COMMENTARY: Keeping Kids’ Brains Active During the Summer



adventurer_explorer_w_ipad_hrKids are always reaching to play games with iDevices, so why not have them learn while they do it? The iLearn ‘N Play Adventure Explorer from AppStart Learning allows kids ages 3 and up to connect an iDevice to the console, turn on the ignition key, and drive into a learning adventure. The Adventure Explorer comes with a free Letter Explorer app, which teaches kids about letters and phonics. In this app, children are encouraged to collect and recognize letters and spell words.

littlebits_starter_kit_openOne of my favorite educational toys is the littleBits Starter Kit from littleBits Electronics. This kit allows kids ages 8 and up to learn about creating circuits. The electronic modules snap together magnetically to build interactive circuits. Each bit has a function, such as light, sound, or pulse. The kit includes 10 bits, a 9-volt battery, and instructions on how to create different circuits.
