Which hand-held game for First-timer DS6

[lovesdumbo]

What are the games like for the DS? One thing we love about Leapster is the games are teaching little lessons like spelling and math. My sense of DS is that it was more for fun.

My kids DS(6) & DD(8) have Nintendo DS Lites and both really love their Nintendog games. They require more reading than the Leapster so from that standpoint they are educational. They earn money by winning competitions with their dogs. They need money to buy the dogs food and any "toys" they want for their dogs. So there are some educational aspects to it.

We also have the Brain Age and Brain Academy games which are somewhat educational.

 

[PrincessHeart]

What are the games like for the DS? One thing we love about Leapster is the games are teaching little lessons like spelling and math. My sense of DS is that it was more for fun.

I think the leapster has more traditional education games. My son mainly has fun games for his DS. But like the other poster says, you have to read instructions on screen for most games. Also many games you have to manage "money" as part of playing the game. Strategical thinking is also key in playing the games. When he's play video games. I always remind myself - he's practicing his surgery skills . There was an article that came out awhile ago that said that surgeons who played video games were better than those who didn't.

 

[SeeDisney]

I'd strongly recommend the Nitendo DS lite -- lots of easy games, but warning --- YOU, MOM, SHOULD keep count of the cartridges -- those little cartrigdes get so lost so quickly. I've seen lots of Disney cartridges for sale "as used", so it's even cheaper.

Then, when your child is older, he'd still enjoy Nitendo DS as my 11 year old does.

 

[tttessa]

Another vote for the Nintendo DS lite- if you want educational, buy him a book, if you want fun go for the ds!! Mind you, using the ds for 7 months has helped my girls 5 and 6 get to grips with technology - they are more confident on the computer and using the cable tv system now!!!

Do NOT buy Puzzle Quest for the DS unless you want fights over who gets to play it, for how long etc - it is sooooooo addictive!!!! My girls love the nintendogs, little mermaid, barbie, bratz, cars, flushed away - all bought used from ebay at less than half price. The DS is non region - so games from anywhere will work on it.

Cheers,
Tessa