The Leapfrog Tag Reader from interactive learning toy company, Leapfrog is the latest in their range of interactive learning toys for kids.
Designed as a replacement for the highly successful Leappad reading system, the Leapfrog Tag system is more streamlined and internet savvy.
While the Leap Pad required readers to place their book into a plastic reading system in order for the attached pen to “read” the book out loud, the Tag system has all of its technology in a large-sized pen that children use to point to words and images in order for the device to speak out loud.
It is a much more versatile set up and allows children to roam easily with the reader to share their excitement; “Hey Dad, look what I can do!”. The Tag also has a volume control and earplug socket right on the pen, something the leap pad lacked in it basic format.
The system comes in two colors, green and pink, and books are available in a number of age levels and tastes. For those with a classical education in mind, Dr Seuss’ Cat In The Hat and Olivia by Ian Falconer would be favourites. Entertainment savvy kids will be drawn to the movie/TV related titles (like Spider-Man, Ben 10, Star Wars and Dora) but rest assured all titles have passed Leap Frog’s standard which tend to be pretty high.
In late 2009 a new Tag Reading System was released that allowed storage of 10 books (rather than 5) and was accompanied by the book The Cat In The Hat by Dr Seuss.
I mentioned internet savvy in my opening statement and it’s important to know that you will need to have access to the internet in order to download the audio component of any purchased book. The great thing about that is there are no cartridges to lose, a potential flaw of the previous system.
Another benefit of the internet access component is that Leap Frog have set up what they call the Learning Path, which lets parents to upload their child’s progress and monitor the fundamental educational skills being learned while the child reads and plays.
I won’t go into too much detail about the whole thing works because it fairy complex technology but it is safe to say that it’s a great asset for a child’s learning and though never a substitute for a balanced educational program, provides a reliable way for them to interact with books at or above their reading level.
If you still have doubts take a look at the awards it has received so far:
- 2009 - Toy Industry Association, Educational Toy of the Year
- 2008 - iParenting Media, Outstanding Products Award
- 2008 - National Parenting Media, Gold Award
- 2008 - Parents Magazine, Best Toys of the Year Award
- 2008 - The National Parenting Center, Seal of Approval
More about the Leapfrog Tag Reading System:
You can find some of the best deals for the Tag Reading system on ebay. The items below are newly listed Buy It Now auctions so don't wait too long to grab a great deal if you see one!
UPDATE: In late 2009 a new Tag Reading System was released that allowed storage of 10 books (rather than 5) and was accompanied by the book The Cat In The Hat by Dr Seuss.
