Consumer Critique: Exploracise

I got the chance to try out Exploracise: Gymathtics, a video that combines a kid-friendly workout with math facts.

I did this with my 2- and 4-year-old daughters (almost 3 and 5). My toddler kept up off and on and did about half of it, and at least counted the numbers and did the shapes, even if the rest was above her head. My preschooler was able to figure out a lot more, and did the whole DVD with me. The math content is solid - there's a lot presented, and it moves quickly, but it's designed to reinforce and review, not teach. There are some concepts that are only written on the screen, not spoken aloud, so higher-level students (its designed for grades 1-4) can probably pick up on them. The workout is pretty good for kids too. There's a warm-up, some cardio, some push-ups and ab work, and a cool down with positive, healthy tips spoken during the stretching.

I liked it. It's a little cheesy for adults, but pretty good for kids. The workout got my heart rate up, but my preschooler was able to keep up for the most part. I also received the Multiplication and Addition Ellipsoids, which can be used to play physical games and reinforce math facts at the same time.

The creator, Carrie Scheiner, is a math educator (as am I), who understands the importance of building a solid math background. Exploracise has also earned several awards: Teachers' Choice Award from Learning magazine, and the Dr. Toy 10 best active learning toys. It also earned a Moms' Best Award and Homeschool.com's seal of approval.

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Disclosure: I received complimentary Exploracise products to facilitate this review.