LeapFrog Go-With-Me ABC Backpack
(Vtech $29.99)
Looks like they have down sized the letters some, but this combo phonics and writing toy will reinforce letter names, sounds, and beginning writing skills. The plastic letters fit in and out of the shape board and push them down and they say their names. The sounds are quite clear as letter names are pronounced. So children are getting to see, hear, and touch the letters—important sensory connections that reinforce learning. Press the lowercase button and the lowercase image of the upper case letter is displayed on the writing board. There’s also a magnetic erase board and a writing tool so they can practice writing the letters. The screen above the write-and -rase board shows them how to shape the letters or they can use it for doddles, too. There are other activity buttons that produce music, quizzes, animal shapes and happily a volume control so you can turn the sound down in case the little interactive voice gets annoying. The whole thing fold like a book and has straps so it can be worn. It’s a good take along for back seat drives when learning letters and writing are on the map. Marked for 3 and up, this is really a better choice for children who are learning phonics and beginning writing. Not really for most 3s.
Ages: Older Preschoolers, Early School, and Special Needs
Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Gold Seal Award 2018
