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VTech Unveils V.Smile TV Learning SystemFeb. 12 /PRNewswire/ -- It's time for kids to put down the remote and turn their full attention to the -- TV? That's right, VTech Electronics North America, creator of the electronic learning category, kicks off the 2004 toy season with the release of its first-to-market, V.Smile TV Learning System. The new V.Smile combines educational content, loveable characters and a video game platform in a system that connects directly to the television for children ages 3 to 7. V.Smile helps parents feel good about their children's TV time by teaching essential day-to-day skills and curricula such as language, math, vocabulary and problem solving with entertaining exchangeable game Smartridges. V.Smile meets a need, too. TV time and video gaming for kids are on the rise. According to 2003 Nielsen Media Research, 99 percent of households have at least one television set, while approximately 67 percent own video gaming devices, and by 2005, video gaming devices are expected to penetrate more than 70 million households, nearly double the penetration of 2001 (Forrester Research 2003). The pervasiveness of these two entertainment formats prompted VTech to develop a product that takes something kids are already familiar with, and turn it into a positive experience with educational and developmental benefits. The result is the new V.Smile TV Learning System, which delivers age-appropriate content that is non-violent and constructive for young children. "V.Smile is a smart alternative to the television programming children watch," said Dr. Helen Boehm, a child development expert and author of the 2004 Guide to the Right Toys. "Young children aspire to be like their big brothers and sisters, and parents are concerned about the potential of exposure to inappropriate programming on TV and violence in some video games. V.Smile not only provides games especially for preschool and elementary school youngsters, but also controls the content and enhances their playtime experience with meaningful, educational games." "VTech saw an opportunity with V.Smile to tap into two things we know kids like -- TV and video games -- and transform it into the type of engaging educational products we're known for," said William To, president, VTech Electronics North America. "VTech is delivering the first product for 3 to 7 year-olds that seamlessly combines TV, video gaming and education into one system to provide kids with the aspirational gameplay they're seeking." V.Smile features a library of 10 Smartridges with a variety of charming characters like Winnie the Pooh or Scooby-Doo to guide children through fun games and developmental activities that help them learn to follow directions, develop fine motor skills, and gain confidence as they're rewarded with positive phrases. Children navigate each game by using a hand-held joystick with colorful oversized buttons, which can be adapted for right-and left-handed players alike. The V.Smile TV Learning System and its library of Smartridges will be available fall 2004. Licensed Smartridges will feature Scooby-Doo, Spider-Man & Friends, Care Bears, and Disney's Winnie the Pooh, Mickey Mouse, The Little Mermaid and The Lion King. Each will have its own colorful setting, theme and characters to involve kids and immerse them in new adventures each time they play. The V.Smile TV Learning System will come with the gaming console, Alphabet Park Smartridge and a joystick, and retails for approximately $59.99; Smartridges will retail for approximately $19.99. Following is the Smartridge age breakdown:
Early Learners
Junior Thinkers
Master Minds Each Smartridge features a multi-curricular Learning Adventure game that sets the child on a mission that can last as long as they do. Smartridges also contain three- to- four Learning Zone games for kids to enjoy specific activities and practice a particular learning area, such as telling time or the alphabet. Note: The licensed Smartridge titles may change. For more information on VTech's product lines for children from birth to pre-teen visit www.vtechkids.com. Source: VTech Electronics North America []Similar |
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