3 hot gadgets for back-to-school

By Dan Kricke

For some kids, the toughest part of school isn’t the math homework or the science projects, it’s figuring out how to fit in with your peers. But, a shared appreciation for cool gadgets can get every kid to be the talk of the playground. Here are some gadgets that are great for the Kindergarten through 8th grade set.

LeapFrog LeapPad 2 ($129)

Younger kids are probably too young to play with an iPad, but there are some great tablets made just for the younger set. The LeapPad 2 focuses on helping to teach your child how to read. It features ultra eBooks with 100 key words that change dynamically as your child learns. The LeapPad has a 4GB memory and a library of over 300 downloadable apps to help the learning process. Get it from Walmart and get 1.5% Cash Back.

USB Bracelet ($10)

As students get older, their homework will start to get more and more complex. It might even require some extra time for research at the library. What better way to transport your files and look fashionable than a USB bracelet? The PNY 8GB Blue Bracelet available at Fry’s will not only look good on your student, but it’ll also help ensure they don’t leave their flash drive stuck in a computer when they’re finished working.

Powerbag Messenger ($129)

The trickiest part of managing your gadgets in school is having no way to charge them throughout the day. The Powerbag Messenger takes care of that completely thanks to an onboard 6000mAh battery that’s powerful enough to charge a smartphone four times. It has built in Apple, Micro-USB and Mini-USB connectors along with a USB port for every kind of charge you could desire. It also charges up to 4 devices at once. You can get it at the AT&T Store.