Little People "Growing Smart Lap Top Computer"
KIDdesigns
Ages 2 and Up

What It Is

The Little People "Growing Smart Lap Top Computer" is a learning tool for small children that looks like a real laptop computer–just like mom’s or dad’s. The toy has two modes; free form play that teaches, and quiz mode that asks the child questions. Answers are given by pressing the correct keypad button labeled with a letter, number, shape or image. When five questions are answered correctly, the quizzing advances to the next higher level of four. "Lap Top Computer" uses a technology the manufacturer calls "S.M.A.R.T. Chip," which enables the toy to track the child's progress. When each level is completed, a corresponding star lights up on the on the toy's "screen." Each successful action receives a verbal acknowledgement and sound effects keep the pace entertaining.

Why It’s Fun

"Lap Top Computer" lets children be busy with a computer–just like a parent or caregiver. The questions are progressively more challenging and children are encouraged to keep trying. As children play, they reinforce some abstract thinking skills, for example, understanding the relationship between a written number and the number of sounds an animal makes. Children will enjoy the music, light and sound effects, along with the toy’s friendly child’s voice that compliments the child when a correct answer is given. Kids will have a sense of accomplishment when successfully completing a quiz level and moving up to the next challenge. The big buttons are easy for little fingers to manipulate.

Who’s Going to Love It

This is an ideal toy for toddlers in that it rewards exploration as much as knowledge and reinforces exploration. Children’s natural curiosity and excitement at discovering things both come into play.

What to Be Aware Of

Educational toys are most effective when they are used to reinforce learning. Other than rote memorization, they don’t really "teach," despite the fact that the boxes often say the toys do. What these toys are most effective at is encouraging exploration and reinforcing skills children are developing in other contexts.

Thus, to get the most out of this toy–or any preschool learning toy–it’s important for parents and caregivers to be actively involved in the play when the child first gets the toy and from time-to-time while he or she is playing with it. Making the play into a shared activity helps keep the toy attractive and engaging to the child, and when he or she plays with the toy alone, skills are reinforced and the pleasure of discovery is enhanced. Plus, kids love sharing what they’ve discovered how to do with their parents and other adults.