** This post is brought to you by MomSelect and LeapFrog. I received complimentary products to facilitate this review. **
Kids love video games, there is certainly no denying that. As parents and educators, it can be challenging to find the value in some of the games children are drawn to. We want the best for our kids, and sometimes feel they could be spending their time in a more productive manner.
Don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying video games are bad. Quite the opposite actually. As a mom of 4 boys, video games are a big part of my life.
My point, is that not all video games are created equal.
In my opinion, too many of today’s video games are filled with unnecessary violence and mature themes that are meant for adults, not children. It can be challenging to find interesting games with appropriate content for younger kids.
My family and I recently had the chance to have a few friends over for a “LeapFrog Leap Into Gaming” review party featuring the hottest new product from LeapFrog.
LeapTV is an innovative new video gaming system designed to get kids active while engaging in educational activities. Kids are able to work on reading, science, mathematics, and problem solving through the 100+ LeapFrog educator-approved game cartridges, videos, and game downloads.
Leap TV has a recommended age range of 3 to 8, and a suggested retail price of $149.99.
With games that adapt to each child’s level, a simple and intuitive user interface, motion-sensing camera that puts children directly in the game, a controller made just for little hands, and easy-to-understand audio commands, LeapTV is truly a gaming system created with kids in mind.
LeapTV offers three unique ways for kids to play, move, and learn:
- Classic Control – Kids will press the A and B buttons on the controller for fast-paced games, or tilt and shake the controller for racing and various other games.
- Pointer Play – This mode takes imaginative play to a whole new level, as kids transform the controller into a pointer with a simple twist, which lets kids slice coconuts, swing from buildings, snap jungle vines, and more.
- Body Motion – Children become a part of the game in this mode, literally, as they appear on the screen. The motion-sensing camera captures children’s movement and lets them explore activities such as dance and martial arts. Kids will run, hop, skip, and jump as they navigate their way through the adventures onscreen.
The LeapTV gaming system from LeapFrog includes the following:
- Console
- Motion-sensing camera
- Camera mount
- Transforming controller (with wrist strap)
- HDMI cable
- 16GB of memory & built in Wi-Fi (for game downloads)
We had the opportunity to try out LeapFrog Sports and LeapFrog Dance & Learn. While the kids were moving and playing, they were also learning the alphabet, phonics, sight words, compound words, and so much more.
The kids were most excited about the sports games, which included baseball, karate, snowboarding, rope climbing, bowling, and more.
In between levels of the game, kids “power up” by answering different math questions. The questions varied in difficulty as well as concept, and included learning topics such as addition, subtraction, sequencing, and fractions.
My 1st grader, who is a bit of a math fanatic, loved earning points with each correct answer.
The voice commands were easy for the kids to understand, and switching the controller between modes was a breeze.
Here’s a short video of my 6 year old playing LeapTV Sports (soccer):
Although the LeapTV is designed for kids ages 3-8, it also appeals to older children as well. I even caught my 10 and 15 year old sons playing around with the karate and baseball games. Obviously, the educational aspect of it is below their level, but the exciting, active play can be enjoyed by all ages.
If you’re looking for a way to keep kids moving and entertained (while they’re learning) indoors this winter, LeapTV just might be what you’re looking for.
LeapTV is sure to be at the top of many wishlists this holiday season.
Be sure to head over and check out all the great products that LeapFrog has to offer. So many options available from a trusted source of educational items for young children. You can also follow LeapFrog on Facebook and Twitter to stay connected and updated on new products and promotions.
** This post is brought to you by MomSelect and LeapFrog. I received complimentary products to facilitate this review. **