leapfrog and other educational toys

i'm sure you've seen the commercials of the cute little kids playing with the leapfrog toys, but my question is how effective are these learning tools. they have toys to help with everything from reading and writing to math and science. they also have toys for all ages, from 6 months to 18 years old. they are good for working on certain skills at home and some school have started to use them in class as teaching aids. one special education teacher sent home a phonics program from leapfrog and saw wonderful results with her students. another teacher chose to use the phonics programs in class and saw a "huge boost" in learning and reading skills and a boost in her students confidence as well. so from what i've read the leapfrog brand of toys and others like it can definitely help students learn in a fun and effective way!