Toy Tablets for Kids: Touchscreen Toys and Tablet Computers vie for a Share of the Market

When you are thinking ahead to birthdays and holiday gifts for your kids, the tech world can't be avoided.  Touchscreen toys are hot, and the market is ever more competitive.  Last year's LeapPad Explorer tablet for kids was nearly impossible to find by Christmas, and only recently has it regained a spot on my local Walmart's shelf.  Likewise, the InnoTab from VTech was a hot item, a little less rich in features and a little easier on the budget.  Both companies are introducing updated versions of their tablets for children with LeapPad Explorer 2 due to hit the shelves in mid-August and with the InnoTab 2 due out in the fall.

LeapPad Explorer 2 and InnoTab 2 are due out in coming months,
making it possible to obtain older versions at a discount through various sources. 
Even now, InnoTab prices have dropped at Amazon.

This is excellent news on many fronts.  First, LeapPad will include lots of new free content.  In my previous assessments, I felt that there was almost as much value in tablets like Kindle Fire for older kids because of the content costs associated with toy tablets.  LeapFrog provides more value in its coming edition.  InnoTab 2, meanwhile, will include added features and memory.  A camera was lacking in the first model and that plus video cam are part of the new version.  The older models may see some price reductions as releases near for new toy tablet games for kids, so if your budget is crimped, you should watch with eagle eyes for deals. 

Both companies have a tendency to appear as Black Friday doorbusters.  I've picked up things from both brands in the post-Thanksgiving shopping deals and loved the products.  Keep your eyes open and plan now if you need to budget.  Watch eBay, too, as the older versions are likely to be sold second hand to make room for new items.  Excellent if new isn't a priority in your home.

Keep your eyes open for the Meep Tablet for kids, coming later this year from Oregon Scientific.  This tablet may change the landscape dramatically as it includes parental controls and is specifically crafted for kids.


Keep your kids' interests in mind.  A toy that pretends to be a tablet may not suit older children in spite of the claims of companies that they are great for the age group.  My 8 year old distinctly rejected this idea for his birthday and preferred Legos.  If you are looking at the 8-9 year old age range, real tablets may be a better choice.

Dealing with the possibility of touchscreen toys for youngsters, keep your eyes out and be ready to act when items release, especially if you are intent on having these quality toys for the holiday season.  You can keep up with LeapPad products and InnoTab devices for kids at Amazon, among other retailers.