LeapPad Learning System thumbnail 1
Not currently on display at the V&A

LeapPad Learning System

Educational Reading Device
2011 (manufactured)
Artist/Maker
Place of origin

LeapPad products have been on the market since 1999, teaching young children how to read and write using state-of-the-art computer technology.

Made by LeapFrog, this LeapPad Explorer was developed in 2011 and comes with features such as a camera and video recorder. Studies show that learning through play is effective, and the LeapPad uses this to its advantage, with a variety of stimulating, interactive games that encourage children to use their reading and writing abilities.


Object details

Categories
Object type
Parts
This object consists of 5 parts.

  • Educational Reading Device
  • Packaging
  • USB Wire
  • Instruction Leaflet
  • Information Guide
TitleLeapPad Learning System (manufacturer's title)
Materials and techniques
Plastic, electronic components, printed card and paper
Brief description
Boxed LeapPad Explorer, made in China by LeapFrog Toys in 2011
Physical description
The LeapPad device is a rectangular shape with curved sides. The front is white in colour, and has green corners and back. There is a large central silver-coloured button, next to some holes in the casing for the speakers. The screen is surrounded by a black plastic outline. There is a stylus pen attached to a piece of string, and a spare stylus slotted into the side of the LeapPad. The set also comes with a white USB cable and an installation CD-ROM which is attached to the packaging.

The instruction leaflet is a greyscale, double-sided sheet that has been folded. The instructions are ordered into sections and each section has both an English and French translation.

The 'Quick Start Guide' has been printed on a rectangular piece of cardboard and has simple steps telling the user how to install the CD-ROM.

The LeapPad is currently attached to the inner packaging, which consists of a green, shaped cardboard box with a clear plastic cover over the device itself.
The outer cardboard box has a lift-the-flap-style part that is secured by a small piece of velcro. When this flap is lifted, more information is revealed. The outer packagaing also has a clear plastic window that enables the user to see the product inside.
Dimensions
  • Leap pad height: 180mm
  • Leap pad width: 130mm
  • Leap pad depth: 20mm
  • Instructions width: 354 (unfolded)
  • Packaging height: 290mm
  • Packaging width: 265mm
  • Packaging depth: 65mm
Production typeMass produced
Marks and inscriptions
  • 'Quick Start Guide / Get started and download your included learning apps! / 1. Install the LeapFrog Connect Application using the included CD. / 2. Insert batteries and create player profiles (up to 3). / 3. Connect the tablet to you computer and follow the on-screen prompts. / 4. Complete registration and go to the App Center to choose your game, eBook or video. / The Story Studio and Art Studio apps will download automatically. Pet Pad is included on board.' (Printed on Quick Start Guide)
  • 'A learning Touch Pad Just for Kids / eBooks, Learning Games, Art & Animation, Camera & Video Recorder, Music, Writing, Videos, Flash Cards, Motion-Based Play, Brilliant Touch Screen' (Printed on packaging)
Credit line
Given by the Toy Retailers Association
Object history
LeapPad is a range of computer tablets designed to teach children how to read. First developed in 1999, many models have since been released, and it has won numerous awards.

This version is the LeapPad Explorer and it was produced in 2011. It was named as one of the Top 12 toys of the year by the Toy Retailers Association and given to the museum with the other named winners.
Summary
LeapPad products have been on the market since 1999, teaching young children how to read and write using state-of-the-art computer technology.

Made by LeapFrog, this LeapPad Explorer was developed in 2011 and comes with features such as a camera and video recorder. Studies show that learning through play is effective, and the LeapPad uses this to its advantage, with a variety of stimulating, interactive games that encourage children to use their reading and writing abilities.
Collection
Accession number
B.349:1 to 5-2013

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Record createdJanuary 2, 2014
Record URL
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