As a kid, I spent many a time reading books at my school’s library. If only my young self knew just how neat books would be now.
LeapFrog ’s reading systems basically take the very thing that makes video games so popular for kids — interactivity — and mixes it up with reading. The result is a pretty interesting take on reading and learning that ideally should engage kids more.
In this review, we’ll take a look at a Leapfrog system designed for kids ages 2 to 4, the LeapFrog Tag Junior. Basically, it comes with a wand that kids can use on compatible books to read out text or illustrations. Read on for a closer look.
PROS
Highly interactive: Besides reading text, the Tag Junior wand also voices out descriptions and dialogue on illustrations found on compatible LeapFrog books. Placing it on the lion in the accompanying book, for example, either brings up a jingle about it or a question from said lion asking you where the sun is in the page. As someone who developed an affinity for reading and learning at an early age, I can’t emphasize enough how important it is to have engaging material. Some of the jingles should also be pretty amusing for little minds.
Helps with learning: While using the LeapFrog Tag Junior, kids are asked questions designed to teach them basic information. These include finding colors, certain animals or answering simple trivia.
Built for little hands: The tag junior is nicely shaped to fit small hands. It also feels durable, which is a must for any device designed for little kids.
Plenty of options: In addition to LeapFrog ’s offering of original works, compatible books also include those from recognizable brands such as Sesame Street, Walt Disney and Dora the Explorer.
Affordable: The starter system itself is only $34.99 and comes with a book. Additional books are $10.99.
CONS
Needs computer, online: This is my one key frustration for an otherwise excellent system. With the exception of the book that comes with the Tag Junior starter kit, you will actually need to download software into your computer if you want to use any additional books that you buy. I know most people have a computer and an online connection these days. But for families who can’t afford a computer or Internet service or folks who live in far-flung places without Net access, this pretty much means you can’t effectively use the Tag Junior, even if you’ve bought all the materials.
Limited wand space: The wand can only contain data for five books at a time. So if you have more than five books you want to use, you’ll have to switch them around, which is a bit inconvenient.
Battery access: You basically need a screwdriver to access the battery, which is another inconvenience. On a positive note, the device comes with free batteries, which isn’t the case with a lot of kids’ devices I’ve reviewed recently.
CLOSING THOUGHTS
Despite its drawbacks, LeapFrog ’s Tag Junior is a great device overall that helps kids pick up reading while also encouraging learning. Any time I find myself thinking, “Man, I wish they had this device when I was a kid,” that’s pretty much a good sign. Older kids may get bored with it a lot quicker. But if you’re looking for a fun, interactive device to help your younger child learn, then I recommend giving the Tag Junior a shot.
