Leap Pad vs. My First Leap Pad

[henrylovespooh]

Okay, it's Christmas shopping time. I have a 4 year old boy and a 3 year old girl. They have shown little interest in so many of the toys they have been given thus far (Little People, Dora's Talking Dollhouse, Lincoln Logs), and I don't want to waste money again this year.

I was thinking of getting them Leap Pads because they showed a genuine interest in someone else's and the have books with characters they love. But I can't figure out whether to get them Leap Pads (for ages 4-10) or my First Leap Pad, which is geared toward kids ages 3-5.

The books from one are not compatible with the other. So I was thinking of getting the Leap Pad so I can buy books for them now and get ones for when they're older but not change the hardware. But then I looked at some of the books and they seem more math, spelling and reading focused, which is above the abilities of my preschoolers right now. The My First Leap Pad books seem more in line with preschool, but I worry they will get a year or so out of it and then I'll have to upgrade.

Anyone else have this dilemma or have a 3 or 4 year old with a Leap Pad who can give me advice. I'd appreciate your thoughts.

Thanks!

 

[Rachie0507]

My kids, ages 3 and 5, both have Leap Pads. My DD got her's when she was 3. DS got his at 3 also but he had a My First Leap Pad first, when he was two. I would suggest going right for the regular Leap Pad. They use them all of the time. DS was never happy with the "little one" while his sister got to use the regular one. The beginner books are great for 3 and 4 year olds. I was amazed at how quickly my kids picked up on the skills the books were teaching (math, reading, spelling). It is nice having them both using regular Leap Pad books now too, because they can share.

 

[disneymom3]

Got youngest DS a My First when he was about 2. Biggest waste of money I ever spent. We have a Power Touch and a LeapPad and I really like both of them. I would go for the LeapPad for your girls over the My First for sure.

 

[JennaTX]

I was very disappointed in the my first leap pad and did not like it all, but the Leap Pad worked great. I agree with the others and skip the my first one!