We LOVE LeapFrog
As a mom who is picky about the toys and electronics I put in front of my kids, I have been a huge fan of LeapFrog since Jenny was about 3 years old. That year was “the year of LeapFrog” at our house.
- Jenny got a TAG pen and lots of TAG books for her birthday.
- She got a ClickStart computer and game cartridges for Christmas.
- And that’s the year we started building our collection of LeapFrog DVDs {after we wore out the ones from the library}.
Last year, I was trying to find a “big” gift for Jenny for Christmas, and I came across the LeapPad. I almost bought it on the spot. But then, I started considering the cost and the fact that Jenny didn’t really need any electronics, and I {reluctantly} talked myself out of the purchase.
So it was no surprise that when LeapFrog contacted me a few weeks ago and asked if I wanted to test out the brand new {not even released yet at the time of my acquiring it} LeapsterGS, I was quick to say “yes!”
The LeapsterGS from LeapFrog
After prying the package away from the kids {who were both incredibly excited about their new toy}, I spent a bit of time checking the LeapsterGS out in order to give it a proper review.
The Positives:
- personal profiles w/ picture {up to 3 plus an additional guest option} – this is great because each of my kids can play the games using their individual profile and the device will tailor the learning to their skill level
- stylus storage – the stylus comes attached via a sturdy string and tucks away when not in use {no worries about losing it}
- headphone jack – perfect for using the LeapsterGS in quiet places {though you’ll have to provide your own headphones}
- verbal instructions for each game – great for non-readers and kids who are playing a game for the first time
- apps stored on device plus cartridges – not only can you download apps onto your LeapsterGS {it comes w/ 3 free apps}, but you can also use any Leapster Explorer cartridge {with the exception of LeapPad specific ones}
- the LeapsterGS comes in both green and pink – if we buy another, this will be helpful for easily deciphering which one belongs to which child
- perfect size for little hands – both David {almost 4} and Jenny {5.5} are able to hold the LeapsterGS and use all the buttons with no trouble
- still and video camera – my kids LOVE to take pictures and video, and the LeapsterGS is a great tool for them to use
The Negatives:
- cartridges are small – easy to lose {need to purchase a separate storage case}
- does not come with rechargeable batteries – we managed to last about a week before needing to reload the batteries {rechargeable battery pack is sold separately}
Overall, the LeapsterGS met and exceeded my expectations.
The Bottom Line
The kids are beyond thrilled with their new toy, and I’ve been amazed watching how quickly they’ve learned to use it and play the games on it. My favorite part of all is that they aren’t just rotting their brains with a video game, but each game {or app} is educational in nature. That’s the beauty of LeapFrog and the reason I’ll let my kids play with the LeapsterGS!
Do you have electronics in your house for your kids to use? What LeapFrog products do your kids love?
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Disclosure: I was provided with free product in exchange for my honest review on a consumer site. This post was not compensated in any way.
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