heavier than the original Leap Pad, which I guess is due to the larger storage capacity and additional camera. This could pose a problem for smaller children, but overall, I find the unit to be more solid and durable.
The Leap Pad only comes with one stylus, whereas the original came with a spare. Granted, we never used the spare, and maybe this is why it was discontinued on the LP2 (at least we still have a spare, in case we ever need one). One of the things I love most about the Leap Frog family of video games is that they are "backwards compatible" meaning, all the games and apps I purchased for the Leap Pad also work on the Leap Pad 2. In fact, nearly all the game cartridges we purchased for the Leapster Explorer also work with the Leap Pad (1 & 2), so we're definitely getting our money's worth of gaming/learning fun.
Overall, I think the Leap Pad2 is another winner and a product I will highly recommend to other parents/grandparents. With all the iPads and Kindles and Nooks and Android phones and tablets, it's nice for kids to have a tablet of their own that provides age-specific activities, well made and durable so that parents can allow their kids to play with it freely without fear of breaking or ruining. I'm looking forward to the next idea and release from Leap Pad (and hopefully the battery compartment on THAT device will be perfect -not too tight, not too loose, but just right! I would have given the Leap Pad 5 five stars across the board if it hadn't been for the battery issue. I'm still hoping the rechargeable batteries might fit in there tighter than the disposable ones)
The battery life is still an issue. We use rechargeable batteries, and the Leap Pad 2 eats them for breakfast. We went on a road trip with fully charged batteries, and two hours in, the batteries were dead. With regular, non-rechargeable batteries, we got approximately six hours of life. The AC adapter is a battery saver!
Another upgrade is the front and back camera. My kids LOVE this. With the front-situated camera, they can actually take pictures of themselves and put in some pretty neat affects in the art studio. On that crazy road trip, I fell in love with the art studio feature!
Both versions have some pretty neat game options, and I like that the cartridges can move between the Leapster Explorer and the Leap Pad. As with all Leap Frog games we've found, there is some great educational content, for reading, writing and now more math and science oriented as well. My son despised practicing his writing in kindergarten, and with Mr. Pencil turning it into a game, his writing has improved considerably.
I also like that you can hook this up to the Leap Frog site and download games, books and movies directly onto the device. The storage capacity is much bigger on this version two than the original, and this is also a nice added touch.
I'm very impressed with the Leap Pad2. It eats batteries and the screen is not so durable, but even with that being said, it's a really neat device with all kinds of ways to make learning fun. I like the upgrades between the versions. I was not so happy with the price hike when the Leapster site says this should be about one hundred dollars, but I'm hoping that comes back down to normal as the newness factor wears off.
List Price: $99.99
Sale Price: $79.00
Today's Bonus: 21% Off
We gave the original leappad to my 4yo daughter last Christmas. She absolutely loved it. In fact she loved it a little too much, as it started to interfere with bedtime. Unfortunately I accidentally left her leappad on an airplane. She was crushed.
Fast forward to a few weeks ago. I saw the announcement for the leappad2 and thought this might be a way to make up for my mistake. We preordered from Amazon, and it arrived today. If you have the original leappad, here are some differences that I noticed:
* I couldn't open the box without tearing/cutting it. Leapfrog seems to have glued down every flap. I was hoping to open it, download the apps, configure it, and repackage it so i could wrap it up as a present. But that wasn't possible without damaging the box.
* It is definitely faster/snappier. The upgraded CPU is a noticeable improvement.
* The battery covers are significantly improved. With the old one, you could use the stylus to pop off the covers. The new ones snap firmly into place. There's no way my daughter will be able to remove these...
* Just like the original, you get to pick one app. But I'm pretty sure the app selection has changed. The choices now are roly poly picnic, hamster music, a leapfrog video, or an ebook.
* Unlike the original leappad, The package only comes with one stylus, which is already connected to the leappad with the included string.
* Leapfrog appears to have added a new connector for the stylus string below the stylus slot. This should help children who are lefties. (like my daughter)
That's all I can think of for now. I'll update this review as my daughter plays with it. I am certain she is going to love the front camera.
PS I am just an average person that actually paid for this. I'm not some professional mommy-blogger that got a free 'sample' in exchange for writing a glowing review. All of these reviews that predate 8/1/2012 seem a little contrived, don't you think?
EDIT #1 (8/3/2012) Within the leappad connect app, I could install all apps that I PURCHASED for our original leappad on to the new one. It would not allow me to install the free, selectable app that came with the purchase of the original leappad.
EDIT #2 (8/5/2012) If you search the internet you can find two codes for two free apps, "Alphabet Soup", and "The Book of Super Awesome Stuff." I had previously downloaded these apps to our first (lost) leappad. Leappad Connect would not allow me to install these on the new Leappad 2. Not sure why. I am going to open a support ticket with Leap Frog. I've already had an open ticket regarding the lost leappad, so this might be related to that. I guess what I'm saying is that this might not be a problem for others...
EDIT #3 (8/8/2012) One of my daughter's favorite apps is the Music app. There are 5 songs that are preloaded. She plays them all the time. She loves music, so I can't wait for the official MP3 upgrade thats supposed to come out this fall. I hope Leapfrog will not overcharge for it...
Speaking of overcharging... I was in Target the other day and was surprised to see two "Recharger Packs" for the Leappad 2 on sale. They were $40 each. $40!!! Come on Leapfrog! $30 is at the high-end of what I will pay for a battery. Replacement laptop batteries are cheaper than this. They should be more like $20. It's antics like this that will drive loyal customers to the flood of cheap android devices that will be coming in the next several months...
EDIT #4 (8/17/2012) This is my last edit. My daughter LOVES the new creativity app. Basically it lets you create animated stories. You get to pick the background, props, and characters. From there you can add movement and action, and a dialog. You can use the camera to replace the face of the characters with a photo. I was impressed. I've also seen that many of the apps are lefty friendly, meaning it will allow you to turn the leappad over so the string isn't stretched when using the left hand. I'm happy with the purchase, and my daughter is happy too.
I have little doubt these will be a hot item this Christmas. If you are thinking you want to get this for your child, don't wait. Otherwise the scalpers will be your only option. (That, or waiting until after Christmas.
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If you want a child-friendly tablet-style device, this is the best one on the market as of October 2012. But you have to understand what you're getting and why this is desirable. There are a lot of positive reviews that are a bit inflated, and many negative reviews that are simply unfair in their expectations. Here's my realistic parent-friendly review...First, the LeapPad is more rugged and more child-friendly compared to an iPad, iPod, or Android tablet. I know parents who prefer to let their kids play apps on those more sophisticated devices, but if you go that route, you're taking a risk with a more expensive and more fragile device. You're also opening up a potential can of worms since those devices usually include unrestricted access to the internet (which may expose your child to inappropriate material or allow him/her to accidentally make purchases, etc.). The LeapPad's more durable casing allows young children to hold and carry it with less likelihood of damage. Since it has a fairly wide bezel all the way around the screen, it also offers space for a child to rest his/her palm when writing with the stylus, with fewer "false taps" that can occur when their palm or fingers touch the screen instead of the stylus. And, of course, since it is not wireless-connectivity enabled, you don't have to worry about your child stumbling across objectionable content or making accidental purchases. You control the content on the device by syncing to your computer and deciding what to install (the sync cable is included, and plugs into a standard USB slot on your computer).
Second, the LeapPad is much more responsive than any of the other child tablets we've tested. We bought our 2.5-year-old daughter a FisherPrice iXL, which was cheaper and came with 6 very basic apps that we thought would be plenty sufficient. However, after a few weeks, she was still struggling to learn how to use the apps due to noticeable lag/unresponsiveness during screen taps. The inconsistent results when she interacted with the screen made it hard for her to learn the interface. Sometimes tapping an icon would do what she wanted, but often, multiple taps would not produce the desired effect. Often, she had to ask "Daddy can you help me draw?" or "Daddy can you help me play music?" in order to access or use a program. When she tried a friend's LeapPad1, however, it was noticeably more responsive, allowing her to understand the interface MUCH better. When we purchased a LeapPad2 we were delighted to find that it's even snappier than the LeapPad1. Within a few hours, our daughter had mastered how to access all of the applications and she also understood about 50 60% of the more advanced functions within each program (such as choosing the small, medium, or large eraser in the Art Studio drawing program). I'm certain she learned it so quickly because the screen and stylus respond faster and more consistently (about 95% of all taps register correctly, even in the hands of our 2.5-year old).
Third, the LeapPad has a decent array of basic apps/features already included. When you unbox it, you'll need to install four AA batteries, create a new "profile" for your child, then connect to an Internet-connected computer to load on some of the apps and register the device. The applications included are:
1. CARTRIDGE: which accesses the content on a cartridge, which must be purchased separately
2. PETPAD: allows you to customize the type, color, and features of a small electronic pet, who can then be fed, bathed, or used to learn how to draw upperand lower-case letters.
3. CAMERA: allows you to use the frontor rear-facing lenses to capture photos or videos of decent quality under ideal lighting conditions (decent enough to delight a young child, that is).
4. MYSTUFF: a consolidated inventory of MyPhotos, MyArt, MyVideos, and MyStories, all of which are created in other apps.
5. MYBOOKS: a bookshelf-style interface that links to eBooks which must be purchased separately
6. MUSIC: a jukebox-style interface that includes one album with five songs about topics like punctuation, vowels, the alphabet, etc.
7. SNEAKPEEKS: a link to various advertisements for add-on content including downloadable and cartridge-style eBooks, games, etc. (Some parents may feel annoyed to have a link to advertisements at all, but I appreciate that they've been confined to an app you must click on to launch. Thankfully, the ads are NOT displayed elsewhere on the device and do NOT intrude upon the functionality or appearance of other apps.)
8. ARTSTUDIO: a simple but decently-featured drawing program much like the basic Paint program on most computers.
9. CREATIVITY: allows you to make short 3-, 4-, or 5-section animated cartoons that include your own photos and voice if desired (this is the most complex app, but plenty accessible for children 4 and older, or with adult assistance).
10. One FREE APP of your choosing from a list of three provided when you sync and register the device. The three options were a game, an eBook, or a video. I had assumed there would already be eBooks on the device, so I chose the free video (a 38-minute tour of the "Letter Factory" that teaches the sounds each letter of the alphabet makes). Had I known the MYBOOKS app would not include an eBook, I would've selected the eBook instead.
Certainly, the LeapPad is a larger investment up front ($99) than many other similar kid-friendly electronics; however, I was pleased to find that the add-ons are lower in price that many competitors. For example, the add-ons for the FisherPrice iXL averaged $25 per title. Although each title included 6 features, the main lure was the eBook and the rest were mainly re-skinned options with very little added content for the built-in programs. That's exactly why we never bought any add-ons for the iXL. With the LeapPad, however, I was delighted to learn that you can buy an eBook alone for approximately $5 $7.50. So we can buy our daughter three nice eBooks for the price of one add-on title for her FisherPrice iXL. There are also other apps, such as a story creator that allows you to use your own photos and voice to create your own stories, for $20 or less. Although the costs could add up quickly, keep in mind that for a young child like ours, you won't need to buy ANY additional content to keep him/her occupied for many dozens (probably hundreds) of hours. The included apps--especially the PETPAD, ARTSTUDIO, and CAMERA--will keep a lot of three year olds happy for a LONG time. Our daughter spent three hours just walking around the house snapping photos and giggling.
Fourth, the LeapPad interface is very child friendly. The physical buttons are minimalist and positioned well out of the way. They include a POWER button for turning the device on/off, an INCREASE and a DECREASE button for controlling the volume, a four-way NAVIGATION button (presumably for games or navigating menus, but we haven't had to use it at all yet), and a HOME button for returning to the main page. The buttons are sufficiently recessed or placed so that accidental button-presses are very rare. This is important because few things are more frustrating for a child than having their e-activity interrupted because they leaned on a button that returned them to the home screen, or some other such issue. Instead, most of the buttons they'll actually use are on-screen and controlled with the stylus. There are very few redundant buttons (some apps have a virtual home button, despite the device already having a physical button for that purpose) and many response options are standardized (to "accept" an option is always a green checkmark, and to "reject" or "close" an option is always a red X). This is good because it minimizes confusion related to the interface, and it also shows that Leap Frog has invested a lot of care and thought in the design of the apps. The LeapPad also has a built-in gyro to reorient the screen as you tilt/turn the device, as well as to play certain motion-sensitive games.
Fifth, the LeapPad has a very large (2.5"W x 4.5"L), bright, colorful screen. The one major shortcoming here is that it really isn't very suitable for use outdoors in bright sunlight, which washes it out so badly it can't really be used. If you're in shade or normal room-level brightness, however, it is very clear and colorful. Although it is not incredibly high resolution or high contrast, it is definitely crisp enough to provide a very pleasant user experience. Shapes, animations, and videos all render very clearly, without annoying jagged lines or pixelation. Watching the letter factory video we installed for free, there was a slightly muted color cast, much like streaming a video at mid-resolution on Netflix, but the animation was still very colorful and impressively smooth. I don't know if the slight lack of crispness was due to the limitations of the screen or the quality of the video file, but either way it did not detract from the viewing experience.
Sixth, the sound is quite good. Since the front-mounted speaker is aimed directly at the user, the lowest volume setting is still quite audible without being likely to annoy others nearby (It could be fairly described as "airplane friendly" even without the use of headphones!) At the highest volume level, it projects sound well enough to fill a small room, which is great if your child likes to turn on music for a "dance party" with friends or family. There are eight steps in the volume besides mute, so finding an appropriate sound level should not be a problem. One of my greatest complaints about children's electronic toys is usually the lack of sound control, but not so here. Well done Leap Frog!
DOWNSIDES? There are few things to complain about here because, compared to other toys in the $99 range, I suspect this will be one of the best investments (in "dollars per hour of enjoyment") you can make, and it should prove modestly educational as well. However, here are the shortcomings most likely to annoy parents...
1. No batteries or included charger. Right out of the box, you'll need four AA batteries. You can expect about 10 hours of use out of a set of batteries (my estimate based on actual use), which is certainly respectable; however, that will go quicker than you think if your child uses the device often. It would be nice if Leap Frog included rechargeable batteries and a charging cable, which would've made this a killer value. As it stands, you'll have to purchase those separately--and I definitely recommend doing so.
2. No included eBooks. Given Leap Frog's reputation and marketing as an education-centered company, I really think the LeapPad ought to include one or two eBooks, which would further justify the $99 price tag, but also send a powerful message about the importance of reading (a message getting increasingly lost in our digital-tool obsessed society, which includes people likely to buy this kind of device). It's sad how many kids' parents don't read to them consistently, but Leap Frog could at least make sure those kids have one or two books that they can have this device read to them. I'm a college professor and I will tell you, hands down, there is no more cognitively beneficial experience in early childhood than to be read aloud to by, and to read with, parents (or some other guide) as often as possible.
3. On-device advertisements. As I noted above, I respect Leap Frog for at least confining the included advertisements to an app that must be launched in order to view the ads. That is infinitely more preferable than having ads that intrude onto the rest of the user experience. So I'm fine with this, even though I know my daughter will watch the ads on her own and then ask me to purchase some of the add-ons. (If she asks for eBooks, I'll probably say yes.) Nonetheless, I mention it as a negative here because I know many parents will wish that no advertisements appeared anywhere on the device. They will also be frustrated to learn that a very few features (in particular, the "treats" and "supplies" for the virtual pet in the PETPAD app) are designed to run out so that you need to sync to the computer to replenish them. I suspect this allows Leap Frog to update the advertisements and to retrieve usage statistics about the device. Again, I realize this could be annoying, but I am grateful that it is not entirely mandatory. If you do NOT sync to a computer, the apps all remain usable, and about once every three days, some of the pet supplies will naturally reappear. However, if your daughter is dead set on having a strawberry to feed to her virtual dragon-dog-sheep pet, you should expect to be asked repeatedly until you sync to the computer to replenish the supplies sooner. :)
[4. Some add-ons, such as the Ultra-eBooks we've tried, are high in production value, but designed in a way that seriously detracts from their educational benefits. See my review of the "Ultra eBook Learn to Read Collection: Fairy Tales" for a detailed explanation that wouldn't fit here. --ADDED 10/29/2012.]
All in all, the LeapPad2 is an outstanding device for its intended niche. More affordable, more durable, and more child-friendly than more sophisticated Apple or Android tablets, considerably more responsive and enjoyable than competing kid tablets, and richly featured enough to provide a tremendous amount of entertainment and education for the cost.
A final word of CAUTION: As someone who has taught college for over a decade and is extremely well read on the cultural and cognitive impact of digital technology, let me warn parents that, despite what they've undoubtedly been told by marketers and educators, it is NOT healthy to allow too frequent use of digital screen devices. Mountains of data show that frequent use of screen-equipped devices like the LeapPad (phones, iPods, computers, etc.) has a very detrimental impact on concentration, memory, precision of thought, patience, and other vital aspects of intellectual growth. In fact, the average teenager of the digital generation is likely to experience withdrawal-like symptoms (akin to substance abusers!) when denied access to some kind of screen for more than 20 minutes! Let your child enjoy the LeapPad, but do NOT let it become a replacement for a LOT of other, traditional developmentally-vital activities, including a LOT of traditional book reading, outdoor play, socialization events, engaging conversations with older peers (including parents), slow-paced board and strategy games, and even an occasional long, boring car ride on vacation. (Yes, I know screens are the easiest way to keep a child quiet and content on a long trip, but allowing them to get bored and be forced to entertain themselves in other, imaginative ways--without the quick fix of a screen to distract them--is immensely important to their cognitive development, especially their capacity to concentrate for prolonged periods, which is a vital ability for most successful people.) I don't mean to seem preachy at the end of my (very positive) review of the screen-equipped LeapPad2; however, an astonishing majority of parents are disturbingly uninformed about how detrimental constant, repeated exposure to digital screens can be. It's not that digital screens are evil; it's that they literally train the brain to follow shorter and shorter attention cycles, as well as to depend on lights, color, sounds, and other superficially stimulating cues. This needs to be offset with at least as many hours spent on quiet reading, which is still the only known way to effectively improve the brain's ability to recognize the subtle nuances of different arguments and perspectives, to develop one's own line of reasoning, to concentrate for an extended period of time, and other indispensable elements of advanced reasoning.
Best Deals for LeapFrog LeapPad2 Explorer Kids' Learning Tablet
Customer review from the Amazon Vine Program I was really excited to receive the new LeapPad2 because I saw the recommended age changed for 4-9 years to 3-9 years. My son just turned 3.Firstly, we own the original LeapPad, which was a huge disappointment. My main complaint was how slow it was. The LeapPad2, I'm happy to report, is much quicker! Not as quick as an iPad, but quicker than the original version. Setting both side by side the LeapPad2 reaches the main screen and loads games much quicker. Also, the resolution on the LeapPad2 is significantly clearer than the original.
Right out of the box I had to add 4 AA batteries (not included) and connect to a computer for setup; all easy enough. I was able to download some new apps for my son and gave it to him to play with the next morning.
The included stylus is easy for him to use, but he still prefers to use his finger. I imagine he'll want to use the stylus more as he gets older. I like that the games are educational and challenging. At the moment he's obsessed with Jewel Train; trying to connect the tracks so the train can make it to the station. He also likes to trace the alphabets in PetPad, and "read" his Thomas Ultrabook.
The original LeapPad used the stylus to click open the battery compartment. LeapPad2 just has sliding compartments. My son can't open it, so that's a plus. Also, the new way helps him hold the LeapPad better because it creates a raised backing for his hands.
The original LeapPad came with two styluses, LeapPad2 only one. LeapPad2 has an optional rope loop on the bottom for lefties. My 3 year old is a righty, but my 16 month old is leaning towards a leftie; since they'll have to share this it's good to have the option.
The front and back camera is a nice touch. My son isn't into using it yet, but I love that when he is, he can click away on his LeapPad2 and have fun.
As a parent I like LeapFrog's Learning Path. When you plug in your child's device on your computer it will tell you what games your child has played, how long they have played them, and how successful they were. It's a nice touch.
My only problem at the moment is that not all of our games are showing. All of the games I purchased are there, but the games that automatically come with the LeapPad2 are not (any advice?). For instance, we should have Roly Poly Picnic. I saw it before I added my son's account to the device, and now it's not there. We have plenty of memory space, so I don't know where it went or how to get it back without paying for it. Also, I think the MP3 Player app should be included, and not have to pay an additional $3.75 for it. One thing to know, is when you buy this device, don't expect a user manual, it doesn't come with one.
I wish the LeapPad2 had an internal rechargeable battery.
I wish it came with the required 4 AA batteries.
I wish it came with a wall charger.
I wish it came with 2 stylus' in case we loose/break one.
I wish it had rubber around the sides for less chance of slipping out of a child's hand (though you can purchase a Gel Skin for it).
I wish the apps were cheaper.
AND...
I wish I had a case.
Overall this is a great educational product for little kids and keeps my son off my iPad. Really love it and recommend it. Certainly something my sons will grow with. I'm giving it 4 stars out of 5 because I'm always going to wish it would respond quicker when starting and loading, and the apps were cheaper. My son would give it 5 billion stars because he likes it so much.
And just so you wont have to search for these, here are two FREE app codes:
The Book of Super Awesome Stuff (e-book): 5813 1140 1518 1413
Alphabet Stew (game): 5813 0790 4610 4973
Honest reviews on LeapFrog LeapPad2 Explorer Kids' Learning Tablet
I was pleasantly surprised when I received the Leap Pad 2 expecting to receive an Ultra Book for the Leap Pad. My granddaughter's eyes lit up with excitement, and we opened up the box and went straight to work downloading the new apps, as well as all the other apps we previously purchased for the original Leap Pad. Our Leap Pad came with batteries already installed, but after playing with it for only a very short while, the Leap Pad stopped working. I thought it was strange because we never heard the warning sounds you normally hear when the batteries are running low, but I changed the batteries anyhow using brand new batteries out of the package. No sooner had she turned it on, that she said, "Gramma, the batteries don't work." I knew this was impossible, so I opened up the battery compartment and found the problem -the batteries don't fit tightly inside the compartment and "pop" out and apart from one another (so that they're no longer making contact with one another). I was able to remedy this problem by placing a piece of tape across the batteries in order to hold them in place, but this is kind of a nuisance, and shouldn't be (and it's still not fool-proof, as they came loose several more times). I see that there is a rechargeable battery and charger available for the Leap Pad 2, so I will likely buy this & hopefully, this will fix the problem. Ironically, I always thought the battery compartment of the original Leap Pad was too tight (I sometimes struggled to remove the batteries when they need to be replaced), and it seems like they tried to fix this problem by removing the little plastic piece that sat between the batteries, only it took it to the other extreme, and now they're too loose & don't fit in there tight enough.Other than the battery issue, we are loving the Leap Pad 2. We own several other Leap Frog products, including the Tagg Reader Pen, Leapster2, Leapster Explorer, the original Leap Pad and now the Leap Pad2. It amazes me how Leap Frog keeps up with the times and keeps updating it's toys so that they remain desirable to pre-schoolers. I purchased the Leap Pad for my granddaughter last year for Xmas after I purchased an iPad for myself. She was so excited that she had an "iPad for kids"! She would spend hours playing the various games, taking care of her pet, reading along with Cinderella or Tinkerbell, listening to music or creating art work from the pictures that she took with the onboard camera.
With the Leap Pad 2, she is still able to do all of these things, plus so much more. An additional camera has been added so kids can now take pics without having to turn the Pad around, having to take a pic without seeing the image on the screen (and unlike an iPad or iPhone, or other android device, the front & rear facing cameras on the Leap Pad take pics of the same quality). The internal storage has been doubled (a good thing as the last time we purchased an App, we had to delete something else in order to make room). The image and video quality is somewhat improved, and the reaction time/speed of use has been increased, so kids aren't twiddling their fingers waiting for their games to load. The Leap Pad 2 does feel a little heavier than the original Leap Pad, which I guess is due to the larger storage capacity and additional camera. This could pose a problem for smaller children, but overall, I find the unit to be more solid and durable.
The Leap Pad only comes with one stylus, whereas the original came with a spare. Granted, we never used the spare, and maybe this is why it was discontinued on the LP2 (at least we still have a spare, in case we ever need one). One of the things I love most about the Leap Frog family of video games is that they are "backwards compatible" meaning, all the games and apps I purchased for the Leap Pad also work on the Leap Pad 2. In fact, nearly all the game cartridges we purchased for the Leapster Explorer also work with the Leap Pad (1 & 2), so we're definitely getting our money's worth of gaming/learning fun.
Overall, I think the Leap Pad2 is another winner and a product I will highly recommend to other parents/grandparents. With all the iPads and Kindles and Nooks and Android phones and tablets, it's nice for kids to have a tablet of their own that provides age-specific activities, well made and durable so that parents can allow their kids to play with it freely without fear of breaking or ruining. I'm looking forward to the next idea and release from Leap Pad (and hopefully the battery compartment on THAT device will be perfect -not too tight, not too loose, but just right! I would have given the Leap Pad 5 five stars across the board if it hadn't been for the battery issue. I'm still hoping the rechargeable batteries might fit in there tighter than the disposable ones)
Find helpful customer reviews and review ratings for LeapFrog LeapPad2 Explorer Kids' Learning Tablet
We have both the Leap Pad original and the version two. Both are fantastic learning tools for the 3-8 age range, and yet again, Leap Frog does not disappoint. My main complaints with the original version were the easily damaged screen, the incredibly short-lived battery life and the difficulty getting into the battery compartment. With version two, they have fixed the battery compartment issue it is now much easier to get into, but also easier to snap into place without having to wiggle it just so. It overall feels more secure. The screen is still pretty easy to scratch, even with gentle playing with the provided stylus. And after watching my two children play with it, ages 3 and 5, I can tell you that with some games, they want to attack the screen with the stylus. I think this would happen with any touch screen device, but for a game that runs over one hundred dollars, we're investing in some screen protectors to try to keep it nice as long as we can.The battery life is still an issue. We use rechargeable batteries, and the Leap Pad 2 eats them for breakfast. We went on a road trip with fully charged batteries, and two hours in, the batteries were dead. With regular, non-rechargeable batteries, we got approximately six hours of life. The AC adapter is a battery saver!
Another upgrade is the front and back camera. My kids LOVE this. With the front-situated camera, they can actually take pictures of themselves and put in some pretty neat affects in the art studio. On that crazy road trip, I fell in love with the art studio feature!
Both versions have some pretty neat game options, and I like that the cartridges can move between the Leapster Explorer and the Leap Pad. As with all Leap Frog games we've found, there is some great educational content, for reading, writing and now more math and science oriented as well. My son despised practicing his writing in kindergarten, and with Mr. Pencil turning it into a game, his writing has improved considerably.
I also like that you can hook this up to the Leap Frog site and download games, books and movies directly onto the device. The storage capacity is much bigger on this version two than the original, and this is also a nice added touch.
I'm very impressed with the Leap Pad2. It eats batteries and the screen is not so durable, but even with that being said, it's a really neat device with all kinds of ways to make learning fun. I like the upgrades between the versions. I was not so happy with the price hike when the Leapster site says this should be about one hundred dollars, but I'm hoping that comes back down to normal as the newness factor wears off.
Sunday, October 26, 2014
Discount Como Children Plastic Pink Frame Colorful Beads Maths Teaching
Bought this traditional-style abacus for homeschool this year with my pre-k child. He loves it already; it is a great hands-on way for children to learn and visualize numeric values and concepts of adding and subtracting (and I know much more). This specific product is plastic, lightweight, but does not feel cheap. You can lay it down flat on a table (like at a restaurant) and practice math and the beads still slide very easily. Would definitely buy again and recommend it to others.
Monday, September 29, 2014
Review of Bright Starts Pop Links
These are excellent. They are great for newborns. My kids are 2 and still enjoy pulling them apart and making long chains. Great for traveling too, especially in the car. One of my little ones has a weakness on one side and her therapist uses these to build strength as well.
They direct their horses to the correct color base and then remove a bead from a four chain, and toss it onto the base. HIGH FIVE!
These word great!
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My children and I volunteer at an equine therapy riding stable. We use the beads to help the children practice fine and gross motor skills.They direct their horses to the correct color base and then remove a bead from a four chain, and toss it onto the base. HIGH FIVE!
These word great!
Thursday, September 11, 2014
Review of Learning Resources Ler6304 Magnetic Learning Letters
The product itself is undeniably perfect for my 4 y.o. daughter. It's fun and very helpful for pre-schoolers. The construction is very well made. It is lightweight and has enough magnet to stick to metal but not too strong for kids to move it around. On the other hand, the seller was very professional with our transaction. I did not receive my order so I contacted the seller. The seller responded quickly by researching it with the carrier and the said that the item was deemed lost in transit. The seller acted on the matter immediately and sent a replacement. I received the replacement quickly. Overall, everything went well.
Thursday, August 28, 2014
Discount Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Sweet Sounds Picnic
Customer Ratings: 
List Price: $18.99
Sale Price: $18.96
Today's Bonus: $0.03 Off

This is educational and cute. It teaches shape sorting as well as foods, counting, and greetings. It also sings. There really isn't anything wrong with the toy. The only reason it got 3 stars instead of 4 or 5 is that it's kind of expensive for what you get, which is basically a musical shape sorter. There are so many toys like this out there that you might not want or need to pay the price for this one.
Leapfrog makes a picnic basket toy that offers way more for your money. It comes with 2 cups, plates, and forks so children can play with it together but still offers the shape sorting and other educational things. It is also bigger and has less annoying music. That is the one I prefer.
List Price: $18.99
Sale Price: $18.96
Today's Bonus: $0.03 Off
This is educational and cute. It teaches shape sorting as well as foods, counting, and greetings. It also sings. There really isn't anything wrong with the toy. The only reason it got 3 stars instead of 4 or 5 is that it's kind of expensive for what you get, which is basically a musical shape sorter. There are so many toys like this out there that you might not want or need to pay the price for this one.
Leapfrog makes a picnic basket toy that offers way more for your money. It comes with 2 cups, plates, and forks so children can play with it together but still offers the shape sorting and other educational things. It is also bigger and has less annoying music. That is the one I prefer.
Click Here For Most Helpful Customer Reviews >>
I LOVE THE COLORS THE SHAPES AND THE MUSIC NO COMPLAINTS YET WOULD RECOMMEND THIS TOY. VERY CUTE AND MUSIC IS VERY HIGH QUALITY.Best Deals for Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Sweet Sounds Picnic
First off let me say I love Fisher Price laugh and learn toys, which is why I purchased this toy for my daughter. She likes the toy but the handle sometimes get in her way when she is playing with the toy (she is 7 months old). She likes playing with the LeapFrog picnic basket that my niece has better LeapFrog Shapes And Sharing Picnic Basket. This is a really cute toy and a good multi-purpose toy (shape sorter).Honest reviews on Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Sweet Sounds Picnic
Bought this for my 18 month old grand daughter and she loves it! Has given her hours of entertainment and is educational as well. Another great product from Fisher Price and the price was so reasonable!!!Find helpful customer reviews and review ratings for Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Sweet Sounds Picnic
This picnic basket is uplifting and gives activity instuctions. It also gives children the opportunity to identify and place shapes in the correct place. It is portable entertainment, and loads of fun.Monday, July 28, 2014
Best Fisher Price Laugh & Learn Rumble & Learn Driver Deals
I bought this for my 3 year old child with Special Needs. He loves music and cars. It's really difficult to move all the pieces on such a compact space. Even I have difficult pulling and pushing the 'light' knob. The music is great but mostly he just pushes the horn and that gets really old.
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This is a cute toy, but none of my kids were into it. I have 1 year old boy/girl twins and neither of them pay much attnetion to it. It's collecting dust in the toy bin!Best Deals for Fisher Price Laugh & Learn Rumble & Learn Driver
Bought it as a gift for my nephew. He is only 5 months old and loves it. He will grow into it also. My sis-in-law can put it on his high chair tray and occupy him for awhile :)Honest reviews on Fisher Price Laugh & Learn Rumble & Learn Driver
This is my 7 month old's favorite toy and has been for the past month and a half. At first it was a bit awkward for him to play with until we figured out that it was the perfect size to put on his highchair tray. Now while I'm getting his meals ready he sits in his chair and waits patiently, honking the horn and making screetching sounds. When the food is gone I just wipe the tray and put this toy back on there for him to play with and he will play the whole time I'm cleaning things up right up until I take him out of the chair for his nap!!! Also I love that it teaches him a little bit of Spanish while he's playing and the fact that it is so interactive. For us it was definately worth the price!Find helpful customer reviews and review ratings for Fisher Price Laugh & Learn Rumble & Learn Driver
Although she can tip this toy over, my baby girl loves it. She sits and plays with it for minutes on end and loves to lay on the horn and turn the wheel. I find the Spanish a bit annoying, but it isn't an issue when I turn it to the sounds only mode. I think it's funny that she is six months old and already likes to burn rubber!Sunday, July 27, 2014
Reviews of VTech MobiGo Software Cartridge - Brave
My daughter just turned 4, and she LOVES this game!! It's definitely a bit of a challenge, but in a good way!!
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Our granddaughter loved the movie so I felt sure she would love the games to help her learn through the summer and she does!Best Deals for VTech MobiGo Software Cartridge - Brave
My 5 year old loved this. It kept her busy on a long flight without any complaints. The game is engaging andHonest reviews on VTech MobiGo Software Cartridge - Brave
my daughter loves playing games and I got this hopeing for Christmas she would like it, even my son loves itFind helpful customer reviews and review ratings for VTech MobiGo Software Cartridge - Brave
My 6 year old likes it. She plays it sometimes when she's having quiet time before bed. She isn't in to games like this much, but this one seems to get her attention long enough to help her calm down before bed and go to sleep.Tuesday, July 22, 2014
Discount First Note FN218 Firstnote Cluster Bell
My son is disabled and sometimes it is difficult to hear him when he needs something...the bells are easy for him to use and for me to hear. The big plus to this is the fact that he enjoys 'ringing' them and knowing I can hear them!I purchased a set of these for my son that is disabled. He has a cochlear implant and can hear for the first time! and he loves to take it and shake it. And luckily it is not an annoying sound for me to hear all day! I really suggest buying this. It is pretty sturdy so I can picture it lasting for a LONG time!
Monday, July 14, 2014
Review of Read With Me - Giraffes Can't Dance
I got this for my 6 year old nephew who was adopted from Africa. He is learning English and this is a really sweet story that happens to resonate with him particularly. He is often shy and tentative in his almost all white school and with shaky English skills. This story about a clumsy Giraffe that finds his own music to dance to is so inspiring and hopeful. My feminist sister says it would be good for any kid that feels a little bit different, and for 'normal' kids to look for 'different' kids' special talents. I like the animation which is really good, especially for a children's product. It was a crowd pleasure for everyone and it's broken into managable segments so you can play for as little as 10 minutes or as much as 2 hours. There is a fun play along dance game that brought all of us to our feet after Thanksgiving dinner. We danced for over half an hour kids and adults!
I gave it a 3 for durability because it is a cd which, by nature, are NOT durable. Definitely don't recommend you allowing your small child to handle them as gooey kid prints & scratches will affect the playback.
Click Here For Most Helpful Customer Reviews >>
All of the stories offered with the Read with Me player are all great classics. This one was a new one for us, and Cameron enjoyed it. I think my son really enjoyed this story. Someone also gave him the hard back book for his birthday, and he loves this one. I think any read with me dvd offered it a great one. They are either new or timeless classics and they can learn to read, follow along while they listen or play the games relating to the story after. It makes learning fun. Buy all of them, we own them all. Great concept and I hope they offer more in the future. I think they just needed to market it better during the year before the holidays....awesome learning toy.Best Deals for Read With Me - Giraffes Can't Dance
My kids love it! It is a great teach tool as well as fun entertainment for young kids to use.Honest reviews on Read With Me - Giraffes Can't Dance
Daughter got the console & 4 books from Santa Christmas... we love them all & she's happily reading even over Christmas break when not required!I gave it a 3 for durability because it is a cd which, by nature, are NOT durable. Definitely don't recommend you allowing your small child to handle them as gooey kid prints & scratches will affect the playback.
Friday, July 4, 2014
Hoppop Atto Ride On Reviews
I spent hours researching what to buy for my one-year-old daughter's first riding/pushing toy. I came across this one rather accidentally in a store and couldn't find any reviews online, but I bought it anyway because it was a good price and I liked the simplicity. Now, I love it. And baby girl giggles when she spots it across the room and races toward it.
Pros:
+ It's simple no batteries required. No annoying songs or sounds.
+ It's attractive mostly white with lime, dark blue, or dark pink.
+ The front wheels turn so it doesn't always go in a straight line not always the case with riding toys.
+ No paper or stickers she can chew off or that will dissolve in the rain if it's left outside.
+ Seems sturdy rated to 44 lbs. but I put all my weight (135) on it and it didn't seem to creak or bend.
+ Narrow between the wheels baby can walk while straddling it or sit on the seat and ride.
+ My kid, for one, is in LOVE with it.
+ Inexpensive, as riding toys go.
Cons:
Very lightweight baby girl, who is not yet walking, can't get on unless someone is stabilizing it.
Wheel base is narrow again, someone has to hold her while she walks/rides it or she's likely to fall over sideways (also a result of its weight).
No long handle for parent to use to stabilize I bend over to hold it while she rides. My back is killing me, but baby girl loves every second.
Reviews on other websites said the handlebars were too far away from the seat for their kids, but it's just right for mine (she's 31" tall at 12 months).
If this one breaks or is stolen or otherwise compromised, I'll be buying another one the same day.
Pros:
+ It's simple no batteries required. No annoying songs or sounds.
+ It's attractive mostly white with lime, dark blue, or dark pink.
+ The front wheels turn so it doesn't always go in a straight line not always the case with riding toys.
+ No paper or stickers she can chew off or that will dissolve in the rain if it's left outside.
+ Seems sturdy rated to 44 lbs. but I put all my weight (135) on it and it didn't seem to creak or bend.
+ Narrow between the wheels baby can walk while straddling it or sit on the seat and ride.
+ My kid, for one, is in LOVE with it.
+ Inexpensive, as riding toys go.
Cons:
Very lightweight baby girl, who is not yet walking, can't get on unless someone is stabilizing it.
Wheel base is narrow again, someone has to hold her while she walks/rides it or she's likely to fall over sideways (also a result of its weight).
No long handle for parent to use to stabilize I bend over to hold it while she rides. My back is killing me, but baby girl loves every second.
Reviews on other websites said the handlebars were too far away from the seat for their kids, but it's just right for mine (she's 31" tall at 12 months).
If this one breaks or is stolen or otherwise compromised, I'll be buying another one the same day.
Click Here For Most Helpful Customer Reviews >>
I bought this toy based mostly on the way it looks--It's a lot more stylish than your average ride-on. My two-and-a-half year old loves it and rides it around the house constantly. I got this toy for him when he was 18 months old and he's always liked it, but it's really only in the past few months that it has become a hands-down favorite. It's nice that it is lightweight, so he can carry it around the house himself. The only downside is that the seat is too far away from the handlebars (he just sits on the white bar in the middle). But all-in-all, I'm very satisfied with this toy and would recommend it to others.Best Deals for Hoppop Atto Ride On
My 18 month old loved it from the minute it came out of the box. And it's sturdy enough for her 3 year old big sister to play with too!Thursday, June 12, 2014
Children's Factory Infant Toddler Play Yard Review
I've worked in a nursery in a child development center for over 10 years and this product has been one of the most useful products we've ever had. It is great for children when they start to crawl and move around. It is 100% safe and we use it all of the time so that they have a safe place to crawl, roll, stand, and of course fall. Everyone with small children on the move should have one.
Thursday, May 22, 2014
Cheap LeapFrog LeapPad2 Disney/Pixar Monsters University Varsity Edition
Customer review from the Amazon Vine Program With an iPad at home, it's often frustrating for everyone to share it the kids want to play games on it, I want to get work done on it, and no matter how hard we try, invariably someone ends up getting upset. The LeapPad2 is a good starter tablet for younger kids to play with instead of your electronics. The apps on here are geared towards kids and educational, the unit is bright and appealing to play with, and for the most part it keeps our kids happily busy.
THE TABLET ITSELF With a 5" screen that's larger than my iPhone 5, but smaller than some Samsung cell phones, the screen is a good size for kids to explore and play on. The display is bright, the sound is very clear on the unit, and the chunky feel of the unit makes it great for younger kids. The plastic is durable and will definitely survive a drop. Things I really like about the tablet itself is that the stylus is tied to the unit, so there's less chance of it getting lost, and that the battery accesses are not screwed down. I hate having to find a screwdriver to open the battery case! The stylus doesn't always stay in the stylus holder as it's held in magnetically, but since it's tied to the unit, it all good. The touchscreen of the LeapPad is also very responsive. Added bonus there is a motion detector in the unit, so it does respond via movement like some iPad/iPhone games.
CAMERA The resolution of the camera isn't great, but it keeps my kids happy. With a camera on the front of the unit, and on the back of the unit, it works similarly to an iPhone. The resolution is far from printable, nowhere near the resolution of my crappy old cell phone, but boy the kids LOVE this thing. I have to note that the camera lenses are kept fairly safe as they are "sunk into" the unit, unlike your standard iPhone or iPad camera.
APPS This unit does comes with 10 apps, but this doesn't mean that it comes with 10 apps that your kids will play with. The apps include Pet Pad, Camera, MyStuff, My Books, Music, Calculator, Calendar, Clock, Notepad, and one app of your choice. This is where things irritate me about the LeapPad. There's only 2 apps your kids will be able to play with off the bat. The remaining apps are stuff that your kids probably won't play with. To add insult to injury, most of the good apps in the app store are $20+ EACH. I did find a few $5 apps, I had to seriously search for them. That said, the gift card you have will probably not go very far. This is where the iPad seriously beats out the LeapPad. I've downloaded a good number of educational games for my kids on the iPad that cost $0.99 or are free. You'd think LeapFrog would offer a few cheaper options.
-Pet Pad: Great game for the kids. It's like a Tamagochi that won't die on you. You can feed, clean, play, and learn with your pet. There is a writing game
included in the Pet Pad that helps kids learn how to write letters correctly. You can also "earn" treats for your pets.
-Camera: The kids LOVE this app. They can take videos or pictures. There's also picture editing software, so kids can add stickers/draw on/manipulate photos.
-MyStuff: This is a folder based app that has links for your pictures, videos, stories, and art. There's no play involved here.
-My Books: If you haven't paid for any books, you won't have anything in here. Unfortunately this LeapPad comes with ZERO books. You'll have to pay for them.
-Music: If you haven't paid for any music, you'll have 4 silly songs included here only. You'll have to pay $5 to download the MP3 player if you want to load
any of your kid's MP3 collection on there.
-Calculator: Works like a calculator. Nothing too special here.
-Calendar: It's a calendar. If you click on a date, it will tell you the date. You can also enter a note on a date. It would make a good diary for kids,
however, my kids don't use it much.
-Clock: This features a digital and analog clock face. It's impossible to tell the time to minute on the analog clock face as there are no minute marks.
There's also a stopwatch button, if your kid wants to time someone.
-Notepad: This is a digital Post-It Note. My kids like to pretend they're writing letters here.
-App of Your Choice: You get to pick one out of 3 apps LeapFrog chooses for you. These are 3 generic apps none of the Disney/Dreamworks/etc apps that your
kids really want.
There is also a "Sneak Preview" app that is a running commercial for your kids to want more apps. I wish I could delete this off the LeapPad. NOTE: I was able to get 2 free apps Alphabet Stew and the eBook "The Book of Super Awesome Stuff" by googling "Free LeapPad2 Apps". You can enter these codes from your parent control panel on your computer and get them downloaded to the LeapPad.
The Book of Super Awesome Stuff (e-book): 5813 1140 1518 1413
Alphabet Stew (game): 5813 0790 4610 4973
POWER SUPPLY This thing runs on 4AA batteries. This doesn't seem like a lot of batteries, but if you have a kid who plays a LOT, you'll be plowing through a lot of batteries. The batteries last anywhere between 7-9 hours according to LeapFrog. There is a port where you can plug in AC 9V power, but unfortunately this package does not come with the charger unit. I lucked out because I have a Bose charger (for the SoundLink Mini) that just happens to fit into the LeapPad. Check your other electronics in the house you just might luck out. If given the choice, I would thrown down the LeapPad2 Power (priced at $99) to get the rechargeable batteries and power supplies.
THE MONSTERS INC. ADD ONS The Mike Gel case fits beautifully on the LeapPad, and has a nice smooth matte feel about it. It doesn't seem to attract much dirt to it either, and has managed to stay clean for the past week. It's very soft and is easily applied, although I do wonder about the long term use of this case. The screen cleaner is a thin piece of cloth...my kids have already lost it. The stickers are nice, but not really necessary. I would have rather seen a battery charger instead of these silly stickers. The add on bonuses for the Monster Inc. pack were nice, but for almost $30 more, I would pass on these add ons unless your kids are really into the movie.
While it's a great toy overall, unless your kid is really into Monsters Inc, it may be a better deal buy to get the original LeapPad2. The only real differences between this unit and the original LeapPad is the case cover, which is blue and features some of the Monsters Inc characters, the gel skin that's shaped like Mike, the stickers, and the $20 gift card. Since I already own an iPad, I can safely say that in the long run that the iPad with a good protective case would be a more logical choice to get your kids. While the price tag is much higher initially, after buying a few apps, the LeapPad would cost just as much. Along with the lack of WiFi, web surfing capabilities, and more advanced apps, it's only a matter of time before we shelf the LeapPad and go back to fighting over the iPad with the kids. Recommended up until about age 6 or 7...maybe. I'll let you know if the kids are still playing with it then.
The most important reason I love LeapPads is because of their educational apps. One of the amazing benefits to any of the LeapPads is the number of apps that come preinstalled. There are plenty of games to play enough to keep a child challenged for months. I see a lot of very small children playing with iPads and as an educator; I'm not sure what benefit they have. Obviously once children are in the upper elementary, iPads become valuable tools to use for education. But up until that point it seems like the educational adaptation is pretty hit or miss. The teenagers who have been in my house the past few years are crazy in love with their iPads but they are playing games.
I now regret all of my complaints about the lack of color involved in the Leap Pads. The green or pink and maybe a lavender cover made it difficult to tell which LeapPad was which. There will be no mistaking that this one is mine. :D. Actually, when the children are playing, they have 15 minutes on one device and then they all switch because not all of our LeapPads have the same content. Then they go out to play because it is still summer here and beautiful. But now it is easier to make sure they have switched LeapPads because they are not all green.
The only complaint I have left is the inability to download purchased apps onto more than one LeapPad. The LeapPad Ultra did allow me to connect and download apps I had purchased previously.
I did have some runarounds with this particular LeapPad. I have an account with a huge number of LeapFrog products attached to it and sometimes they are easy to connect and sometimes not. This one kept telling me it needed an update and then that it already had it, then that it didn't, then that I needed to restart my computer.... Not one of my favorite games. Then I discovered that the update wasn't downloading because before the needed 5 minutes, the LeapPad2 was turning off because it wasn't in use. I just kept doing what it wanted until it downloaded it. In the past, I have bought as many as 6 of a single kind of LeapFrog hand held device and some of them update and some of them play the Update game. It's always interesting to see which will do what.
Another thing that is interesting about what is probably a new lineup for holiday sales is that this one is not much more than the regular LeapPad 2s have been until recently (usually $99). This Monsters U version adds a lot of parts to it and comes with a $20 digital download card.
If you are a first time buyer, you may be interested in buying an LeapFrog App Center Download Card (works with all LeapPad Tablets, LeapsterGS, Leapster Explorer and LeapReader). These fluctuate in price so I leave them in my cart and generally buy them whenever they go below the $16 mark. I've heard other people say they don't buy until it goes below $12 but I have never seen that price.
Another lifesaver is the LeapFrog AC Adapter (Works with LeapPad2, LeapPad1, LeapsterGS Explorer, Leapster Explorer and Leapster2) that works for many of the devices including the LeapPad2s
I had never seen the LeapFrog LeapPad2 Recharger Pack (Works only with LeapPad2) for the LeapPad 2 but this is a necessity. My rechargables never seem to last very long and the LeapPads always end up with regular batteries in them. This is one of the ways that the shut-off is so wonderful. I have also seen that there is a new LeapFrog LeapPad2 Power Learning Tablet Green (includes rechargeable battery $40 value). These are great options. I plan to add one of theRecharger packs in short order and will probably get rechargers for all the children who have LeapPads as a stocking stuffer. They get really excited about batteries.
Yes, I admit it. I love LeapPads.
The only downfall is that it doesn't have a rechargable internal battery. It requires 4 AA batteries, but they do seem to last quite a while, I haven't had to replace them yet, after 2 weeks of almost non-stop play time throughout the day. The students also love the camera capability. They have enjoyed taking "selfies" and also photographing their classmates. The picture quality isn't very good, but it is good enough for the kids..they seem to love it. Overall, this is a a great product for a great price. I think every special education classroom should have access to a LeapPad2.
The games and apps are great-they are age appropriate for 4-7 year olds. They are fun to play, and my 4 year old loves to play them. A lot of the games focus on learning letters and numbers. You can also choose to download more apps that focus on other educational topics depending on age and education level.
The tablet itself is SUPER easy to set up and has the ability to set up 3 different profiles, so you can share this with multiple kiddos. It's thicker than tablets for adults, so it's nice a sturdy and easy for small hands to hold. The touch screen is very responsive whether you use the stylis or not. The stylis also is connected (via a small string) to the tablet itself so you don't lose it).
The reason I gave it 4 stars instead of 5 stars is b/c it DOES NOT HAVE A BUILT IN BATTERY-it takes 4 AA batteries that are NOT INCLUDED in the bundle. It's just a bit annoying b/c it seems like something that would be easy for them to put in there, b/c lets face it, the last thing parents need is yet another toy that needs more batteries.
Overall, this a great toy, I would recommend this to anyone who is looking for an educational toy for a young kid (about 4-5 is the youngest I'd go with this b/c of the games).
LEAPPAD APPS
One of the nicest things about this set is the included gift card for apps. While it's not going to get you many--it can buy two in the normal price-range--it's helpful in getting you started since there aren't many built-in apps--and it's more open-ended than the fact that you typically have a choice of one in three free apps. You'll also get that free downloadable app from a choice of three, as is typical for LeapPad purchases. The ones I was offered to choose from (I'm not sure if this will vary) were: Scout and Friends and You, Solar Taxi, and Squirrel Summertime Games. Note: From my experience, the free app can only be installed on the ONE new LeapPad, so make sure whatever game you choose is one only the child who uses this device wants, as it cannot be shared with other household members. (Purchased apps can be on more than one device, though, and that includes the ones you pick out with the app card.)
Speaking of which, be sure to look around for the app card! I thought it would be in the front, where it looks like there's a cardboard sleeve for it. Instead, it's packaged behind the LeapPad unit.
Here's a bit about the apps that are included:
Art Studio App--This is like a little Paint program. Unfortunately, this is the app where it's most noticeable that there's a response delay with the stylus. Drawing needs to be done somewhat slowly.
Camera--This is a toy-quality camera and video recorder. It can take photos from the front or back.
Cartoon Director App--Kids can make mini-movies, and can use photos of faces to personalize the characters. Motions are limited and the movies are mostly narrative, but it's still a great way to exercise creativity.
Learning Songs--A few LeapPad educational songs.
Pet Pad--This app helps teach kids how to write letters with the help of a personalized pet. Letters correspond with pet tricks. There are also activities, including bathing, feeding, and making the pet "fly" to collect balloons by shooting it in a slingshot.
Photo Lab--Photos can be manipulated and edited.
Utility Apps--There are also some new included apps that don't appear on earlier versions of the LeapPad2. Those are:
* Calculator that can accommodate eight digits. It adds, divides, multiplies, and subtracts.
* Calendar that has "stickers" for marking important dates, and will also allow for "typing" in notes that get added to it as sticky notes.
* Clock/stopwatch, with analog and digital readouts, along with a count-up stopwatch option.
* Note pad, where short notes can be "typed" onto a sticky note. I'm more impressed with this app than the one on LeapPad Ultra, where they forgot an apostrophe key!
ACCESSORIES
The Mike-themed gel skin is really cute, and so different from the typical ones you can buy. He's even wearing his retainer, and the top is complete with horns. I like this gel skin better than the other official LeapPad ones. It's more pliable plastic, making battery changes easier. I have a difficult time changing the batteries on a LeapPad2 with a less pliable blue gel skin. This gel skin also has a bit more of a texture to it (it's not shiny-smooth).
The seven wallpapers are on the LeapPad (built-in backgrounds), so they're not to decorate the physical LeapPad unit, but there are also two sheets of stickers that can be put on the outside of the LeapPad or (in my opinion!) used on something else. The "frame" around the LeapPad2 is already decorated with a Monsters University theme, including Mike on the left and Sulley on the right.
The cleaning cloth is really basic, but it works well. It features Sulley in the center, along with the words: "Big Monster on Campus." The edging is "pinked" (pinking shears/zig-zagged).
Although this is more expensive, overall, than a basic LeapPad2, the few extras--the cleaning cloth, gel skin, and $20 app card--definitely make it worth a look to anyone considering a LeapPad2. (Although the two sheets of stickers are nice, too, they're not something I would personally want put on the LeapPad.) The blue and lime green colors in the theme are eye-catching and fun! As with any LeapPad product, though, I would recommend this set only if you're willing to spend more to add additional apps.
THE TABLET ITSELF With a 5" screen that's larger than my iPhone 5, but smaller than some Samsung cell phones, the screen is a good size for kids to explore and play on. The display is bright, the sound is very clear on the unit, and the chunky feel of the unit makes it great for younger kids. The plastic is durable and will definitely survive a drop. Things I really like about the tablet itself is that the stylus is tied to the unit, so there's less chance of it getting lost, and that the battery accesses are not screwed down. I hate having to find a screwdriver to open the battery case! The stylus doesn't always stay in the stylus holder as it's held in magnetically, but since it's tied to the unit, it all good. The touchscreen of the LeapPad is also very responsive. Added bonus there is a motion detector in the unit, so it does respond via movement like some iPad/iPhone games.
CAMERA The resolution of the camera isn't great, but it keeps my kids happy. With a camera on the front of the unit, and on the back of the unit, it works similarly to an iPhone. The resolution is far from printable, nowhere near the resolution of my crappy old cell phone, but boy the kids LOVE this thing. I have to note that the camera lenses are kept fairly safe as they are "sunk into" the unit, unlike your standard iPhone or iPad camera.
APPS This unit does comes with 10 apps, but this doesn't mean that it comes with 10 apps that your kids will play with. The apps include Pet Pad, Camera, MyStuff, My Books, Music, Calculator, Calendar, Clock, Notepad, and one app of your choice. This is where things irritate me about the LeapPad. There's only 2 apps your kids will be able to play with off the bat. The remaining apps are stuff that your kids probably won't play with. To add insult to injury, most of the good apps in the app store are $20+ EACH. I did find a few $5 apps, I had to seriously search for them. That said, the gift card you have will probably not go very far. This is where the iPad seriously beats out the LeapPad. I've downloaded a good number of educational games for my kids on the iPad that cost $0.99 or are free. You'd think LeapFrog would offer a few cheaper options.
-Pet Pad: Great game for the kids. It's like a Tamagochi that won't die on you. You can feed, clean, play, and learn with your pet. There is a writing game
included in the Pet Pad that helps kids learn how to write letters correctly. You can also "earn" treats for your pets.
-Camera: The kids LOVE this app. They can take videos or pictures. There's also picture editing software, so kids can add stickers/draw on/manipulate photos.
-MyStuff: This is a folder based app that has links for your pictures, videos, stories, and art. There's no play involved here.
-My Books: If you haven't paid for any books, you won't have anything in here. Unfortunately this LeapPad comes with ZERO books. You'll have to pay for them.
-Music: If you haven't paid for any music, you'll have 4 silly songs included here only. You'll have to pay $5 to download the MP3 player if you want to load
any of your kid's MP3 collection on there.
-Calculator: Works like a calculator. Nothing too special here.
-Calendar: It's a calendar. If you click on a date, it will tell you the date. You can also enter a note on a date. It would make a good diary for kids,
however, my kids don't use it much.
-Clock: This features a digital and analog clock face. It's impossible to tell the time to minute on the analog clock face as there are no minute marks.
There's also a stopwatch button, if your kid wants to time someone.
-Notepad: This is a digital Post-It Note. My kids like to pretend they're writing letters here.
-App of Your Choice: You get to pick one out of 3 apps LeapFrog chooses for you. These are 3 generic apps none of the Disney/Dreamworks/etc apps that your
kids really want.
There is also a "Sneak Preview" app that is a running commercial for your kids to want more apps. I wish I could delete this off the LeapPad. NOTE: I was able to get 2 free apps Alphabet Stew and the eBook "The Book of Super Awesome Stuff" by googling "Free LeapPad2 Apps". You can enter these codes from your parent control panel on your computer and get them downloaded to the LeapPad.
The Book of Super Awesome Stuff (e-book): 5813 1140 1518 1413
Alphabet Stew (game): 5813 0790 4610 4973
POWER SUPPLY This thing runs on 4AA batteries. This doesn't seem like a lot of batteries, but if you have a kid who plays a LOT, you'll be plowing through a lot of batteries. The batteries last anywhere between 7-9 hours according to LeapFrog. There is a port where you can plug in AC 9V power, but unfortunately this package does not come with the charger unit. I lucked out because I have a Bose charger (for the SoundLink Mini) that just happens to fit into the LeapPad. Check your other electronics in the house you just might luck out. If given the choice, I would thrown down the LeapPad2 Power (priced at $99) to get the rechargeable batteries and power supplies.
THE MONSTERS INC. ADD ONS The Mike Gel case fits beautifully on the LeapPad, and has a nice smooth matte feel about it. It doesn't seem to attract much dirt to it either, and has managed to stay clean for the past week. It's very soft and is easily applied, although I do wonder about the long term use of this case. The screen cleaner is a thin piece of cloth...my kids have already lost it. The stickers are nice, but not really necessary. I would have rather seen a battery charger instead of these silly stickers. The add on bonuses for the Monster Inc. pack were nice, but for almost $30 more, I would pass on these add ons unless your kids are really into the movie.
While it's a great toy overall, unless your kid is really into Monsters Inc, it may be a better deal buy to get the original LeapPad2. The only real differences between this unit and the original LeapPad is the case cover, which is blue and features some of the Monsters Inc characters, the gel skin that's shaped like Mike, the stickers, and the $20 gift card. Since I already own an iPad, I can safely say that in the long run that the iPad with a good protective case would be a more logical choice to get your kids. While the price tag is much higher initially, after buying a few apps, the LeapPad would cost just as much. Along with the lack of WiFi, web surfing capabilities, and more advanced apps, it's only a matter of time before we shelf the LeapPad and go back to fighting over the iPad with the kids. Recommended up until about age 6 or 7...maybe. I'll let you know if the kids are still playing with it then.
Click Here For Most Helpful Customer Reviews >>
Customer review from the Amazon Vine Program This LeapPad2 is just amazing. The Monsters theme is really appealing to children (and adults). I especially like that the case has textures, which makes it much easier to hold on to.The most important reason I love LeapPads is because of their educational apps. One of the amazing benefits to any of the LeapPads is the number of apps that come preinstalled. There are plenty of games to play enough to keep a child challenged for months. I see a lot of very small children playing with iPads and as an educator; I'm not sure what benefit they have. Obviously once children are in the upper elementary, iPads become valuable tools to use for education. But up until that point it seems like the educational adaptation is pretty hit or miss. The teenagers who have been in my house the past few years are crazy in love with their iPads but they are playing games.
I now regret all of my complaints about the lack of color involved in the Leap Pads. The green or pink and maybe a lavender cover made it difficult to tell which LeapPad was which. There will be no mistaking that this one is mine. :D. Actually, when the children are playing, they have 15 minutes on one device and then they all switch because not all of our LeapPads have the same content. Then they go out to play because it is still summer here and beautiful. But now it is easier to make sure they have switched LeapPads because they are not all green.
The only complaint I have left is the inability to download purchased apps onto more than one LeapPad. The LeapPad Ultra did allow me to connect and download apps I had purchased previously.
I did have some runarounds with this particular LeapPad. I have an account with a huge number of LeapFrog products attached to it and sometimes they are easy to connect and sometimes not. This one kept telling me it needed an update and then that it already had it, then that it didn't, then that I needed to restart my computer.... Not one of my favorite games. Then I discovered that the update wasn't downloading because before the needed 5 minutes, the LeapPad2 was turning off because it wasn't in use. I just kept doing what it wanted until it downloaded it. In the past, I have bought as many as 6 of a single kind of LeapFrog hand held device and some of them update and some of them play the Update game. It's always interesting to see which will do what.
Another thing that is interesting about what is probably a new lineup for holiday sales is that this one is not much more than the regular LeapPad 2s have been until recently (usually $99). This Monsters U version adds a lot of parts to it and comes with a $20 digital download card.
If you are a first time buyer, you may be interested in buying an LeapFrog App Center Download Card (works with all LeapPad Tablets, LeapsterGS, Leapster Explorer and LeapReader). These fluctuate in price so I leave them in my cart and generally buy them whenever they go below the $16 mark. I've heard other people say they don't buy until it goes below $12 but I have never seen that price.
Another lifesaver is the LeapFrog AC Adapter (Works with LeapPad2, LeapPad1, LeapsterGS Explorer, Leapster Explorer and Leapster2) that works for many of the devices including the LeapPad2s
I had never seen the LeapFrog LeapPad2 Recharger Pack (Works only with LeapPad2) for the LeapPad 2 but this is a necessity. My rechargables never seem to last very long and the LeapPads always end up with regular batteries in them. This is one of the ways that the shut-off is so wonderful. I have also seen that there is a new LeapFrog LeapPad2 Power Learning Tablet Green (includes rechargeable battery $40 value). These are great options. I plan to add one of theRecharger packs in short order and will probably get rechargers for all the children who have LeapPads as a stocking stuffer. They get really excited about batteries.
Yes, I admit it. I love LeapPads.
Best Deals for LeapFrog LeapPad2 Disney/Pixar Monsters University Varsity Edition
Customer review from the Amazon Vine Program That's what the kiddos in my special education class have to say about the LeapPad 2 Monsters University Varsity Edition Bundle. The school year is off to a great start now that I have this fantastic device. It is used as a "free time" activity that has my students rushing to finish their school work quickly so they can be the first to use it. We also have an iPad in the class, but since this is the 'newest" and most colorful game we have all the kids want to play it. Now, you must remember that I am talking high school aged students with disabilities here. It is an excellent educational tool that teaches and reinforces basic skills. The apps are a little on the spendy side, but I am always willing to spring for activities that help my kids.The only downfall is that it doesn't have a rechargable internal battery. It requires 4 AA batteries, but they do seem to last quite a while, I haven't had to replace them yet, after 2 weeks of almost non-stop play time throughout the day. The students also love the camera capability. They have enjoyed taking "selfies" and also photographing their classmates. The picture quality isn't very good, but it is good enough for the kids..they seem to love it. Overall, this is a a great product for a great price. I think every special education classroom should have access to a LeapPad2.
Honest reviews on LeapFrog LeapPad2 Disney/Pixar Monsters University Varsity Edition
Customer review from the Amazon Vine Program I really love Leap Frog toys and this is another great one! The bundle is great! It includes a rubberized cover, graphics on the tablet itself, stickers, a screen cleaning cloth, and a $20 download credit. It also comes with 8 preloaded apps and one game choice for free. The $20 download card will get you only 1 or 2 additional games b/c of the pricing on the leapfrog webpage.The games and apps are great-they are age appropriate for 4-7 year olds. They are fun to play, and my 4 year old loves to play them. A lot of the games focus on learning letters and numbers. You can also choose to download more apps that focus on other educational topics depending on age and education level.
The tablet itself is SUPER easy to set up and has the ability to set up 3 different profiles, so you can share this with multiple kiddos. It's thicker than tablets for adults, so it's nice a sturdy and easy for small hands to hold. The touch screen is very responsive whether you use the stylis or not. The stylis also is connected (via a small string) to the tablet itself so you don't lose it).
The reason I gave it 4 stars instead of 5 stars is b/c it DOES NOT HAVE A BUILT IN BATTERY-it takes 4 AA batteries that are NOT INCLUDED in the bundle. It's just a bit annoying b/c it seems like something that would be easy for them to put in there, b/c lets face it, the last thing parents need is yet another toy that needs more batteries.
Overall, this a great toy, I would recommend this to anyone who is looking for an educational toy for a young kid (about 4-5 is the youngest I'd go with this b/c of the games).
Find helpful customer reviews and review ratings for LeapFrog LeapPad2 Disney/Pixar Monsters University Varsity Edition
Customer review from the Amazon Vine Program This set is just too cute! There are a lot of details included with the extra accessories. I'll talk about the basic apps first, and then move on to the accessories. If you already know about LeapPads (especially apps) and just want to know about the extras, feel free to skip the first section!LEAPPAD APPS
One of the nicest things about this set is the included gift card for apps. While it's not going to get you many--it can buy two in the normal price-range--it's helpful in getting you started since there aren't many built-in apps--and it's more open-ended than the fact that you typically have a choice of one in three free apps. You'll also get that free downloadable app from a choice of three, as is typical for LeapPad purchases. The ones I was offered to choose from (I'm not sure if this will vary) were: Scout and Friends and You, Solar Taxi, and Squirrel Summertime Games. Note: From my experience, the free app can only be installed on the ONE new LeapPad, so make sure whatever game you choose is one only the child who uses this device wants, as it cannot be shared with other household members. (Purchased apps can be on more than one device, though, and that includes the ones you pick out with the app card.)
Speaking of which, be sure to look around for the app card! I thought it would be in the front, where it looks like there's a cardboard sleeve for it. Instead, it's packaged behind the LeapPad unit.
Here's a bit about the apps that are included:
Art Studio App--This is like a little Paint program. Unfortunately, this is the app where it's most noticeable that there's a response delay with the stylus. Drawing needs to be done somewhat slowly.
Camera--This is a toy-quality camera and video recorder. It can take photos from the front or back.
Cartoon Director App--Kids can make mini-movies, and can use photos of faces to personalize the characters. Motions are limited and the movies are mostly narrative, but it's still a great way to exercise creativity.
Learning Songs--A few LeapPad educational songs.
Pet Pad--This app helps teach kids how to write letters with the help of a personalized pet. Letters correspond with pet tricks. There are also activities, including bathing, feeding, and making the pet "fly" to collect balloons by shooting it in a slingshot.
Photo Lab--Photos can be manipulated and edited.
Utility Apps--There are also some new included apps that don't appear on earlier versions of the LeapPad2. Those are:
* Calculator that can accommodate eight digits. It adds, divides, multiplies, and subtracts.
* Calendar that has "stickers" for marking important dates, and will also allow for "typing" in notes that get added to it as sticky notes.
* Clock/stopwatch, with analog and digital readouts, along with a count-up stopwatch option.
* Note pad, where short notes can be "typed" onto a sticky note. I'm more impressed with this app than the one on LeapPad Ultra, where they forgot an apostrophe key!
ACCESSORIES
The Mike-themed gel skin is really cute, and so different from the typical ones you can buy. He's even wearing his retainer, and the top is complete with horns. I like this gel skin better than the other official LeapPad ones. It's more pliable plastic, making battery changes easier. I have a difficult time changing the batteries on a LeapPad2 with a less pliable blue gel skin. This gel skin also has a bit more of a texture to it (it's not shiny-smooth).
The seven wallpapers are on the LeapPad (built-in backgrounds), so they're not to decorate the physical LeapPad unit, but there are also two sheets of stickers that can be put on the outside of the LeapPad or (in my opinion!) used on something else. The "frame" around the LeapPad2 is already decorated with a Monsters University theme, including Mike on the left and Sulley on the right.
The cleaning cloth is really basic, but it works well. It features Sulley in the center, along with the words: "Big Monster on Campus." The edging is "pinked" (pinking shears/zig-zagged).
Although this is more expensive, overall, than a basic LeapPad2, the few extras--the cleaning cloth, gel skin, and $20 app card--definitely make it worth a look to anyone considering a LeapPad2. (Although the two sheets of stickers are nice, too, they're not something I would personally want put on the LeapPad.) The blue and lime green colors in the theme are eye-catching and fun! As with any LeapPad product, though, I would recommend this set only if you're willing to spend more to add additional apps.
Wednesday, May 14, 2014
Best Abstract Categories Flashcards Deals
As a teacher of children with autism and as a parent of a child with autism, I am always on the lookout for simple yet user-friendly products! These language development cards are simple enough to use one-to-one with your child or with a group of children in a language setting. They make "on the spot" language activities a snap!
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