LeapFrog LeapStart Learning Success Bundle review

LeapStart is the best-known talking-book system for preschoolers. The child touches a stylus to a page, and the system reads invisible dots to play a question, a song, a joke or a challenge. The Learning Success Bundle ships with two preloaded books, a Cory Carson Superhero School book and an additional activity book. LeapFrog says the wider LeapStart library covers preschool through first grade for ages 2 to 7, with more than 30 activities per book, and most activities have two levels so a child can move up when ready. The stylus clicks into the cover and is designed to promote a proper writing grip. The system uses 2 AA batteries. Two practical limits matter: new books must be downloaded through a Windows or Mac computer with internet, and extra books cost more. LeapFrog's US page points to retailers instead of listing a price, so we mark the price as pending.

Who it is for

preschoolers who learn best with audio and prompts

Price

See vendor pricing (USD check pending).

US price check pending. See the vendor pricing page.

Key features

• Stylus reads invisible dots and triggers questions, challenges, songs and jokes
• Includes a Cory Carson Superhero School book and an additional activity book, preloaded
• Library books cover preschool through first grade with 30+ activities in every book
• Most activities have two levels and 50+ key skills per grade level
• Runs on 2 AA batteries and has a carrying handle

Strengths and weaknesses

• Strength: Grows from preschool to first grade as you add books
• Strength: Stylus is designed to encourage proper writing grip
• Strength: Covers math, reading and problem solving in one system
• Weakness: Needs a Windows or Mac computer and internet to download books
• Weakness: Extra books are sold separately
• Weakness: LeapFrog sends US shoppers to retailers, so the price is pending

Key facts

• Ages: 2 to 5 (system); library 2 to 7
• Books included: 2
• Batteries: 2 AA
• Size: 11.0 x 9.8 x 1.7 in
• Computer needed: Yes, for downloads

Where it ranks

LeapFrog LeapStart Learning Success Bundle is No. 7 in our Best Educational Toys verdict.