7 Days of Educational Toys: LeapFrog Didj

Aaron Burgess — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 15:04:00 GMT

It's being promoted as an educational device rather than a Nintendo competitor, but one look at LeapFrog's new Didj Custom Gaming System makes it pretty clear this gadget is aiming to knock that DS Lite out of your grade-schooler's hands.

LeapFrog has traditionally been known for going lighter on graphics, but the Didj makes improvements both visually and educationally: Kids used to higher-end handheld gizmos will feel right at home with the system's high-resolution visuals, and the games' learning functions also aim to keep Mom and Dad in on the experience.

Though there's no wireless element, the Didj's computer connectivity (via an included USB cable) allows you to keep a short leash on how and what your kids are playing. You can choose the math and spelling skills you'd like the games to focus on, create custom spelling lists so Junior can practice for upcoming tests, and go online to track the kids' progress.

The LeapFrog Didj is $89.99, with accessories and games -- including Star Wars: The Clone Wars, Indiana Jones, Nancy Drew and SpongeBob Squarepants -- starting at $23.99 each. Visit the LeapFrog store to stock up, and if you buy two or more games before Aug. 31, enter promo code FL8DJA at checkout to knock $10 off your order.

Rock the Retro: Nancy Drew Recycled

chrisjordan — Thu, 18 Oct 2007 18:02:00 GMT

How many of us loved Nancy Drew as children? Here one of the original books from 1960 has been recycled into a purse. Fully lined, beaded handle, and button loop closure, this vintage purse is sure to please an fashion forward school age child, or at the very least make other parents wax nostalgic.

You could even steal it for yourself.

Available at Retro Grandma for $47.99

droolicious : nancy drew

7 Days of Educational Toys: LeapFrog Didj

Rock the Retro: Nancy Drew Recycled