So many parents are talking about the leappad explorer tablet out in the market right now. Kids absolutely love it and are spending hours playing about it.

Usually we don’t like our kids putting all their time in video games and such. However, these gadgets seem to be favored by parents and well-meaning aunts and uncles because they have fantastic learning features and tools that help the child develop exponentially during his or her formative years.

This device comes with a few applications, but you can always download more to further hone the child’s skills and expand his knowledge about several topics. There are leapster explorer games that teach kids how to spell, read, write, do basic arithmetic skills, etc. I think the box says that the explorer tablet is recommended for kids aged 4 to 9, but I’m sure kids as young as 3, or even 2 years old can benefit from this too.

People have told me that the leappad is pretty durable and sturdy, but I suggest that you protect it with a solid carrying case to make sure it will last as long as possible. You can get a good sized bag, or buy one that is specially designed to hold this gadget. Kids are particular about the colors you get them so make sure you buy one that matches the device, or something that your kid will really like.

Aside from the carrying case, cover the explorer tablet with one of those clear films that we put on our own devices. This will keep it from getting too banged up with scratches and dirty hands that handle them. Kids will barely know it’s there if you put it on carefully and you buy the one that fits it well. It’s only going to cost you a few dollars but it’s really going to help you in the long run. In my view this is one of the more essential of the leappad accessories you will be able to find.

OK so this device runs on batteries and depending on how often the kid uses it, you can pretty much expect it to last a couple of days at the most. This is frustrating and annoying for parents because for one, constantly replacing batteries can be expensive, and two, it’s just plain inconvenient.

The best thing to do is buy rechargeable batteries that you can use for this. I’ve seen Duracell come up with these kinds of products and this has been extremely helpful for parents. Look for ones that aren’t too bulky so that you can easily pack it in your bag when you go on long trips.

Another thing you can get to ensure the life of the device is a car power adaptor so you can just plug it in your car for long car trips. Let me tell you, there is nothing more heaven-sent to parents than a child quietly engrossed in his own world of games and learning tools because they don’t have to deal with restless whining and short attention spans.

When you get the right accessories for your kid’s toys and gadgets, you will get the most out of your investment and it will serve you well for years to come.