Test Drive-LeapPad Learning System

LeapPad Learning System
Children's educational aid
LeapFrog SchoolHouse, 6401 Hollis, Suite 150, Emeryville, CA 94608.
1-800-883-7430. www.LeapFrogSchoolHouse.com . $49.99

The LeapPad Learning System, a reading aid from the folks at LeapFrog, gives storybooks and other reading materials a new, interactive dimension. In the past I've been skeptical of the educational worth of electronic learning systems. But as the LeapPad demonstrates, the technology has improved enough that some of these new "smart toys" can have a role in classrooms, libraries, and media centers.

The LeapPad is a hinged electronic unit, about the size of a laptop computer. The case opens flat and a spiral-bound book is placed on the surface. Users touch the attached electronic stylus, or "magic wand," to words or pictures on a page and the LeapPad responds. Younger students can touch the magic wand to pictures and learn new vocabulary and phonics sounds. Older students, reading on their own, can touch the wand to unknown words for help with pronunciation or meaning. The LeapPad comes with an AC power adapter, headphones for quiet work, and even a colorful backpack for storage or for carrying the LeapPad home.

The LeapPad collection contains more than 35 titles in four age- appropriate libraries. Each book comes with an electronic cartridge that plugs into the LeapPad and controls the responses of the "magic wand." According to the company, the first-level LeapStart library promotes reading readiness. The Leap 1 library reinforces reading fundamentals and beginning story reading, while the Leap 2 library introduces chapter books and strengthens vocabulary through titles like Arthur and the Lost Diary. The Leap 3 library is for readers ready to develop more advanced vocabulary as well as explore school subjects like geography and science.

I gave my LeapPad to a second grade teacher to try out with kids. They enjoyed reading the "classics" from the Leap 3 library. One student with special academic needs loved listening to Treasure Island over and over. She had control over the text with the use of the wand and asked to use the LeapPad repeatedly.

LeapPad spiral-bound books range from $10.99 to $15.99, with sound cartridges. Classroom teachers, after-school programs, and media centers should consider purchasing a LeapPad.