Fisher-Price iXL 6-in-1 Learning System (Pink)

Amazon.com An exciting handheld device, the Fisher-Price iXL 6-in-1 Learning System is a great introduction to technology that provides plenty of fun learning activities for young children. This sophisticated, yet kid-friendly toy features six distinct interactive options--such as a Digital Reader, Game Player, and MP3 Player--that will entertain and teach kids aged 3 to 7. By connecting this device to your computer you can add your own photos and music to the iXL, create profiles, and download extras that will enhance your child's experience. iXL 6-in-1 Learning System (Pink) Ages: 3 to 7 years Requires: Four AA batteries, Internet connection, and a computer What We Think Fun factor: Durability: Ease of assembly: Educational factor: Novelty factor: The Good: Durable, easy-to-use, customizable learning toy that can expand with your child's growth The Challenging: With high speed cable internet, software may take up to 30 minutes to download In a Nutshell: A fun and educational introduction to technology This exciting handheld toy helps introduce children to technology. View larger. The iXL features six activities, including an interactive reader. View larger. Kids can practice their art skills with the included Art Studio. View larger. Intuitive and Kid-Friendly Technology Made of rugged plastic that will survive all kinds of crazy play, the iXL is similar to popular hand-held game players, but is designed for the use of younger children. The device opens like a book to reveal an LCD touch screen that displays all the action. Your kid will navigate through the activities by touching the tethered stylus to the screen. The iXL is extremely intuitive and uncomplicated. The stylus has a holster and is tethered to the device by a sturdy nylon string, so your child will never lose it. Opposite the screen is a speaker with volume control, an Action button that allows you to make choices in certain modes, and a Home button that returns you to the Main Menu whenever you wish. Easy Set Up To turn the piece on, you or your child will simply press the Power button positioned on the side of the device. All elements of interaction--from the generous buttons and stylus, to the iXL's hearty casing--are practical for children's use. After unpacking the iXL, you'll get it ready for play by inserting four AA batteries then completing a quick calibration of the touch screen. You'll want to install the software for this toy via the accompanying CD-ROM to access additional features, software updates, and customizations. Additional iXL features include an SD slot for memory expansion, built-in memory of up to 150 MB, and a standard headphone jack for those long car rides or flights. An Interactive Learning Experience The iXL will keep curious kids busy, entertained, and learning with its six preloaded activities. Your child will practice reading and comprehension with the Digital Reader, which includes an interactive 15-page story available in either the reading or interacting mode. For kids who love action, the Game Player features a three-level arcade game that promotes counting and learning about sequences and numbers. Future young writers can practice the alphabet and their penmanship in the Notepad mode, while young artists will flex their creativity with the Art Studio's digital tools. The iXL includes an MP3 Player with five preloaded kid's songs and a Photo Viewer with three sample images that can be embellished and manipulated. Software Downloads Expand Features You'll get the most from the iXL by loading the software onto your PC and attaching the device to your computer with the accompanying USB cable. Although with high-speed cable internet software may take up to 30 minutes to download, once you completed this you can transfer files to increase playing options, including additional software for purchase that will add new stories and games for your child to play. Navigating the software is simple and intuitive. You can create up