The LeapBand has LeapFrogged onto the scene!

Originally published 10 July 2014.

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Hot on the heels of the Kidizoom Smart Watch, the LeapBand has arrived. It's not as fully featured as its VTech rival, but it packs in a whole lotta fun and activity, to help your kids get fit and healthy.

LeapFrog LeapBand - Green

LeapFrog LeapBand. Remember the name, because this may turn out to be one of the best toys for 4 to 7 year-old boys this year.



LeapFrog LeapBand - Pink

The whole idea behind what the LeapBand is trying to achieve and the concept behind it, is such a breath of fresh air in the games industry. And of course, it comes in colors to cater to the tastes of both boys and girls.



If you’re a parent (I’m assuming you are, or you wouldn’t be visiting this site), then I’d also guess that your boy has probably owned a LeapFrog toy at some time or another. They’re great. I love LeapFrog products because they seem to cover all the bases, are durable and really seem to tune into what boys and girls find fun. But, before I get too mushy over a toy manufacturer - and no, I am in no way affiliated with them, I’d just like to tell you that they’ve made me happy again.

The LeapBand is a simple concept that’s based upon those games where you take care of a virtual pet. You know the ones, they’re usually played on handheld consoles, smartphones or tablets. The LeapBand however is different - it contains the game preloaded onto wearable tech in the shape of a watch. But, it’s not really a watch, it’s a LeapBand.

The LeapFrog LeapBand is actually an activity tracker. Choose your pet, give it a name, feed it, groom it, play with it, learn from it - all on a color touch screen with easy controls and sound. The playing and learning bits are the thing that I find most exciting, because the games are specifically designed to get kids active and healthy, with the pet giving directions as to what to do. Maybe it wants you to hop around on one leg, maybe it wants you to do star jumps. The more kids do, the more points they earn. Feed your pet healthy food and snacks and it’ll help you learn about nutrition and healthy eating habits.

If you’re looking for a gift this year that’ll get your boy active, having fun and picking up healthy tips, all at the same time, then the LeapFrog LeapBand is here. Like the Vtech Kidizoom Smartwatch, these are the toys of the future.