Moving into the tween stage, kids can become very scattered, forgetful, and awkward. I've dealt with a few tech casualties with kids who are in the 10 and up age group. On the other hand, some of the kid-tough electronic learning toys are just a bit too juvenile for these older kids. While ereader toys for kids are more likely to withstand the rough handling, the content is just a bit immature for the upper elementary age level.
Ereaders can be good choices for this level, with some very inexpensive models available. Not a replacement for the tablet computer craze, nevertheless, the devices are something other than a video game, and provide a means of augmenting your child's academic progress.
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| Kindle With Special Offers |
Many of the same issues with selecting an ereader for a tween come into play for the upper elementary aged child. Kindle, Amazon's ereader, provides a cost effective model (Kindle with Special Offers, Wi-Fi version $114), which includes web browsing, library lending, and games. The only downside is the lack of touchscreen interactivity, though there are rumors of a coming tablet version.
Barnes and Noble's Nook Touch is another inexpensive choice, retailing at $139. The device is touchscreen operated, but is strictly an ereading device. There are not apps, nor web browsing capabilities at this point. The $249 Nook Color functions as more of a tablet, with color display, apps, and web browsing.
