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LeapFrog Tag Reading System Reviews

Below, you’ll find three reviews of the LeapFrog Tag Reading System. (My original post and disclosure note are available here.)

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TESTER #1:  Trish (and son T, age 6)

Trish, why were you interested in testing the Leap Frog Tag reading system?T is actively interested in  math and science but reading has been much slower. I’ve been looking for new ways to inspire him to pick up a book. Tag has done that for sure.
 
Did T take an immediate interest in it?

Yes, he knew it was on its way from Julie and he was anxious to get his hands on it. In fact, he asked about it everyday until it came.

 

What is your overall impression of this toy to date?With only a couple of days of testing so far, T has hardly left it alone. He has used it as a reading aid (reading on his own until he requires help), used it on listening mode to enjoy the story without Mom (nice), and has particularly enjoyed the games which require him to use reading comprehension, memory and letter recognition. So far, I like what I see. I have not needed to suggest or move him in the direction of the toy.

The Tag provides a nice opportunity for parents to foster independent play as the child is able to use the book himself without mom or dad guiding him through each word as in a traditional learn-to-read style. It’s a great skill for kids, and it gives mom and dad a break.
 
Any concerns/frustrations/cons?

After a week, his interest has dropped off. I think he’s had his fill of this particular story but not the games which he still likes. However, he’s 6, which means I know he’ll  pick it up again and again, just not when we expect it.

I have another one on hand — a cool $14.95 each — for when he’s bored and wants to move on. But there were lots of choices at Zellers and I found something I know he’ll like.

Would you buy this as a Christmas present for other children you know?

Only if I knew there was a need to inspire interest in reading. Otherwise, it’s an expensive way to embark on the reading journey.

However, as an older mom, I recognize that younger or more tech-savvy parents may not be at all deterred by price for this toy. I tend to lag in opting for technical solutions where more traditional approaches are available. So, I think Tag definitely has a market.
 

TESTER #2:  Stefanie (and son Andrew, age 5)

Did your child take an immediate interest in it? If no, why not do you think?

Interestingly enough it was the 8-year-old who was intrigued and fascinated with the toy. As soon as he saw it, he ran around trying to find batteries (which thankfully we had).

When I sat down at bedtime and gave my five-year-old Andrew the book and pen, he was hooked. He read the story and about halfway through stopped clicking on the book symbol and read it himself. He also read a page by clicking on each word, but that soon became tedious.  He liked keeping pace with the book and checking words as they were read aloud.

What is your overall impression of this toy now that your child has had a chance to play with it? (interest, developmental progress, durability, etc.)

As a teacher I was fascinated and was wondering how I could get a few for the classroom! As I watched Andrew finding familiar words, checking unknown words with the pen and feeling proud of himself for reading correctly, I was impressed by his ability and his learning.

The word he kept repeating was “fun” —  fun, that was fun Mommy, can I play again it, it’s fun eh mommy!

When I showed him there were games, he was quite enthusiastic and watching as each play of the game (’cause we played more than once!), he improved and was able to anticipate and got mad if we talked and he couldn’t hear.

He wants to bring it to daycare tomorrow and has already decided he will use it and not let the wee ones touch it ALTHOUGH he is bringing it b/c they will like it! Seems pretty sturdy so far!!!

Did you try the online Learning Path for parents? If not, why not? If yes, how did you find it? (user-friendly, helpful for understanding your child’s development)

Of course – not only am I a geek, but I felt I should give it my all if I was to properly evaluate it! It was quite user-friendly and Andrew and Peter are anxious to get on the PC and play the games they have unlocked. It was really neat from a teacher’s perspective — the language seemed more teacher than parent, but I guess if a teacher told you to work on XYZ you would be able to track these things via the online stuff.
Would you buy this toy for a child on your Christmas list?

Based on Andrew’s enthusiasm — especially when I told him there were better books! — I would buy and I will buy more books for Christmas and his birthday. Peter (who turned 9 yesterday) is now playing it and I am loath to stop him, but he is ruining Andew’s online Learning Path!!

Only negative is that the book they included is not great, but Andrew enjoyed the book enough to want to play the games and was able to answer all the comprehension questions well.

TESTER #3:  My daughter Stella, age 7

How come when I first showed you this toy, you didn’t show an interest in it?

I already know how to read. These books are too easy for a grade two-er.

You’ve sure been using it a lot though. What is it that you like?

I like the games. Especially the one where you can pick words and then the Tag makes up a song with all the words — it’s so funny!

What don’t you like about this toy?

I don’t find this story very intesting. And I find it really annoying how the pen is always telling me to go and unlock my rewards online.

If there was a Pokemon book, do you think you’d like this toy better?

Probably. But I already have tons of Pokemon books that I can read. Just regularly reading — without the pen.

Do you think this might be a good Christmas gift for another child?

Yes, someone younger. Maybe 4 or 5 years old.

Is there anything else you want to add?

Can you buy me the Bakugan book for this toy? I really want that book.