Unboxing
Unboxing this tablet was extremely easy. Once the lid of the box is lifted, you will find a 7” screen tablet and bumper case. My bumper case was green but there are other color options you can choose. Also included are instructions and a wall charger using USB to micro USB connection. The tablet will need to be charged about 2 hours before you start using and set up will take about 10 minutes.
The Playtime Experience
My Epic tablet had to take a system update and be set up before it was ready for use. Once set up LeapFrog walks you through creating a parent account complete with pin number. The Epic has you build a profile for each child that will be using the tablet and choose their grade level from Early Pre-K to 6th. There are several pre-loaded learning applications on the tablet and a special web browser called LeapSearch specifically designed for kids. The parent mode allows you to choose which websites your child is allowed to visit with the web browser. It comes pre-loaded with things like discovery kids and pbs but you can add any websites that you wish. Parent-mode also allows you to set time and content limits. The kid side of the tablet has lots of learning games and reward centered games like the word of the day and e-books. The background is also interactive. The background is a city that children and customize and watch things turn from day to night. There is also a forward and rear facing camera for photo and video captures.
Things I Liked
I loved the parent mode on this tablet and the LeapSearch. I haven’t come across a child’s tablet yet that had such a great way to give kids access to the internet while simultaneously keeping them safe.
Things I Didn't Like
I really haven’t found anything to dislike with the LeapFrog Epic. I think it could use more internal storage however, it is expandable with an SD card you can buy separately.
Appropriate Ages
The LeapFrog Epic actually covers a large age range, from 3 years old to 9 years old. I was really surprised by that large of an age range but the fact that you can create multiple profiles and each child can have their own pre-loaded applications and games that are tailored for their grade and learning level.
Final Note
I loved my play experience with the LeapFrog Epic. The games and interactive applications were fun and customizable. The parent features were my favorite. I have yet to find another table that is as tailored to child safety while using the internet and it really made me feel secure about handing this to my child.
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