LeapFrog LeapPad Explorer Learning Tablet

The LeapFrog LeapPad Explorer Learning Tablet is a tablet device specifically designed for children aged 4 to 9 years. It comes with a built-in library of games and apps, and there are hundreds more sold separately. The games and apps range from simple fun to deeply educational, and there are educational apps in all subjects from science and math to reading, geography, and art. With the abundance of apps available, it is possible for parents to guide a child’s learning pace while fending off boredom.

On top of that, the LeapPad also comes with a built-in camera and video recorder, which are used for fun and educational purposes with many of the available apps. The 5-inch touch screen is modeled on the latest technologies from larger companies like Apple, and the two gigabytes of memory enable the device to contain numerous apps along with saved information. Now that we have the basics out of the way, let’s look at the pros and cons.

The good

One of the best things about the LeapFrog LeapPad is the fact that it’s built with kids in mind. Its makers understand that many children are not exactly gentle with their toys. Hence the durable construction of the LeapPad is an absolute necessity. Even after years of moderately rough treatment, the device is liable to continue working as well as on the day it came out of its package. The same of course cannot be said of many similar devices designed for adults.

Another great thing about the LeapPad is that it’s easy for kids to learn how to use. Sure, there may be moments when your child needs a little assistance when it comes to opening programs and navigating through the system. But all in all, it’s an incredibly simple device that is easy for anyone to use. And when you combine this fact with the bright colors, flashy design, and fun games, the LeapPad is the perfect device for keeping your child occupied and entertained. In fact, there may even be times when you struggle to get your child to stop using it when it’s time to do something else.

And perhaps more important, the LeapPad is a great learning tool. The company makes many claims about all the things the device can do, and there is good reason to be skeptical of some of these claims. But the fact of the matter is that the reading apps certainly do help children learn letters and words, and all the other apps help kids learn increasingly complex topics at a logical pace.

The not so good

There are very few problems inherent to the device itself. Some reviewers have complained that the LeapPad is a little slow, especially when loading apps and games. This can be troublesome when you have an inpatient child on your hands, but for the most part it’s not a big deal. Though there may be moments where it feels like you’re waiting several seconds for something to load, that by no means outweighs all the great features of the device. Another frequent complain is that the device burns through batteries pretty quickly, but this isn’t a big deal if you use rechargeable batteries.

Finally, many people who have used the LeapPad complain about the shortage of games and apps that are preloaded upon purchase of the device. This means that you end up having to pay additional costs any time you want to introduce your child to a new app. The apps are relatively cheap, but many parents object to this on principle, especially given the fact that the device itself is over $200. But if the price is not a huge concern, then the LeapPad is a great investment. Kids love it, and it makes learning fun.