Physical Features
The Leapster L-Max learning system features a flip screen cover, AC adapter jack, TV connector jack and headphone connector jack. Control buttons allow children to pause the game, receive hints and navigate game play by using a multi-directional control pad in conjunction with two game play buttons. The Leapster L-Max also comes with a connected pen stylus that children can use when the unit is hooked up to a TV or when using the stand alone system.
Benefits
The Leapster L-Max's portability allows children to play educational games anywhere. In addition to teaching reading and math skills, the Leapster L-Max helps younger children to exercise motor skills, such as hand to eye coordination, as they learn how to work the game controls. Games provide visual hints that help children find the correct answer after answering a question incorrectly. Leapster L-Max games integrate visual and auditory teaching methods to help children understand fundamental concepts.
Included Games
The Leapster L-Max comes with the River Rabbit math game that teaches younger children the names of numerals and how to count to 100. Older children may benefit from the game's addition, subtraction and multiplication exercises. The learning system also features the River Rabbit reading game that shows children how to phonetically spell out words and demonstrates how to spell words that contain silent vowels. An art game allows children to create customized farm pictures with the use of stamps, textures and color patterns.
Additional Games
Additional games that parents can purchase for the Leapster L-Max include Alphabet Adventures-Letters on the Loose, SpongeBob SquarePants Saves the Day, Dora the Explorer Wildlife Rescue, Madagascar and Spider-Man: The Case of the Sinister Spell. Children can use original Leapster game cartridges in conjunction with the Leapster L-Max.
Considerations
Parents must buy an AC power adapter separately from the Leapster L-Max or use four AA batteries or rechargeable batteries in order to provide power to the learning system. The Leapster L-Max comes with a warranty that covers the system for up to three months after the initial purchase date.