Editorial Review

Designed for children in preschool through second grade, and easily portable, the Leapster multimedia learning system offers educational games, reading exercises, art tools, and interactive videos in one electronic device. Atop an ergonomic silver body sits a 4-inch, 12-bit color backlit display protected by a blue rubber shield. Slide a Leapster cartridge into the slot, and learn letters, sounds, colors, shapes, numbers, and more, using the touch-screen stylus and multi-directional control pad. This unit comes with a bonus cartridge of six learning games; other Leapster cartridges are sold separately. Control knobs let you adjust volume and brightness; there's also a stereo headphone jack. Required are four AA batteries, not included. --Andy Boynton ... Read more

Reviews (475)

The best toy of all time
My parents gave this to my four-year-old for christmas with five games.She hasn't stopped playing with it yet and it's mid-May!We're going on a trip to Scotland this summer, so I bought her two more games to play on the plane.That should keep her going for the entire 8 hr. flight.She just loves it so much she plays it non stop.As for the battery life, I have only changed the batteries twice in all this time.I think it does really well for batteries.This is by far the best toy she owns because she's having fun and learning at the same time.It's like a cross between game boy advance and an educational computer game.Buy this toy.It's worth it.

BEST ITEMIN STORES TODAY
I purchased this item for my son at Christmas, and he has played with it everyday since. My son is 9 years old and has Autism and he loves this item.

PIECE OF JUNK!!!
I am so disappointed in Leapfrog!We purchased the pink leapster for my daughter for her birthday and it doesn't even work.I don't know how on earth this product made it past Leapfrog's quality assurance team... or should I say what quality assurance?

Leapfrog cannot even warranty their product because they don't carry the pink ones. All they can do is send a replacement one in a different color. That didn't work with my 4 year old that wanted pink and got one for her birthday. So, we are having to pay double the shipping to return the defective product and pay the shipping for the new one.

The most frustrating thing is that this isn't the first Leapfrog product we have had to return that was defective.We also had to return the letter magnets because they wouldn't recognize the correct letter.NOW THAT'S EDUCATIONAL.

We won't be purchasing any more Leapfrog products because their quality assurance is sub-par. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Learning    2. Electronic Learning Aids (ELA)    3. Electronic    4. Math    5. Alphabet    6. Preschool   

Editorial Review

LeapFrog is well known for their interactive learning toys and now they've paired with Disney for a princesses' tour of language and math. Cinderella and Belle will help guide your child through various learning activities, such as: letter hunt, spelling games, addition and subtraction games, and number find. Both Belle and Cinderella tell jokes, sing songs, and are generally encouraging with sweet and cheerful voices. If your child decides to stop playing and doesn't turn the laptop off, the princesses ask, "Would you like to play some more?" and if there is no answer, the computer shuts itself off. An LCD screen displays letters, numbers, and other pictures during all the activities. Moms and dads will be glad to note that there are two volumes and virtually no set-up. Requires 4 "AA" batteries (included). --Megan Sullivan ... Read more

Reviews (33)

This is a good learning toy
My daughter loves Disney Princesses and she wants to get on my computer sometimes but is still too young to do things herself,so I got her this and she loves it!! She has learned quite a few things from it also. It is very durable, I think you get your money's worth. It makes them feel so big!!

Great learning toy
I bought this laptop for my daughter's 3rd Birthday.I think she has used it everyday since then.It really helps her learn her letters.She knows just about all of them now, after using it for about 3 months.I like that it is teaching her but she is having fun at the same time.She really enjoys playing with it.She says she is going to check her email when she uses it.There is a volume control, which is good.It also seems very durable.I haven't had any problems with it so far.I would definately recommend this toy for any little girl.

Great Toy
I bought this based on reviews for my 2 year old and she loves it.It keeps her busy while I am on my computer and she is learning new things. It will be a little while till she is totally using this product but well worth the money - I recommend to all parents. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Learning    2. Electronic Learning Aids (ELA)    3. Electronic    4. Math    5. Alphabet    6. Preschool    7. Counting   

Reviews (344)

Wow! My daughter loves her ABC's!
My daughter received this as a gift when she was too young (24 months old) for it.I held it off to the side for 6 months & then finally decided to give it to her right before she started preschool.

She loves to sing her ABC's now.The Fridge Phonics set reinforces the letter she is learning in school.We bought her a carry case for the letters & fridge magnet.She will carry it around & change the letter whenever she's in the mood.

I think this is one of the best educational toys out there for the alphabet.It tells the child the name of the letter, the sound(s) it makes & a few words.

Great learning toy
We have had this on our fridge for about 5 weeks now and my grandson loves to play with it, he now says the sounds before the little machine tells you the sound.

It is made very sturdy as my grandson has already had the peices thrown all over the place and the little machine too and there is no sign of any hard play with it, it still looks brand new.

Great, and durable toy
My 3 kids all love this, they can sing along with it and change letters so keeps them entertained.
One of them threw it in a sink full of water and it still works even after non stop singing for days!! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Preschool    2. Learning    3. Electronic Learning Aids (ELA)    4. Electronic    5. Alphabet   

Editorial Review

Did you know that painted ladies (the butterflies, that is) taste with their feet and have 10,000 eyes? You and your kids will be fascinated by all you learn about these beautiful creatures with the Butterfly Garden from Insect Lore. The kit comes with a relatively easy-to-assemble observation chamber; supplies for feeding the butterflies (you provide only sugar and water); an informative booklet of clear instructions and butterfly facts; and a certificate for three to five free painted lady caterpillars. The metamorphosis from larva to butterfly takes about three weeks from when you receive the caterpillar larvae (which arrive in a small container with all the nutrients they need). Your children can watch the larvae increase dramatically in size, form chrysalides, and finally emerge into full-fledged painted ladies (it's suggested that they release the butterflies after a few days of observation). This would make a wonderfulactivity for families with kids of any age, but younger children will need help assembling the observationchamber and reading the instruction booklet. (Note: The manufacturer recommends that butterflies should not be set free in temperatures lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit.) --Rachel Radway ... Read more

Reviews (65)

DEAD BUGS
I purchased this for my 7 year old daughter for christmas. I was guarenteed 3 live larve.They are all dead and I can not get ahold of the company. I would rate this a big Zero

Butterfly Garden
My sister gave this to my 8 year old daughter for her birthday.I also have a 4 year old daughter.This is one of the best gifts my children have ever received!From the start, both of my children were enthralled with the metamorposis from caterpillar to butterfly.The bonus is that there is very little that is required of parents except to make sure the instructions are followed.The caterpillars come in a plastic container that has all the food they require to grow and change.Even though one of the chrysalides fell off the paper disc under the lid, it still was able to continue metamorphosis at the bottom of the butterfly observatory.We just released our three beautiful painted lady butterflies yesterday after three weeks of wonder and excitement.Luckily my daughter's birthday is in July so we could release our butterflies when the weather is warm and the flowers are in full bloom.I recommend that you keep your butterflies safe in their observation chamber for at least two days.Two butterflies emerged before the third one did and I was afraid they weren't eating the food I provided (sugar water).Not wanting the first two to starve, I had my daughters release all of them less than a day after the third butterfly emerged.That third butterfly didn't seem ready to fly off yet and stayed in the garden on a post unmoving for a long while. I watched it to make sure it was unharmed and breathed a sigh of relief when it finally flew off.I couldn't have asked for a more fun and educational gift!

Excellent
I purchased this for my daughter's 4th birthday. The caterpillars arrived on her birthday, which she loved even more. They are now in chrysalide form and she is so excited because she can see them grow and grow every day. This is an awesome toy and have reccomended it to everyone with and with out kids. I also bought a book called "From Caterpillar to Butterfly" and it describes the metaphorsis excellently to her. 2 thumbs up. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Activity    2. Learning    3. Science    4. Bugs    5. Butterflies   

Editorial Review

Outfitted in orange and purple, this electronic learning system for preschoolers plugs directly into a television, and at first take looks a lot like a video-game console. Insert any of Vtech's "Smartridges" into the unit for lessons on language, math, phonics, problem-solving, music, and more. Children can choose between two difficulty levels. Included are a large joystick, adjustable to right- and left-handed kids, and an Alphabet Park Adventure cartridge; other cartridges are sold separately. There's also a storage compartment on top that holds up to six cartridges. The system can run on either three C batteries or an AC adaptor; strangely, neither are included. --Andy Boynton ... Read more

Reviews (260)

Don't Buy This
This started out to be a wonderful toy for my 4 year old son.But after a month (and after I'd spent quite a bit of money on the cartridges) the problems started.The power goes on & off at will.When I called the V-tech 1-800 number they walk me through the re-set process which takes 2 minutes & is a pain the he heiney.And within a few days it happens again.What a pain...

vsmile a bit disappointing
I bought the vsmile thinking it looked cute and would be a great way for my child to learn.From the beginning, the controller had a loose part rattling around in it.After about two weeks the "enter" button kept getting stuck.I had to pay shipping to send it back, but it was replaced with a new one.I will be calling tommorrow to have the unit replaced.Often the power button would stay on and now after replacing batteries, the power won't even come on.A bit disappointed at this point because my child rarely got to play with it.

stopped working
I thought that this was a cool toy until it stopped working afer about 2 weeks. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Learning    2. Games    3. Electronic Learning Aids (ELA)    4. Electronic    5. Math    6. Alphabet    7. Preschool   

Reviews (5)

Worth every penny.
Bought this for my 3 year old daughter who gets a new toy just about every other day.As a result, she is really spoiled and will typically discard her old toys for the latest present.Not so with the Leappad.She loves it!It really is neat.The books that come with it are great -- one asks you questions, like your name, favorite food, favorite color, etc.; you talk into the microphone; and then it uses your responses throughout the story.The other book is about a frog (the Leapfrog?) and it has a story and games -- like rhyming games -- and helps out with your letters (something she is very into right now).She also has a PowerTouch system, and while she will tote that out from time to time to play a song from Blues Clues or Elmo, she never had much interest.I have a feeling this is something that she's not going to lose interest in or outgrow too quickly.A steal for $20!

leap frog microphone is AWESOME HERE!
This is a DEFINATE MUST HAVE!My kids LOVE the fact that they can hear their voices reading what is written.... I have bought like 3 additional microphone abled books. They are a BIG HIT in this house hold.We buy lots of leap frog products, and this one is my children's favorite.They could play and play and play.... I love the fact that they like this item so much!It is suppose to help with fluency and it does, my daughter absolutely loves reading and is doing wonderfully with this item.... To give you an idea what products we have from leap frog: My first leap pad, original leap pad, leap pad with microphone, and quantum, and the leap pad plus writing, turbo twist, spelling and a brain twist one, 2 leapsters which my kids love too! 40 some leap frog books......imagination desk, leap frog princess computer....This one is my families FAVORITE other than the leapster!Hope they come out with more microphone type books...A+++ leap frog! Keep up the AWESOME job!!!! :)

BEST TOY MONEY CAN BUY!
This is by far the BEST toy I purchased for my children this Christmas.I actually purchased it in exchange for the InteracTV that I was very disappointed in.Boy am I glad I did.All four of my children, ages 2, 3, 8, and 11, have fun playing with this Leap Pad. And I love that it will last them for years, and is also compatible with the Quantum books.
I bought my 11 year old his first Leap Pad when he was 5, and paid over $50 for it, but he used it for years.The Leapfrog company even sent me a new stylus when the original no longer worked. Unfortunately, after years of being banged around, our old leap pad now doesn't read cartridges, and I decided to purchase a new one.This particular Leap Pad with Microphone is worth every penny!When your child points to a red dot, it asks a question like, "What is your name?""What is your favorite food?""how old are you?", etc etc... and incorporates your child voice into the story.Easy enough for my 2 year old, but fun enough for even me!I'm so glad I returned the InteracTV and bought this instead.(Same price at my local Toys R Us!) ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Learning    2. Math    3. Reading    4. Electronic Learning Aids (ELA)    5. Electronic    6. Alphabet    7. Preschool    8. Counting   

Reviews (60)

Great, Wow, we love it!
This toy is worth it's weight in gold!

My daughter got it for her first birthday and she's in love.It doesn't stop there...
I run a family child care and no one can keep their hands off of this toy.I have kids from 12 months to almost 5 and they all get a kick out of this toy.
The smallest ones learn about animals and their sounds, the older ones love to make silly combinations with the animals.The music is cute and gets everyone shaking their bottoms.

Everyone with young kids would love this.

Good learning fun 4 the kiddies !
Both of my kids love this toy my 4yr old and my one year old play with it all the time it can give me a little time to get something done in the kitchen while my little ones play and learn at the same time the songs are cute and not too loud the only problem I have is that the one year old always pulls the magnets on to the floor and I have to pick them up but thats with all of the toys they have nothing new just one of moms jobs :). I will be getting this toy as a gift for other kids I know . Really cool toy!

Another leapfrog success
I bought the fridge farm magnetic animal set for my twins at 15 months. They loved it then and still love it now at 24 months. It teaches the animals, their sounds, and colors. And the big bonus is that "farmer Tad" plays several children's songs on his banjo about animals and farms with a country theme. I am a big proponent of learning through song - my boys now sometimes sing along to farmer tad's banjo, and they know all the animals, their sounds, and colors. Another great learning toy from leapfrog. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Learning    2. Alphabet    3. Talking    4. Electronic Learning Aids (ELA)    5. Electronic    6. Music   

Reviews (54)

Absolutely Wonderful Toy!
The whole family enjoys this toy! It took us a few minutes to get the sensitivity just right, but once we did, we loved it.My 2-year-old loves to dance and run around to make it play music.My 9-month old laughs as it plays music when she crawls around it.It even makes music when the cat approaches it!This is a great toy.I would highly recommend it!

We Love Musini
My 6yr & 15mo old both love the musini, as do my husband and I.The volume is loud enough and the machine has been tough enough to withstand being dropped by my 15mo old.There are a lot of different sounds and songs, especially with the extra cartridge.The only problem we have encountered is when it gets set at the highest sensitivity (10)it doesn't play but if I turn it down slightly it works perfectly.This has provided hours of entertainment for my family.

Never worked very well.
Maybe we were using this incorrectly, but it never seemed to work very well. Music stopped and started sporadically. Kind of a disappointment for [$$].

... Read more

Subjects:  1. Learning    2. Electronic Learning Aids (ELA)    3. Electronic    4. Music    5. Activity    6. Musical   

Editorial Review

LeapFrog's range of educational toys is exceptional, and this interactive flipbook really has that "wow" factor. In the box it looks like an innocent book, but once assembled it provides absolutely hours of entertainment with a preschool teaching focus. The book reads the text to the child, then its magic pen allows the child to touch the text and reread difficult words. Rather like a computer game, the pictures in the page also respond to touch. Each page has two to three games on it where the child has to answer questions on the text or the pictures. The child only needs to respond with the pen, so children as young as 3 can easily play all the games. LeapFrog has made sure that this two-sided book packs in all the elements of a balanced preschool curriculum. Numbers, phonics, prereading, and numeracy skills come alive through the activities. Both nonfiction and fiction text are included with a variety of musical activities. There is even a volume control on each page for weary parents on those long car journeys! Be prepared with four AA batteries (not included) and a small screwdriver. The instructions included are not specific, but the illustrations on the box are self-explanatory. Perfect for a rainy day or a long journey, My First LeapPad provides great value for the money, as your child will be entertained and educated for hours. --Jo Fitzgerald

My First LeapPad is a sturdy unit with an integral speaker and a magic pen, which reads the spiral flipbook included with the set. Other books and cartridges can be bought and used with the same unit. My First LeapPad flipbook consists of both an interactive story introducing the characters of Leap and his family, and (once you have flipped the book) a selection of interactive games pages which encourage learning of numbers, colors, shapes, and music making. A pleasant and encouraging voice reads the story, which is written on the page, or if just one word is touched, the voice says that one word, encouraging word recognition. In game mode, the voice asks the child to find a specific number, color, or object and gives praise when the child succeeds. The pad is easy to use, provided children remember to always touch the Go button with the magic pen every time they turn a page. If they forget, the pen will read from another page, which causes much confusion! After a few tries, mine soon got the hang of it and could play independently. Everything is worked using the pen, including the volume control, and the pen is impossible to lose as it is attached securely to the unit. In comparison to their interactive PC games, the LeapPad failed to hold my children’s attention for prolonged periods, and although I found it amazing that the pen could recognize so many different words and objects, they were less easily impressed. There is no movement, unlike in a PC game. On the other hand, the unit is portable, so can be played anywhere, unlike the PC. The unit certainly has lots of educational value and is well made and durable. A large selection of interactive books can be purchased separately, so once the children are comfortable using the magic pen, they can try other activities. They can also choose more difficult material, ensuring that the pad grows with your child. --Rachel Elvidge

In common with other LeapFrog products, My First LeapPad is exceptionally well designed to be both educational and fun. The unit itself and attached pen are chunky enough for little fingers, and the single large button, integral carrying handle, and bright color will make it appealing and easy to use for preschoolers. My First LeapPad comes with a ring-bound book and accompanying cartridge which fit easily into the unit (you also need four AA batteries, not included). Placed right side up the book reads through a simple story, and when turned over the reverse sides contain a wealth of activities and games to play. For anyone who hasn’t previously seen the unique way that simply touching the pages with the pen produces voices and noises of all sorts, it seems like a miracle! Even for those who are familiar with it, it is still endlessly fascinating, and each page has lots of scope for discovery. The clear English voices read the story in sentences or single words as well as introducing games and activities involving music and instruments, shapes and color, reading, numbers, counting, matching, and much more. Each picture reveals a whole world of sound effects, voices, and speech from the characters according to the individual touches the child makes with the pen on the page. This makes play genuinely interactive and absorbing, and hugely valuable in terms of learning and pleasure. I recommend this product highly; it is suitable for all levels of learning between under 3 years and over 5, with each age range getting different benefits at different stages of development. --Caroline Parsons

My First LeapPad learning system by LeapFrog is a portable electronic toy incorporating the format of a flip-over book which teaches children to master skills such as writing, basic numbers, ABCs, phonics, listening, and comprehension. The desk layout includes a side handle and a special touch-sensitive pen which gives children the opportunity to develop the coordination required when they begin to write. With the pen the user can activate the different activities such as touching pictures to hear them come alive, touching words to hear them read aloud, playing a game by pressing the lily pad sign with the magic pen, activating a new page, listening to music, or adjusting the volume. The unit comes with an activity book, Leap’s Big Day. Leap is a frog with a happy voice and an English accent who introduces us to his family and different activities on each page. Although the toy is labeled for children aged 3 years and over, the activities are not incredibly difficult and would also suit a slightly younger child. For example, number work only goes up to five, and the page on what Leap will be when he grows up gives the child a number of pictorial choices and they have to select just one answer to say what a firefighter would need at work (hose, hat, boots), or what a doctor would need (stethoscope, white coat, etc.). All activities require use of the pen, which does require a steady hand at times. More books are available to buy separately, with titles such as Leap to the Moon, featuring Leap again, and Pooh's Honey Tree, which features Winnie the Pooh. The books are double-sided with a story side, which is interactive, and an activity side. The battery-powered toy provides preschoolers with a good introduction to interactive learning aids, including computers, and promotes readiness for reading and writing. --Sarah McNamara

This is a nice-sized interactive electronic learning game by LeapFrog. It consists of the LeapPad unit with carrying handle and a small, easy-to-maneuver electronic pen attached. There is a compact microchip unit which plugs into the side and a cardboard flipbook which attaches to the front. The book has two sides: a story side and an activity side. The sound is activated by touching the green Go circle on the page with the electronic pen. On the story side of the book this triggers a female English voice which reads aloud the words on the page. Your child can then touch each word with the pen to have these read aloud, or touch objects and characters on the page to hear them speak. There is a lily pad and a note symbol at the bottom of each page. When touched with the pen, the voice leads your child through games such as finding objects and people on the page. The activity side is centered on learning games such as parts of the body, colors, shapes, and counting. My First LeapPad is designed for preschool children to teach prereading and premath skills. It contains over 30 games and activities and is indicated to be suitable for ages 3 and over. My son will sit and play with the LeapPad on his own for a short time, but is only 3 and a half, and prefers me to help and guide him a little. My First LeapPad is a good learning aid and value for money as the flipbooks can be replaced with different books in the range to keep your child interested in learning. --Julie Illingworth

Learning to read has never been so fun, until now. This interactive system is an ideal tool for teaching various skills important in early years. My First LeapPad teaches ABCs, numbers, phonics, prereading skills, and premath skills. When children encounter the LeapPad for the first time, they may choose to participate in an interactive story book Leap's Big Day (included) or alternatively they may play 30 games and activities. If they choose a story they will be amazed at how involved they can become and how much they will learn. The games and activities on the reverse of the flipbook feature counting and singing songs as well as a section on parts of the body. The LeapPad comprises a spiral interactive flipbook that when used with the integral magic pen enables the story to come alive! The child may touch words and hear them read aloud or if they touch pictures in the story they too will make appropriate sound effects. This system is certainly an innovative concept that makes learning to read exciting while also challenging. --Tiffany Prescott ... Read more

Reviews (255)

I think this is an excellent educational toy
My daughter loves it. She is 3, and we got this as part of her Christmas this past year. She has no problem pressing the Go button, knowing what to do, etc...it challenged her each time...and she found it very interesting. She has not tired of it yet and it has been nearly 5 months. now though, she is ready for another one, as she has mastered all of it. It is great for learning numbers, colors, shapes, etc., and has lots of games that they can play. I love the fact that is has music too.

Malfunctions after about 6 months-both of ours did
We bought this for Christmas 2002.Our daughter was a little young for it at the time, so we didn't give it to her right away.When she started using it, it wasn't long before the stylus cord wore down. LeapFrog replaced it for free, but then other problems started.The cartridges weren't being read properly.Again, LeapPad was helpful to get it working again.Now even cleaning the cartidges as recommended doesn't make it work properly.Either the pen isn't working again, or there is an error message about wrong cartridge.
We bought the pink version in 2004, thinking surely it would have improved by that time.We ran into the same problems right away, within 4-6 months.

Now we have about 7 books that might or might not work...very disappointing.

We have the bigger kids regular LeapPad in pink, too.We have not had trouble with that one.

Great educational toy, but issues with product quality
I agree with other reviewers about this product.It is a good educational toy for 2 - 3 year olds.My son played with it all the time.However, I have had issues with the quality of the product.

As mentioned by another reviewer, sometimes the cartridge is not accepted by the machine and it says "Oops, this isn't a Leap Frog cartridge."I spoke with a customer service representative from Leap Frog about this and he said to blow in the cartridge slot of the machine, as well as the cartridge itself in case any dust had settled on the connections.We still had the same problem and I was able to return the product to Leap Frog and get a new one.Then we had the same issues with the replacement.

Another problem was teaching my son to carry the Leap Frog by the handle and not dragging it around while holding onto the pen.The cord of the pen is now almost torn out of the machine and now it no longer works.I don't know whether I will be purchasing another My Frist Leap Frog again, so that my 2nd son will be able to play with it when he's old enough.We have a lot of the books and cartridges. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Learning    2. Electronic Learning Aids (ELA)    3. Reading    4. Electronic    5. Alphabet    6. Preschool   

Reviews (20)

GREAT Butterfly Kit!
I have been rasing butterflies for 5 years and I LOVE this kit! It's so cool to see them chow down on their nutrient and then change into a chrysalis. I have a suggestion:DO NOT move your caterpillars around a lot, they are delicate and when moved too much, it kills them. Keep them in a quiet, warm place and watch and learn! I have chrysalids right now and they are almost ready to hatch! Tip: mist your chrysalids every other day. This increses the chance that they'll emerge healthy!

Wonderful--Raise generations of butterflies!
My son (age 5) got this from his grandparents for Christmas and it has been terrific fun for all of us.The first set of ten caterpillars grew visibly day-by-day, then pupated and emerged as butterflies in a few weeks.There is a lot of great information about painted lady and other butterfly species online and having this project got my son very interested in how a caterpillar turns into a butterfly so soon I found myself showing him multi-colored pictures of imaginal discs (the larval structures that produce the butterfly wing, leg etc. during metamorphosis) online at websites I found--a great way to get him interested in developmental biology.The first time we talked about this he decided they were actually "magical discs", given what these groups of cells can do...the whole process has been very entertaining for the whole family....It is also really fun to have butterflies flitting around and caterpillars growing in the pavilion in the kitchen when it is gray and wintery outside.

How to raise more than one generation of critters inside:
Since we sent our coupon for larvae out immediately after Christmas, we had butterflies dancing around the pavilion and mating in February when there were no plants outside to collect for the next generation of caterpillars to eat.Anticipating this, I ordered a mallow plant and some additional larval food from Carolina Biological Supply Company at about the time when our caterpillars turned into chrysalises:there is an online store and the stuff to get is the L918 culture medium (144040).This will feed about 80 larvae.(Unfortunately the Insect Lore company, which makes the Pavilion, only sells caterpillar food in small quantities along with additional larvae, which we certainly didn't need).

How to do it:We set the mallow plant in the pavilion and the butterflies laid their eggs on the leaves where we could watch them darken and emerge as very tiny 1mm long new caterpillars.After 4-5 days of watching the caterpillars eat the mallow plant (making little tracks on the leaves) we prepared them new homes in caterpillar media.To do this, you can use either the original plastic containers that the first generation larvae are shipped in (clean them out and dish wash them) or use another small clear-sided plastic or glass jar with a lid.Clean the containers well (I wiped the inside with a paper towel with isopropyl alcohol on it after dishwashing to kill bacteria, which will contaminate the food and make the larvae sick).The food will come in two plastic containers (nearly full).One of these can be frozen for subsequent generations.Transfer the contents of one container to a covered microwaveable container and heat on medium in the microwave (swirling every 10-30 seconds to mix and avoid overheating) until it is a solution.Pour media into the bottoms of the larvae containers to a depth of about a quarter inch (this will make 4-5 new containers).If there is a lot of condensation on the sides after the media has hardened, you can wipe this away with a paper towel--I did this, but then again alcohol-wiped the inside solid surfaces and lid above the media.Cover the containers loosely (leave the lid slightly ajar) and put them somewhere to dry.I laid a clean paper towel over the collection of covered jars to keep dust/dirt from drifting in given the activity level of the children here.After a couple days of drying, these were ready for larvae.If necessary (ie., if not using the previously shipped containers) make very, very small air holes in the lid.Then use a toothpick or matchstick to collect each 2-4 mm long larva off of the mallow plant leaves and tap to drop them into the new container.Put a clean paper towel over the top of the container (under the lid) and re-cap the jar--now the paper will serve as a scaffold for new chrysalises to hang from and will allow air in while preventing the tiny caterpillars from escaping.Try to be relatively aseptic about this.

It appears that we're going to get about 20-30 new caterpillars from the first generation, which I should be able to accommodate with the larvae cups made above...hopefully by the time we've run out of this food and been through a couple more generations it will be summer and warm enough to release all of the butterflies we have outside.The pavilion is well made and sturdy enough that it should accommodate many other projects involving insects.All in all, we've been entirely pleased with this--a great gift that's had my son on the phone describing his butterflies' recent development to grandma and grandpa several times!

One more tip:the adult butterflies seem to become upended on the floor of the pavillion at times while they are flapping around and have trouble gaining traction to right themselves on the slick nylon surface.This shortened the lives of several of ours until I saw it happening and put some packing material (like easter straw) in there for them to stand on.

Wonderful for child and parent
My two daughters, ages 5 and 8, each received one of these as a Christmas present.We sent away for the caterpillars and they arrived in one week.I have to admit that even I, as an adult, really enjoyed watching the progress of the caterpillars as they transformed into beautiful butterflies.My only compaint is that we weren't prepared when two of the butterflies became entangled in the webbing surrounding the cocoon.There was nothing in the instructions about what to do so we had to watch the butterflies suffer until they finally died from exhaustion.We told the kids that it was simply part of nature.Other than that, what a great experience! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Learning    2. Science    3. Bugs   

Reviews (27)

Don't buy a Leapster without one!
I was scanning through the Leapster games looking for something new for my daughter and noticed that this rechargable battery kit didn't have a perfect 5 stars.I was shocked!It has been *fabulous* for us!I got my daughter her Leapster last October (for her 3rd birthday) with this rechargable kit and she's been using it frequently ever since. It was a very easy install for me...just take off the old back and put the new setup on.It sets easily on the cradle, although I do wiggle it a bit after I set it down to make sure it has a good connection.I'm not sure if I need to do it, but I do it out of habit just in case.

I personally have not noticed any problems with the light going out before the unit has fully charged, but I don't watch it closely either.It must be working correctly though, because the charge lasts AMAZINGLY long, which I find incredible for this kind of a unit.I expected to have to charge it every few days, but it's been more like every MONTH OR TWO!My daughter gets daily use out of her Leapster, but it's only during car trips (maybe 30-45 minutes per day).Nonetheless, that's pretty incredible battery power in my opinion.

My son is quite jealous of his older sister's Leapster, and I can see now that I will be buying another one soon.I can assure you I will NOT be buying one without this recharging kit however!

leapster recharging system
I love this product.We had no problems at all installing and using.I recently bought a second leapster for my younger son (the fighting was outrageous) and was pretty upset about not being able to buy battery packs and the recharger backs separately.I read the manual and it mentioned that after 300 charges or so the battery pack will lose power and need to be replaced.Folks, this means that we have to buy a whole new recharging system.I called the company and they told me that the market reasearch found that it wasn't "cost effective" to sell the batteries by themselves???That is the most ridiculous thing I've ever heard.What are we to do with the extra dock and back?Throw them in the landfill???
I think that Leapfrog has done wonders to the toy industry.My children own just about everything that they have produced.I have been very happy with everything we've tried but, I do find this issue disturbing.Having to buy an entire new recharging system because you need new battries is neither cost effective or environmentaly friendly.I believe that we should all contact the company and get this isssue changed.Besides that, it is a fantastic accessory.A definate must have for any leapster owner.

Burned Up Unit!!
This item we *thought* would be an awesome alternative to batteries but it wasn't! After a few weeks of using it, it actually burnt up my daughters Leapster, We were able to exchange the Leapster threw the company but still out the $25.00 we paid for the charger when we got it. I am not sure if I am going to purchase another one either. Company says there has been a handful of complaints about them...we will see if they actually upgrade them before I do actually buy a replacement. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Learning    2. Electronic Learning Aids (ELA)    3. Electronic    4. Alphabet   

Reviews (8)

Finally a LeapFrog toy my son and I both agree on!
LeapFrog products have disappointed us in the past, so it took a lot of research on my part to consider a LeapPad for my son.Overall, I'm satisfied with the quality of this toy, but question the overall educational value of the LeapPad books.It amuses my son for hours a week, and when traveling, which we do frequently, it's a godsend.William took to the LeapPad immediately, and was able to operate the features of the books with little assistance.He's not yet 4, but instinctively follows along even though he may be working a Kindergarten book.

LeapFrog has very few books that are microphone enhanced (only 7 so far), and the stores don't seem to stock them.My husband was able to find one at Staples of all places, but he didn't happen to notice it was for 1st graders.My son was so thrilled, we opened it anyway.Initially I thought the microphone feature was ridiculous.I couldn't understand why a parent would want to hear their little one chatter back to a noisy machine.Part of the purpose of this toy, is to encourage quiet time, and learning.Right?Well, this feature has proven to be entertaining, and actually has the potential to be educational especially when working on phonics.A pair of headphones really comes in handy when listening to your child play the microphone enhanced books.I definitely recommend a set!

The writing aspects of the toy encourage me for the future.We have 2 writing books, in addition to the writing book that came with the unit, and they have gotten a lot of use already.When in writing mode, it's one on one interaction between parent and child.These books work without the pencil insert, and sometime William opts to work them that way.Unlike some of the regular LeapPad books, the writing books are educational in my view.The Kindergarten books show children how to trace letters & numbers, work mazes, draw shapes, and so forth.I question the age recommendations on the books though, as my child has already mastered the Pre-Kindergarten book, and understands a good portion of the Kindergarten book.LeapFrog has recently added more writing books to their library, so they are not as limited as the microphone books.My biggest problem with the writing feature is that erasing crinkles the pages, and the lead leaves grooves behind.It might have been better had LeapFrog designed this product with a dry erase type of insert, and coated the pages with plastic.That probably would increase the cost of the books, but how many tracing letters & numbers books do you need?

This brings up another problem I have with the LeapPad in general.The books are expensive.If one pays the suggested retail price for this product, and adds just 2 books, that's big bucks!I personally don't think the books are worth the suggested retail price, so I bought a bunch at 50% off, and plan to stock up when the next sale comes along.

We have encountered cord malfunctions too.The first time it was user abuse.My son bit the stylus pen, and must have damaged the cable.William is a lefty, and even though the cord is long at 16", it must annoy him, because it's installed on the right side giving right handed folks more room to work.I recently discovered the replacement pen is malfunctioning too.I went ahead and order 2 more pens at $5.00 each.Toy stores carry replacement pens, but they don't sale the stylus pen yet, so we have to wait 2-weeks for another.Because of this, the LeapPad is a somewhat supervised activity.I definitely don't trust my son with the Magic Pencil yet, and since I've already paid $15.00 on replacement pens, I can't quite image how much more I'll be pouring out on additional books, and batteries.I've replaced the batteries once, which isn't bad considering he played with his LeapPad for hours upon hours during our recent trip to New England.In addition, I don't trust him to remember to put both the book and cartridge back in his backpack when he's done.Thus, for the meantime, I control those aspects of the toy.

The LeapPad Plus Writing & Microphone Learning System works with the entire LeapPad library, except for the My First LeapPad books.LeapFrog selects the maximum age recommendation of this product to be 8-years old, so that it will confuse consumers into purchasing the Quantum LeapPad four-years later.This platform is compatible with the Quantum library, so there's no need to buy another LeapPad.This irrates me a bit, but overall I am satisfied with this toy, and my son loves it.

Great educational toy.
My 3 year old daughter received this as a gift.It's the same as the LeapPad, except that it has the added writing feature and microphone feature.The writing pen is the same as the LeapPad, except that you can twist the stylus to allow real pencil lead to come out, and then you can write on certain LeapPad Plus Writing books.The downside of this is that after they write on the book, you have to erase it!But you can also opt NOT to use the pencil lead.(You don't need it for the large majority of books).I simply took the stylus out and let my 3 year old play without it.For those who already own the LeapPad Plus Writing system, you can buy a separate microphone attachment.But this system has both already.

I would say that 3 years old is the youngest age that I would try this system, and probably 4 years old is better.My daughter knows all the letters and their sounds already, but she still enjoys the simpler books, like the Princess Book, over the more academic books, like the Phonics program books.

It's a pricey toy, and I still think that reading old-fashioned books is more important.But for a certain subset of kids, having the electronic features makes it more interesting.If you're trying to save money, then just get the systems without the writing or microphone features.You will still get a lot of benefit.

The younger kids, like ages 3 and 4, will still need parental supervision, although they seem to learn how to use it quickly.My 3 year old knows how to insert the cartridge, press ON, and tap on the "GO" sign on every page.

We're very happy with this item, and I would buy it again!

Excellent for early writing!
LeapFrog does it again! I suppose I shouldn't be surprised that they keep coming out with the best educational toys. My 5 year old daughter loves hers! She won't put it down, she wants to play with it first thing in the morning and it's the last thing she sees at night (besides me:) What a wonderful toy, and I feel good about it because it's educational and she loves it because it's fun! You can't lose:) ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Learning    2. Electronic Learning Aids (ELA)    3. Electronic    4. Math    5. Alphabet   

Reviews (8)

Very Educational 'n Fun
I bough this for my 4 year old. He had just started with "Phonics" at school. This toy helped a lot. He made many of the words that they work at school on, but when he starts putting new one, and changing some letters, he was pretty happy that he created new words. He took this toy to show and tell a couple of times, and the teacher said it was a "Big Hit" with the rest of the class. It does though fail in it's limitaions of words. There are some words that are not programed in, and the voice just makes the sound of the letters for it, and the child would not know what the word sounds like. But then again some of these words may be too advanced for the children. All in all it is 5 out 5 for my child, I only gave it 4 because of the word limitaion.

Wrong Letter
I purchased this toy a month ago.Now, it reads letters wrong.I'll put a J in the space and it will say S.I love this toy but, now, I need a new one.Otherwise, a great idea.Also, the Leap Frog DVD's are amazing.My 21/2 year old can spell simple words on command!

Tinny sound, but still worth it
I was delighted to find out the magnets from the Fridge Phonics Magnetic Letter set also work with this!So if you have both, you can spell out double lettered words (such as "dad" and "mom" (and it is programmed to read those words, as well!)

The only problems we've been having with it are related to the tinny sound.The Fridge Phonics Magnetic Letter set sounded nice, but the Word Whammer sound quality is poorer.I know I had a hard time telling "Find the 'F'" from "Find the 'S'".Lucky for us adults, if we know what word it wants us to spell, we know which letter, but it confounds the kids.

If it weren't for the sound quality the toy would be *perfect*.It is really well designed, and very effective at keeping the kid's interest long enough for them not to realize they're learning while they're having fun.If you don't mind needing to translate what the machine said every so often, I highly recommend this. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Learning    2. Electronic Learning Aids (ELA)    3. Electronic    4. Alphabet   

Reviews (4)

Great!
Another of my 3 year old's collection - he loves it and has mastered it well.Very well done.

Finding Nemo
My son loves this game. He likes to read with it. I think it is a nice addition to the collection.

Great game !
My 4YO son loves this cartridge. The children have a choice of reading the Nemo story or playing one of four games. My son does not really like the story, but it is cute. Admittedly it is difficult for an electronic toy to beat mom's reading!

The games are great. They all have multiple skill levels and are fun and challenging. I often have to force my son to let his Leapster "rest awhile". His favorite game is trying to find the fish in the deep dark ocean. On level 2 words are displayed and you have to find the fish by listening for where the word sound is the loudest. Unfortunately, there are a limited number of fish, but my kid hasn't noticed, he is happy every time he finds one. And, instead of sounding out the A like they do with the other letters, they say "Ay".

The Nemo cartridge also has a hide-n-seek game which teaches comprehension skills. Various Nemo characters and props appear in bubbles and the Leapster asks a question such as "Who helped Nemo escape from the tank?" and the child would need to select the "Gill" bubble. I haven't seen logic games like that on the other cartridge we have.

Overall, the characters are cute, the games are educational and my kid loves it. I'd give this more stars if that were possible! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Learning    2. Games    3. Electronic Learning Aids (ELA)    4. Electronic    5. Math    6. Alphabet    7. Handheld   

Editorial Review

Sally, Stevie, Stanley, Sophie, Stewie, and Sid are six colorful, lightweight bowling pins--each with their own personality--that talk to kids while they bowl. Taunts such as "C'mon!Roll the ball already!" get kids started, and phrases such as "Whew!That was close," keep them aiming for the pins. Bells, whistles, and cheers are heard if a spare or strike is bowled. The tan plastic base has six colored circles to hold the pins in place, but it is not required that colors match up for a game to begin. Silly 6 Pins only keeps score one frame (two balls) at a time, so keep a pad of paper nearby if you're playing as a family. Three AA batteries are required, but not included. --Pam Lauer ... Read more

Reviews (81)

Fun for the whole family!
My little boy got to open this on Christmas Eve, his grandparents got it for him.My little boy was so shocked and excited when he saw the game!He had wanted this game for several months but I was'nt sure he'd like it as much as he wanted it but it was one of those games that I was wrong about- He loves it!I have to admit it is really a fun game.Thebowling pens shake and talk to you as you play and they say funny, cute phrases.My little boy who is almost 4 can set the game up him self and play it without anyone else or if he wants we can play with him.I like games that he can understand and be able to play without having a second player all the time.It makes this game even more a good purchase because being an only child there is'nt many games that are like this.He loves this game and still plays it a lot even 3 1/2 months later.I would reccommend it!

FUN FOR ALL AGES
I was reluctant to purchase this toy for my son's third birthday simply because he has never been bowling or knew anything about it.However, based on your reviews I decided to try it out.My son is not easy to keep busy and this was the trick!This toy is a blast!He loves to set the pins up just as much as he loves to knock them down.He plays it with his 12 year old sister and it seems to be the only time that they don't bug eachother.They have a ball!we all do, the voices are cute, but I wish it was louder.Easy to clean up, and just plain fun!I think we will get lots of milage out of this game.

FUNNY game
My girls were given this game a couple years ago. . .ages 2 and 3.They crack up over the voices and play it still.I like it also b/c it's so darn cute! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Activity    2. Games    3. Preschool    4. Party Games    5. Wacky    6. Tabletop Games   

Editorial Review

This little wheelbarrow is the tool of choice for hauling flowers, grass clippings, toys, and other treasures. Not only does it look like a real wheelbarrow, it is a real wheelbarrow, with a red steel tray, a black triangular steel undercarriage, and finished hardwood handles. The tray has no-scratch edges and is 20 inches long, 16 inches wide, and 4 inches deep. The black plastic molded wheel is 7 inches in diameter and 1.25 inches wide. The wheelbarrow stands 11 inches from the floor and is 32 inches from the front of the tray to the ends of handles. The whole thing weighs a little more than 7 pounds. --Louise Carter ... Read more

Reviews (11)

Wonderful wheelbarrow
This is a sturdy, usable wheelbarrow scaled for a child.My son has loved to help his dad in the yard for years with this, hauling dirt, branches and leaves.

Great Buy
This is so much better than the plastic wheelbarrows.My son has it all - toy blowers, weadeaters, mowers, etc. and this is his favorite because it actually looks just like daddy's!He hauls dirt, flowers, and of course, toys everywhere.We have had this since Christmas and it has lasted well.

good hard to find toy
When I gave this to my 4 1/2 year old nephew the first thing he did was pile his toys in it and give them a ride.I don't agree with the reviewers who think this is small. It looks like my nephew has alot of growing to do before anyone could suggest it was too small for him.My only problem was putting it together which is surprisingly difficult.That is more of a two person job. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Wood    2. Pretend Play    3. Gardening    4. Occupations    5. Tools    6. Outdoor Play   

Editorial Review

Sibling to the award-winning Explorer Globe, this junior version can help children become interested in geography before they even start school. The Junior Explorer Globe is jam-packed with fun facts, trivia, and useful information about every aspect of the geographical world. It has four modes of interactive play, ranging from having kids search for certain pictures on the globe to playing regional music from each continent. The globe sits on a sturdy base, which features a dial to the four play functions, an on/off switch, volume control, and the attached penlike stylus. This stylus is the key instrument: kids use it to touch virtually any point on the surface of the globe to hear information and answer questions. --Pam Lauer ... Read more

Features

• Four modes include Explore, Music, Search the World & Adventure Raps
• Kids will learn about our oceans, continents, animals and landmarks
• Offers a taste of regional music and foreign phrases
• Volume control
• On/off switch

Reviews (13)

great learning and entertaining toy
My 4 years old LOVES to play with this globe and has been learning a lot from it. Yes, it doesn't say much about countries but let's not forget this is the JR version. I think it is great that they give emphasis in animals since kids like them. Also, all different languages and typical music that it includes. I think it is great that kids learn the continents at least they are aware that USA is not in this world alone. PULEASE... they didn't pay for someone's furniture to be cleaned... Don't get me wrong but this person must go around the world a bit. People have to know how to take care of themselves for a change instead of blaming someone else everytime. Gosh!
I recommend this toy. This is not a Geography professor substitue just a way to get kids interested in other areas and cultures. I suppose the more advanced version may bring the countries. I don't know. I am sure there is only so much they can fit inside this toy and as parents we can't expect to relay on a toy to teach our kids everything they need to know. We think this toy is awesome.

Watch out for stains on furniture
The toy has little rubber feet on the bottom which will leave little purple circle shaped stains on wood furniture.My son's brand new furniture was damaged and Leap Frog will not pay to have it cleaned.They were aware of the situation, however, they did not issue a recall.They simply changed the rubber feet on the toy for the new production runs, but they left all of the old ones on the store shelves.So which one will you get - the new or the old?This toy isn't worth the trouble.Leap Frogs' customer (dis)service is horrible.I will never buy another leap frog toy again.Watch out for this company - all they care about is making a buck.

BETTER THEN I THOUGHT
When my brother bought this for my 3 year old daughter I thought he had wasted his money, there was no way my daughter was going to pay attention to this globe. I was wrong! My daughter loves it and within 5 minutes she was telling me about the Statue of Liberty and the Great Wall of China. She and I love it so much that I am buying one for my neice's birthday present. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Learning    2. Geography    3. Electronic Learning Aids (ELA)    4. Electronic    5. Math    6. Alphabet   

Editorial Review

This electronic writing desk teaches kids the alphabet, letter sounds, letter formation,spelling, and word creation in a fun, interactive format. Kids can choose from sixgames: letters, a letters quiz, phonics, a phonics quiz, spelling, and "create-a-word."In the letters game, children push a letter to hear its name and see how it is formedon the LCD screen; players can also write their own letters on the "magic" writing screen.In the spelling game, children learn to spell simple words. In the phonics game, childrenfirst hear a letter and then are given a short word as an example. Along the way, thealways-helpful LeapFrog "coach" offers lots of cheerful hints so children won't getstuck in any of the exercises. Additional features include an automatic shut-off, anoversize pullout handle, a variety of comical sounds for incorrect answers, and atwo-position volume control. --Tami Horiuchi ... Read more

Reviews (84)

A Fantastic learning tool!!!
My first son received this when he was 3 and loved it..it really solidified what he knew about letters and helped him to learn the difference between upper and lower case. Now, my second son, who just turned 2, knows all his letters simply from playing with this desk, and I am amazed! He played with it and still plays with it constantly, and just from playing with it was able to learn them all on his own...which is great for me, a mom of three, who doesn't always have the time to sit down with him. This toy occupies him for hours and is so educational, and I know that as he gets older, he w