A lot of parents say that children shouldn't be playing with electronics at a young age. I say, "Why not?" Everything in moderation! I don't want my children glued to an electronic device at all times, but I do appreciate how helpful some educational electronic toys can be. That being said, there are also plenty that are totally not worth their money. Below is my list of recommendations.

• VTech InnoTab - This tablet comes with learning games, interactive reading, activities, and engaging tools. It does not come with a camera like LeapPad, but it is also a lot less expensive, so you don't cringe quite so hard, if it gets broken. There is no shortage of popular characters on the available software either. Dora the Explorer, Mickey Mouse, Toy Story, Hello Kitty, Scooby-Doo, and Thomas & Friends are a few my kids love.

• VTech Tote & Go Laptop - Perfect for pre-school age children, this fun laptop has 20 learning activities already loaded that teaches numbers, spelling, shapes, and letters. You can also connect to a PC to download more activities.

• LeapFrog LeapPad Explorer Learning Tablet - I recently purchased this one for a birthday present for one of my kids, and it is really great. I don't recommend it for super young children because it is a little pricey, but it has a built-in camera and more than 100 educational applications, games, videos, and books covering an array of subjects like reading, math, and science.

• LeapFrog Scribble & Write - Be kind to the environment and skip wasting all that scrap paper used to learn how to write. This handheld toy has a screen that even displays dots of letters, so they can connect the dots. The audio is very encouraging.

• LeapFrog Learn & Groove Music Player - This device features four activity modes and encourages motor skill development. It has 20 upbeat learning songs. The only downfall is this thing is pretty loud, even on the lowest setting, and unfortunately there is no headphone port.

• Text & Learn - Children love to mimic their parents. Since they likely see you texting, they will love this handheld gadget. The graphics are a little dated, but I love the oversized keys. Plus, it is the perfect size for in the car.

Kids love to have their own space. Rather than having to climb up on an uncomfortable sofa where their feet can't even touch, I recommend a bean bag chair. All of my kids have them now, and I wish I had bought them sooner. There is a great selection available online from stores like SoothingCompany.com.