A Great Alternative to the IPad for Autism
There has certainly been an IPad explosion related to individuals with autism, Asperger’s and similar learning needs. An IPad is not the only option to provide some important learning opportunities for our kids.
I’ve received a lot of correspondence from people who want access to academic games for the IPad. Reading, spelling, math. Well . . . those are available for an IPad, but if that is what you really are interested in, check out the LeapFrog LeapPad Explorer Learning Tablet.
The LeapPad Explorer Learning Tablet gives you access to more than 100 educational books, games, videos, and apps. Subjects like mathematics, reading, science, spelling, phonics, music and more are covered in a fun and interactive way. Some activities are on the tablet when it is purchased. Others can be purchased and/or downloaded later, just like APPS for the IPad.
Here’s what I really like
The LeapPad Tablet has a great 5″ screen. It’s large and bright. This is a much larger screen than many of the other “child” electronics. The screen resolution is much higher, too, which means the picture quality is considerably better than a lot of other options.
The LeapPad Tablet has a touch screen that works basically like the IPad.
The LeapPad Tablet comes with a camera, video recorder and microphone. It can take 30,000 pictures and record 120 minutes of video. That’s a lot of capacity.
The LeapPad automatically adjusts learning so that kids can learn at their own pace.
They can practice writing with an included child-sized stylus.
Kids can read e-books, play learning games, enhance art and animation skills, listen to and play music, learn writing, watch videos, and do flash cards and lots more.
An online tool enables you to track your child’s progress
The child has no direct access to the internet so the LeapPad Tablet is SAFE. (You need to plug the device into your computer to access the website to download more apps or work with the progress tools.)
MOST IMPORTANT. The price of the LeapPad Tablet is under $100. Much cheaper than the IPad. Additional APPS are available for purchase just like the APPS for the IPad. You are able to choose which ones are most appropriate for the individual child the device is purchased for.
What it IS and what it IS NOT
The LeapPad Explorer Learning Tablet is a very child friendly alternative to the IPad. It offers a lot of educational activities in a format that is highly desirable from a child’s point of view. We have already established that our students on the Autism Spectrum are drawn to visual learning. This LeapPad Tablet meets a lot of educational needs at a price point that is considerably lower that the IPad.
Just keep in mind that LeapPad Explorer Learning Tablet is NOT an IPad. It will not work with some of the specific communication APPS like Proloquo2go that have been developed for the IPad. But if you are looking for a less expensive, child friendly, child durable option that will help teach “basic skills” then the LeapPad Tablet might be a great option.
Good news . . . They are BACK again
The LeapPad Tablet was one of the HOT items during the holiday season. (Don’t tell anyone that I stood in a pretty long line to get the one for Bella!) The good news is that now that the holiday rush is over, they are back again. Definitely worth checking out.
LeapPad Explorer Learning Tablet
Tagged with: Asperger's • Autism • Autism Electronics • Autism IPad • Autism LeapPad Tablet
Filed under: Asperger's • Autism • Autism Spectrum Disorders
Like this post? Subscribe to my RSS feed and get loads more!
Great idea Linda, especially for younger children. We have the iPad2 and for the games it would just be to much of an investment. Nick is using his though for transition things and college. Yes I said college.
Miss you!
I do love the LeapPad for all the reasons tht you have mentioned and I did order one in time fo the holidays and then returned it to invest in the ipad. While it is great and child-proof, it uses 4 batteries and if your child gravitates towards electronics like mine do, then the life span of those batteries is only 24-48 hrs with moderate to high use. So I had to make a choice to invest in rechargeable batteries and purchase Leapad apps that are a bit pricier than ipad apps (many of which are free)or purchase the ipad. The kids now love the ipad and are good with it, but it is not a good choice for very young children or kids that may not handle it properly…I am constantly watching my 1.5 year old around it!