Typically people don't think of video games as being educational, but there are plenty on the market these days. The quality and method differs, but the idea is the same: get the kids involved in fun and they will forget they are learning. Jump Start World is one example of a game that is incredibly educational while still fun. (The Cat kept playing it long after I reviewed it; and continues to play from time to time.)
Leapfrog has been a real leader in the field of educational-yet-fun products. Not long ago, I reviewed the Leapfrog TAG system for reading. Splig loved it, and so did I. As I explained in my review: "The wand also reports back via the child's "Learning Path" to show the parent what skills the child has worked on, what activities the child enjoys doing, and how their learning is progressing... Readers can collect rewards for finishing various activities."
Well, the Leapster2 hand-held educational video game has that same ability: report back to the parents on progression of skills and earn "rewards."
The Cat was instantly smitten. After all, his favorite color is green and the system happens to be green (and blue.) Both kids loved the games "Dragon Kingdom" (the default on the system) and "Outwit!" (another cartridge included in my review package.) Spliggle's favorite television show is "Dragon Tales," so of course he liked "Dragon Kingdom." He enjoyed doing activities in the "creativity castle" whereas the Cat was interested in "Dragons to the Rescue," which tests math and reading skills
Although my boys are 3.5 years apart, they both found something to love about the Leapster2. The activities are varied enough and there are enough "levels" of play that activities are not too simple for the Cat or too challenging for Spliggle. Both boys have their own profile on the Leapster2. That way, their particular rewards and progression down their "Learning Path" is kept separate. Plus, it is fun for them to click on their name when they begin: even though they share the game, it is "theirs" for the duration of their session.
One feature I didn't initially notice is that there is a little headphone jack in the console. This will be very useful the next time we take a road trip. Although the games are cute, the repetitive sounds get a little distracting to parents in the front seat trying to listen to news or music.
There are plenty of different game cartridges available for the Leapster2; it also plays all Leapster cartridges. The themes are such that my boys think they are just playing "video games," but they are also reinforcing important skills.
I've been impressed with Leapfrog educational toys since their inception (and even participated in a focus group about five years ago,) but have been particularly enthusiastic with the invention of the interactive Learning Path system and the portable devices that all merge into this system. Thank you to Leapfrog for generously providing me with a Leapster2!
---
Up next: I report on a similar system from a competitor! Oooooooohhhhh!
