LeapPad3 Learning Tablet from LeapFrog {Review}

Although I may have originally resisted the acceptance of my kids' obsession with technology, I've been able to see firsthand the difference that it has made in their lives and all of the positives that go with it.

Do I want them to sit in front of a screen for 12 hours a day? Of course not. But do I want them to enjoy learning and want to play games that are educational as well as entertaining? Absolutely. Therefore, I have joined the ranks of parents that have (slowly) gotten used to the idea of relinquishing our smartphones and tablets to our kids, relying on them to keep our kids engaged during long car rides, time in a waiting room and everything in between.

However, that doesn't mean that all tech devices are now being made with the durability required to withstand children's play. Many a parent has realized that simply handing over their own device comes with the risk of it being damaged or our kids being exposed to inappropriate content on the internet.

Instead, that's where LeapFrog comes in with their wide range of gadgets that are safe, educational, entertaining, easy to use, and just for kids. And, after the success of earlier versions of their LeapPad, LeapFrog has added a wide array of interactive and educational updates and features to make it even better with the release of LeapPad3 Learning Tablet.

Designed to help your child take learning to entirely new places, the LeapPad3 combines eBooks, videos, music, educational games, creative activities, learning apps and tools into a sleek, durable and entertaining device.

With a shatter-safe 5" color touch screen, a 2-megapixel camera on the front and back, a quad-core processor (providing LeapFrog's fastest, most powerful high-performance fun) and much, much more, kids ages three to nine can touch, drag, tilt, photograph and record their way to learning fun.

Considering how much my kids love technology and would be thrilled at the opportunity to experience the innovative learning approach and kid-tested gameplay of this device, I knew that they would be beside themselves to try out the LeapPad3 in person.

Right away I found that this updated LeapPad is compact (it measures 7.5" x 5.1" x 1") and that LeapFrog truly integrated plenty of features to ensure that this device is kid-tough along with being sleek and modern. I know that my own iPad sure doesn't have a shock-absorbing frame, protective screen, built-in bumper and reinforced body like this one does!

At the same time, I was instantly smitten with the fact that the LeapPad3 has an included stylus that is attached to the device and that the AC adapter allows the lithium ion rechargeable battery to be easily recharged.

No more losing the stylus and, as opposed to purchasing more and more batteries or dealing with rechargeable ones that continue to be pulled out to plug in separately, the fact that the kids can plug the LeapPad3 right in without any help makes me swoon. Every little added convenience makes life easier and both of these features eliminate the possibility of future whining or hassle!

Along with the AC adapter and stylus, I appreciate that the LeapPad3 includes a kid-safe web browser on its Wi-Fi connection, LeapSearch powered by Zui. This allows children access only to age-appropriate videos and more — all approved by learning experts.

No worrying if they'll start watching videos that you don't want them to see on YouTube, they will only be able to visit sites completely safe for kids!

Along with access to the internet, the LeapPad3 includes LeapFrog's innovative peer-to-play capabilities. This fun addition is a fast and easy way for kids to connect and play safely with nearby friends who also have a LeapPad device.

How cool is that? Simply open up the included Pet Chat app or move to the chat aspect of the Pet Pad Party app and you're able to interact with your friends while continuing to learn and have fun!

As well as these unique communication apps, the LeapPad3 also has access to 1,000+ other age-appropriate options. Educational games, apps, eBooks, videos and more and remember that it is all designed or approved by learning experts.

I loved the way that, right away when my kids began using the LeapPad3, it started ensuring that they would receive a customized learning experience depending on their ages. As they played, the game automatically adapted to each child's learning level so that they have a personalized experience for their own skills in reading, math, writing and more!

And who wouldn't have fun with all the humorous ways that the photo app allows kids to take pictures with the front and back camera and then do all sorts of special effects to them?

In all, there really are a lot of fun features that the LeapPad3 includes and it hasn't been hard for me to see why my kids have had so much fun with it since its arrival!


Also, although the LeapPad3 is entertaining all on its own, I appreciate that LeapFrog has made it so simple to keep expanding the options.

First, they offer a variety of changeable software cartridges (sold separately for approximately $24.99), providing interactive books, learning games, and creative activities. Kids can play and learn with some of their favorite characters, including Doc McStuffins, Sofia the First, Octonauts, the gang from Planes or Monsters University and many more!

Second, parents are able to go right online and download apps to find games, books and more that are just right for their child's age and developmental level. With such a wide variety of ways to learn and so many options for fun, this is one toy that does it all — whether you select games that focus on math, creativity, reading, writing, social studies or more!

Retailing for $99.99 from LeapFrog or on Amazon, the LeapPad3 Learning Tablet is a great way to bring home the ultimate tablet experience, just for kids! Due to its durability and quality, you'll never have to worry about what might happen to your expensive tech gadgets when this can be used at home or on-the-go with ease.

At the same time, the highly responsive touchscreen and user-friendly controls are just right for a child... all the while that the LeapPad3 parental controls leave you knowing that you're in control of just what your little one is accessing. The result is the appeal that kids want with the portability and educational qualities that parents insist on!

Find out more about this and all of LeapFrog's innovative products by visiting LeapFrog.com and connecting with them on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest.

I was provided a LeapPad3 and compensation as part of a promotional program with LeapFrog and MomSelect, however, all thoughts and opinions are honest and my own.