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Profile:Leapfrog Enterprises, Inc. is a designer, developer and marketer of technology-based educational products and related proprietary content, dedicated to making learning effective and engaging. Leapfrog`s products are sold at major national and regional retailers throughout the United States, to United States schools and in over 25 countries worldwide in five languages. Leapfrog is based in Emeryville, California, and has offices in Austin, Texas; Chicago, Illinois; Hong Kong; London, England, and Los Gatos, California.
http://www.leapfrog.com
http://www.leapfrog.com
LeapFrog eyes next jump
CEO Michael Wood chats about IPO
By Steve Gelsi, CBS.MarketWatch.com
Last Update: 3:47 PM ET Aug. 21, 2002
NEW YORK (CBS.MW) -- LeapFrog hopped 22 percent higher when it debuted at $13 per share on July 25, only to fall sharply the next day on word of a patent infringement lawsuit against it.
Since then, the Emeryville, Calif., maker of the Leap Pad device to help kids learn reading and other subjects has seen its stock price rise to about $16 per share.
Merrill Lynch was lead underwriter of the IPO, which raised $117 million by offering 9 million shares.
LeapFrog (LF: news, chart, profile) is controlled by former junk bond giant Michael Milken and Oracle Corp (ORCL: news, chart, profile) CEO Larry Ellison in terms of stock ownership, but neither sits on the company`s board of directors.
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CEO Michael C. Wood founded the company in 1995 after developing the patented Phonics Letters and Phonics Desk products. He was formerly a partner at Cooley Godward LLP with a specialty in venture capital and emerging technology law.
Q. CBS.MW: Why did you do the IPO now?
A. Wood: Doing the offering this year was part of our business plan for a while. We have lots of reasons why we think we can deploy the capital successfully for our shareholders. We`re developing new products and content not only for the U.S., but internationally, and even for English as a Second Language programs for overseas distribution. I don`t believe that we should run the company at the whim of the market. It was important for us to remain with our business plan. We also did the IPO because we could. There were lots of companies that did not proceed.
Q. CBS.MW: You were slapped with a patent infringement suit the day after the IPO debuted. What`s your reaction?
A. Wood: It put a hiccup in what should have been one of the most exciting business days of my life. The timing of the service of the complaint must have been intended to make things uncomfortable. We worked through the night and by the next day, did a press release, which stood by our patent. We only had 14 hours to work on it. Now, having given it more time, we continue to stand by our assessment. We continue to believe we have valid arguments that our Leap Pad does not infringe upon any claim of patent.
Q. CBS.MW: Investors seem to have shrugged off the patent suits and the stock is still trading well above its $13 per share offering price. Is this a surprise?
A. Wood: At the end of the day, the stock`s value is derived by the underlying success of the company itself. We`re launching 19 products his fall and 62 new software titles on our platforms and we`ve got 55 new software titles launching internationally. What investors are saying is that this is a company that has dedication to making learning engaging and effective for kids, and a company that has a good track record and momentum and is building a strong brand. As a practical matter, overall, we live in an overly litigious society. The more successful companies become, the more likely they are to attract litigation.
A. CBS.MW: Former junk bond king Michael Milken and Oracle CEO Larry Ellison own controlling interests in the company. How much leeway do you get as CEO?
A. Wood: Neither Milken nor Ellison are on the board. They`re shareholders. I`m accountable to the board. We have a fantastic board lending support and giving advice to senior management. Management makes all of the critical decisions relating to the company, using the board as a resource for advice or input. Mike and Larry are both extraordinarily busy people with lots of things on their plate. I suspect they`re proud of what LeapFrog is doing, but it`s not top of mind for them.
Q. CBS.MW: How did they get interested in the company in the first place?
A. Wood: In 1997, LeapFrog had too many ideas and too many opportunities and not enough money to pursue them. I was a lawyer and I was anxious to get someone else to work with me. I knew (current LeapFrog chairman) Tom Kalinske, who was formerly of Mattel and Sega. He has six kids and a passion for education. He was chief executive officer of (Milken`s) Knowledge Universe, the venture capital fund. I contacted Thom and I spent a lot of time trying to understand their philosophy, which was consistent, with the Milken Education Foundation. What I found was a group with deep pockets that could help us grow, and I would have access to Thom Kalinske to work with us on retailers, and other things. It`s worked out fantastically. Thom is chairman of our board, and spends 80 percent of his time here as a mentor. So it was the right decision and it`s been a significant factor in growing the company. Larry Ellison decided to put together an investment fund dedicated to education and training. They hired Kalinske to help them choose what investments to make and to provide strategic advice.
Q. CBS.MW: Why`d your IPO price at the bottom end of its $13 to $16 range?
A. Wood: During our three weeks on the road, unrelated to us, the market was losing daily, as did [comparable stocks in our sector]. Despite the fact that we were firing on all cylinders, no one is immune to the market trends in some ways. We were fortunate to price in the original range.
Q. CBS.MW: What thoughts do you have on future product growth? Where do you see the company in five years?
A. Wood: We have lots of opportunities and lots of very good educators advising us. We have a fantastic technology team in Silicon Valley. We design our own chips and software, and we have a very experienced product design team. We will continue to be focused on designing and developing hardware and software, and developing the best pedagogy for adults and kids here and around the world. That`s a big canvas to paint on. There will be significant opportunities for any company able to make learning more engaging.
Q. CBS.MW: You posted sales of $57.8 million and a net loss of $5.1 million in the first quarter, compared to sales of $21.9 million and a loss of $8.5 million in the year-ago period. Where`s the quick growth coming from? You posted a profit in 2001 and do you plan to do so again in 2002?
A. Wood: We saw growth in the U.S. consumer business, international sales and in our schoolhouse division. We were profitable last year, and in the first two quarters of this year we increased our revenue while narrowing our loss. The analysts have projected a profit through this year and we`re comfortable with that.
Steve Gelsi is a reporter for CBS.MarketWatch.com in New York.
CEO Michael Wood chats about IPO
By Steve Gelsi, CBS.MarketWatch.com
Last Update: 3:47 PM ET Aug. 21, 2002
NEW YORK (CBS.MW) -- LeapFrog hopped 22 percent higher when it debuted at $13 per share on July 25, only to fall sharply the next day on word of a patent infringement lawsuit against it.
Since then, the Emeryville, Calif., maker of the Leap Pad device to help kids learn reading and other subjects has seen its stock price rise to about $16 per share.
Merrill Lynch was lead underwriter of the IPO, which raised $117 million by offering 9 million shares.
LeapFrog (LF: news, chart, profile) is controlled by former junk bond giant Michael Milken and Oracle Corp (ORCL: news, chart, profile) CEO Larry Ellison in terms of stock ownership, but neither sits on the company`s board of directors.
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CEO Michael C. Wood founded the company in 1995 after developing the patented Phonics Letters and Phonics Desk products. He was formerly a partner at Cooley Godward LLP with a specialty in venture capital and emerging technology law.
Q. CBS.MW: Why did you do the IPO now?
A. Wood: Doing the offering this year was part of our business plan for a while. We have lots of reasons why we think we can deploy the capital successfully for our shareholders. We`re developing new products and content not only for the U.S., but internationally, and even for English as a Second Language programs for overseas distribution. I don`t believe that we should run the company at the whim of the market. It was important for us to remain with our business plan. We also did the IPO because we could. There were lots of companies that did not proceed.
Q. CBS.MW: You were slapped with a patent infringement suit the day after the IPO debuted. What`s your reaction?
A. Wood: It put a hiccup in what should have been one of the most exciting business days of my life. The timing of the service of the complaint must have been intended to make things uncomfortable. We worked through the night and by the next day, did a press release, which stood by our patent. We only had 14 hours to work on it. Now, having given it more time, we continue to stand by our assessment. We continue to believe we have valid arguments that our Leap Pad does not infringe upon any claim of patent.
Q. CBS.MW: Investors seem to have shrugged off the patent suits and the stock is still trading well above its $13 per share offering price. Is this a surprise?
A. Wood: At the end of the day, the stock`s value is derived by the underlying success of the company itself. We`re launching 19 products his fall and 62 new software titles on our platforms and we`ve got 55 new software titles launching internationally. What investors are saying is that this is a company that has dedication to making learning engaging and effective for kids, and a company that has a good track record and momentum and is building a strong brand. As a practical matter, overall, we live in an overly litigious society. The more successful companies become, the more likely they are to attract litigation.
A. CBS.MW: Former junk bond king Michael Milken and Oracle CEO Larry Ellison own controlling interests in the company. How much leeway do you get as CEO?
A. Wood: Neither Milken nor Ellison are on the board. They`re shareholders. I`m accountable to the board. We have a fantastic board lending support and giving advice to senior management. Management makes all of the critical decisions relating to the company, using the board as a resource for advice or input. Mike and Larry are both extraordinarily busy people with lots of things on their plate. I suspect they`re proud of what LeapFrog is doing, but it`s not top of mind for them.
Q. CBS.MW: How did they get interested in the company in the first place?
A. Wood: In 1997, LeapFrog had too many ideas and too many opportunities and not enough money to pursue them. I was a lawyer and I was anxious to get someone else to work with me. I knew (current LeapFrog chairman) Tom Kalinske, who was formerly of Mattel and Sega. He has six kids and a passion for education. He was chief executive officer of (Milken`s) Knowledge Universe, the venture capital fund. I contacted Thom and I spent a lot of time trying to understand their philosophy, which was consistent, with the Milken Education Foundation. What I found was a group with deep pockets that could help us grow, and I would have access to Thom Kalinske to work with us on retailers, and other things. It`s worked out fantastically. Thom is chairman of our board, and spends 80 percent of his time here as a mentor. So it was the right decision and it`s been a significant factor in growing the company. Larry Ellison decided to put together an investment fund dedicated to education and training. They hired Kalinske to help them choose what investments to make and to provide strategic advice.
Q. CBS.MW: Why`d your IPO price at the bottom end of its $13 to $16 range?
A. Wood: During our three weeks on the road, unrelated to us, the market was losing daily, as did [comparable stocks in our sector]. Despite the fact that we were firing on all cylinders, no one is immune to the market trends in some ways. We were fortunate to price in the original range.
Q. CBS.MW: What thoughts do you have on future product growth? Where do you see the company in five years?
A. Wood: We have lots of opportunities and lots of very good educators advising us. We have a fantastic technology team in Silicon Valley. We design our own chips and software, and we have a very experienced product design team. We will continue to be focused on designing and developing hardware and software, and developing the best pedagogy for adults and kids here and around the world. That`s a big canvas to paint on. There will be significant opportunities for any company able to make learning more engaging.
Q. CBS.MW: You posted sales of $57.8 million and a net loss of $5.1 million in the first quarter, compared to sales of $21.9 million and a loss of $8.5 million in the year-ago period. Where`s the quick growth coming from? You posted a profit in 2001 and do you plan to do so again in 2002?
A. Wood: We saw growth in the U.S. consumer business, international sales and in our schoolhouse division. We were profitable last year, and in the first two quarters of this year we increased our revenue while narrowing our loss. The analysts have projected a profit through this year and we`re comfortable with that.
Steve Gelsi is a reporter for CBS.MarketWatch.com in New York.
LeapFrog`s Quantum Leap(R) Brand Products Hit Store Shelves, Just in Time For Back-To-School
LeapFrog Offers Innovative New Products Designed to Help Children Succeed in School Subjects
Thursday August 22, 9:00 am ET
EMERYVILLE, Calif., Aug. 22 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. (NYSE: LF - News), a leading developer of innovative technology-based educational products, today announces retail availability of the 2002 Quantum Leap® line of learning products developed specifically for grade and middle school age children. New products in this year`s lineup include the Quantum Pad(TM) learning system and Turbo Twist® handheld BRAIN QUEST® edition product. For the first time, content for the iQuest(TM) interactive talking handheld is available for fifth graders; and pre-loaded iQuest curriculum cartridges for grades five through eight are now available at retail.
ADVERTISEMENT
As with all Quantum Leap educational products, the new additions are designed to continually engage and challenge students with customized content that adjusts and grows with them.
The products align with national curriculum to match what students are learning in the classroom in math, spelling, vocabulary, science, social studies, history, and geography.
"We`ve added some exciting new products to our back-to-school line-up this year based on feedback from teachers, parents and students regarding the learning challenges kids face in elementary and middle school," says Mike Wood, LeapFrog`s founder, president and chief executive officer. "The new Quantum Leap products build on the success of our existing line by providing effective learning experiences that are designed to help students master classroom subjects. Equally important is the fun, interactive format, which fosters an enthusiasm for learning that paves the way for success in school."
LeapFrog`s newest Quantum Leap products endeavor to turn studying from routine to riveting:
New for iQuest(TM) Interactive Talking Handheld Users
The iQuest interactive talking handheld is a revolutionary way for sixth, seventh and eighth graders to study for tests in math, science and social studies. Just in time for back-to-school, this year iQuest extends its content to include grade-specific lessons for fifth graders! This ultimate learning tool delivers class curriculum through fun audio quizzes tied to textbook material that help make studying more effective and enjoyable. The iQuest handheld also includes a calendar, address book, calculator, note pad and Merriam-Webster Dictionary to help students stay organized. Also new for back to school: iQuest cartridges are now available at retail, preloaded with quizzes based upon actual math, science, or social studies textbooks that fifth through eighth grade students use in school (some publishers not supported).
Quantum Pad(TM) Learning System
The Quantum Pad learning system harnesses the power of NearTouch® technology to spark students` enthusiasm for mastering school subjects while encouraging them to learn at their own pace. Fun stories, games and activities make learning fundamental subjects, such as math, science and social studies, enjoyable. Books in the Quantum Pad FUN-damentals(TM) Series teach core skills specific to third, fourth, and fifth grades, such as math, science, reading, language arts, and social studies. The Above & Beyond(TM) Series lets students explore fascinating topics. And for improving reading fluency and comprehension, the Great Reader(TM) Series helps children build skills through popular titles such as the Magic Tree House(TM).
Turbo Twist® Line
Turbo Twist learning products are a fun, fast-paced way to challenge children in spelling, math, vocabulary, social studies, English and science. New to the lineup in time for the start of school, Turbo Twist® handheld BRAIN QUEST® edition, incorporates all new questions from the popular BRAIN QUEST game into challenging, fast-paced interactive activities that are designed to help students master important social studies, English and science facts. Turbo Twist products continually adjust and adapt to children`s current skill and ability, then challenge them to master the next level of learning. Also new for the back-to-school season: Turbo Twist cartridges containing additional content based on grade-specific standards are now available at retail.
In addition to retail cartridges, grade-specific content for the Turbo Twist and iQuest products can also be downloaded from LeapFrog`s Web site (www.leapfrog.com) through the Never-Ending Learning(TM) Club and Mind Station(TM) connector device.
Product Availability and Pricing
New Quantum Leap products begin hitting the shelves this month at major retailers nationwide, including Target, Toys"R"Us, and Wal-Mart.
Product Grades MSRP Availability
iQuest(TM) Interactive
Talking Handheld Grades 5-8 $59.99 Now
iQuest(TM) Cartridges Grades 5-8 $14.99 Now
Quantum Pad(TM) Learning System Grades 3-5 $49.99 Now
Quantum Pad(TM) Books Grades 3-5 $14.99 Now
Turbo Twist(R) handheld
BRAIN QUEST(R) edition Grades 1-6 $29.99 Now
Turbo Twist(R) Cartridges Grades 1-6 $12.99 Now
Mind Station(TM) Connector $39.99 Now
Additional information on LeapFrog and Quantum Leap products can be found at www.leapfrog.com.
About LeapFrog
LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. is a leading designer, developer and marketer of innovative, technology-based educational products and related proprietary content, dedicated to making learning effective and engaging. Based in Emeryville, California, LeapFrog has developed six platforms, more than 25 stand-alone educational products and more than 40 interactive books, covering important subjects such as phonics, reading, math, music, geography, social studies, and science. All products contain educational curricula and reflect a teaching style designed to be fun, engaging, and effective.
LeapFrog and its products have received more than 100 awards from educators, publishers, print and broadcast media, consumer groups and industry organizations, including the most coveted award in the toy industry, the first-ever PEOPLE`S CHOICE TOY OF THE YEAR (T.O.T.Y.) AWARD for the best-selling LeapPad® Learning System, as well as the BEST EDUCATIONAL T.O.T.Y. AWARD. LeapFrog products also received accolades from the Oppenheim Toy Portfolio, the Great American Toy Test, Toy Wishes Magazine`s Holiday Hot Dozen and the National Parenting Center.
In addition to national distribution at retailers across the United States, LeapFrog products are available in more than 25 countries and produced in five different languages.
NOTE: LEAPFROG, QUANTUM LEAP, TURBO TWIST, and NEAR TOUCH are registered trademarks of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. IQUEST, QUANTUM PAD, NEVER-ENDING LEARNING, and MIND STATION are trademarks of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Source: LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
LeapFrog Offers Innovative New Products Designed to Help Children Succeed in School Subjects
Thursday August 22, 9:00 am ET
EMERYVILLE, Calif., Aug. 22 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. (NYSE: LF - News), a leading developer of innovative technology-based educational products, today announces retail availability of the 2002 Quantum Leap® line of learning products developed specifically for grade and middle school age children. New products in this year`s lineup include the Quantum Pad(TM) learning system and Turbo Twist® handheld BRAIN QUEST® edition product. For the first time, content for the iQuest(TM) interactive talking handheld is available for fifth graders; and pre-loaded iQuest curriculum cartridges for grades five through eight are now available at retail.
ADVERTISEMENT
As with all Quantum Leap educational products, the new additions are designed to continually engage and challenge students with customized content that adjusts and grows with them.
The products align with national curriculum to match what students are learning in the classroom in math, spelling, vocabulary, science, social studies, history, and geography.
"We`ve added some exciting new products to our back-to-school line-up this year based on feedback from teachers, parents and students regarding the learning challenges kids face in elementary and middle school," says Mike Wood, LeapFrog`s founder, president and chief executive officer. "The new Quantum Leap products build on the success of our existing line by providing effective learning experiences that are designed to help students master classroom subjects. Equally important is the fun, interactive format, which fosters an enthusiasm for learning that paves the way for success in school."
LeapFrog`s newest Quantum Leap products endeavor to turn studying from routine to riveting:
New for iQuest(TM) Interactive Talking Handheld Users
The iQuest interactive talking handheld is a revolutionary way for sixth, seventh and eighth graders to study for tests in math, science and social studies. Just in time for back-to-school, this year iQuest extends its content to include grade-specific lessons for fifth graders! This ultimate learning tool delivers class curriculum through fun audio quizzes tied to textbook material that help make studying more effective and enjoyable. The iQuest handheld also includes a calendar, address book, calculator, note pad and Merriam-Webster Dictionary to help students stay organized. Also new for back to school: iQuest cartridges are now available at retail, preloaded with quizzes based upon actual math, science, or social studies textbooks that fifth through eighth grade students use in school (some publishers not supported).
Quantum Pad(TM) Learning System
The Quantum Pad learning system harnesses the power of NearTouch® technology to spark students` enthusiasm for mastering school subjects while encouraging them to learn at their own pace. Fun stories, games and activities make learning fundamental subjects, such as math, science and social studies, enjoyable. Books in the Quantum Pad FUN-damentals(TM) Series teach core skills specific to third, fourth, and fifth grades, such as math, science, reading, language arts, and social studies. The Above & Beyond(TM) Series lets students explore fascinating topics. And for improving reading fluency and comprehension, the Great Reader(TM) Series helps children build skills through popular titles such as the Magic Tree House(TM).
Turbo Twist® Line
Turbo Twist learning products are a fun, fast-paced way to challenge children in spelling, math, vocabulary, social studies, English and science. New to the lineup in time for the start of school, Turbo Twist® handheld BRAIN QUEST® edition, incorporates all new questions from the popular BRAIN QUEST game into challenging, fast-paced interactive activities that are designed to help students master important social studies, English and science facts. Turbo Twist products continually adjust and adapt to children`s current skill and ability, then challenge them to master the next level of learning. Also new for the back-to-school season: Turbo Twist cartridges containing additional content based on grade-specific standards are now available at retail.
In addition to retail cartridges, grade-specific content for the Turbo Twist and iQuest products can also be downloaded from LeapFrog`s Web site (www.leapfrog.com) through the Never-Ending Learning(TM) Club and Mind Station(TM) connector device.
Product Availability and Pricing
New Quantum Leap products begin hitting the shelves this month at major retailers nationwide, including Target, Toys"R"Us, and Wal-Mart.
Product Grades MSRP Availability
iQuest(TM) Interactive
Talking Handheld Grades 5-8 $59.99 Now
iQuest(TM) Cartridges Grades 5-8 $14.99 Now
Quantum Pad(TM) Learning System Grades 3-5 $49.99 Now
Quantum Pad(TM) Books Grades 3-5 $14.99 Now
Turbo Twist(R) handheld
BRAIN QUEST(R) edition Grades 1-6 $29.99 Now
Turbo Twist(R) Cartridges Grades 1-6 $12.99 Now
Mind Station(TM) Connector $39.99 Now
Additional information on LeapFrog and Quantum Leap products can be found at www.leapfrog.com.
About LeapFrog
LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. is a leading designer, developer and marketer of innovative, technology-based educational products and related proprietary content, dedicated to making learning effective and engaging. Based in Emeryville, California, LeapFrog has developed six platforms, more than 25 stand-alone educational products and more than 40 interactive books, covering important subjects such as phonics, reading, math, music, geography, social studies, and science. All products contain educational curricula and reflect a teaching style designed to be fun, engaging, and effective.
LeapFrog and its products have received more than 100 awards from educators, publishers, print and broadcast media, consumer groups and industry organizations, including the most coveted award in the toy industry, the first-ever PEOPLE`S CHOICE TOY OF THE YEAR (T.O.T.Y.) AWARD for the best-selling LeapPad® Learning System, as well as the BEST EDUCATIONAL T.O.T.Y. AWARD. LeapFrog products also received accolades from the Oppenheim Toy Portfolio, the Great American Toy Test, Toy Wishes Magazine`s Holiday Hot Dozen and the National Parenting Center.
In addition to national distribution at retailers across the United States, LeapFrog products are available in more than 25 countries and produced in five different languages.
NOTE: LEAPFROG, QUANTUM LEAP, TURBO TWIST, and NEAR TOUCH are registered trademarks of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. IQUEST, QUANTUM PAD, NEVER-ENDING LEARNING, and MIND STATION are trademarks of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Source: LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
LeapFrog`s New LeapPad Phonics Program Transforms Learning to Read Into A Love of Reading
LeapFrog`s Phonics Program Ignites Children`s Excitement to Read During Literacy Month
Monday September 16, 9:00 am ET
EMERYVILLE, Calif., Sept. 16 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. (NYSE: LF - News), a leading developer of innovative technology-based educational products, encourages parents to celebrate Literacy Month by sharing the adventures and enjoyment of reading with children of all ages. LeapFrog`s new LeapPad® Phonics Program teaches children to read and engages children to instill a love for reading.
Building on the runaway success of the LeapPad learning system, an interactive educational platform that won the Toy Industry Association`s People`s Choice Toy of the Year award in 2000, the LeapPad Phonics Program delivers a captivating learning experience for children by incorporating the magic of this popular platform with a systematic approach to phonics. This comprehensive program was developed by LeapFrog`s team of educational experts to align with national and state standards for early literacy.
LeapPad Phonics Program
The LeapPad Phonics Program begins by teaching children letter names and sounds, which are the cornerstones of learning how to read. Through a step-by-step series of 10 lesson books and four practice books children will enjoy reading adventures with their favorite cast of characters -- Leap, Lily and Tad.
This graduated program takes a child from letters and sounds and advances through compound words. Parents can purchase the complete set of books for children who are eager to start reading, or buy individual books to help a child with specific reading challenges. Simple for parents and children to follow, each storybook in the LeapPad Phonics Program includes an assessment activity to help determine when a child is ready to move to the next book in the series.
Igniting Children`s Excitement About Reading
Dr. Anne Cunningham, an Associate Professor at the University of California, Berkeley, a former classroom teacher and a member of LeapFrog`s Educational Advisory Board, suggests the following tips to help raise successful readers and keep children excited about reading.
-- Be a role model ... Make sure children see you reading and read with
them
-- Use rhyme to play with language ... Encourage early readers to rhyme as
an effective way to build phonemic awareness
-- Help children expand their possibilities ... Renew a commitment to take
children to the library regularly and introduce them to the wide
selection of books, magazines and newspapers
-- Read as a family ... Read a book before bed and create a weekly family
reading night
-- Go beyond traditional books ... Utilize tools that make reading fun,
e.g. interactive platforms, books on tape, etc.
-- Spark children`s interest ... Look for books and other reading material
that incorporate children`s specific interests and passions
"LeapFrog has always been committed to literacy and the LeapPad Phonics Program provides a perfect solution for both parents and children," says Dr. Cunningham. "When making recommendations to parents to encourage their children to read, I always include the LeapPad Phonics Program since it is a focused and captivating experience for the child."
Product Availability and Pricing
The new LeapPad Phonics Program will begin hitting the shelves this month at major retailers nationwide, including Target, Toys"R"Us, and Wal-Mart.
Product Ages MSRP Availability
LeapPad(R) Learning System 4-8 years $49.99 Now
Phonics Program Storybooks 4-7 years $14.99 each Now
1. Alphabet Adventures
2. Tad`s Good Night
3. Day At Moss Lake
4. Day Leap Ate Olives
5. Lost and Found
6. Cake and Mice Cream
7. Mole`s Huge Nose
8. Rainy Day Play
9. A Bark in the Dark
10. A Fisherman`s Tale
Phonics Program Activity books 4-7 years $14.99 each Now
1. I Know My Letters and
Letter Sounds
2. I Know My Short Vowels
3. I Know My Blends and
Digraphs
4. I Know My Long Vowels
Additional information on LeapFrog and its products can be found at www.leapfrog.com.
About LeapFrog
LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. is a leading designer, developer and marketer of innovative, technology-based educational products and related proprietary content, dedicated to making learning effective and engaging. Based in Emeryville, California, LeapFrog has developed six interactive platforms, more than 25 stand-alone educational products and more than 40 interactive books, covering important subjects such as phonics, reading, math, music, geography, social studies, and science. All products contain educational curricula and reflect a teaching style designed to be fun, engaging, and effective.
LeapFrog and its products have received more than 100 awards from educators, publishers, print and broadcast media, consumer groups and industry organizations, including the most coveted award in the toy industry, the first-ever PEOPLE`S CHOICE TOY OF THE YEAR (T.O.T.Y.) AWARD for the best-selling LeapPad® Learning System, as well as the BEST EDUCATIONAL T.O.T.Y. AWARD. LeapFrog products also received accolades from the Oppenheim Toy Portfolio, the Great American Toy Test, Toy Wishes Magazine`s Holiday Hot Dozen and the National Parenting Center.
In addition to national distribution at retailers across the United States, LeapFrog products are available in more than 25 countries and produced in five different languages.
NOTE: LEAPFROG and LEAPPAD are registered trademarks of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
CONTACT: Leah Davis, +1-916-983-7729, or leah.davis@mslpr.com, or Lorie Appelbaum, +1-415-364-3805, or lorie.appelbaum@mslpr.com, both of Manning Selvage & Lee, for LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Source: LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
LeapFrog`s Phonics Program Ignites Children`s Excitement to Read During Literacy Month
Monday September 16, 9:00 am ET
EMERYVILLE, Calif., Sept. 16 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. (NYSE: LF - News), a leading developer of innovative technology-based educational products, encourages parents to celebrate Literacy Month by sharing the adventures and enjoyment of reading with children of all ages. LeapFrog`s new LeapPad® Phonics Program teaches children to read and engages children to instill a love for reading.
Building on the runaway success of the LeapPad learning system, an interactive educational platform that won the Toy Industry Association`s People`s Choice Toy of the Year award in 2000, the LeapPad Phonics Program delivers a captivating learning experience for children by incorporating the magic of this popular platform with a systematic approach to phonics. This comprehensive program was developed by LeapFrog`s team of educational experts to align with national and state standards for early literacy.
LeapPad Phonics Program
The LeapPad Phonics Program begins by teaching children letter names and sounds, which are the cornerstones of learning how to read. Through a step-by-step series of 10 lesson books and four practice books children will enjoy reading adventures with their favorite cast of characters -- Leap, Lily and Tad.
This graduated program takes a child from letters and sounds and advances through compound words. Parents can purchase the complete set of books for children who are eager to start reading, or buy individual books to help a child with specific reading challenges. Simple for parents and children to follow, each storybook in the LeapPad Phonics Program includes an assessment activity to help determine when a child is ready to move to the next book in the series.
Igniting Children`s Excitement About Reading
Dr. Anne Cunningham, an Associate Professor at the University of California, Berkeley, a former classroom teacher and a member of LeapFrog`s Educational Advisory Board, suggests the following tips to help raise successful readers and keep children excited about reading.
-- Be a role model ... Make sure children see you reading and read with
them
-- Use rhyme to play with language ... Encourage early readers to rhyme as
an effective way to build phonemic awareness
-- Help children expand their possibilities ... Renew a commitment to take
children to the library regularly and introduce them to the wide
selection of books, magazines and newspapers
-- Read as a family ... Read a book before bed and create a weekly family
reading night
-- Go beyond traditional books ... Utilize tools that make reading fun,
e.g. interactive platforms, books on tape, etc.
-- Spark children`s interest ... Look for books and other reading material
that incorporate children`s specific interests and passions
"LeapFrog has always been committed to literacy and the LeapPad Phonics Program provides a perfect solution for both parents and children," says Dr. Cunningham. "When making recommendations to parents to encourage their children to read, I always include the LeapPad Phonics Program since it is a focused and captivating experience for the child."
Product Availability and Pricing
The new LeapPad Phonics Program will begin hitting the shelves this month at major retailers nationwide, including Target, Toys"R"Us, and Wal-Mart.
Product Ages MSRP Availability
LeapPad(R) Learning System 4-8 years $49.99 Now
Phonics Program Storybooks 4-7 years $14.99 each Now
1. Alphabet Adventures
2. Tad`s Good Night
3. Day At Moss Lake
4. Day Leap Ate Olives
5. Lost and Found
6. Cake and Mice Cream
7. Mole`s Huge Nose
8. Rainy Day Play
9. A Bark in the Dark
10. A Fisherman`s Tale
Phonics Program Activity books 4-7 years $14.99 each Now
1. I Know My Letters and
Letter Sounds
2. I Know My Short Vowels
3. I Know My Blends and
Digraphs
4. I Know My Long Vowels
Additional information on LeapFrog and its products can be found at www.leapfrog.com.
About LeapFrog
LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. is a leading designer, developer and marketer of innovative, technology-based educational products and related proprietary content, dedicated to making learning effective and engaging. Based in Emeryville, California, LeapFrog has developed six interactive platforms, more than 25 stand-alone educational products and more than 40 interactive books, covering important subjects such as phonics, reading, math, music, geography, social studies, and science. All products contain educational curricula and reflect a teaching style designed to be fun, engaging, and effective.
LeapFrog and its products have received more than 100 awards from educators, publishers, print and broadcast media, consumer groups and industry organizations, including the most coveted award in the toy industry, the first-ever PEOPLE`S CHOICE TOY OF THE YEAR (T.O.T.Y.) AWARD for the best-selling LeapPad® Learning System, as well as the BEST EDUCATIONAL T.O.T.Y. AWARD. LeapFrog products also received accolades from the Oppenheim Toy Portfolio, the Great American Toy Test, Toy Wishes Magazine`s Holiday Hot Dozen and the National Parenting Center.
In addition to national distribution at retailers across the United States, LeapFrog products are available in more than 25 countries and produced in five different languages.
NOTE: LEAPFROG and LEAPPAD are registered trademarks of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
CONTACT: Leah Davis, +1-916-983-7729, or leah.davis@mslpr.com, or Lorie Appelbaum, +1-415-364-3805, or lorie.appelbaum@mslpr.com, both of Manning Selvage & Lee, for LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Source: LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
LeapFrog Joins With Kaplan to Help Improve Students SAT, PSAT and ACT Scores
LeapFrog`s New iQuest Test Prep Content Offers Students a Dynamic And Interactive Studying Experience for College Entrance Exams
Thursday September 26, 3:58 pm ET
EMERYVILLE, Calif., Sept. 26 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. (NYSE: LF - News), a leading developer of innovative technology-based learning products, announces its new educational offering for high schoolers featuring content and strategy contributions from Kaplan, Inc., the experts in test preparation, that transforms studying for the SAT, PSAT and ACT from routine to riveting. Now available at major retailers, the LeapFrog iQuest(TM) Test Prep solution leverages Kaplan`s proven study techniques and content to offer an engaging, interactive and affordable solution that helps students prepare for college entrance exams. The easy-to-use LeapFrog platform supports the development of essential test-taking skills and provides study and practice opportunities that fit into Teens` on-the-go lives.
Using the iQuest(TM) handheld and the 600-page Test Prep Workbook, students can build confidence, increase scores and prepare for the SAT, PSAT or ACT in a fun and engaging manner. Four interactive game modes provide students the opportunity to master key math and verbal concepts that can help give them a test-taking edge.
Electronic Flash Cards to memorize vocabulary and math concepts without having to use hard-to-manage cardboard flash cards or the bulky workbook
Learn It! to master topics with interactive practice questions and expert strategies provided by Kaplan
Quiz Me! to practice timed SAT/PSAT/ACT questions and improve test-taking speed
Test Mode to simulate the test-taking environment with the iQuest handheld serving as the student`s personal time proctor. Also in the Test Mode, the handheld will immediately calculate the test score once the student has input all of the answers.
According to the College Board, 46% of this year`s 2.88 million high school graduates took the SAT -- the highest percentage ever. The number of test takers nearly equals the number of freshman entering four-year colleges nationwide, increasing competition among students and challenging them to score well on their entrance exams to get into the college of their choice.
"In today`s increasingly competitive college admissions landscape, students and families realize that expert test preparation materials and admissions guidance are essential for college admissions success," said Trent Anderson, vice president of publishing, Kaplan, Inc. "We are thrilled that the fun-to-use iQuest handheld will offer students an innovative college-preparation tool that perfectly suits their active lifestyles."
"At LeapFrog, we are committed to designing educational products that are age- and skill-level appropriate," said Mike Wood, LeapFrog`s founder, president and chief executive officer. "When we expanded our product line to the high school level we wanted to work with the best -- so we chose Kaplan, the authority in college test preparation. With our new iQuest Test Prep solution, we have brought Kaplan`s rigorous and effective test-taking strategies to students in a way that makes studying -- for what is often seen as an overwhelming test experience -- both effective and engaging."
The iQuest handheld also includes a 75,000-word Merriam Webster dictionary, a fully functioning calculator and an electronic address book, scheduler and notepad.
Product Availability and Pricing
iQuest Test Prep is available now at major retailers nationwide, including Toys"R"Us, and Wal-Mart. The products can also be found online at QVC.com and Imaginarium.com . An online version of Test Prep is available for students who already own the iQuest handheld and the LeapFrog Mind Station(TM). This version has all of the content and functionality of the retail version and also includes additional Quiz Me chapters, study guides and expanded record-keeping capabilities.
Products Grades Includes Benefits MSRP Available
iQuest 9-12 * 75,000 word * Makes studying $59.99 Now
Merriam fun, fast and
Webster effective
Dictionary * Portable and
* Full function convenient
calculator * Works if you
* Address book, want to cover
scheduler, and a vast amount
electronic of material or
notepad just hone one
subject
iQuest 9-12 * Test Prep * Memorize new $24.99 Now
Test Prep Cartridge vocabulary
Workbook * Workbook words
and * Kaplan`s proven * Master math and
Cartridge study tips verbal concepts
and four and step-by-step
practice exams test solutions
* Practice timed
SAT/PSAT/ACT
questions and
input answers to
find out your score
* Keep important
study dates, notes
and test prep
exercises top of
mind
iQuest 9-12 * All content * Download additional $24.00 Now
Test features of questions and
Prep iQuest Test practice tests
Membership Prep solution to reinforce
* Additional Quiz skills in math
Me Chapters and English on
* Two additional LeapFrog.com with
math study the Mind Station(TM)
guides connector and a
membership to the
Never-Ending
Learning(TM) Club*
* Please note must purchase iQuest handheld and Mind Station to use the
Never-Ending Learning Club membership.
Additional information on LeapFrog and its products can be found at www.leapfrog.com .
About LeapFrog
LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. is a leading designer, developer and marketer of innovative, technology-based educational products and related proprietary content, dedicated to making learning effective and engaging. Based in Emeryville, California, LeapFrog has developed six platforms, more than 25 stand-alone educational products and more than 40 interactive books, covering important subjects such as phonics, reading, math, music, geography, social studies, and science. All products contain educational curricula and reflect a teaching style designed to be fun, engaging, and effective.
LeapFrog and its products have received more than 100 awards from educators, publishers, print and broadcast media, consumer groups and industry organizations, including the most coveted award in the toy industry, the first-ever PEOPLE`S CHOICE TOY OF THE YEAR (T.O.T.Y.) AWARD for the best-selling LeapPad® Learning System, as well as the BEST EDUCATIONAL T.O.T.Y. AWARD. LeapFrog products also received accolades from the Oppenheim Toy Portfolio, the Great American Toy Test, Toy Wishes Magazine`s Holiday Hot Dozen and the National Parenting Center. In addition to national distribution at retailers across the United States, LeapFrog products are available in more than 25 countries and produced in five different languages.
LEAPFROG is a registered trademark of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. IQUEST, NEVER-ENDING LEARNING, and MIND STATION are trademarks of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
About Kaplan Test Prep and Kaplan Publishing
Kaplan Test Prep, a division of Kaplan, Inc., is a premier provider of educational and career services for individuals, schools and businesses. With 1,200 classroom locations throughout the U.S. and abroad, Kaplan has served more than three million students in over 60 years in its nationally-recognized courses for 35 standardized tests, including entrance exams for secondary school, college and graduate school as well as English language and professional licensing exams. Kaplan also offers online test prep and admissions services at www.kaptest.com . Kaplan Publishing, a division of Kaplan`s Test Prep and Admissions business, is a joint venture between Kaplan, Inc. and Simon & Schuster. The imprint publishes more than 150 titles on test preparation, college admissions and career development. Kaplan, Inc. is a subsidiary of The Washington Post Company (NYSE: WPO - News).
For further information please contact Lorie Appelbaum, +1-415-364-3804, lorie.appelbaum@mslpr.com, or Leah Davis, +1-916-983-7729, leah.davis@mslpr.com, both of Manning, Selvage & Lee, for LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Source: LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
LeapFrog`s New iQuest Test Prep Content Offers Students a Dynamic And Interactive Studying Experience for College Entrance Exams
Thursday September 26, 3:58 pm ET
EMERYVILLE, Calif., Sept. 26 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. (NYSE: LF - News), a leading developer of innovative technology-based learning products, announces its new educational offering for high schoolers featuring content and strategy contributions from Kaplan, Inc., the experts in test preparation, that transforms studying for the SAT, PSAT and ACT from routine to riveting. Now available at major retailers, the LeapFrog iQuest(TM) Test Prep solution leverages Kaplan`s proven study techniques and content to offer an engaging, interactive and affordable solution that helps students prepare for college entrance exams. The easy-to-use LeapFrog platform supports the development of essential test-taking skills and provides study and practice opportunities that fit into Teens` on-the-go lives.
Using the iQuest(TM) handheld and the 600-page Test Prep Workbook, students can build confidence, increase scores and prepare for the SAT, PSAT or ACT in a fun and engaging manner. Four interactive game modes provide students the opportunity to master key math and verbal concepts that can help give them a test-taking edge.
Electronic Flash Cards to memorize vocabulary and math concepts without having to use hard-to-manage cardboard flash cards or the bulky workbook
Learn It! to master topics with interactive practice questions and expert strategies provided by Kaplan
Quiz Me! to practice timed SAT/PSAT/ACT questions and improve test-taking speed
Test Mode to simulate the test-taking environment with the iQuest handheld serving as the student`s personal time proctor. Also in the Test Mode, the handheld will immediately calculate the test score once the student has input all of the answers.
According to the College Board, 46% of this year`s 2.88 million high school graduates took the SAT -- the highest percentage ever. The number of test takers nearly equals the number of freshman entering four-year colleges nationwide, increasing competition among students and challenging them to score well on their entrance exams to get into the college of their choice.
"In today`s increasingly competitive college admissions landscape, students and families realize that expert test preparation materials and admissions guidance are essential for college admissions success," said Trent Anderson, vice president of publishing, Kaplan, Inc. "We are thrilled that the fun-to-use iQuest handheld will offer students an innovative college-preparation tool that perfectly suits their active lifestyles."
"At LeapFrog, we are committed to designing educational products that are age- and skill-level appropriate," said Mike Wood, LeapFrog`s founder, president and chief executive officer. "When we expanded our product line to the high school level we wanted to work with the best -- so we chose Kaplan, the authority in college test preparation. With our new iQuest Test Prep solution, we have brought Kaplan`s rigorous and effective test-taking strategies to students in a way that makes studying -- for what is often seen as an overwhelming test experience -- both effective and engaging."
The iQuest handheld also includes a 75,000-word Merriam Webster dictionary, a fully functioning calculator and an electronic address book, scheduler and notepad.
Product Availability and Pricing
iQuest Test Prep is available now at major retailers nationwide, including Toys"R"Us, and Wal-Mart. The products can also be found online at QVC.com and Imaginarium.com . An online version of Test Prep is available for students who already own the iQuest handheld and the LeapFrog Mind Station(TM). This version has all of the content and functionality of the retail version and also includes additional Quiz Me chapters, study guides and expanded record-keeping capabilities.
Products Grades Includes Benefits MSRP Available
iQuest 9-12 * 75,000 word * Makes studying $59.99 Now
Merriam fun, fast and
Webster effective
Dictionary * Portable and
* Full function convenient
calculator * Works if you
* Address book, want to cover
scheduler, and a vast amount
electronic of material or
notepad just hone one
subject
iQuest 9-12 * Test Prep * Memorize new $24.99 Now
Test Prep Cartridge vocabulary
Workbook * Workbook words
and * Kaplan`s proven * Master math and
Cartridge study tips verbal concepts
and four and step-by-step
practice exams test solutions
* Practice timed
SAT/PSAT/ACT
questions and
input answers to
find out your score
* Keep important
study dates, notes
and test prep
exercises top of
mind
iQuest 9-12 * All content * Download additional $24.00 Now
Test features of questions and
Prep iQuest Test practice tests
Membership Prep solution to reinforce
* Additional Quiz skills in math
Me Chapters and English on
* Two additional LeapFrog.com with
math study the Mind Station(TM)
guides connector and a
membership to the
Never-Ending
Learning(TM) Club*
* Please note must purchase iQuest handheld and Mind Station to use the
Never-Ending Learning Club membership.
Additional information on LeapFrog and its products can be found at www.leapfrog.com .
About LeapFrog
LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. is a leading designer, developer and marketer of innovative, technology-based educational products and related proprietary content, dedicated to making learning effective and engaging. Based in Emeryville, California, LeapFrog has developed six platforms, more than 25 stand-alone educational products and more than 40 interactive books, covering important subjects such as phonics, reading, math, music, geography, social studies, and science. All products contain educational curricula and reflect a teaching style designed to be fun, engaging, and effective.
LeapFrog and its products have received more than 100 awards from educators, publishers, print and broadcast media, consumer groups and industry organizations, including the most coveted award in the toy industry, the first-ever PEOPLE`S CHOICE TOY OF THE YEAR (T.O.T.Y.) AWARD for the best-selling LeapPad® Learning System, as well as the BEST EDUCATIONAL T.O.T.Y. AWARD. LeapFrog products also received accolades from the Oppenheim Toy Portfolio, the Great American Toy Test, Toy Wishes Magazine`s Holiday Hot Dozen and the National Parenting Center. In addition to national distribution at retailers across the United States, LeapFrog products are available in more than 25 countries and produced in five different languages.
LEAPFROG is a registered trademark of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. IQUEST, NEVER-ENDING LEARNING, and MIND STATION are trademarks of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
About Kaplan Test Prep and Kaplan Publishing
Kaplan Test Prep, a division of Kaplan, Inc., is a premier provider of educational and career services for individuals, schools and businesses. With 1,200 classroom locations throughout the U.S. and abroad, Kaplan has served more than three million students in over 60 years in its nationally-recognized courses for 35 standardized tests, including entrance exams for secondary school, college and graduate school as well as English language and professional licensing exams. Kaplan also offers online test prep and admissions services at www.kaptest.com . Kaplan Publishing, a division of Kaplan`s Test Prep and Admissions business, is a joint venture between Kaplan, Inc. and Simon & Schuster. The imprint publishes more than 150 titles on test preparation, college admissions and career development. Kaplan, Inc. is a subsidiary of The Washington Post Company (NYSE: WPO - News).
For further information please contact Lorie Appelbaum, +1-415-364-3804, lorie.appelbaum@mslpr.com, or Leah Davis, +1-916-983-7729, leah.davis@mslpr.com, both of Manning, Selvage & Lee, for LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Source: LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
Trading Spotlight
Reuters Company News
Barbie and Harry Potter: Hot holiday couple
Tuesday October 8, 4:20 pm ET
By Angela Moore
(Adds details throughout, byline)
NEW YORK, Oct 8 (Reuters) - Parents: start your engines.
Whether the economy is gloomy or booming, fickle kids still want the most popular toys, according to Toy Wishes magazine, which on Tuesday unveiled the toys it predicts will be the top sellers this holiday season.
ADVERTISEMENT
The toys on "Hot Dozen" list, which were showcased by the magazine with an event at the International Toy Center in New York, aren`t just popular, they are expected to be "the most impossible to find," the magazine said.
The hysteria that surrounds the hottest toys is legendary some years, with parents camping out in parking lots to be the first into a store and $20 toys being auctioned off for 10 times face value.
"We add a little fuel to the fire, but a lot of these things would be hot without the list," said Jim Silver, co-publisher of Toy Wishes. "We`re also able to bring recognition to a toy that might not get it...we can help bring it to the forefront."
The "Hot Dozen" list this year includes a line of electronic plush cats that, when touched, mimic mannerisms of real cats, a a new Barbie with hair that "grows" and a Lego set depicting scenes from the second "Harry Potter" book and upcoming movie.
It could be even harder for parents to get their hands on this year`s Cabbage Patch Kid or Tickle Me Elmo, as the West Coast port lockout drags on, delaying the shipment of toys into the United States.
Even though the faltering economy has left wallets lighter, retailers are struggling, and consumer confidence is shaky, holidays are a time when parents indulge their children.
"Birthdays and the holidays are the two key points in the year when you`re not going to disappoint your child even if you`ve just had a pink slip or afraid one is coming," said Brean Murray toy analyst Margaret Whitfield.
There are several criteria for the list, said Jim Silver, co-publisher of Toy Wishes.
"We look for a hot license, like Harry Potter, if it`s fun to play with, or if it`s a brand or collectible like Barbie. Last year`s Harry Potter Lego set was the item you couldn`t find," said Silver. "Chamber of Secrets is the same type of craze."
For Neurosmith, a small Long Beach, California, company, making the list gives it attention it wouldn`t ordinarily have. The company makes Musini, a toy that uses vibrations to create music.
"This made our year," said Amy Williams, public relations director for Neurosmith.
But it isn`t all about the "Hot Dozen". In total, 115 toys in about 20 categories were featured, such as action figures, special needs, preschool, dolls and accessories, and educational and learning.
The toy stations had girls and boys demonstrating the toys and offering their opinions.
One popular toy was My Scene Barbie, a new doll targeted to older girls, with a bigger head and more fashionable outfits than traditional Barbie.
"I like it because the clothes are better and the shoes stay on," said one girl.
The Barbie Video Camera was a favorite of its demonstrator. "My cousin and I like to do fashion shows and and we never had a camera before," she said.
Although many companies downplayed the West Coast port lockout, it was still a concern, particularly for smaller companies.
Neurosmith public relations manager Williams said she is worried about merchandise sitting at the docks in California, and the demand drummed up by being on the "Hot Dozen" list could stretch inventories thin.
"The port situation is an issue for us," she said. "But having a high demand for our products is the best problem we could possibly have."
The "Hot Dozen" toys:
-- FurReal Friends: A line of electronic plush cats, made by the Tiger Division of Hasbro Inc. (NYSE:HAS - News), that when stimulated by touch, duplicate and mimic mannerisms unique to a real cat.
-- Barbie As Rapunzel: Mattel Inc.`s (NYSE:MAT - News) Barbie with long, "growing" hair and a gown.
-- Barbie Wireless Video Camera
-- Bratz Salon `N` Spa: The Bratz are a group of nine-inch fashion dolls made by MGA Entertainment. This item is a full-service beauty salon that includes "everything needed for a day of beauty," Toy Wishes said.
-- Chicken Dance Elmo -- Mattel unit Fisher-Price puts out another Elmo doll. In this one the Sesame Street character, dressed as a chicken, sings and dances.
-- KidClips Disney Tunes: Allows kids to listen to Disney music on compact player, made by Tiger.
-- Musini: Made by Neurosmith, allows children to make music by sensing vibrations to make a musical composition.
-- Lego Harry Potter Chamber of Secrets: A Lego set to depict scenes from the J.K. Rowling book and upcoming movie.
-- Harry Potter Slime Chamber Play Set: Kids load and dump slime out of a snake`s jaw, made by Mattel.
-- Quantum Pad Learning System: LeapFrog`s (NYSE:LF - News) learning system for third to fifth graders uses games and activities to help kids learn school subjects like math and spelling.
-- Yu-Gi-Oh! Trading game Booster Pack Collectors Tin: Fans of this card game can pack their decks with booster packs made to increase the complexity and power during monster dueling matches.
-- Tony Hawk Pro Skater 4: The newest installment in the popular video game series based on professional skateboarder Tony Hawk, published by Activision Inc. (NasdaqNM:ATVI - News)
Barbie and Harry Potter: Hot holiday couple
Tuesday October 8, 4:20 pm ET
By Angela Moore
(Adds details throughout, byline)
NEW YORK, Oct 8 (Reuters) - Parents: start your engines.
Whether the economy is gloomy or booming, fickle kids still want the most popular toys, according to Toy Wishes magazine, which on Tuesday unveiled the toys it predicts will be the top sellers this holiday season.
ADVERTISEMENT
The toys on "Hot Dozen" list, which were showcased by the magazine with an event at the International Toy Center in New York, aren`t just popular, they are expected to be "the most impossible to find," the magazine said.
The hysteria that surrounds the hottest toys is legendary some years, with parents camping out in parking lots to be the first into a store and $20 toys being auctioned off for 10 times face value.
"We add a little fuel to the fire, but a lot of these things would be hot without the list," said Jim Silver, co-publisher of Toy Wishes. "We`re also able to bring recognition to a toy that might not get it...we can help bring it to the forefront."
The "Hot Dozen" list this year includes a line of electronic plush cats that, when touched, mimic mannerisms of real cats, a a new Barbie with hair that "grows" and a Lego set depicting scenes from the second "Harry Potter" book and upcoming movie.
It could be even harder for parents to get their hands on this year`s Cabbage Patch Kid or Tickle Me Elmo, as the West Coast port lockout drags on, delaying the shipment of toys into the United States.
Even though the faltering economy has left wallets lighter, retailers are struggling, and consumer confidence is shaky, holidays are a time when parents indulge their children.
"Birthdays and the holidays are the two key points in the year when you`re not going to disappoint your child even if you`ve just had a pink slip or afraid one is coming," said Brean Murray toy analyst Margaret Whitfield.
There are several criteria for the list, said Jim Silver, co-publisher of Toy Wishes.
"We look for a hot license, like Harry Potter, if it`s fun to play with, or if it`s a brand or collectible like Barbie. Last year`s Harry Potter Lego set was the item you couldn`t find," said Silver. "Chamber of Secrets is the same type of craze."
For Neurosmith, a small Long Beach, California, company, making the list gives it attention it wouldn`t ordinarily have. The company makes Musini, a toy that uses vibrations to create music.
"This made our year," said Amy Williams, public relations director for Neurosmith.
But it isn`t all about the "Hot Dozen". In total, 115 toys in about 20 categories were featured, such as action figures, special needs, preschool, dolls and accessories, and educational and learning.
The toy stations had girls and boys demonstrating the toys and offering their opinions.
One popular toy was My Scene Barbie, a new doll targeted to older girls, with a bigger head and more fashionable outfits than traditional Barbie.
"I like it because the clothes are better and the shoes stay on," said one girl.
The Barbie Video Camera was a favorite of its demonstrator. "My cousin and I like to do fashion shows and and we never had a camera before," she said.
Although many companies downplayed the West Coast port lockout, it was still a concern, particularly for smaller companies.
Neurosmith public relations manager Williams said she is worried about merchandise sitting at the docks in California, and the demand drummed up by being on the "Hot Dozen" list could stretch inventories thin.
"The port situation is an issue for us," she said. "But having a high demand for our products is the best problem we could possibly have."
The "Hot Dozen" toys:
-- FurReal Friends: A line of electronic plush cats, made by the Tiger Division of Hasbro Inc. (NYSE:HAS - News), that when stimulated by touch, duplicate and mimic mannerisms unique to a real cat.
-- Barbie As Rapunzel: Mattel Inc.`s (NYSE:MAT - News) Barbie with long, "growing" hair and a gown.
-- Barbie Wireless Video Camera
-- Bratz Salon `N` Spa: The Bratz are a group of nine-inch fashion dolls made by MGA Entertainment. This item is a full-service beauty salon that includes "everything needed for a day of beauty," Toy Wishes said.
-- Chicken Dance Elmo -- Mattel unit Fisher-Price puts out another Elmo doll. In this one the Sesame Street character, dressed as a chicken, sings and dances.
-- KidClips Disney Tunes: Allows kids to listen to Disney music on compact player, made by Tiger.
-- Musini: Made by Neurosmith, allows children to make music by sensing vibrations to make a musical composition.
-- Lego Harry Potter Chamber of Secrets: A Lego set to depict scenes from the J.K. Rowling book and upcoming movie.
-- Harry Potter Slime Chamber Play Set: Kids load and dump slime out of a snake`s jaw, made by Mattel.
-- Quantum Pad Learning System: LeapFrog`s (NYSE:LF - News) learning system for third to fifth graders uses games and activities to help kids learn school subjects like math and spelling.
-- Yu-Gi-Oh! Trading game Booster Pack Collectors Tin: Fans of this card game can pack their decks with booster packs made to increase the complexity and power during monster dueling matches.
-- Tony Hawk Pro Skater 4: The newest installment in the popular video game series based on professional skateboarder Tony Hawk, published by Activision Inc. (NasdaqNM:ATVI - News)
Reuters Company News
Barbie and Harry Potter: Hot holiday couple
Tuesday October 8, 4:20 pm ET
By Angela Moore
(Adds details throughout, byline)
NEW YORK, Oct 8 (Reuters) - Parents: start your engines.
Whether the economy is gloomy or booming, fickle kids still want the most popular toys, according to Toy Wishes magazine, which on Tuesday unveiled the toys it predicts will be the top sellers this holiday season.
ADVERTISEMENT
The toys on "Hot Dozen" list, which were showcased by the magazine with an event at the International Toy Center in New York, aren`t just popular, they are expected to be "the most impossible to find," the magazine said.
The hysteria that surrounds the hottest toys is legendary some years, with parents camping out in parking lots to be the first into a store and $20 toys being auctioned off for 10 times face value.
"We add a little fuel to the fire, but a lot of these things would be hot without the list," said Jim Silver, co-publisher of Toy Wishes. "We`re also able to bring recognition to a toy that might not get it...we can help bring it to the forefront."
The "Hot Dozen" list this year includes a line of electronic plush cats that, when touched, mimic mannerisms of real cats, a a new Barbie with hair that "grows" and a Lego set depicting scenes from the second "Harry Potter" book and upcoming movie.
It could be even harder for parents to get their hands on this year`s Cabbage Patch Kid or Tickle Me Elmo, as the West Coast port lockout drags on, delaying the shipment of toys into the United States.
Even though the faltering economy has left wallets lighter, retailers are struggling, and consumer confidence is shaky, holidays are a time when parents indulge their children.
"Birthdays and the holidays are the two key points in the year when you`re not going to disappoint your child even if you`ve just had a pink slip or afraid one is coming," said Brean Murray toy analyst Margaret Whitfield.
There are several criteria for the list, said Jim Silver, co-publisher of Toy Wishes.
"We look for a hot license, like Harry Potter, if it`s fun to play with, or if it`s a brand or collectible like Barbie. Last year`s Harry Potter Lego set was the item you couldn`t find," said Silver. "Chamber of Secrets is the same type of craze."
For Neurosmith, a small Long Beach, California, company, making the list gives it attention it wouldn`t ordinarily have. The company makes Musini, a toy that uses vibrations to create music.
"This made our year," said Amy Williams, public relations director for Neurosmith.
But it isn`t all about the "Hot Dozen". In total, 115 toys in about 20 categories were featured, such as action figures, special needs, preschool, dolls and accessories, and educational and learning.
The toy stations had girls and boys demonstrating the toys and offering their opinions.
One popular toy was My Scene Barbie, a new doll targeted to older girls, with a bigger head and more fashionable outfits than traditional Barbie.
"I like it because the clothes are better and the shoes stay on," said one girl.
The Barbie Video Camera was a favorite of its demonstrator. "My cousin and I like to do fashion shows and and we never had a camera before," she said.
Although many companies downplayed the West Coast port lockout, it was still a concern, particularly for smaller companies.
Neurosmith public relations manager Williams said she is worried about merchandise sitting at the docks in California, and the demand drummed up by being on the "Hot Dozen" list could stretch inventories thin.
"The port situation is an issue for us," she said. "But having a high demand for our products is the best problem we could possibly have."
The "Hot Dozen" toys:
-- FurReal Friends: A line of electronic plush cats, made by the Tiger Division of Hasbro Inc. (NYSE:HAS - News), that when stimulated by touch, duplicate and mimic mannerisms unique to a real cat.
-- Barbie As Rapunzel: Mattel Inc.`s (NYSE:MAT - News) Barbie with long, "growing" hair and a gown.
-- Barbie Wireless Video Camera
-- Bratz Salon `N` Spa: The Bratz are a group of nine-inch fashion dolls made by MGA Entertainment. This item is a full-service beauty salon that includes "everything needed for a day of beauty," Toy Wishes said.
-- Chicken Dance Elmo -- Mattel unit Fisher-Price puts out another Elmo doll. In this one the Sesame Street character, dressed as a chicken, sings and dances.
-- KidClips Disney Tunes: Allows kids to listen to Disney music on compact player, made by Tiger.
-- Musini: Made by Neurosmith, allows children to make music by sensing vibrations to make a musical composition.
-- Lego Harry Potter Chamber of Secrets: A Lego set to depict scenes from the J.K. Rowling book and upcoming movie.
-- Harry Potter Slime Chamber Play Set: Kids load and dump slime out of a snake`s jaw, made by Mattel.
-- Quantum Pad Learning System: LeapFrog`s (NYSE:LF - News) learning system for third to fifth graders uses games and activities to help kids learn school subjects like math and spelling.
-- Yu-Gi-Oh! Trading game Booster Pack Collectors Tin: Fans of this card game can pack their decks with booster packs made to increase the complexity and power during monster dueling matches.
-- Tony Hawk Pro Skater 4: The newest installment in the popular video game series based on professional skateboarder Tony Hawk, published by Activision Inc. (NasdaqNM:ATVI - News)
Barbie and Harry Potter: Hot holiday couple
Tuesday October 8, 4:20 pm ET
By Angela Moore
(Adds details throughout, byline)
NEW YORK, Oct 8 (Reuters) - Parents: start your engines.
Whether the economy is gloomy or booming, fickle kids still want the most popular toys, according to Toy Wishes magazine, which on Tuesday unveiled the toys it predicts will be the top sellers this holiday season.
ADVERTISEMENT
The toys on "Hot Dozen" list, which were showcased by the magazine with an event at the International Toy Center in New York, aren`t just popular, they are expected to be "the most impossible to find," the magazine said.
The hysteria that surrounds the hottest toys is legendary some years, with parents camping out in parking lots to be the first into a store and $20 toys being auctioned off for 10 times face value.
"We add a little fuel to the fire, but a lot of these things would be hot without the list," said Jim Silver, co-publisher of Toy Wishes. "We`re also able to bring recognition to a toy that might not get it...we can help bring it to the forefront."
The "Hot Dozen" list this year includes a line of electronic plush cats that, when touched, mimic mannerisms of real cats, a a new Barbie with hair that "grows" and a Lego set depicting scenes from the second "Harry Potter" book and upcoming movie.
It could be even harder for parents to get their hands on this year`s Cabbage Patch Kid or Tickle Me Elmo, as the West Coast port lockout drags on, delaying the shipment of toys into the United States.
Even though the faltering economy has left wallets lighter, retailers are struggling, and consumer confidence is shaky, holidays are a time when parents indulge their children.
"Birthdays and the holidays are the two key points in the year when you`re not going to disappoint your child even if you`ve just had a pink slip or afraid one is coming," said Brean Murray toy analyst Margaret Whitfield.
There are several criteria for the list, said Jim Silver, co-publisher of Toy Wishes.
"We look for a hot license, like Harry Potter, if it`s fun to play with, or if it`s a brand or collectible like Barbie. Last year`s Harry Potter Lego set was the item you couldn`t find," said Silver. "Chamber of Secrets is the same type of craze."
For Neurosmith, a small Long Beach, California, company, making the list gives it attention it wouldn`t ordinarily have. The company makes Musini, a toy that uses vibrations to create music.
"This made our year," said Amy Williams, public relations director for Neurosmith.
But it isn`t all about the "Hot Dozen". In total, 115 toys in about 20 categories were featured, such as action figures, special needs, preschool, dolls and accessories, and educational and learning.
The toy stations had girls and boys demonstrating the toys and offering their opinions.
One popular toy was My Scene Barbie, a new doll targeted to older girls, with a bigger head and more fashionable outfits than traditional Barbie.
"I like it because the clothes are better and the shoes stay on," said one girl.
The Barbie Video Camera was a favorite of its demonstrator. "My cousin and I like to do fashion shows and and we never had a camera before," she said.
Although many companies downplayed the West Coast port lockout, it was still a concern, particularly for smaller companies.
Neurosmith public relations manager Williams said she is worried about merchandise sitting at the docks in California, and the demand drummed up by being on the "Hot Dozen" list could stretch inventories thin.
"The port situation is an issue for us," she said. "But having a high demand for our products is the best problem we could possibly have."
The "Hot Dozen" toys:
-- FurReal Friends: A line of electronic plush cats, made by the Tiger Division of Hasbro Inc. (NYSE:HAS - News), that when stimulated by touch, duplicate and mimic mannerisms unique to a real cat.
-- Barbie As Rapunzel: Mattel Inc.`s (NYSE:MAT - News) Barbie with long, "growing" hair and a gown.
-- Barbie Wireless Video Camera
-- Bratz Salon `N` Spa: The Bratz are a group of nine-inch fashion dolls made by MGA Entertainment. This item is a full-service beauty salon that includes "everything needed for a day of beauty," Toy Wishes said.
-- Chicken Dance Elmo -- Mattel unit Fisher-Price puts out another Elmo doll. In this one the Sesame Street character, dressed as a chicken, sings and dances.
-- KidClips Disney Tunes: Allows kids to listen to Disney music on compact player, made by Tiger.
-- Musini: Made by Neurosmith, allows children to make music by sensing vibrations to make a musical composition.
-- Lego Harry Potter Chamber of Secrets: A Lego set to depict scenes from the J.K. Rowling book and upcoming movie.
-- Harry Potter Slime Chamber Play Set: Kids load and dump slime out of a snake`s jaw, made by Mattel.
-- Quantum Pad Learning System: LeapFrog`s (NYSE:LF - News) learning system for third to fifth graders uses games and activities to help kids learn school subjects like math and spelling.
-- Yu-Gi-Oh! Trading game Booster Pack Collectors Tin: Fans of this card game can pack their decks with booster packs made to increase the complexity and power during monster dueling matches.
-- Tony Hawk Pro Skater 4: The newest installment in the popular video game series based on professional skateboarder Tony Hawk, published by Activision Inc. (NasdaqNM:ATVI - News)
LeapFrog Quantum Pad(TM) Learning System Named One of Top Twelve Toys of The 2002 Holiday Season by Toy Wishes
LeapFrog Dominates Educational Picks for Holiday And Wins ALL STAR Honors in Three Categories
Friday October 11, 1:58 pm ET
EMERYVILLE, Calif., Oct. 11 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. (NYSE: LF - News), a leading developer of innovative technology-based learning products, announced that the Quantum Pad(TM) learning system was named one of the twelve hottest toys of the 2002 holiday season. Toy Wishes recognized the product this week as a HOT DOZEN selection at a news conference in New York on October 8th. In addition, LeapFrog earned six ALL STAR distinctions in various product categories in the Toy Wishes holiday guide, dominating the Educational & Learning Toys category with three of the four overall best ALL STAR ranked products.
Top industry experts Jim Silver, publisher of the Toy Book, and Gareb Shamus, chairman of Wizard Entertainment, test and review thousands of new toys, games, puzzles and gifts each year to identify the very best children`s products for the upcoming holiday season. These selections are announced through Toy Wishes, the only consumer publication devoted solely to toys. The very best of the best -- the top 12 products predicted to be the season`s bestsellers -- receive the HOT DOZEN distinction.
"LeapPad and My First LeapPad learning systems have been huge hits over the past two years," said Jim Silver, co-publisher of Toy Wishes. "LeapFrog has extended that success to the Quantum Pad learning system, which brings the educational curriculum and fun to another level."
In addition to winning a spot in the Toy Wishes HOT DOZEN, several other LeapFrog products were selected as ALL STARS in the Education & Learning, Infant and Preschool categories -- indicating the top four best-overall products in each category. In all, seven LeapFrog products were selected in the Educational & Learning Category, accounting for one-third of all picks in this area and the LeapPad was selected as a `Neo-Classic` lasting favorite.
LeapFrog 2002 Toy Wishes Honors
Infant Category ALL STAR
LeapStart(TM) Learning Table: Nurtures an infant`s natural love of music through a fully interactive musical play experience.
Preschool Category ALL STAR
Pretend & Learn(TM) Shopping Cart: Enhances traditional shopping role-play with interactive learning activities that encourage imagination and creativity.
Educational & Learning Category - Three of Four ALL STARS
Quantum Pad(TM) Learning System: Incorporates interactive games and activities to make learning school subjects enjoyable.
Learn to Read Phonics Desk® System: Helps children master phonics and learn to read through a proven multi-sensory method combining sight, sound and touch.
iQuest(TM) Interactive Talking Handheld: Engaging and effective way for sixth, seventh and eighth graders to study for tests in math, science and social studies.
Education & Learning Category Selections
Turbo Twist® handheld BRAIN QUEST® edition: Incorporates all new questions from the popular BRAIN QUEST game into challenging, fast-paced interactive games and activities to help kids master important social studies, English, and science facts.
Leap`s Phonics(TM) Railroad: The only motorized train set that teaches preschoolers the alphabet and phonics as they engage in a rich train-play experience.
Imagination Desk(TM) Learning System: Engages children with a creative way to learn core preschool skills, including letters, phonics, counting, shapes and colors, through their favorite activity -- coloring.
"Neo-Classic" Lasting Favorite LeapPad® Learning System: Brings to life the magic of books and reading while developing phonics awareness, spelling and vocabulary.
"LeapFrog is extremely excited to be recognized by Toy Wishes with so many honors for our interactive learning products this holiday season," said Tom Prichard, vice president of marketing for LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. "We believe that these new holiday offerings will impact learning and play experiences for children well into the New Year."
About HOT DOZEN Pick: Quantum Pad(TM) Learning System
Also Top 4 in Educational & Learning Toys Category
The Quantum Pad learning system harnesses the power of NearTouch® technology to spark students` enthusiasm for mastering school subjects while encouraging them to learn at their own pace. Fun stories, games and activities make learning fundamental subjects, such as math, science and social studies, enjoyable. Books in the Quantum Pad FUN-damentals(TM) Series teach core skills specific to third, fourth, and fifth grades, such as math, science, reading, language arts, and social studies. The Above & Beyond(TM) Series lets students explore fascinating topics. And for improving reading fluency and comprehension, the Great Reader(TM) Series helps children build skills through popular titles such as the Magic Tree House(TM).
Product Availability and Pricing
LeapFrog`s products are available now at major retailers nationwide, including Toys "R" Us, Target, and Wal-Mart.
Product Ages/Grades MSRP Availability
LeapStart(TM) Learning
Table 6 months & up $39.99 Now
Pretend & Learn(TM)
Shopping Cart 2 years & up $45.99 Now
Leap`s Phonics(TM)
Railroad 2 years & up $59.99 Now
Learn to Read
Phonics Desk(R) System 3 years & up $39.99 Now
Imagination Desk(TM)
Learning System 3 years & up $39.99 Now
LeapPad(R) Learning
System 4-8 years $49.99 Now
Quantum Pad(TM)
Learning System Grades 3-5 $49.99 Now
iQuest(TM) Interactive
Talking Handheld Grades 5-8 $59.99 Now
Turbo Twist(R) handheld
BRAIN QUEST(R) edition Grades 1-6 $29.99 Now
Additional information on LeapFrog and its products can be found at www.leapfrog.com.
About LeapFrog
LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. is a leading designer, developer and marketer of innovative, technology-based educational products and related proprietary content, dedicated to making learning effective and engaging. Based in Emeryville, California, LeapFrog has developed six platforms, more than 25 stand-alone educational products and more than 40 interactive books, covering important subjects such as phonics, reading, math, music, geography, social studies, and science. All products contain educational curricula and reflect a teaching style designed to be fun, engaging, and effective.
LeapFrog and its products have received more than 100 awards from educators, publishers, print and broadcast media, consumer groups and industry organizations, including the most coveted award in the toy industry, the first-ever PEOPLE`S CHOICE TOY OF THE YEAR (T.O.T.Y.) AWARD for the best-selling LeapPad® Learning System, as well as the BEST EDUCATIONAL T.O.T.Y. AWARD. LeapFrog products also received accolades from the Oppenheim Toy Portfolio, the Great American Toy Test, Toy Wishes `s Holiday HOT DOZEN and the National Parenting Center. In addition to national distribution at retailers across the United States, LeapFrog products are available in more than 25 countries and produced in five different languages.
NOTE: LEAPFROG is a registered trademark of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. IQUEST, NEVER-ENDING LEARNING, LEAPSTART LEARNING TABLE, PRETEND & LEARN SHOPPING CART, LEARN TO READ PHONICS DESK, QUANTUM PAD, LEAPPAD, TURBO TWIST and MIND STATION are trademarks of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
CONTACT: Leah Davis, +1-916-983-7729, or leah.davis@mslpr.com; or Lorie Appelbaum, +1-415-364-3805, or lorie.appelbaum@mslpr.com, both of Manning Selvage & Lee, for LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
Make Your Opinion Count - Click Here
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Source: LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
LeapFrog Dominates Educational Picks for Holiday And Wins ALL STAR Honors in Three Categories
Friday October 11, 1:58 pm ET
EMERYVILLE, Calif., Oct. 11 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. (NYSE: LF - News), a leading developer of innovative technology-based learning products, announced that the Quantum Pad(TM) learning system was named one of the twelve hottest toys of the 2002 holiday season. Toy Wishes recognized the product this week as a HOT DOZEN selection at a news conference in New York on October 8th. In addition, LeapFrog earned six ALL STAR distinctions in various product categories in the Toy Wishes holiday guide, dominating the Educational & Learning Toys category with three of the four overall best ALL STAR ranked products.
Top industry experts Jim Silver, publisher of the Toy Book, and Gareb Shamus, chairman of Wizard Entertainment, test and review thousands of new toys, games, puzzles and gifts each year to identify the very best children`s products for the upcoming holiday season. These selections are announced through Toy Wishes, the only consumer publication devoted solely to toys. The very best of the best -- the top 12 products predicted to be the season`s bestsellers -- receive the HOT DOZEN distinction.
"LeapPad and My First LeapPad learning systems have been huge hits over the past two years," said Jim Silver, co-publisher of Toy Wishes. "LeapFrog has extended that success to the Quantum Pad learning system, which brings the educational curriculum and fun to another level."
In addition to winning a spot in the Toy Wishes HOT DOZEN, several other LeapFrog products were selected as ALL STARS in the Education & Learning, Infant and Preschool categories -- indicating the top four best-overall products in each category. In all, seven LeapFrog products were selected in the Educational & Learning Category, accounting for one-third of all picks in this area and the LeapPad was selected as a `Neo-Classic` lasting favorite.
LeapFrog 2002 Toy Wishes Honors
Infant Category ALL STAR
LeapStart(TM) Learning Table: Nurtures an infant`s natural love of music through a fully interactive musical play experience.
Preschool Category ALL STAR
Pretend & Learn(TM) Shopping Cart: Enhances traditional shopping role-play with interactive learning activities that encourage imagination and creativity.
Educational & Learning Category - Three of Four ALL STARS
Quantum Pad(TM) Learning System: Incorporates interactive games and activities to make learning school subjects enjoyable.
Learn to Read Phonics Desk® System: Helps children master phonics and learn to read through a proven multi-sensory method combining sight, sound and touch.
iQuest(TM) Interactive Talking Handheld: Engaging and effective way for sixth, seventh and eighth graders to study for tests in math, science and social studies.
Education & Learning Category Selections
Turbo Twist® handheld BRAIN QUEST® edition: Incorporates all new questions from the popular BRAIN QUEST game into challenging, fast-paced interactive games and activities to help kids master important social studies, English, and science facts.
Leap`s Phonics(TM) Railroad: The only motorized train set that teaches preschoolers the alphabet and phonics as they engage in a rich train-play experience.
Imagination Desk(TM) Learning System: Engages children with a creative way to learn core preschool skills, including letters, phonics, counting, shapes and colors, through their favorite activity -- coloring.
"Neo-Classic" Lasting Favorite LeapPad® Learning System: Brings to life the magic of books and reading while developing phonics awareness, spelling and vocabulary.
"LeapFrog is extremely excited to be recognized by Toy Wishes with so many honors for our interactive learning products this holiday season," said Tom Prichard, vice president of marketing for LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. "We believe that these new holiday offerings will impact learning and play experiences for children well into the New Year."
About HOT DOZEN Pick: Quantum Pad(TM) Learning System
Also Top 4 in Educational & Learning Toys Category
The Quantum Pad learning system harnesses the power of NearTouch® technology to spark students` enthusiasm for mastering school subjects while encouraging them to learn at their own pace. Fun stories, games and activities make learning fundamental subjects, such as math, science and social studies, enjoyable. Books in the Quantum Pad FUN-damentals(TM) Series teach core skills specific to third, fourth, and fifth grades, such as math, science, reading, language arts, and social studies. The Above & Beyond(TM) Series lets students explore fascinating topics. And for improving reading fluency and comprehension, the Great Reader(TM) Series helps children build skills through popular titles such as the Magic Tree House(TM).
Product Availability and Pricing
LeapFrog`s products are available now at major retailers nationwide, including Toys "R" Us, Target, and Wal-Mart.
Product Ages/Grades MSRP Availability
LeapStart(TM) Learning
Table 6 months & up $39.99 Now
Pretend & Learn(TM)
Shopping Cart 2 years & up $45.99 Now
Leap`s Phonics(TM)
Railroad 2 years & up $59.99 Now
Learn to Read
Phonics Desk(R) System 3 years & up $39.99 Now
Imagination Desk(TM)
Learning System 3 years & up $39.99 Now
LeapPad(R) Learning
System 4-8 years $49.99 Now
Quantum Pad(TM)
Learning System Grades 3-5 $49.99 Now
iQuest(TM) Interactive
Talking Handheld Grades 5-8 $59.99 Now
Turbo Twist(R) handheld
BRAIN QUEST(R) edition Grades 1-6 $29.99 Now
Additional information on LeapFrog and its products can be found at www.leapfrog.com.
About LeapFrog
LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. is a leading designer, developer and marketer of innovative, technology-based educational products and related proprietary content, dedicated to making learning effective and engaging. Based in Emeryville, California, LeapFrog has developed six platforms, more than 25 stand-alone educational products and more than 40 interactive books, covering important subjects such as phonics, reading, math, music, geography, social studies, and science. All products contain educational curricula and reflect a teaching style designed to be fun, engaging, and effective.
LeapFrog and its products have received more than 100 awards from educators, publishers, print and broadcast media, consumer groups and industry organizations, including the most coveted award in the toy industry, the first-ever PEOPLE`S CHOICE TOY OF THE YEAR (T.O.T.Y.) AWARD for the best-selling LeapPad® Learning System, as well as the BEST EDUCATIONAL T.O.T.Y. AWARD. LeapFrog products also received accolades from the Oppenheim Toy Portfolio, the Great American Toy Test, Toy Wishes `s Holiday HOT DOZEN and the National Parenting Center. In addition to national distribution at retailers across the United States, LeapFrog products are available in more than 25 countries and produced in five different languages.
NOTE: LEAPFROG is a registered trademark of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. IQUEST, NEVER-ENDING LEARNING, LEAPSTART LEARNING TABLE, PRETEND & LEARN SHOPPING CART, LEARN TO READ PHONICS DESK, QUANTUM PAD, LEAPPAD, TURBO TWIST and MIND STATION are trademarks of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
CONTACT: Leah Davis, +1-916-983-7729, or leah.davis@mslpr.com; or Lorie Appelbaum, +1-415-364-3805, or lorie.appelbaum@mslpr.com, both of Manning Selvage & Lee, for LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
Make Your Opinion Count - Click Here
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Source: LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
Award-Winning Leapfrog Products Make Learning Fun for the Very Young This Holiday Season
LeapFrog Infant, Toddler & Preschool Product Lines Provide Engaging, Meaningful Learning Experiences for Each Stage of a Child`s Life
Wednesday October 16, 5:29 pm ET
EMERYVILLE, Calif., Oct. 16 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- LeapFrog® Enterprises, Inc. (NYSE: LF - News), a leading developer of innovative technology-based educational products, continues to set high standards for the company`s products that provide engaging, entertaining and age-appropriate learning experiences for infants, toddlers and preschoolers. The 2002 holiday lineup includes the LeapStart(TM) Learning Table, Learning Hoops(TM) Basketball, Pretend & Learn(TM) Shopping Cart, Leap`s Phonics(TM) Railroad, Learn to Read Phonics Desk® System, Phonics Radio and Imagination Desk(TM) Learning System.
Initial industry response to the new products is extremely strong with several already winning top industry accolades including: 2002 Parents` Choice Award, American Baby Magazine`s "Toys of the Year" award, National Parenting Center`s "Seal of Approval," Parenting Magazine`s 2002 "Toys of the Year" award, Toy Wishes HOT DOZEN and Toy Wishes ALL STAR awards.
"The positive response we have received from the industry and customers for our Infant, Toddler and Preschool lines is a testament to the thought and research placed into the creation of each and every toy," said Mike Wood, LeapFrog`s founder, president and chief executive officer. "These new products reflect the deep commitment LeapFrog has in providing the most engaging and fun learning experience for each stage of a child`s life."
Making the Most Out of Baby`s First Year
The Infant and Toddler line is developed based on a "scope and sequence" guideline for this specific age group called LeapBaby(TM) Learning Benefits. This guideline matches key early learning experiences that stimulate babies` physical, cognitive, social and emotional development across critical developmental milestones. LeapBaby Learning Benefits was created in partnership with the LeapFrog Educational Advisory Board and childhood development experts.
"We believe that parents are reacting so positively to the LeapFrog Infant and Toddler products because the learning experiences that are so crucial to a baby`s first year are seamlessly woven into fun, interactive and familiar play experiences," said Susan Goodwyn, Ph.D. and Linda Acredolo, Ph.D., LeapFrog advisors and authors of Baby Minds. "For example, the LeapStart Learning Table -- recently awarded Parenting Magazine`s `Toys of the Year` award -- turns a child`s natural love for music into an interactive learning experience, creatively introducing children to the entire alphabet, counting 1 to 10, shapes, colors and more, using real musical instrument sounds and vocals."
Playing Your Way to Kindergarten Confidence
LeapFrog Preschool products have been consistently recognized by the toy industry as popular educational products that give the gift of learning year round. New this year, Leap`s Phonics Railroad, the Pretend & Learn Shopping Cart and the redesigned Imagination Desk Learning System, encourage learning through open-ended train play, classic role-play and imaginative, interactive coloring play. These products, based on preschool curriculum that meets national standards, teach in a way that each child likes to play and can even build confidence as they enter Kindergarten.
Where to Find LeapFrog Award-Winning Products
LeapFrog`s Infant, Toddler and Preschool products are available now at major retailers nationwide including Toys "R" Us, Target and Wal-Mart. The products can also be found online at QVC.com.
Product Ages Benefits MSRP Available
Infant/Toddler
LeapStart(TM) 6 months Nurtures an $39.99 Now
Learning Table & up infant`s natural
-- Parenting love of music
Magazine`s through a fully
"Toys of the interactive music
Year" Award play experience
-- Toy Wishes`
ALL STAR Award
Learning Hoops(TM) 6 months Combines $24.99 Now
Basketball & up introduction
to the alphabet,
numbers and
counting with the
fun of basketball
Bake-a-Shape (TM) 6 months Pop-up shapes $14.99 Now
Sorter & up teach about
shapes and colors
"Tad`s Counting 9 months Uses familiar $17.00 Now
Farm" & up farm animals
Storyblock(TM) Book to introduce
numbers 1-5
and matching
See & Learn(TM) 6 months Mirror and $14.99 Now
Piano & up colorful twinkling
-- Child Magazine`s lights to stimulate
"Best Toys of the the senses
Year"
Preschool
Pretend & Learn(TM) 2 years Enhances $45.99 Now
Shopping Cart & up traditional
-- Parents` Choice shopping
Award role-play with
-- National Parenting interactive learning
Center`s Seal of activities that
Approval encourage imagination
-- American Baby and creativity
Magazine`s "Toys
of the Year" Award
-- Toy Wishes` ALL
STAR Award
Leap`s Phonics(TM) 2 years Teaches $59.99 Now
Railroad & up children the
-- Toy Wishes` alphabet and
ALL STAR Award phonics as they
engage in a rich
train-play experience
Learn to Read 3 years Helps children $39.99 Now
Phonics Desk(TM) & up master phonics
System and learn to read
-- Toy Wishes` through a proven
ALL STAR Award multi-sensory method
combining sight,
sound and touch
Phonics Radio 18 months On-the-go sound $17.99 Now
& up system for
preschoolers that
helps them learn
a complete alphabet
and phonics curriculum
Imagination 3 years Teaches a $39.99 Now
Desk(TM) Learning & up complete
System preschool curriculum,
-- Toy Wishes` introducing essential
ALL STAR Award kindergarten-readiness
skills including
pre-reading, pre-math
and life lessons
Additional information on LeapFrog and its products can be found at www.leapfrog.com.
About LeapFrog
LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. is a leading designer, developer and marketer of innovative, technology-based educational products and related proprietary content, dedicated to making learning effective and engaging. Based in Emeryville, California, LeapFrog has developed six platforms, more than 25 stand-alone educational products and more than 40 interactive books, covering important subjects such as phonics, reading, math, music, geography, social studies, and science. All products contain educational curricula and reflect a teaching style designed to be fun, engaging, and effective.
LeapFrog and its products have received more than 100 awards from educators, publishers, print and broadcast media, consumer groups and industry organizations, including the most coveted award in the toy industry, the first-ever PEOPLE`S CHOICE TOY OF THE YEAR (T.O.T.Y.) AWARD for the best-selling LeapPad® Learning System, as well as the BEST EDUCATIONAL T.O.T.Y. AWARD. LeapFrog products also received accolades from the Oppenheim Toy Portfolio, the Great American Toy Test, Toy Wishes Magazine`s Holiday Hot Dozen and the National Parenting Center. In addition to national distribution at retailers across the United States, LeapFrog products are available in more than 25 countries and produced in five different languages.
NOTE: LEAPFROG is a registered trademark of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. LEAPSTART, LEARNING HOOPS, SEE & LEARN, BAKE-A-SHAPE, STORYBLOCK, PRETEND & LEARN, LEAP`S PHONICS, PHONICS DESK, LEAPBABY and IMAGINATION DESK are trademarks of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
CONTACT: Leah Davis, +1-916-983-7729, or leah.davis@mslpr.com; or Lorie Appelbaum, +1-415-364-3805, or lorie.appelbaum@mslpr.com, both of Manning Selvage & Lee, for LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
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Source: LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
LeapFrog Infant, Toddler & Preschool Product Lines Provide Engaging, Meaningful Learning Experiences for Each Stage of a Child`s Life
Wednesday October 16, 5:29 pm ET
EMERYVILLE, Calif., Oct. 16 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- LeapFrog® Enterprises, Inc. (NYSE: LF - News), a leading developer of innovative technology-based educational products, continues to set high standards for the company`s products that provide engaging, entertaining and age-appropriate learning experiences for infants, toddlers and preschoolers. The 2002 holiday lineup includes the LeapStart(TM) Learning Table, Learning Hoops(TM) Basketball, Pretend & Learn(TM) Shopping Cart, Leap`s Phonics(TM) Railroad, Learn to Read Phonics Desk® System, Phonics Radio and Imagination Desk(TM) Learning System.
Initial industry response to the new products is extremely strong with several already winning top industry accolades including: 2002 Parents` Choice Award, American Baby Magazine`s "Toys of the Year" award, National Parenting Center`s "Seal of Approval," Parenting Magazine`s 2002 "Toys of the Year" award, Toy Wishes HOT DOZEN and Toy Wishes ALL STAR awards.
"The positive response we have received from the industry and customers for our Infant, Toddler and Preschool lines is a testament to the thought and research placed into the creation of each and every toy," said Mike Wood, LeapFrog`s founder, president and chief executive officer. "These new products reflect the deep commitment LeapFrog has in providing the most engaging and fun learning experience for each stage of a child`s life."
Making the Most Out of Baby`s First Year
The Infant and Toddler line is developed based on a "scope and sequence" guideline for this specific age group called LeapBaby(TM) Learning Benefits. This guideline matches key early learning experiences that stimulate babies` physical, cognitive, social and emotional development across critical developmental milestones. LeapBaby Learning Benefits was created in partnership with the LeapFrog Educational Advisory Board and childhood development experts.
"We believe that parents are reacting so positively to the LeapFrog Infant and Toddler products because the learning experiences that are so crucial to a baby`s first year are seamlessly woven into fun, interactive and familiar play experiences," said Susan Goodwyn, Ph.D. and Linda Acredolo, Ph.D., LeapFrog advisors and authors of Baby Minds. "For example, the LeapStart Learning Table -- recently awarded Parenting Magazine`s `Toys of the Year` award -- turns a child`s natural love for music into an interactive learning experience, creatively introducing children to the entire alphabet, counting 1 to 10, shapes, colors and more, using real musical instrument sounds and vocals."
Playing Your Way to Kindergarten Confidence
LeapFrog Preschool products have been consistently recognized by the toy industry as popular educational products that give the gift of learning year round. New this year, Leap`s Phonics Railroad, the Pretend & Learn Shopping Cart and the redesigned Imagination Desk Learning System, encourage learning through open-ended train play, classic role-play and imaginative, interactive coloring play. These products, based on preschool curriculum that meets national standards, teach in a way that each child likes to play and can even build confidence as they enter Kindergarten.
Where to Find LeapFrog Award-Winning Products
LeapFrog`s Infant, Toddler and Preschool products are available now at major retailers nationwide including Toys "R" Us, Target and Wal-Mart. The products can also be found online at QVC.com.
Product Ages Benefits MSRP Available
Infant/Toddler
LeapStart(TM) 6 months Nurtures an $39.99 Now
Learning Table & up infant`s natural
-- Parenting love of music
Magazine`s through a fully
"Toys of the interactive music
Year" Award play experience
-- Toy Wishes`
ALL STAR Award
Learning Hoops(TM) 6 months Combines $24.99 Now
Basketball & up introduction
to the alphabet,
numbers and
counting with the
fun of basketball
Bake-a-Shape (TM) 6 months Pop-up shapes $14.99 Now
Sorter & up teach about
shapes and colors
"Tad`s Counting 9 months Uses familiar $17.00 Now
Farm" & up farm animals
Storyblock(TM) Book to introduce
numbers 1-5
and matching
See & Learn(TM) 6 months Mirror and $14.99 Now
Piano & up colorful twinkling
-- Child Magazine`s lights to stimulate
"Best Toys of the the senses
Year"
Preschool
Pretend & Learn(TM) 2 years Enhances $45.99 Now
Shopping Cart & up traditional
-- Parents` Choice shopping
Award role-play with
-- National Parenting interactive learning
Center`s Seal of activities that
Approval encourage imagination
-- American Baby and creativity
Magazine`s "Toys
of the Year" Award
-- Toy Wishes` ALL
STAR Award
Leap`s Phonics(TM) 2 years Teaches $59.99 Now
Railroad & up children the
-- Toy Wishes` alphabet and
ALL STAR Award phonics as they
engage in a rich
train-play experience
Learn to Read 3 years Helps children $39.99 Now
Phonics Desk(TM) & up master phonics
System and learn to read
-- Toy Wishes` through a proven
ALL STAR Award multi-sensory method
combining sight,
sound and touch
Phonics Radio 18 months On-the-go sound $17.99 Now
& up system for
preschoolers that
helps them learn
a complete alphabet
and phonics curriculum
Imagination 3 years Teaches a $39.99 Now
Desk(TM) Learning & up complete
System preschool curriculum,
-- Toy Wishes` introducing essential
ALL STAR Award kindergarten-readiness
skills including
pre-reading, pre-math
and life lessons
Additional information on LeapFrog and its products can be found at www.leapfrog.com.
About LeapFrog
LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. is a leading designer, developer and marketer of innovative, technology-based educational products and related proprietary content, dedicated to making learning effective and engaging. Based in Emeryville, California, LeapFrog has developed six platforms, more than 25 stand-alone educational products and more than 40 interactive books, covering important subjects such as phonics, reading, math, music, geography, social studies, and science. All products contain educational curricula and reflect a teaching style designed to be fun, engaging, and effective.
LeapFrog and its products have received more than 100 awards from educators, publishers, print and broadcast media, consumer groups and industry organizations, including the most coveted award in the toy industry, the first-ever PEOPLE`S CHOICE TOY OF THE YEAR (T.O.T.Y.) AWARD for the best-selling LeapPad® Learning System, as well as the BEST EDUCATIONAL T.O.T.Y. AWARD. LeapFrog products also received accolades from the Oppenheim Toy Portfolio, the Great American Toy Test, Toy Wishes Magazine`s Holiday Hot Dozen and the National Parenting Center. In addition to national distribution at retailers across the United States, LeapFrog products are available in more than 25 countries and produced in five different languages.
NOTE: LEAPFROG is a registered trademark of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. LEAPSTART, LEARNING HOOPS, SEE & LEARN, BAKE-A-SHAPE, STORYBLOCK, PRETEND & LEARN, LEAP`S PHONICS, PHONICS DESK, LEAPBABY and IMAGINATION DESK are trademarks of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
CONTACT: Leah Davis, +1-916-983-7729, or leah.davis@mslpr.com; or Lorie Appelbaum, +1-415-364-3805, or lorie.appelbaum@mslpr.com, both of Manning Selvage & Lee, for LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
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Source: LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
http://www.herring.com/insider/2002/10/leapfrog-leappad-1017…
Transformation
Child`s play
The success of the LeapPad makes LeapFrog looks like a prince.
By Stacy Lawrence
October 17, 2002
The Leappad--geared to kindergartners learning to read--looks like a book placed into a cheerfully colored electronic pad. Kids touch words and images on the page with a wand to hear words, phonetic sounds, and music. They can also play games and get quizzed. Tickle Me Elmo it ain`t. And unlike many pointless yet best-selling toys, this one may be more than a fad; it may represent a real threat to incumbent toy companies as it stakes a significant claim in the bounding educational market.
Last year the popular offering from LeapFrog Enterprises, based in Emeryville, California, brought in more revenue than any other toy in the United States; this year it`s likely to do so again. Since introducing the LeapPad in 1999, LeapFrog has shipped more than 5 million units at $45 each. In 2002, the firm`s revenue will account for about a quarter of the $1.7 billion U.S. educational-toy market, if the market continues to expand at last year`s rate of 74 percent (the overall toy market, valued at $25 billion, grew a mere 0.5 percent). LeapFrog`s combination of technology and expertise in early childhood education and play has left major toy companies like Fisher-Price and Hasbro still searching for a way to jump into the robust market.
LeapFrog has defined the preschool electronic-learning market, with claims to eight of the ten top products. When measured by U.S. revenue, it`s now the fourth-largest toy company. And it has definite plans to graduate out of preschool; newer offerings include the iQuest--a handheld device for middle-school kids, with content geared to the U.S. school curriculum--and the My First LeapPad, targeted to three-year-olds. In the next year or two, expect a handheld for high school kids.
"I`m sure that they [Fisher-Price and Hasbro] are going to try to come out and compete with LeapFrog in this category," says analyst Reyne Rice from the market research firm NPDFunworld. "People are definitely going to be coming after LeapFrog."
Write to Stacy Lawrence.
Transformation
Child`s play
The success of the LeapPad makes LeapFrog looks like a prince.
By Stacy Lawrence
October 17, 2002
The Leappad--geared to kindergartners learning to read--looks like a book placed into a cheerfully colored electronic pad. Kids touch words and images on the page with a wand to hear words, phonetic sounds, and music. They can also play games and get quizzed. Tickle Me Elmo it ain`t. And unlike many pointless yet best-selling toys, this one may be more than a fad; it may represent a real threat to incumbent toy companies as it stakes a significant claim in the bounding educational market.
Last year the popular offering from LeapFrog Enterprises, based in Emeryville, California, brought in more revenue than any other toy in the United States; this year it`s likely to do so again. Since introducing the LeapPad in 1999, LeapFrog has shipped more than 5 million units at $45 each. In 2002, the firm`s revenue will account for about a quarter of the $1.7 billion U.S. educational-toy market, if the market continues to expand at last year`s rate of 74 percent (the overall toy market, valued at $25 billion, grew a mere 0.5 percent). LeapFrog`s combination of technology and expertise in early childhood education and play has left major toy companies like Fisher-Price and Hasbro still searching for a way to jump into the robust market.
LeapFrog has defined the preschool electronic-learning market, with claims to eight of the ten top products. When measured by U.S. revenue, it`s now the fourth-largest toy company. And it has definite plans to graduate out of preschool; newer offerings include the iQuest--a handheld device for middle-school kids, with content geared to the U.S. school curriculum--and the My First LeapPad, targeted to three-year-olds. In the next year or two, expect a handheld for high school kids.
"I`m sure that they [Fisher-Price and Hasbro] are going to try to come out and compete with LeapFrog in this category," says analyst Reyne Rice from the market research firm NPDFunworld. "People are definitely going to be coming after LeapFrog."
Write to Stacy Lawrence.
Discovery Networks and Leapfrog Enterprises, Inc. Enter Fourth Quarter Cross-Platform Alliance
Monday October 21, 11:36 am ET
Companies Also Team up to Support The Discovery Channel Young Scientist Challenge
BETHESDA, Md., Oct. 21 /PRNewswire/ -- Discovery Networks today announced a cross-platform advertising agreement with LeapFrog® Enterprises, Inc., a leading provider of innovative, technology-based learning products, for exposure across the Discovery Channel, TLC, Animal Planet, Discovery Health Channel and The Science Channel(TM) in fourth quarter 2002. LeapFrog will also support the fourth annual Discovery Channel Young Scientist Challenge (DCYSC) to be held from October 20, 2002 through October 23, 2002.
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"We`re delighted to join with LeapFrog Enterprises to promote this important initiative," said Bill McGowan, executive vice president/general manager, U.S. ad sales and global integrated partnerships, Discovery Communications, Inc. "We are proud of the Discovery Channel Young Scientist Challenge and LeapFrog is a perfect partner to share in recognizing the achievement of some of America`s brightest students."
"Learning really can be a lot of fun, which is why we`re so excited about supporting events like the Discovery Channel Young Scientist Challenge," said Tom Prichard, vice president of marketing for LeapFrog. "We`re pleased to work with Discovery Networks because we share a common vision of providing quality learning experiences for children."
The LeapFrog iQuest(TM) interactive talking handheld product will be tagged in DCYSC 30-second vignettes that will air throughout fourth quarter 2002 on the Discovery Channel, TLC, Animal Planet, Discovery Health Channel and The Science Channel(TM). iQuest makes studying fun, fast and effective. It helps students prepare for tests and quizzes by providing textbook curriculum in the form of engaging games, pop quizzes and beat the clock activities. The product is also a personal organizer complete with dictionary, address book, calculator, calendar and more.
As part of the agreement, LeapFrog will receive brand exposure on all DCYSC event signage and banners. In addition, all 40 DCYSC finalists will receive the LeapFrog Turbo Twist(TM)® handheld for an in-room welcome gift. This Internet-enabled device teaches social studies, science and English facts through fun games, music, sound effects and animation.
Created in 1999, Discovery designed the DCYSC to be part of a solution to America`s chronic underachievement in science and math. The contest responds to evidence that academic performance and interest in science among American students declines dramatically as students get older -- particularly during the middle school years.
More than 6,000 middle school students have entered the DCYSC since its inception. Winners have received more than $400,000 in scholarship awards, federal government recognition, and participated in science-related trips that have taken them to the far corners of the globe.
Discovery Networks, U.S., a unit of Discovery Communications, Inc., operates and manages the Discovery Channel, TLC, Animal Planet, the Travel Channel, Discovery Health Channel, Discovery HD Theater(TM), Discovery Kids Channel, Discovery Civilization Channel, The Science Channel(TM), Discovery Home & Leisure Channel, Discovery Wings Channel and Discovery en Espanol. The unit also distributes BBC AMERICA.
About LeapFrog
LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. is a leading designer, developer and marketer of innovative, technology-based educational products and related proprietary content, dedicated to making learning effective and engaging. Based in Emeryville, California, LeapFrog has developed six platforms, more than 25 stand-alone educational products and more than 40 interactive books, covering important subjects such as phonics, reading, math, music, geography, social studies and science. All products contain educational curricula and reflect a teaching style designed to be fun, engaging and effective.
LeapFrog and its products have received more than 100 awards from educators, publishers, print and broadcast media, consumer groups and industry organizations, including the most coveted award in the toy industry, the first-ever PEOPLE`S CHOICE TOY OF THE YEAR (T.O.T.Y.) AWARD for the best- selling LeapPad® Learning System, as well as the BEST EDUCATIONAL T.O.T.Y. AWARD. LeapFrog products also received accolades from the Oppenheim Toy Portfolio, the Great American Toy Test, Toy Wishes Magazine`s Holiday Hot Dozen and the National Parenting Center.
In addition to national distribution at retailers across the United States, LeapFrog products are available in more than 25 countries and produced in five different languages.
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--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Source: Discovery Networks
Monday October 21, 11:36 am ET
Companies Also Team up to Support The Discovery Channel Young Scientist Challenge
BETHESDA, Md., Oct. 21 /PRNewswire/ -- Discovery Networks today announced a cross-platform advertising agreement with LeapFrog® Enterprises, Inc., a leading provider of innovative, technology-based learning products, for exposure across the Discovery Channel, TLC, Animal Planet, Discovery Health Channel and The Science Channel(TM) in fourth quarter 2002. LeapFrog will also support the fourth annual Discovery Channel Young Scientist Challenge (DCYSC) to be held from October 20, 2002 through October 23, 2002.
ADVERTISEMENT
"We`re delighted to join with LeapFrog Enterprises to promote this important initiative," said Bill McGowan, executive vice president/general manager, U.S. ad sales and global integrated partnerships, Discovery Communications, Inc. "We are proud of the Discovery Channel Young Scientist Challenge and LeapFrog is a perfect partner to share in recognizing the achievement of some of America`s brightest students."
"Learning really can be a lot of fun, which is why we`re so excited about supporting events like the Discovery Channel Young Scientist Challenge," said Tom Prichard, vice president of marketing for LeapFrog. "We`re pleased to work with Discovery Networks because we share a common vision of providing quality learning experiences for children."
The LeapFrog iQuest(TM) interactive talking handheld product will be tagged in DCYSC 30-second vignettes that will air throughout fourth quarter 2002 on the Discovery Channel, TLC, Animal Planet, Discovery Health Channel and The Science Channel(TM). iQuest makes studying fun, fast and effective. It helps students prepare for tests and quizzes by providing textbook curriculum in the form of engaging games, pop quizzes and beat the clock activities. The product is also a personal organizer complete with dictionary, address book, calculator, calendar and more.
As part of the agreement, LeapFrog will receive brand exposure on all DCYSC event signage and banners. In addition, all 40 DCYSC finalists will receive the LeapFrog Turbo Twist(TM)® handheld for an in-room welcome gift. This Internet-enabled device teaches social studies, science and English facts through fun games, music, sound effects and animation.
Created in 1999, Discovery designed the DCYSC to be part of a solution to America`s chronic underachievement in science and math. The contest responds to evidence that academic performance and interest in science among American students declines dramatically as students get older -- particularly during the middle school years.
More than 6,000 middle school students have entered the DCYSC since its inception. Winners have received more than $400,000 in scholarship awards, federal government recognition, and participated in science-related trips that have taken them to the far corners of the globe.
Discovery Networks, U.S., a unit of Discovery Communications, Inc., operates and manages the Discovery Channel, TLC, Animal Planet, the Travel Channel, Discovery Health Channel, Discovery HD Theater(TM), Discovery Kids Channel, Discovery Civilization Channel, The Science Channel(TM), Discovery Home & Leisure Channel, Discovery Wings Channel and Discovery en Espanol. The unit also distributes BBC AMERICA.
About LeapFrog
LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. is a leading designer, developer and marketer of innovative, technology-based educational products and related proprietary content, dedicated to making learning effective and engaging. Based in Emeryville, California, LeapFrog has developed six platforms, more than 25 stand-alone educational products and more than 40 interactive books, covering important subjects such as phonics, reading, math, music, geography, social studies and science. All products contain educational curricula and reflect a teaching style designed to be fun, engaging and effective.
LeapFrog and its products have received more than 100 awards from educators, publishers, print and broadcast media, consumer groups and industry organizations, including the most coveted award in the toy industry, the first-ever PEOPLE`S CHOICE TOY OF THE YEAR (T.O.T.Y.) AWARD for the best- selling LeapPad® Learning System, as well as the BEST EDUCATIONAL T.O.T.Y. AWARD. LeapFrog products also received accolades from the Oppenheim Toy Portfolio, the Great American Toy Test, Toy Wishes Magazine`s Holiday Hot Dozen and the National Parenting Center.
In addition to national distribution at retailers across the United States, LeapFrog products are available in more than 25 countries and produced in five different languages.
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--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Source: Discovery Networks
LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. Reports Record Net Sales, 3rd Qtr Net Income Up 89%
Tuesday October 22, 4:06 pm ET
Gross Margin Expands as Content Sales Surge as a Percent of Net Sales
EMERYVILLE, Calif., Oct. 22 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. (NYSE: LF - News), a leading developer of innovative technology-based educational products, today reported financial results for the third quarter ended September 30, 2002.
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Net sales for the third quarter of 2002 were $182.1 million, up 62.1% compared with $112.4 million in the third quarter of 2001.
Net sales from the U.S. Consumer segment, which represents 88% of total net sales for the third quarter of 2002, were $161.0 million, up 50.9% from $106.7 million in the third quarter of 2001. Net sales from the International segment, which represents 9% of total net sales for the third quarter of 2002, were $15.8 million, up 277.3% from $4.2 million in the third quarter of 2001. The Education and Training segment, which represents 3% of total net sales for the third quarter of 2002, produced $5.3 million of net sales, up 251.3% from $1.5 million in the third quarter of 2001.
The company recorded net income for the September 2002 quarter of $26.7 million, or $0.50 per diluted share, up 89.4% compared with net income of $14.1 million, or $0.37 per diluted share for the September 2001 quarter. The company`s fully diluted share count increased significantly in the September 2002 quarter, primarily as a result of the company`s July 25, 2002 initial public offering on the New York Stock Exchange.
"I am delighted to report solid financial results for our debut quarter as a public company," said Mike Wood, president and chief executive officer of LeapFrog Enterprises. "We are committed to the idea that educational products for children can be fun and engaging. It is therefore particularly gratifying to see our products so well received by parents and teachers around the world.
"We believe that our financial results for the third quarter of 2002 reflect a very positive reception of our products this Fall, and bode well for a very promising holiday season," said Wood. "This year we are seeing the benefit of the first true implementation of our LeapFrog Learning Centers within some of our retail partners` stores. The LeapFrog Learning Center is a dedicated section of our full line of education-based products arranged by age and school grade, from infant to college test preparation. We believe the LeapFrog Learning Center will become a destination for parents seeking education-based content and products, not just in the holiday season, but throughout the year."
Net sales from the Company`s library of proprietary software and content (interactive books and cartridges) increased to 26.8% of total net sales in the September 2002 quarter from 15.5% of total net sales in the September 2001 quarter. "The increase in our content sales in the third quarter of 2002 demonstrates the viability of our education platform/content model," said Wood. "We have sold over 9 million platforms to date, and we now offer over 95 software titles for use with those platform products. As we continue to expand our content offering, we believe our education-based platform products will become more attractive to parents and grandparents this holiday season and beyond."
The company`s SchoolHouse segment sells assessment and instructional products to U.S. classrooms and teachers. "We have recently launched our LeapTrack Learning System, an exciting product that allows teachers to perform ongoing assessment and deliver personalized content for each student," said Wood. "As we gain traction in this market, I believe we can have a significant impact on the ability of teachers throughout the United States to give individual attention to each child in a classroom and see that no child is left behind as judged by state education standards."
Financial Guidance for Fourth Quarter Ending December 31, 2002
The company anticipates that net sales in the seasonally strong fourth quarter will be between $185 million and $200 million. Net sales growth is expected to come from both the U.S. Consumer and International segments.
Gross margin for the fourth quarter is expected to be between 50% and 52% of net sales.
Earnings per share are expected to be between $0.30 and $0.38 in the quarter ending December 31, 2002.
Conference Call
A conference call will be held tomorrow, Wednesday October 23 at 8:00 a.m. Eastern time (5:00 a.m. Pacific time) to discuss these announcements and to provide further discussion of results for the quarter and outlook for the next quarter. A live webcast of the conference call will be offered on LeapFrog`s investor relations website at www.leapfroginvestor.com and on www.ccbn.com. A replay of the webcast will be available on these websites through November 23, 2002. To participate in the call, please dial 706-634-0183.
About LeapFrog
LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. is a leading designer, developer and marketer of innovative, technology-based educational products and related proprietary content, dedicated to making learning effective and engaging. Based in Emeryville, California, LeapFrog has developed six platforms, more than 55 stand-alone educational products and more than 95 interactive content titles, covering important subjects such as phonics, reading, math, music, geography, social studies and science. All products contain educational curricula and reflect a teaching style designed to be fun, engaging and effective.
LeapFrog and its products have received more than 100 awards from educators, publishers, print and broadcast media, consumer groups and industry organizations, including the most coveted award in the toy industry, the first-ever PEOPLE`S CHOICE TOY OF THE YEAR (T.O.T.Y.) AWARD for the popular LeapPad® Learning System, as well as the BEST EDUCATIONAL T.O.T.Y. AWARD. LeapFrog products also received accolades from the Oppenheim Toy Portfolio, the Great American Toy Test, Toy Wishes Magazine`s Holiday Hot Dozen and the National Parenting Center.
In addition to national distribution at retailers across the United States, LeapFrog products are available in more than 25 countries and produced in five different languages.
NOTE: LEAPFROG, LEAPTRACK, and LEAPPAD are trademarks of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
Safe Harbor
Cautionary Statement Under The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act Of 1995:
Except for the historical information contained herein, this news release contains forward-looking statements, including the company`s anticipated sales, gross margin or earnings results and performance in the quarter ending December 31, 2002 or future periods. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, including the company`s ability to invent, develop, and market products, the existence, number and effectiveness of Learning Centers established at the company`s customers` stores, and the acceptance of its products in the market. These and other risks and uncertainties detailed from time to time in the company`s SEC filings, including its Registration Statement on Form S-1, as amended on July 26, 2002, and its report on Form 10- Q filed on August 29, 2002 could cause the company`s actual results to differ materially from those discussed in this release. All forward-looking statements are based on information available to the company on the date hereof, and the company assumes no obligation to update such statements.
CONTACT: Jim Curley, Chief Financial Officer, +1-510-420-5000, or Christopher Bunn, Director, Investor Relations, +1-510-420-5150, both of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
LEAPFROG ENTERPRISES, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(In thousands, except share and per share data)
(Unaudited)
September 30, December 31,
2002 2001 2001
(Unaudited)
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents $57,848 $17,136 $8,269
Accounts Receivable (A) 130,137 86,385 115,499
Inventories net 92,337 56,988 46,103
Other Current assets 19,772 7,051 9,107
Total current assets 300,094 167,560 178,978
Property and equipment, net 20,449 17,995 16,857
Other long term assets 6,520 1,868 2,816
Intangible assets, net 23,353 22,310 23,322
Total assets $350,416 $209,733 $221,973
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS` EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable $68,031 $40,541 $34,412
Accrued liabilities 16,606 9,990 9,342
Deferred revenue 3,853 1,027 2,250
Cooperative advertising 9,300 3,224 5,380
Income taxes payable 13,730 -- 9,634
Total current liabilities 111,520 54,782 61,018
Long term debt -- 67,860 61,163
Other long term liabilities 4,868 1,955 2,805
Redeemable convertible Series A
preferred stock (B) 24,139 24,139 24,139
Total stockholders` equity 209,889 60,997 72,848
Total liabilities and stockholders`
equity $350,416 $209,733 $221,973
(A) Accounts Receivable are presented net of allowances of $11,343,
$7,783, and $9,854 at September 30, 2002 and 2001 and
December 31, 2001, respectively.
(B) Redeemable convertible series A preferred stock, $0.0001 par value;
2,000,000 shares authorized at September 30, 2002 and 6,000,000
shares authorized at September 30, 2001 and December 31, 2001;
2,000,000 issued and outstanding, net of $861 of issuance costs.
(Liquidation preference of $25,000 at September 30, 2002 and 2001 and
December 31, 2001)
LEAPFROG ENTERPRISES, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(In thousands, except share and per share data)
(unaudited)
Three Months Nine Months
Ended September 30, Ended September 30,
2002 2001 2002 2001
Net Sales $182,127 $112,382 $283,325 $160,828
Cost of Sales 86,377 59,043 138,914 87,727
Gross Profit 95,750 53,339 144,411 73,101
Operating expenses:
Selling, general and
administrative 22,865 12,256 53,958 32,407
Research and
development 14,137 8,571 39,810 28,032
Advertising 11,925 7,954 20,953 12,855
Depreciation and
amortization 2,445 1,029 5,940 2,664
Total operating
expenses 51,372 29,810 120,661 75,958
Income (loss) from
operations 44,378 23,529 23,750 (2,857)
Interest expense (127) (823) (822) (1,931)
Interest income 259 128 459 471
Other (expense) income (38) (265) 85 326
Income (loss) before
provision for income
taxes 44,472 22,569 23,472 (3,991)
Provision (benefit) for
income taxes 17,789 8,482 9,389 (2,142)
Net income (loss) $26,683 $14,087 $14,083 $(1,849)
Net income (loss) per
common share - basic $0.65 $0.42 $0.39 $(0.06)
Net income (loss) per
common share - diluted $0.50 $0.37 $0.30 $(0.06)
Shares used in
calculating net
income (loss)
per share - basic 41,274,608 33,471,287 36,275,667 33,398,495
Shares used in
calculating net
income (loss)
per share - diluted 53,384,455 37,677,628 47,221,080 33,398,495
Make Your Opinion Count - Click Here
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Source: LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
Tuesday October 22, 4:06 pm ET
Gross Margin Expands as Content Sales Surge as a Percent of Net Sales
EMERYVILLE, Calif., Oct. 22 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. (NYSE: LF - News), a leading developer of innovative technology-based educational products, today reported financial results for the third quarter ended September 30, 2002.
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Net sales for the third quarter of 2002 were $182.1 million, up 62.1% compared with $112.4 million in the third quarter of 2001.
Net sales from the U.S. Consumer segment, which represents 88% of total net sales for the third quarter of 2002, were $161.0 million, up 50.9% from $106.7 million in the third quarter of 2001. Net sales from the International segment, which represents 9% of total net sales for the third quarter of 2002, were $15.8 million, up 277.3% from $4.2 million in the third quarter of 2001. The Education and Training segment, which represents 3% of total net sales for the third quarter of 2002, produced $5.3 million of net sales, up 251.3% from $1.5 million in the third quarter of 2001.
The company recorded net income for the September 2002 quarter of $26.7 million, or $0.50 per diluted share, up 89.4% compared with net income of $14.1 million, or $0.37 per diluted share for the September 2001 quarter. The company`s fully diluted share count increased significantly in the September 2002 quarter, primarily as a result of the company`s July 25, 2002 initial public offering on the New York Stock Exchange.
"I am delighted to report solid financial results for our debut quarter as a public company," said Mike Wood, president and chief executive officer of LeapFrog Enterprises. "We are committed to the idea that educational products for children can be fun and engaging. It is therefore particularly gratifying to see our products so well received by parents and teachers around the world.
"We believe that our financial results for the third quarter of 2002 reflect a very positive reception of our products this Fall, and bode well for a very promising holiday season," said Wood. "This year we are seeing the benefit of the first true implementation of our LeapFrog Learning Centers within some of our retail partners` stores. The LeapFrog Learning Center is a dedicated section of our full line of education-based products arranged by age and school grade, from infant to college test preparation. We believe the LeapFrog Learning Center will become a destination for parents seeking education-based content and products, not just in the holiday season, but throughout the year."
Net sales from the Company`s library of proprietary software and content (interactive books and cartridges) increased to 26.8% of total net sales in the September 2002 quarter from 15.5% of total net sales in the September 2001 quarter. "The increase in our content sales in the third quarter of 2002 demonstrates the viability of our education platform/content model," said Wood. "We have sold over 9 million platforms to date, and we now offer over 95 software titles for use with those platform products. As we continue to expand our content offering, we believe our education-based platform products will become more attractive to parents and grandparents this holiday season and beyond."
The company`s SchoolHouse segment sells assessment and instructional products to U.S. classrooms and teachers. "We have recently launched our LeapTrack Learning System, an exciting product that allows teachers to perform ongoing assessment and deliver personalized content for each student," said Wood. "As we gain traction in this market, I believe we can have a significant impact on the ability of teachers throughout the United States to give individual attention to each child in a classroom and see that no child is left behind as judged by state education standards."
Financial Guidance for Fourth Quarter Ending December 31, 2002
The company anticipates that net sales in the seasonally strong fourth quarter will be between $185 million and $200 million. Net sales growth is expected to come from both the U.S. Consumer and International segments.
Gross margin for the fourth quarter is expected to be between 50% and 52% of net sales.
Earnings per share are expected to be between $0.30 and $0.38 in the quarter ending December 31, 2002.
Conference Call
A conference call will be held tomorrow, Wednesday October 23 at 8:00 a.m. Eastern time (5:00 a.m. Pacific time) to discuss these announcements and to provide further discussion of results for the quarter and outlook for the next quarter. A live webcast of the conference call will be offered on LeapFrog`s investor relations website at www.leapfroginvestor.com and on www.ccbn.com. A replay of the webcast will be available on these websites through November 23, 2002. To participate in the call, please dial 706-634-0183.
About LeapFrog
LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. is a leading designer, developer and marketer of innovative, technology-based educational products and related proprietary content, dedicated to making learning effective and engaging. Based in Emeryville, California, LeapFrog has developed six platforms, more than 55 stand-alone educational products and more than 95 interactive content titles, covering important subjects such as phonics, reading, math, music, geography, social studies and science. All products contain educational curricula and reflect a teaching style designed to be fun, engaging and effective.
LeapFrog and its products have received more than 100 awards from educators, publishers, print and broadcast media, consumer groups and industry organizations, including the most coveted award in the toy industry, the first-ever PEOPLE`S CHOICE TOY OF THE YEAR (T.O.T.Y.) AWARD for the popular LeapPad® Learning System, as well as the BEST EDUCATIONAL T.O.T.Y. AWARD. LeapFrog products also received accolades from the Oppenheim Toy Portfolio, the Great American Toy Test, Toy Wishes Magazine`s Holiday Hot Dozen and the National Parenting Center.
In addition to national distribution at retailers across the United States, LeapFrog products are available in more than 25 countries and produced in five different languages.
NOTE: LEAPFROG, LEAPTRACK, and LEAPPAD are trademarks of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
Safe Harbor
Cautionary Statement Under The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act Of 1995:
Except for the historical information contained herein, this news release contains forward-looking statements, including the company`s anticipated sales, gross margin or earnings results and performance in the quarter ending December 31, 2002 or future periods. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, including the company`s ability to invent, develop, and market products, the existence, number and effectiveness of Learning Centers established at the company`s customers` stores, and the acceptance of its products in the market. These and other risks and uncertainties detailed from time to time in the company`s SEC filings, including its Registration Statement on Form S-1, as amended on July 26, 2002, and its report on Form 10- Q filed on August 29, 2002 could cause the company`s actual results to differ materially from those discussed in this release. All forward-looking statements are based on information available to the company on the date hereof, and the company assumes no obligation to update such statements.
CONTACT: Jim Curley, Chief Financial Officer, +1-510-420-5000, or Christopher Bunn, Director, Investor Relations, +1-510-420-5150, both of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
LEAPFROG ENTERPRISES, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(In thousands, except share and per share data)
(Unaudited)
September 30, December 31,
2002 2001 2001
(Unaudited)
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents $57,848 $17,136 $8,269
Accounts Receivable (A) 130,137 86,385 115,499
Inventories net 92,337 56,988 46,103
Other Current assets 19,772 7,051 9,107
Total current assets 300,094 167,560 178,978
Property and equipment, net 20,449 17,995 16,857
Other long term assets 6,520 1,868 2,816
Intangible assets, net 23,353 22,310 23,322
Total assets $350,416 $209,733 $221,973
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS` EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable $68,031 $40,541 $34,412
Accrued liabilities 16,606 9,990 9,342
Deferred revenue 3,853 1,027 2,250
Cooperative advertising 9,300 3,224 5,380
Income taxes payable 13,730 -- 9,634
Total current liabilities 111,520 54,782 61,018
Long term debt -- 67,860 61,163
Other long term liabilities 4,868 1,955 2,805
Redeemable convertible Series A
preferred stock (B) 24,139 24,139 24,139
Total stockholders` equity 209,889 60,997 72,848
Total liabilities and stockholders`
equity $350,416 $209,733 $221,973
(A) Accounts Receivable are presented net of allowances of $11,343,
$7,783, and $9,854 at September 30, 2002 and 2001 and
December 31, 2001, respectively.
(B) Redeemable convertible series A preferred stock, $0.0001 par value;
2,000,000 shares authorized at September 30, 2002 and 6,000,000
shares authorized at September 30, 2001 and December 31, 2001;
2,000,000 issued and outstanding, net of $861 of issuance costs.
(Liquidation preference of $25,000 at September 30, 2002 and 2001 and
December 31, 2001)
LEAPFROG ENTERPRISES, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(In thousands, except share and per share data)
(unaudited)
Three Months Nine Months
Ended September 30, Ended September 30,
2002 2001 2002 2001
Net Sales $182,127 $112,382 $283,325 $160,828
Cost of Sales 86,377 59,043 138,914 87,727
Gross Profit 95,750 53,339 144,411 73,101
Operating expenses:
Selling, general and
administrative 22,865 12,256 53,958 32,407
Research and
development 14,137 8,571 39,810 28,032
Advertising 11,925 7,954 20,953 12,855
Depreciation and
amortization 2,445 1,029 5,940 2,664
Total operating
expenses 51,372 29,810 120,661 75,958
Income (loss) from
operations 44,378 23,529 23,750 (2,857)
Interest expense (127) (823) (822) (1,931)
Interest income 259 128 459 471
Other (expense) income (38) (265) 85 326
Income (loss) before
provision for income
taxes 44,472 22,569 23,472 (3,991)
Provision (benefit) for
income taxes 17,789 8,482 9,389 (2,142)
Net income (loss) $26,683 $14,087 $14,083 $(1,849)
Net income (loss) per
common share - basic $0.65 $0.42 $0.39 $(0.06)
Net income (loss) per
common share - diluted $0.50 $0.37 $0.30 $(0.06)
Shares used in
calculating net
income (loss)
per share - basic 41,274,608 33,471,287 36,275,667 33,398,495
Shares used in
calculating net
income (loss)
per share - diluted 53,384,455 37,677,628 47,221,080 33,398,495
Make Your Opinion Count - Click Here
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Source: LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
Reuters
LeapFrog third quarter earnings rise
Tuesday October 22, 4:53 pm ET
(Adds details throughout)
EMERYVILLE, Calif, Oct 22 (Reuters) - LeapFrog Enterprises Inc. (NYSE:LF - News) posted a higher third-quarter profit on Tuesday, helped by popularity in educational toys.
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The company, which went public in July, posted net income of $26.7 million, or 50 cents per share. That compared with year-earlier net income of $14.1 million, or 37 cents per share.
Analysts had been expecting it to earn between 30 cents and 32 cents per share, with a consensus expectation of 31 cents per share, according to research firm Thomson First Call.
Net sales for the third quarter were up about 62 percent at $182.1 million.
The company said it expects net sales in the key fourth quarter to be between $185 million and $200 million, and it forecast earnings per share between 30 cents and 38 cents. On average, analysts were expecting earnings of 35 cents per share, according to Thomson First Call.
Gross margin for the fourth quarter is expected to be between 50 percent and 52 percent of net sales.
Third quarter net sales from the U.S. consumer segment, which makes up 88 percent of total net sales, were $161 million, up nearly 51 percent from a year ago.
The company said it is seeing the benefit of the implementation of its LeapFrog Learning Centers, a section within a store dedicated to LeapFrog`s full line of products.
The recently resolved lockout at U.S. West coast ports slowed holiday shipments of toys and other items, and there is a risk that late deliveries could miss peak shopping periods and force retailers to discount items or cancel orders.
Shares of LeapFrog closed down 4.8 percent at $18.75 on Tuesday.
LeapFrog third quarter earnings rise
Tuesday October 22, 4:53 pm ET
(Adds details throughout)
EMERYVILLE, Calif, Oct 22 (Reuters) - LeapFrog Enterprises Inc. (NYSE:LF - News) posted a higher third-quarter profit on Tuesday, helped by popularity in educational toys.
ADVERTISEMENT
The company, which went public in July, posted net income of $26.7 million, or 50 cents per share. That compared with year-earlier net income of $14.1 million, or 37 cents per share.
Analysts had been expecting it to earn between 30 cents and 32 cents per share, with a consensus expectation of 31 cents per share, according to research firm Thomson First Call.
Net sales for the third quarter were up about 62 percent at $182.1 million.
The company said it expects net sales in the key fourth quarter to be between $185 million and $200 million, and it forecast earnings per share between 30 cents and 38 cents. On average, analysts were expecting earnings of 35 cents per share, according to Thomson First Call.
Gross margin for the fourth quarter is expected to be between 50 percent and 52 percent of net sales.
Third quarter net sales from the U.S. consumer segment, which makes up 88 percent of total net sales, were $161 million, up nearly 51 percent from a year ago.
The company said it is seeing the benefit of the implementation of its LeapFrog Learning Centers, a section within a store dedicated to LeapFrog`s full line of products.
The recently resolved lockout at U.S. West coast ports slowed holiday shipments of toys and other items, and there is a risk that late deliveries could miss peak shopping periods and force retailers to discount items or cancel orders.
Shares of LeapFrog closed down 4.8 percent at $18.75 on Tuesday.
+20%
nicht schlecht
nicht schlecht
Reuters
Leapfrog Shares Jump After Earnings Surge
Wednesday October 23, 1:42 pm ET
By Brad Dorfman
CHICAGO (Reuters) - Shares of educational toy maker LeapFrog Enterprises Inc. (NYSE:LF - News) returned a princely sum to investors on Wednesday, jumping by more than a quarter after the company posted third-quarter profits well ahead of analysts expectations.
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The stock was the highest percent gainer on the New York Stock Exchange in early afternoon trading, jumping $4.76 to $23.51 and reaching the highest level since the company went public in July, when they traded as low as $13.
Late Tuesday the Emeryville, California-based company posted profit of $26.7 million, or 50 cents a share, up from $14.1 million, or 37 cents a share, a year ago and well ahead of the average analyst estimate of 31 cents.
"You don`t see too many companies putting this kind of upside up, especially companies that play in the retail environment," Jeetil Patel, analyst at Deutsche Bank Securities. Patel has a "buy" rating on the stock and Deutsche Bank participated in the company`s initial public offering.
LeapFrog has become a top name in the growing market for educational toys, analysts said. And despite the sluggish economy, analysts and the company expect strong sales for the holiday season, saying parents are less likely to cutback on spending for their children.
"We are optimistic of having a good fourth quarter," Mike Wood, president and chief executive, said in an interview. "Despite difficult economic times, there will be a Christmas."
LeapFrog will feel some impact from the West Coast port shutdown, but expects any backlog in shipments to be resolved by the first week of November, Wood said. The company had about $33 million in inventory backed up outside Los Angeles when President Bush won a court order to reopen the 29 ports, Wood said.
LeapFrog spent about $3.5 million to ship goods by air and moved some manufacturing to the United States and Canada, among other contingency measures, in preparation for the shutdown. But Wood said the shutdown will not have a material impact on earnings.
Analysts also said the company could exceed expectations in the fourth quarter. LeapFrog said it expects sales in the fourth quarter of $185 million to $200 million and earnings of 30 cents to 38 cents a share.
"They are keeping their guidance relatively conservative and I haven`t changed my estimates, but I would suspect, given the continuing momentum , that they will have a blowout fourth quarter," said Jennifer Childe, an analyst at Bear Stearns, who has a "peer perform" rating on LeapFrog.
Bear Stearns also participated in the IPO.
Leapfrog Shares Jump After Earnings Surge
Wednesday October 23, 1:42 pm ET
By Brad Dorfman
CHICAGO (Reuters) - Shares of educational toy maker LeapFrog Enterprises Inc. (NYSE:LF - News) returned a princely sum to investors on Wednesday, jumping by more than a quarter after the company posted third-quarter profits well ahead of analysts expectations.
ADVERTISEMENT
The stock was the highest percent gainer on the New York Stock Exchange in early afternoon trading, jumping $4.76 to $23.51 and reaching the highest level since the company went public in July, when they traded as low as $13.
Late Tuesday the Emeryville, California-based company posted profit of $26.7 million, or 50 cents a share, up from $14.1 million, or 37 cents a share, a year ago and well ahead of the average analyst estimate of 31 cents.
"You don`t see too many companies putting this kind of upside up, especially companies that play in the retail environment," Jeetil Patel, analyst at Deutsche Bank Securities. Patel has a "buy" rating on the stock and Deutsche Bank participated in the company`s initial public offering.
LeapFrog has become a top name in the growing market for educational toys, analysts said. And despite the sluggish economy, analysts and the company expect strong sales for the holiday season, saying parents are less likely to cutback on spending for their children.
"We are optimistic of having a good fourth quarter," Mike Wood, president and chief executive, said in an interview. "Despite difficult economic times, there will be a Christmas."
LeapFrog will feel some impact from the West Coast port shutdown, but expects any backlog in shipments to be resolved by the first week of November, Wood said. The company had about $33 million in inventory backed up outside Los Angeles when President Bush won a court order to reopen the 29 ports, Wood said.
LeapFrog spent about $3.5 million to ship goods by air and moved some manufacturing to the United States and Canada, among other contingency measures, in preparation for the shutdown. But Wood said the shutdown will not have a material impact on earnings.
Analysts also said the company could exceed expectations in the fourth quarter. LeapFrog said it expects sales in the fourth quarter of $185 million to $200 million and earnings of 30 cents to 38 cents a share.
"They are keeping their guidance relatively conservative and I haven`t changed my estimates, but I would suspect, given the continuing momentum , that they will have a blowout fourth quarter," said Jennifer Childe, an analyst at Bear Stearns, who has a "peer perform" rating on LeapFrog.
Bear Stearns also participated in the IPO.
LeapFrog LeapPad(R) Learning System and LeapStart(TM) Learning Table Receive Top Honors at PlayDate 2002
Thursday October 24, 3:25 pm ET
Retailers Recognize LeapFrog Learning Products for the Fourth Straight Year
EMERYVILLE, Calif., Oct. 24 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. (NYSE: LF - News), a leading developer of innovative technology- based learning products, took top awards for its engaging learning products at PlayDate 2002: the LeapPad® learning system was honored as the "#1 Best- Selling Toy Sold in Specialty Stores" and a "Top 10 Best-Selling Toy Overall," and the LeapStart(TM) Learning Table was chosen as a "Top 10 Best-Selling Toy Sold in Specialty Stores." In addition, the company was named a "Top 10 Best- Selling Brand." PlayDate, the exclusive showcase of the best-selling toys and games for the holiday season based on the predictions made by the nation`s top retailers, announced this year`s winners on October 22 in New York.
PlayDate`s best-seller lists reflect the results of an annual survey of retailers from a broad selection of toy stores, software stores, specialty stores, national retail chains and online retailers. Each year, these retailers predict the best-selling toys and games for the coming holiday season. Since the event`s inception in 1999, LeapFrog products have made the PlayDate best-seller lists.
"LeapFrog breaks through the holiday fad barrier once again," said Sean McGowan co-founder of PlayDate. "As LeapPad hits our best-seller list for the third year in a row, LeapFrog continues to prove that fun and innovative toys that provide educational value are the winning combination."
"We are honored to receive PlayDate best-seller accolades for the fourth straight year," said Tom Prichard, vice president of marketing for LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. "This is a testament to the value parents see in learning toys and the great fun children experience -- a secret to LeapFrog`s success - - which is why our products will last well into the New Year."
LeapFrog 2002 PlayDate Accolades
LeapPad -- Top 10 Best-Selling Toy Overall & #1 Best-Selling Toy Sold in Specialty Stores
The LeapPad® learning system brings to life the magic of books and reading. Children touch the page with the "magic" pen and LeapPad books come to life with delightful characters, music and activities. LeapFrog continues to engage young readers with an exciting library of more than 40 books, including the NEW LeapPad® Phonics Program. The program includes 10 storybooks and four activity books, which provide a fun step-by-step approach to teaching children the fundamentals of reading. Other great titles in the LeapPad library, include Bob the Builder, Thomas the Tank Engine, and Scooby Doo.
LeapStart Learning Table -- Top 10 Best-Selling Toy Sold in Specialty Stores
LeapFrog`s LeapStart Learning Table helps children learn their way through music play. Parents can introduce their children to instrument sounds and upbeat melodies with each instrument on the table. Flip the center page on the table to transform the instruments from musical activities to learning discoveries that familiarize infants and toddlers to the entire alphabet, counting 1 to 10, shapes, colors and more. Furthermore, the table grows with the child, helping babies to achieve the developmental milestone of pulling up to stand and keeping them engaged into the toddler years.
LeapFrog -- Toy 10 Best-Selling Brand
LeapFrog has been recognized by retailers for its commitment to developing products that are not only engaging and interactive, but are also effective learning tools tailored to a child`s specific age and level.
"Year after year, LeapFrog has provided us with top-selling products, including PlayDate best-sellers like the LeapPad Learning System and LeapStart Learning Table," said Jim Feldt president of Toy "R" Us marketing and merchandising. "Our customers appreciate LeapFrog`s promise to deliver quality products that engage, educate and entertain children from infancy through high school."
Product Availability and Pricing
LeapFrog`s products are available now at major retailers nationwide, including Toys "R" Us, Target, and Wal-Mart. The products can also be found online at QVC.com.
Product Ages/Grades MSRP Availability
LeapStart(TM) Learning Table 6 months & up $39.99 Now
LeapPad(R) Learning System 4-8 years $49.99 Now
LeapPad Phonics Program and
other books 4-7 years $14.99/book Now
Additional information on LeapFrog and its products can be found at www.leapfrog.com.
About LeapFrog
LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. is a leading designer, developer and marketer of innovative, technology-based educational products and related proprietary content, dedicated to making learning effective and engaging. Based in Emeryville, California, LeapFrog has developed six platforms, more than 25 stand-alone educational products and more than 40 interactive books, covering important subjects such as phonics, reading, math, music, geography, social studies, and science. All products contain educational curricula and reflect a teaching style designed to be fun, engaging, and effective.
LEAPFROG and LEAPPAD are registered trademarks of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. LEAPSTART LEARNING TABLE is a trademark of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
Contacts:
Leah Davis Lorie Appelbaum
Manning Selvage & Lee Manning Selvage & Lee
916-983-7729 415-364-3805
leah.davis@mslpr.com lorie.appelbaum@mslpr.com
Make Your Opinion Count - Click Here
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Source: LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
Thursday October 24, 3:25 pm ET
Retailers Recognize LeapFrog Learning Products for the Fourth Straight Year
EMERYVILLE, Calif., Oct. 24 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. (NYSE: LF - News), a leading developer of innovative technology- based learning products, took top awards for its engaging learning products at PlayDate 2002: the LeapPad® learning system was honored as the "#1 Best- Selling Toy Sold in Specialty Stores" and a "Top 10 Best-Selling Toy Overall," and the LeapStart(TM) Learning Table was chosen as a "Top 10 Best-Selling Toy Sold in Specialty Stores." In addition, the company was named a "Top 10 Best- Selling Brand." PlayDate, the exclusive showcase of the best-selling toys and games for the holiday season based on the predictions made by the nation`s top retailers, announced this year`s winners on October 22 in New York.
PlayDate`s best-seller lists reflect the results of an annual survey of retailers from a broad selection of toy stores, software stores, specialty stores, national retail chains and online retailers. Each year, these retailers predict the best-selling toys and games for the coming holiday season. Since the event`s inception in 1999, LeapFrog products have made the PlayDate best-seller lists.
"LeapFrog breaks through the holiday fad barrier once again," said Sean McGowan co-founder of PlayDate. "As LeapPad hits our best-seller list for the third year in a row, LeapFrog continues to prove that fun and innovative toys that provide educational value are the winning combination."
"We are honored to receive PlayDate best-seller accolades for the fourth straight year," said Tom Prichard, vice president of marketing for LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. "This is a testament to the value parents see in learning toys and the great fun children experience -- a secret to LeapFrog`s success - - which is why our products will last well into the New Year."
LeapFrog 2002 PlayDate Accolades
LeapPad -- Top 10 Best-Selling Toy Overall & #1 Best-Selling Toy Sold in Specialty Stores
The LeapPad® learning system brings to life the magic of books and reading. Children touch the page with the "magic" pen and LeapPad books come to life with delightful characters, music and activities. LeapFrog continues to engage young readers with an exciting library of more than 40 books, including the NEW LeapPad® Phonics Program. The program includes 10 storybooks and four activity books, which provide a fun step-by-step approach to teaching children the fundamentals of reading. Other great titles in the LeapPad library, include Bob the Builder, Thomas the Tank Engine, and Scooby Doo.
LeapStart Learning Table -- Top 10 Best-Selling Toy Sold in Specialty Stores
LeapFrog`s LeapStart Learning Table helps children learn their way through music play. Parents can introduce their children to instrument sounds and upbeat melodies with each instrument on the table. Flip the center page on the table to transform the instruments from musical activities to learning discoveries that familiarize infants and toddlers to the entire alphabet, counting 1 to 10, shapes, colors and more. Furthermore, the table grows with the child, helping babies to achieve the developmental milestone of pulling up to stand and keeping them engaged into the toddler years.
LeapFrog -- Toy 10 Best-Selling Brand
LeapFrog has been recognized by retailers for its commitment to developing products that are not only engaging and interactive, but are also effective learning tools tailored to a child`s specific age and level.
"Year after year, LeapFrog has provided us with top-selling products, including PlayDate best-sellers like the LeapPad Learning System and LeapStart Learning Table," said Jim Feldt president of Toy "R" Us marketing and merchandising. "Our customers appreciate LeapFrog`s promise to deliver quality products that engage, educate and entertain children from infancy through high school."
Product Availability and Pricing
LeapFrog`s products are available now at major retailers nationwide, including Toys "R" Us, Target, and Wal-Mart. The products can also be found online at QVC.com.
Product Ages/Grades MSRP Availability
LeapStart(TM) Learning Table 6 months & up $39.99 Now
LeapPad(R) Learning System 4-8 years $49.99 Now
LeapPad Phonics Program and
other books 4-7 years $14.99/book Now
Additional information on LeapFrog and its products can be found at www.leapfrog.com.
About LeapFrog
LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. is a leading designer, developer and marketer of innovative, technology-based educational products and related proprietary content, dedicated to making learning effective and engaging. Based in Emeryville, California, LeapFrog has developed six platforms, more than 25 stand-alone educational products and more than 40 interactive books, covering important subjects such as phonics, reading, math, music, geography, social studies, and science. All products contain educational curricula and reflect a teaching style designed to be fun, engaging, and effective.
LEAPFROG and LEAPPAD are registered trademarks of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. LEAPSTART LEARNING TABLE is a trademark of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
Contacts:
Leah Davis Lorie Appelbaum
Manning Selvage & Lee Manning Selvage & Lee
916-983-7729 415-364-3805
leah.davis@mslpr.com lorie.appelbaum@mslpr.com
Make Your Opinion Count - Click Here
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Source: LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
LeapFrog Joins With AstraZeneca to Develop First Customized Health Education Book for The LeapPad Platform
Wednesday November 6, 4:32 pm ET
Interactive Book Brings Asthma Education Alive for Children
EMERYVILLE, Calif., Nov. 6 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. (NYSE: LF - News), a leading developer of innovative technology-based learning products, joins with AstraZeneca (NYSE: AZN - News), one of the top five pharmaceutical companies in the world, to develop a 24-page LeapPad® book on asthma education, for children between the ages of 4 and 8. The interactive book will be the first in a series of health education LeapPad books for children from the Education and Training Group at LeapFrog Enterprises.
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This educational book will help young children with asthma understand and manage their illness and has the potential to reach the more than five million homes and 7,500 classrooms across the country that are already using the award-winning LeapPad platform. The LeapFrog Education and Training Group will work with Learning Tek, LLC, a children`s health education company, based in Elizabethtown, PA, to develop the book`s content.
"This is the first time the award-winning LeapPad technology has been used to deliver health education messages for specific illnesses to children," said Bob Lally, LeapFrog co-founder and executive vice president of the Education and Training Group. "Understanding the critical need for children`s health education, we are excited about combining a proven multi-sensory approach to learning with life-saving information."
As the most common childhood chronic illness, asthma affects more than five million children in the United States and has reached epidemic proportions. Research has repeatedly demonstrated the role patient education plays in improving patient and family adherence to prescribed medical treatment and improved adherence often leads to better patient outcomes.
"This simple, enjoyable and creative program for teaching children about asthma is a huge `leap above` any other asthma education program I`ve ever seen before. It makes learning about controlling asthma fun and a lot easier," said Diane Schuller, MD, Professor of Pediatrics and Division Chief of Allergy, Immunology and Pulmonology at Penn State University Children`s Hospital.
The LeapFrog asthma education book is the first in a proposed series of health and safety books that the LeapFrog Education and Training Group is currently developing. The book is expected to be available by May 2003 for Asthma Awareness Day.
Commenting on the LeapFrog and AstraZeneca initiative, Nancy Sander, President and Founder of Allergy and Asthma Network Mothers of Asthmatics enthused, "AANMA is very excited about the first interactive asthma education book on the LeapPad system. We look forward to the launch of the educational and entertaining new product for children with asthma on Asthma Awareness Day, May 6, 2003."
About LeapFrog Enterprises
Established in 1995, LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. is a leading developer of innovative, technology-based educational products and related proprietary content dedicated to making learning effective and engaging. Based in Emeryville, Calif., the company`s product line is comprised of interactive educational products covering important subjects such as phonics, reading, math, music, geography, social studies, and science. All products are based on sound pedagogy and reflect a teaching style designed to be fun, engaging, and effective.
NOTE: LEAPFROG is a registered trademark of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. LEAPPAD is a trademark of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
About AstraZeneca
AstraZeneca is a major international healthcare business engaged in the research, development, manufacture and marketing of ethical (prescription) pharmaceuticals and the supply of healthcare services. It is one of the top five pharmaceutical companies in the world with healthcare sales of over $16.4 billion and leading positions in sales of gastrointestinal, oncology, anesthesia (including pain management), cardiovascular, central nervous system (CNS) and respiratory products. In the United States, AstraZeneca is an $8.7 billion healthcare business with more than 10,000 employees.
About Learning Tek, LLC
Learning Tek, LLC is a children`s health education and marketing company committed to developing quality pediatric patient education products and resources for the medical, educational and home audiences. Based in Elizabethtown, PA, the company was formed by three mothers with the desire to teach kids how to lead healthier lives by better understanding their health conditions. The company has developed a series of products to teach children about health and wellness issues in a fun and engaging manner. Products include a programmable, interactive doll with a chronic illness, chronic illness activity books and interactive children`s learning books. Phone 717-361-8934 or visit www.learningtek.com for more information.
CONTACT: Cherie Stewart of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc., +1-510-596-3343, or cstewart@leapfrog.com.
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Source: LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc
Wednesday November 6, 4:32 pm ET
Interactive Book Brings Asthma Education Alive for Children
EMERYVILLE, Calif., Nov. 6 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. (NYSE: LF - News), a leading developer of innovative technology-based learning products, joins with AstraZeneca (NYSE: AZN - News), one of the top five pharmaceutical companies in the world, to develop a 24-page LeapPad® book on asthma education, for children between the ages of 4 and 8. The interactive book will be the first in a series of health education LeapPad books for children from the Education and Training Group at LeapFrog Enterprises.
ADVERTISEMENT
This educational book will help young children with asthma understand and manage their illness and has the potential to reach the more than five million homes and 7,500 classrooms across the country that are already using the award-winning LeapPad platform. The LeapFrog Education and Training Group will work with Learning Tek, LLC, a children`s health education company, based in Elizabethtown, PA, to develop the book`s content.
"This is the first time the award-winning LeapPad technology has been used to deliver health education messages for specific illnesses to children," said Bob Lally, LeapFrog co-founder and executive vice president of the Education and Training Group. "Understanding the critical need for children`s health education, we are excited about combining a proven multi-sensory approach to learning with life-saving information."
As the most common childhood chronic illness, asthma affects more than five million children in the United States and has reached epidemic proportions. Research has repeatedly demonstrated the role patient education plays in improving patient and family adherence to prescribed medical treatment and improved adherence often leads to better patient outcomes.
"This simple, enjoyable and creative program for teaching children about asthma is a huge `leap above` any other asthma education program I`ve ever seen before. It makes learning about controlling asthma fun and a lot easier," said Diane Schuller, MD, Professor of Pediatrics and Division Chief of Allergy, Immunology and Pulmonology at Penn State University Children`s Hospital.
The LeapFrog asthma education book is the first in a proposed series of health and safety books that the LeapFrog Education and Training Group is currently developing. The book is expected to be available by May 2003 for Asthma Awareness Day.
Commenting on the LeapFrog and AstraZeneca initiative, Nancy Sander, President and Founder of Allergy and Asthma Network Mothers of Asthmatics enthused, "AANMA is very excited about the first interactive asthma education book on the LeapPad system. We look forward to the launch of the educational and entertaining new product for children with asthma on Asthma Awareness Day, May 6, 2003."
About LeapFrog Enterprises
Established in 1995, LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. is a leading developer of innovative, technology-based educational products and related proprietary content dedicated to making learning effective and engaging. Based in Emeryville, Calif., the company`s product line is comprised of interactive educational products covering important subjects such as phonics, reading, math, music, geography, social studies, and science. All products are based on sound pedagogy and reflect a teaching style designed to be fun, engaging, and effective.
NOTE: LEAPFROG is a registered trademark of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. LEAPPAD is a trademark of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
About AstraZeneca
AstraZeneca is a major international healthcare business engaged in the research, development, manufacture and marketing of ethical (prescription) pharmaceuticals and the supply of healthcare services. It is one of the top five pharmaceutical companies in the world with healthcare sales of over $16.4 billion and leading positions in sales of gastrointestinal, oncology, anesthesia (including pain management), cardiovascular, central nervous system (CNS) and respiratory products. In the United States, AstraZeneca is an $8.7 billion healthcare business with more than 10,000 employees.
About Learning Tek, LLC
Learning Tek, LLC is a children`s health education and marketing company committed to developing quality pediatric patient education products and resources for the medical, educational and home audiences. Based in Elizabethtown, PA, the company was formed by three mothers with the desire to teach kids how to lead healthier lives by better understanding their health conditions. The company has developed a series of products to teach children about health and wellness issues in a fun and engaging manner. Products include a programmable, interactive doll with a chronic illness, chronic illness activity books and interactive children`s learning books. Phone 717-361-8934 or visit www.learningtek.com for more information.
CONTACT: Cherie Stewart of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc., +1-510-596-3343, or cstewart@leapfrog.com.
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--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Source: LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc
LF holt Luft für den nächsten aufschwung!!! drei kleine kerzen mit minihandelsspanne und auch noch kleinen volumen zeigen an, das LF beim nächsten breakout wieder explodieren könnte. gehört auf jede watchlist
stark auch das der kurs nach dem starken gewinnne fast nicht nachgibt sonder seitwärts läuft.
aber jezt mal was zu diesem thread.
mich würde es mehr interesieren, wenn ihr eure meinung zur aktie postet und nicht irgend welche news die auch noch in englisch sind und die sowieso niemand durchliest postet. news kann jeder auch bei yahoo oder sonst einer boersenseite abfragen.
stark auch das der kurs nach dem starken gewinnne fast nicht nachgibt sonder seitwärts läuft.
aber jezt mal was zu diesem thread.
mich würde es mehr interesieren, wenn ihr eure meinung zur aktie postet und nicht irgend welche news die auch noch in englisch sind und die sowieso niemand durchliest postet. news kann jeder auch bei yahoo oder sonst einer boersenseite abfragen.
LeapFrog and TIME For Kids Introduce New Multi-Sensory Books Based On Successful TIME For Kids Magazine
Thursday November 7, 6:02 am ET
The First TIME For Kids: The Inside Scoop Book Brings the Magical World of Cinema to Life With Award-Winning LeapFrog Learning Platform
EMERYVILLE, Calif., Nov. 7 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. (NYSE: LF - News), a leading developer of innovative technology-based learning products, and TIME For Kids®, the leading in-school nonfiction brand and number one classroom weekly among fourth through sixth graders, announces the availability of TIME For Kids: The Inside Scoop(TM), an innovative, interactive book for kids. The Inside Scoop brings the TIME For Kids experience to life with sound effects, music and challenging games that make learning about the world around them fun and engaging.
Leveraging the technology of the award-winning LeapFrog® Quantum Pad(TM) and LeapPad® learning systems and the trusted, quality content of TIME For Kids, The Inside Scoop provides an innovative reading experience for children 8 years old and up. The first book from The Inside Scoop features the magical world of movies and comes to life with a behind-the-scenes look at sound effects, a glossary of movie lingo and a "Get a Job" feature that builds career awareness about the film industry. A "day in the life" with Harry Potter`s Daniel Radcliffe is the cover story.
More than 20 engaging book activities allow children to dive into the world of movies and how they are made. These activities are designed to encourage the development of critical thinking skills as they test children`s knowledge levels and natural instincts to discover how things work. The next book from The Inside Scoop will bring the exciting world of sports to kids and feature such sports luminaries as Tony Hawk, Kobe Bryant, Michelle Kwan and Tiger Woods. The sports-themed book will have sound effects, interactive games, celebrity interviews, "Did you know?" factoids, trends, puzzles, maps and charts.
"As LeapFrog continues to develop innovative products that make learning fun, we look for quality partners," said Mike Wood, LeapFrog president and CEO. "TIME For Kids is a unique and compelling children`s magazine and its rich, well-known content was a perfect fit for the Quantum Pad and LeapPad interactive platforms -- both of which make learning fun."
"The groundbreaking LeapFrog Quantum Pad platform allows children to experience and interact with the great writing and rich images of TIME For Kids in a new and exciting way," said Leanna Landsmann, president of TIME For Kids. "Parents and teachers will love The Inside Scoop because it stimulates children`s learning, while kids will love exploring contemporary and fun topics on the interactive platform."
"I have used TIME For Kids in my classroom for years because it engages students with relevant material and ignites their desire for discussion and debate," said Bill Laraway, teacher at Silver Oaks Elementary School in San Jose, California. "I know that by combining the TIME For Kids experience with LeapFrog`s innovative Quantum Pad learning system, kids will be thoroughly captivated and engaged with the world around them, encouraging them to get involved with something worthwhile, fun and educational."
LeapFrog and Time For Kids are currently exploring the possibility of developing other titles for The Inside Scoop series.
Product Availability and Pricing
TIME For Kids: The Inside Scoop is currently available at major retailers nationwide, including Target, Toys `R` Us and Wal-Mart.
Product Grades MSRP Availability
The Inside Scoop(TM) 3rd - 5th $14.99 Now
Quantum Pad(TM)
Learning System 3rd - 5th $49.99 Now
Leap Pad(R) Learning System 1st - 3rd $49.99 Now
Additional information on LeapFrog and its products can be found at www.leapfrog.com.
About LeapFrog
LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. is a leading designer, developer and marketer of innovative, technology-based educational products and related proprietary content, dedicated to making learning effective and engaging. Based in Emeryville, California, LeapFrog has developed six platforms, more than 25 stand-alone educational products and more than 40 interactive books, covering important subjects such as phonics, reading, math, music, geography, social studies, and science. All products contain educational curricula and reflect a teaching style designed to be fun, engaging, and effective.
LeapFrog and its products have received more than 100 awards from educators, publishers, print and broadcast media, consumer groups and industry organizations, including the most coveted award in the toy industry, the first-ever PEOPLE`S CHOICE TOY OF THE YEAR (T.O.T.Y.) AWARD for the popular LeapPad® Learning System, as well as the BEST EDUCATIONAL T.O.T.Y. AWARD. LeapFrog products also received accolades from the Oppenheim Toy Portfolio, the Great American Toy Test, Toy Wishes `s Holiday HOT DOZEN and the National Parenting Center. In addition to national distribution at retailers across the United States, LeapFrog products are available in more than 25 countries and produced in five different languages.
NOTE: LEAPFROG and LEAPPAD are registered trademarks of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. QUANTUM PAD is a trademark of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
About TIME For Kids
TIME For Kids (TFK) is a weekly newsmagazine, written and produced for students ages 5 to 12. Published during the school year from September through May, TFK currently reaches over 4 million students nationwide through the World Report edition for 4th through 6th graders (ages 9 to 12), News Scoop edition for 2nd and 3rd graders (ages 7 to 8), and the Big Picture edition for beginning readers in Kindergarten and 1st grade. In September 2001, TFK launched a fourth edition, Go Places with TFK, geography and reading adventure to different countries around the world. TIME FOR KIDS®, TFK® and The Inside Scoop(TM) are trademarks of Time Inc.
CONTACT: David Cumpston of MS&L, +1-415-364-3846, or david.cumpston@mslpr.com, for LeapFrog; or Nadine Ferber, Publicist of TIME For Kids, +1-212-522-4714, or nadine_ferber@timeinc.com.
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--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Source: LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
Thursday November 7, 6:02 am ET
The First TIME For Kids: The Inside Scoop Book Brings the Magical World of Cinema to Life With Award-Winning LeapFrog Learning Platform
EMERYVILLE, Calif., Nov. 7 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. (NYSE: LF - News), a leading developer of innovative technology-based learning products, and TIME For Kids®, the leading in-school nonfiction brand and number one classroom weekly among fourth through sixth graders, announces the availability of TIME For Kids: The Inside Scoop(TM), an innovative, interactive book for kids. The Inside Scoop brings the TIME For Kids experience to life with sound effects, music and challenging games that make learning about the world around them fun and engaging.
Leveraging the technology of the award-winning LeapFrog® Quantum Pad(TM) and LeapPad® learning systems and the trusted, quality content of TIME For Kids, The Inside Scoop provides an innovative reading experience for children 8 years old and up. The first book from The Inside Scoop features the magical world of movies and comes to life with a behind-the-scenes look at sound effects, a glossary of movie lingo and a "Get a Job" feature that builds career awareness about the film industry. A "day in the life" with Harry Potter`s Daniel Radcliffe is the cover story.
More than 20 engaging book activities allow children to dive into the world of movies and how they are made. These activities are designed to encourage the development of critical thinking skills as they test children`s knowledge levels and natural instincts to discover how things work. The next book from The Inside Scoop will bring the exciting world of sports to kids and feature such sports luminaries as Tony Hawk, Kobe Bryant, Michelle Kwan and Tiger Woods. The sports-themed book will have sound effects, interactive games, celebrity interviews, "Did you know?" factoids, trends, puzzles, maps and charts.
"As LeapFrog continues to develop innovative products that make learning fun, we look for quality partners," said Mike Wood, LeapFrog president and CEO. "TIME For Kids is a unique and compelling children`s magazine and its rich, well-known content was a perfect fit for the Quantum Pad and LeapPad interactive platforms -- both of which make learning fun."
"The groundbreaking LeapFrog Quantum Pad platform allows children to experience and interact with the great writing and rich images of TIME For Kids in a new and exciting way," said Leanna Landsmann, president of TIME For Kids. "Parents and teachers will love The Inside Scoop because it stimulates children`s learning, while kids will love exploring contemporary and fun topics on the interactive platform."
"I have used TIME For Kids in my classroom for years because it engages students with relevant material and ignites their desire for discussion and debate," said Bill Laraway, teacher at Silver Oaks Elementary School in San Jose, California. "I know that by combining the TIME For Kids experience with LeapFrog`s innovative Quantum Pad learning system, kids will be thoroughly captivated and engaged with the world around them, encouraging them to get involved with something worthwhile, fun and educational."
LeapFrog and Time For Kids are currently exploring the possibility of developing other titles for The Inside Scoop series.
Product Availability and Pricing
TIME For Kids: The Inside Scoop is currently available at major retailers nationwide, including Target, Toys `R` Us and Wal-Mart.
Product Grades MSRP Availability
The Inside Scoop(TM) 3rd - 5th $14.99 Now
Quantum Pad(TM)
Learning System 3rd - 5th $49.99 Now
Leap Pad(R) Learning System 1st - 3rd $49.99 Now
Additional information on LeapFrog and its products can be found at www.leapfrog.com.
About LeapFrog
LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. is a leading designer, developer and marketer of innovative, technology-based educational products and related proprietary content, dedicated to making learning effective and engaging. Based in Emeryville, California, LeapFrog has developed six platforms, more than 25 stand-alone educational products and more than 40 interactive books, covering important subjects such as phonics, reading, math, music, geography, social studies, and science. All products contain educational curricula and reflect a teaching style designed to be fun, engaging, and effective.
LeapFrog and its products have received more than 100 awards from educators, publishers, print and broadcast media, consumer groups and industry organizations, including the most coveted award in the toy industry, the first-ever PEOPLE`S CHOICE TOY OF THE YEAR (T.O.T.Y.) AWARD for the popular LeapPad® Learning System, as well as the BEST EDUCATIONAL T.O.T.Y. AWARD. LeapFrog products also received accolades from the Oppenheim Toy Portfolio, the Great American Toy Test, Toy Wishes `s Holiday HOT DOZEN and the National Parenting Center. In addition to national distribution at retailers across the United States, LeapFrog products are available in more than 25 countries and produced in five different languages.
NOTE: LEAPFROG and LEAPPAD are registered trademarks of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. QUANTUM PAD is a trademark of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
About TIME For Kids
TIME For Kids (TFK) is a weekly newsmagazine, written and produced for students ages 5 to 12. Published during the school year from September through May, TFK currently reaches over 4 million students nationwide through the World Report edition for 4th through 6th graders (ages 9 to 12), News Scoop edition for 2nd and 3rd graders (ages 7 to 8), and the Big Picture edition for beginning readers in Kindergarten and 1st grade. In September 2001, TFK launched a fourth edition, Go Places with TFK, geography and reading adventure to different countries around the world. TIME FOR KIDS®, TFK® and The Inside Scoop(TM) are trademarks of Time Inc.
CONTACT: David Cumpston of MS&L, +1-415-364-3846, or david.cumpston@mslpr.com, for LeapFrog; or Nadine Ferber, Publicist of TIME For Kids, +1-212-522-4714, or nadine_ferber@timeinc.com.
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--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Source: LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
Fun-Tastic Toys Lead Gift List at ShopKo; Rescue Heroes, Sponge Bob, LeapFrog Hot in 2002
Monday November 11, 5:00 am ET
GREEN BAY, Wis., Nov. 11 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- ShopKo`s 2002 hot holiday toy list marks the return of traditional favorites and the arrival of new characters making an impression on today`s kids. "This year`s toy season is shaping up to be a blend of nostalgia and licensed characters from television," said David Hensley, ShopKo divisional vice president. "Gen Xers have grown up and are purchasing many of the same toys they once enjoyed for their kids. Toys like Care Bears and He-Man action figures are popular again."
Parents and children alike will be familiar with many of the top-sellers on ShopKo`s 2002 top ten toy list:
Leap Pad by LeapFrog
Bratz Fashion Dolls by MGA Entertainment
Chicken Dance Elmo by Fisher-Price
My Scene Barbie by Mattel
Lego Harry Potter`s Chamber of Secrets by Lego
Rescue Heroes by Fisher-Price
"We Did It" Dancing Dora by Fisher-Price
SpongeBob SquarePants figures by Mattel
Yu-Gi-Oh Trading Cards by Upper Deck Entertainment
Care Bears by Play Along Toys
Teddy bears will also be popular gifts this holiday season, according to Hensley. To commemorate the 100th anniversary of one of America`s most loved toys, ShopKo will give away more than 150,000 teddy bears to early-bird shoppers Friday, November 29 as part of its 5-hour, Day-After-Thanksgiving sale.
ShopKo Stores, Inc. (NYSE: SKO - News), a Fortune 500 company headquartered in Green Bay, Wis., operates 364 retail stores in 23 states, primarily in the Midwest, Western Mountain and Pacific Northwest regions. Retail operations include 141 specialty discount stores operating under the ShopKo name in mid-sized and larger cities, and 223 Pamida discount stores in smaller, rural communities. For more information about ShopKo or Pamida visit our website at www.shopko.com .
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--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Source: ShopKo Stores, Inc.
Monday November 11, 5:00 am ET
GREEN BAY, Wis., Nov. 11 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- ShopKo`s 2002 hot holiday toy list marks the return of traditional favorites and the arrival of new characters making an impression on today`s kids. "This year`s toy season is shaping up to be a blend of nostalgia and licensed characters from television," said David Hensley, ShopKo divisional vice president. "Gen Xers have grown up and are purchasing many of the same toys they once enjoyed for their kids. Toys like Care Bears and He-Man action figures are popular again."
Parents and children alike will be familiar with many of the top-sellers on ShopKo`s 2002 top ten toy list:
Leap Pad by LeapFrog
Bratz Fashion Dolls by MGA Entertainment
Chicken Dance Elmo by Fisher-Price
My Scene Barbie by Mattel
Lego Harry Potter`s Chamber of Secrets by Lego
Rescue Heroes by Fisher-Price
"We Did It" Dancing Dora by Fisher-Price
SpongeBob SquarePants figures by Mattel
Yu-Gi-Oh Trading Cards by Upper Deck Entertainment
Care Bears by Play Along Toys
Teddy bears will also be popular gifts this holiday season, according to Hensley. To commemorate the 100th anniversary of one of America`s most loved toys, ShopKo will give away more than 150,000 teddy bears to early-bird shoppers Friday, November 29 as part of its 5-hour, Day-After-Thanksgiving sale.
ShopKo Stores, Inc. (NYSE: SKO - News), a Fortune 500 company headquartered in Green Bay, Wis., operates 364 retail stores in 23 states, primarily in the Midwest, Western Mountain and Pacific Northwest regions. Retail operations include 141 specialty discount stores operating under the ShopKo name in mid-sized and larger cities, and 223 Pamida discount stores in smaller, rural communities. For more information about ShopKo or Pamida visit our website at www.shopko.com .
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--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Source: ShopKo Stores, Inc.
Reuters
Leapfrog says ITC lets Franklin withdraw complaint
Tuesday November 19, 6:41 pm ET
EMERYVILLE, Calif., Nov 19 (Reuters) - Educational toy maker LeapFrog Enterprises Inc. (NYSE:LF - News) on Tuesday said the U.S. International Trade Commission has granted Franklin Electronic Publisher Inc.`s motion to withdraw its complaint and terminate an associated investigation.
LeapFrog said its U.S. federal court action in San Francisco, which seeks declaratory relief that it does not infringe a Franklin patent and/or that the patent is invalid or unenforceable, is still pending.
Leapfrog says ITC lets Franklin withdraw complaint
Tuesday November 19, 6:41 pm ET
EMERYVILLE, Calif., Nov 19 (Reuters) - Educational toy maker LeapFrog Enterprises Inc. (NYSE:LF - News) on Tuesday said the U.S. International Trade Commission has granted Franklin Electronic Publisher Inc.`s motion to withdraw its complaint and terminate an associated investigation.
LeapFrog said its U.S. federal court action in San Francisco, which seeks declaratory relief that it does not infringe a Franklin patent and/or that the patent is invalid or unenforceable, is still pending.
LeapFrog SchoolHouse `Ready, Set, Leap!(TM)` Pre-K Curriculum Adopted By The State of Texas
Wednesday November 20, 1:46 pm ET
First State-Wide Adoption of Innovative Multisensory Learning Tools For Preschool Children
NEW YORK, Nov. 20 /PRNewswire/ -- THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION FOR THE EDUCATION OF YOUNG CHILDREN (NAEYC) CONFERENCE -- LeapFrog SchoolHouse, the school division of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. (NYSE: LF - News), a leading developer of innovative technology-based learning products, today announces that the new Ready, Set, Leap! comprehensive PreK curriculum program was officially adopted by the Texas State Board of Education on Nov. 15, 2002, for use in up to 8,000 prekindergarten classrooms throughout Texas.
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The scope and sequence of the Ready, Set, Leap! curriculum covers subject matter in language and early literacy, mathematics, social studies, fine arts, health and safety, personal and social development, as well as physical development. This research-based program uses LeapFrog SchoolHouse`s award- winning interactive platforms including the LeapPad® platform, the LeapDesk(TM) workstation, the LeapMat(TM) learning surface, and the Imagination Desk® learning center to create a multisensory, hands-on learning experience.
The program is comprised of a comprehensive, integrated curriculum based on research, best practices, and practical knowledge gained from prekindergarten classroom experience. John Funk, M.Ed., Early Childhood Manager for Salt Lake CAP Head Start, and 1996 Utah Teacher of the Year, called on his 25 years of experience in early education to help author the newly adopted curriculum.
"Scientific reading research has consistently demonstrated that children who are taught phonemic awareness and other essential pre-reading skills before entering Kindergarten are far more successful in learning to read and overall school performance," said Bob Lally, LeapFrog SchoolHouse president. "Our interactive, multisensory approach to instruction is unique, research- based and proven effective in the classroom. We believe this was one of the key reasons our program was selected for this landmark adoption."
Texas is the first state in the nation to formally adopt a PreK curriculum, setting a standard for early literacy and developmental education. The state recently completed a two-year program evaluation process that included an extensive review by the State Textbook Review Panel. This rigorous adoption process ensures that the Ready, Set, Leap! program is aligned to Texas PreK standards.
"Teachers will have the opportunity to make the Ready, Set, Leap! program an integral part of their daily instruction," said Lally. "Preschoolers are naturally curious about the world around them, and this program engages that curiosity in a meaningful way, promoting active learning, which research shows to be the best way for children of this age to learn the essential skills they will need in kindergarten and beyond."
About the Ready, Set, Leap! Program
The Ready, Set, Leap! program stimulates young learners and promotes reading readiness with the engaging and multisensory technology in the LeapPad® platform, the LeapDesk(TM) workstation, the LeapMat(TM) learning surface, and the Imagination Desk® learning center. Our award-winning, multisensory technology is incorporated into each lesson to engage students and address all the ways children learn. In addition, these technologies allow purposeful practice on key early literacy skills and can be used for individual and small group instruction.
At the core of the Ready, Set, Leap! lessons are two important concepts: prekindergarten children are eager to learn, and they learn best by being active. The program is flexible and easy to integrate into any classroom. To that end, two different styles of Teacher`s Manuals are included. One Teacher`s Manual is theme-based, providing a year of curriculum based on nine universally popular themes. The other manual provides a literature-based approach to the year.
The content in the program includes great children`s literature, big books, a large colorful flip book, poem posters, phonemic awareness music, a puppet, teaching strategy cards, and more. The Teacher`s Resource Guide includes family letters in both English and Spanish for the teacher to send home with students to foster the important home-school connection.
Purchasing the Ready, Set, Leap! Program
The Ready, Set, Leap! program is available to all prekindergarten programs nationwide, as it meets both Head Start and state PreK standards and guidelines. Preschools have the option to add either a Spanish language program for bilingual classrooms, or a home-connection program with six supplementary LeapPad platforms and 24 additional interactive books for students to take home for more practice.
To purchase the Ready, Set, Leap! program call 800-883-7430. For more information on the Texas review process, visit www.tea.state.tx.us/textbooks/materials . To review research findings and more information about the Ready, Set, Leap! program and other LeapFrog SchoolHouse programs, visit www.LeapFrogSchoolHouse.com .
Program demonstrations will be given every hour on the hour throughout the NAEYC conference in booth 825, today through Saturday at the Javitz Convention Center.
About LeapFrog SchoolHouse Division
LeapFrog SchoolHouse publishes assessment and curriculum content for the PreK - Grade 8 education market. The content is designed to correlate to state and national standards and is enhanced by LeapFrog`s proprietary technology-based learning platforms. LeapFrog SchoolHouse product areas currently include early literacy, reading, language arts, math, and English language development. LeapFrog SchoolHouse offers the LeapTrack(TM) Assessment and Instruction System, which provides teachers with the ability to instantly assess their students, personalize student instruction, and continuously monitor student progress relative to state standards. LeapFrog SchoolHouse also offers curriculum programs that are research-based and include interactive, multisensory, electronic learning aids, as well as the tools a teacher needs to integrate the program easily into the classroom. LeapFrog SchoolHouse was established in response to numerous requests from educators to customize LeapFrog`s award-winning technology and educational products for the classroom.
LeapFrog SchoolHouse is a business division within the Education & Training Group of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc., a leading developer of innovative, technology-based educational products and content. Phone 800-883-7430 or visit www.LeapFrogSchoolHouse.com for more information.
About LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. is a leading designer, developer and marketer of innovative, technology-based educational products and related proprietary content, dedicated to making learning effective and engaging. Based in Emeryville, California, LeapFrog has developed six platforms, more than 25 stand-alone educational products and more than 40 interactive books, covering important subjects such as phonics, reading, math, music, geography, social studies, and science. All products contain educational curricula and reflect a teaching style designed to be fun, engaging, and effective.
LeapFrog and its products have received more than 100 awards from educators, publishers, print and broadcast media, consumer groups and industry organizations, including the most coveted award in the toy industry, the first-ever PEOPLE`S CHOICE TOY OF THE YEAR (T.O.T.Y.) AWARD for the best- selling LeapPad® Learning System, as well as the BEST EDUCATIONAL T.O.T.Y. AWARD, each in 2000. LeapFrog products also received accolades from the Oppenheim Toy Portfolio, the Great American Toy Test, Toy Wishes Magazine`s Holiday Hot Dozen and the National Parenting Center.
In addition to national distribution at retailers across the United States, LeapFrog products are available in more than 25 countries and produced in five different languages.
LEAPFROG, LEAPPAD and IMAGINATION DESK are registered trademarks of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. LEAPFROG SCHOOLHOUSE, the LeapFrog SchoolHouse logo, LEAP DESK, and LEAPMAT are trademarks of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
For more information contact:
Sue deLeeuw Charlene Blohm
LeapFrog SchoolHouse C. Blohm & Associates, Inc.
510-596-3322 210-656-2324
SdeLeeuw@LeapFrogSchoolHouse.com charlene@cblohm.com
Make Your Opinion Count - Click Here
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Source: LeapFrog SchoolHouse
Wednesday November 20, 1:46 pm ET
First State-Wide Adoption of Innovative Multisensory Learning Tools For Preschool Children
NEW YORK, Nov. 20 /PRNewswire/ -- THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION FOR THE EDUCATION OF YOUNG CHILDREN (NAEYC) CONFERENCE -- LeapFrog SchoolHouse, the school division of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. (NYSE: LF - News), a leading developer of innovative technology-based learning products, today announces that the new Ready, Set, Leap! comprehensive PreK curriculum program was officially adopted by the Texas State Board of Education on Nov. 15, 2002, for use in up to 8,000 prekindergarten classrooms throughout Texas.
ADVERTISEMENT
The scope and sequence of the Ready, Set, Leap! curriculum covers subject matter in language and early literacy, mathematics, social studies, fine arts, health and safety, personal and social development, as well as physical development. This research-based program uses LeapFrog SchoolHouse`s award- winning interactive platforms including the LeapPad® platform, the LeapDesk(TM) workstation, the LeapMat(TM) learning surface, and the Imagination Desk® learning center to create a multisensory, hands-on learning experience.
The program is comprised of a comprehensive, integrated curriculum based on research, best practices, and practical knowledge gained from prekindergarten classroom experience. John Funk, M.Ed., Early Childhood Manager for Salt Lake CAP Head Start, and 1996 Utah Teacher of the Year, called on his 25 years of experience in early education to help author the newly adopted curriculum.
"Scientific reading research has consistently demonstrated that children who are taught phonemic awareness and other essential pre-reading skills before entering Kindergarten are far more successful in learning to read and overall school performance," said Bob Lally, LeapFrog SchoolHouse president. "Our interactive, multisensory approach to instruction is unique, research- based and proven effective in the classroom. We believe this was one of the key reasons our program was selected for this landmark adoption."
Texas is the first state in the nation to formally adopt a PreK curriculum, setting a standard for early literacy and developmental education. The state recently completed a two-year program evaluation process that included an extensive review by the State Textbook Review Panel. This rigorous adoption process ensures that the Ready, Set, Leap! program is aligned to Texas PreK standards.
"Teachers will have the opportunity to make the Ready, Set, Leap! program an integral part of their daily instruction," said Lally. "Preschoolers are naturally curious about the world around them, and this program engages that curiosity in a meaningful way, promoting active learning, which research shows to be the best way for children of this age to learn the essential skills they will need in kindergarten and beyond."
About the Ready, Set, Leap! Program
The Ready, Set, Leap! program stimulates young learners and promotes reading readiness with the engaging and multisensory technology in the LeapPad® platform, the LeapDesk(TM) workstation, the LeapMat(TM) learning surface, and the Imagination Desk® learning center. Our award-winning, multisensory technology is incorporated into each lesson to engage students and address all the ways children learn. In addition, these technologies allow purposeful practice on key early literacy skills and can be used for individual and small group instruction.
At the core of the Ready, Set, Leap! lessons are two important concepts: prekindergarten children are eager to learn, and they learn best by being active. The program is flexible and easy to integrate into any classroom. To that end, two different styles of Teacher`s Manuals are included. One Teacher`s Manual is theme-based, providing a year of curriculum based on nine universally popular themes. The other manual provides a literature-based approach to the year.
The content in the program includes great children`s literature, big books, a large colorful flip book, poem posters, phonemic awareness music, a puppet, teaching strategy cards, and more. The Teacher`s Resource Guide includes family letters in both English and Spanish for the teacher to send home with students to foster the important home-school connection.
Purchasing the Ready, Set, Leap! Program
The Ready, Set, Leap! program is available to all prekindergarten programs nationwide, as it meets both Head Start and state PreK standards and guidelines. Preschools have the option to add either a Spanish language program for bilingual classrooms, or a home-connection program with six supplementary LeapPad platforms and 24 additional interactive books for students to take home for more practice.
To purchase the Ready, Set, Leap! program call 800-883-7430. For more information on the Texas review process, visit www.tea.state.tx.us/textbooks/materials . To review research findings and more information about the Ready, Set, Leap! program and other LeapFrog SchoolHouse programs, visit www.LeapFrogSchoolHouse.com .
Program demonstrations will be given every hour on the hour throughout the NAEYC conference in booth 825, today through Saturday at the Javitz Convention Center.
About LeapFrog SchoolHouse Division
LeapFrog SchoolHouse publishes assessment and curriculum content for the PreK - Grade 8 education market. The content is designed to correlate to state and national standards and is enhanced by LeapFrog`s proprietary technology-based learning platforms. LeapFrog SchoolHouse product areas currently include early literacy, reading, language arts, math, and English language development. LeapFrog SchoolHouse offers the LeapTrack(TM) Assessment and Instruction System, which provides teachers with the ability to instantly assess their students, personalize student instruction, and continuously monitor student progress relative to state standards. LeapFrog SchoolHouse also offers curriculum programs that are research-based and include interactive, multisensory, electronic learning aids, as well as the tools a teacher needs to integrate the program easily into the classroom. LeapFrog SchoolHouse was established in response to numerous requests from educators to customize LeapFrog`s award-winning technology and educational products for the classroom.
LeapFrog SchoolHouse is a business division within the Education & Training Group of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc., a leading developer of innovative, technology-based educational products and content. Phone 800-883-7430 or visit www.LeapFrogSchoolHouse.com for more information.
About LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. is a leading designer, developer and marketer of innovative, technology-based educational products and related proprietary content, dedicated to making learning effective and engaging. Based in Emeryville, California, LeapFrog has developed six platforms, more than 25 stand-alone educational products and more than 40 interactive books, covering important subjects such as phonics, reading, math, music, geography, social studies, and science. All products contain educational curricula and reflect a teaching style designed to be fun, engaging, and effective.
LeapFrog and its products have received more than 100 awards from educators, publishers, print and broadcast media, consumer groups and industry organizations, including the most coveted award in the toy industry, the first-ever PEOPLE`S CHOICE TOY OF THE YEAR (T.O.T.Y.) AWARD for the best- selling LeapPad® Learning System, as well as the BEST EDUCATIONAL T.O.T.Y. AWARD, each in 2000. LeapFrog products also received accolades from the Oppenheim Toy Portfolio, the Great American Toy Test, Toy Wishes Magazine`s Holiday Hot Dozen and the National Parenting Center.
In addition to national distribution at retailers across the United States, LeapFrog products are available in more than 25 countries and produced in five different languages.
LEAPFROG, LEAPPAD and IMAGINATION DESK are registered trademarks of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. LEAPFROG SCHOOLHOUSE, the LeapFrog SchoolHouse logo, LEAP DESK, and LEAPMAT are trademarks of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
For more information contact:
Sue deLeeuw Charlene Blohm
LeapFrog SchoolHouse C. Blohm & Associates, Inc.
510-596-3322 210-656-2324
SdeLeeuw@LeapFrogSchoolHouse.com charlene@cblohm.com
Make Your Opinion Count - Click Here
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Source: LeapFrog SchoolHouse
7:26AM Leapfrog cut to Underperform at Bear Stearns -- valuation (LF) 30.65: Bear Stearns downgrades to UNDERPERFORM based solely on valuation. Notes that stock has risen 150% since July IPO. Believes that since the stock is priced to perfection, any disappointments could be punished severely.
LeapFrog Learning Products Applauded by Industry Experts, Educators, Parents And Children as Some of the Holiday Season`s Best Educational Toys
Tuesday December 10, 4:08 pm ET
LeapFrog(R) Products Dominate Most Prestigious Holiday Award Programs, With 38 Wins in All Age Categories-from Infant through Middle School
EMERYVILLE, Calif., Dec. 10 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc., (NYSE: LF - News), a leading developer of innovative technology- based learning products, captures top toy honors helping parents make educated purchasing decisions for their children during the holiday shopping frenzy. As the season reaches its final weeks, parents are barraged by a slew of advertisements promoting gifts and gadgets for their families. Cutting through the clutter to identify products that will avoid the bottom of the toy chest and last well into the New Year is a challenge most parents would prefer to avoid.
This year`s toy tests and awards -- including the widely acclaimed "Today`s Toy Test 2002" from NBC`s "Today Show", Toy Wishes` "Hot Dozen" list of the season`s top products, and the 2002 Hot Picks from Toys "R" Us -- chose LeapFrog learning products as some of the very best, making them a smart choice for parents and children. LeapFrog`s top product winners, including iQuest(TM) Interactive Talking Handheld, Leap`s Phonics(TM) Railroad, LeapStart(TM) Learning Table, Pretend & Learn(TM) Shopping Cart and Quantum Pad(TM) Learning System, picked up wins in an array of categories.
"With well over 100 awards to-date, LeapFrog has established a history of success even in the industry`s toughest toy tests," said Mike Wood, CEO and president of LeapFrog. "Repeat recognition of our products in top awards, such as the Toy Industry Association`s People`s Choice Best Educational Toy of the Year and the "Today Show`s" annual toy test, is a testament to LeapFrog`s commitment to providing children of all ages with effective and engaging learning experiences."
"LeapFrog consistently produces some of the industry`s most innovative and fun products," said Jim Silver, co-publisher of Toy Wishes. "The Quantum Pad learning system hit our Hot Dozen list because it is a stellar example of a strong product for this holiday season, combining learning and fun in a creative interactive format."
"We`ve always been able to count on LeapFrog products to be popular throughout the holiday season," said Jim Feldt, president of TRU marketing and merchandising, Toys "R" Us. "The company`s wide array of toys, such as the Explorer(TM) Globe and Learning Drum(TM) products, appeals to our customers` needs and are therefore flying off the shelves at a tremendous pace."
Holiday toy test awards are determined by industry experts, child development experts, educators, parents, day care centers and most importantly, children. Products are generally used by children and reviewed for several weeks while educators and supervisors observe the children`s interaction with the toys. Toys are then graded based on factors such as quality, durability, ease of assembly, maintenance, short-term interest, long- term interest, educational value, safety and fun.
In addition to the successes achieved through industry recognition and toy test awards, LeapFrog`s innovative products are continually praised by a loyal consumer following.
"LeapFrog makes excellent learning toys that have worked their magic on my daughter, Greer," said Maggi Hill, parent of a four-year-old. "Greer mastered her ABC`s in less than two weeks with LeapFrog`s Read and Sing Little Leap(TM) Plush Toy, and her new favorite toy is the LeapPad® learning system. We have just subscribed to Leap`s Pond(TM) magazine as a Christmas gift and are also planning to purchase the Explorer Globe."
"My son, Nicholas, is doing very well in his kindergarten class because he enjoys playing with the LeapPad® learning system and Phonics Writing Desk(TM) at home," said Sandi Bownas, Nicholas` mother. "LeapFrog`s fun, refreshing and creative approach has built his confidence and promoted his learning skills. I make it a point to talk about LeapFrog products with other parents at the toy stores because of the huge difference in my son`s life."
LeapFrog Wins Big with Products for All Ages This Holiday
LeapStart(TM) Learning Table -- Nurtures an infant`s natural love of
music while introducing the entire alphabet, counting 1 to 10, shapes,
colors and more
-- Children`s Software Revue All Star Award
-- Great American Toy Test 2002 (KTVU-FOX)
-- Parenting Toy of the Year
-- PlayDate`s Top 10 Best Selling Toys Sold in Specialty Stores
-- Toy Wishes All Star -- Infant Category
Pretend & Learn(TM) Shopping Cart -- Enhances traditional shopping role-
play and encourages imagination while teaching fundamental preschool
math, including numbers, counting, quantities and more than/less than
concepts
-- "Today Show" Toy Test 2002 Winner`s Circle
-- Annual Consumer Toy Test Thumb`s Up Award (WBNS-CBS)
-- Babyzone -- Toddler Category
-- Children`s Software Revue All Star Award
-- Parenting magazine`s Best Toys of the Year -- Learning Category
-- Parents` Choice Approved Award Winner
-- Toy Wishes All Star -- Preschool Category
-- The National Parenting Center Seal of Approval
-- Family Fun Toy Awards -- Active Toy Category
Leap`s Phonics(TM) Railroad -- The only motorized train set that teaches
preschoolers the alphabet and phonics as they engage in a rich train-play
experience
-- "Today Show" Toy Test 2002 Winner Circle
-- Annual Consumer Toy Test Top Toy Award (WBNS-CBS)
-- Great American Toy Test (KTVU-FOX)
Quantum Pad(TM) Learning System -- Incorporates interactive games and
activities to make learning school subjects like math, science and social
studies enjoyable
-- "Today Show" Toy Test 2002 Winner`s Circle
-- Toy Wishes All Star -- Education & Learning Category
-- Toy Wishes Hot Dozen
iQuest(TM) Interactive Talking Handheld -- Engaging and effective way for
sixth, seventh and eighth graders to study for tests in math, science and
social studies
-- Parents` Choice Recommended Award Winner
-- Popular Science`s What`s New is 2002
-- The National Parenting Center Seal of Approval
-- Toy Wishes All Star -- Education and Learning Category
Product Availability and Pricing
LeapFrog`s products are available now at major retailers nationwide, including Toys "R" Us, Target and Wal-Mart.
Product Ages MSRP Available
Infant/Toddler
LeapStart(TM) Learning Table 6 months & up $39.99 Now
Learning Hoops(TM) Basketball 6 months & up $24.99 Now
Bake-a-Shape (TM) Sorter 6 months & up $14.99 Now
See & Learn(TM) Piano 6 months & up $14.99 Now
Discovery Ball 6 months & up $19.99 Now
Learning Drum 6 months & up $19.99 Now
Preschool
Pretend & Learn(TM) Shopping Cart 2 years & up $45.99 Now
Leap`s Phonics(TM) Railroad 2 years & up $59.99 Now
Learn to Read Phonics Desk(TM)
System 3 years & up $39.99 Now
Imagination Desk(TM) Learning
System 3 years & up $39.99 Now
LeapPad
My First LeapPad 3 years & up $39.99 Now
LeapPad(R) Learning System 4-8 years $49.99 Now
Quantum Leap
Quantum Pad(TM) Learning System Grades 3-5 $49.99 Now
iQuest(TM) Interactive Talking
Handheld Grades 5-8 $59.99 Now
Turbo Twist(R) handheld BRAIN
QUEST(R) edition Grades 1-6 $29.99 Now
Additional information on LeapFrog and its products can be found at www.leapfrog.com.
About LeapFrog
LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. is a leading designer, developer and marketer of innovative, technology-based educational products and related proprietary content, dedicated to making learning effective and engaging. Based in Emeryville, California, LeapFrog has developed six platforms, more than 25 stand-alone educational products and more than 40 interactive books, covering important subjects such as phonics, reading, math, music, geography, social studies, and science. All products contain educational curricula and reflect a teaching style designed to be fun, engaging, and effective.
LeapFrog and its products have received more than 100 awards from educators, publishers, print and broadcast media, consumer groups and industry organizations, including the most coveted award in the toy industry, the first-ever PEOPLE`S CHOICE TOY OF THE YEAR (T.O.T.Y.) AWARD for the popular LeapPad® Learning System, as well as the BEST EDUCATIONAL T.O.T.Y. AWARD. LeapFrog products also received accolades from the Oppenheim Toy Portfolio, the Great American Toy Test, Toy Wishes Magazine`s Holiday Hot Dozen and the National Parenting Center. In addition to national distribution at retailers across the United States, LeapFrog products are available in more than 25 countries and produced in five different languages.
NOTE: LEAPFROG is a registered trademark of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. LEAPSTART, LEARNING HOOPS, SEE & LEARN, BAKE-A-SHAPE, PRETEND & LEARN, LEAP`S PHONICS, PHONICS DESK, IMAGINATION DESK, LEAPPAD, QUANTUM PAD, IQUEST, LEAP`S POND, READ AND SING LITTLE LEAP, EXPLORER GLOBE, PHONICS WRITING DESK, LEARNING DRUM, and TURBO TWIST are trademarks of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
Contacts:
Leah Davis Lorie Appelbaum
Manning, Selvage & Lee Manning, Selvage & Lee
916-983-7729 415-364-3805
leah.davis@mslpr.com lorie.appelbaum@mslpr.com
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Source: LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
Tuesday December 10, 4:08 pm ET
LeapFrog(R) Products Dominate Most Prestigious Holiday Award Programs, With 38 Wins in All Age Categories-from Infant through Middle School
EMERYVILLE, Calif., Dec. 10 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc., (NYSE: LF - News), a leading developer of innovative technology- based learning products, captures top toy honors helping parents make educated purchasing decisions for their children during the holiday shopping frenzy. As the season reaches its final weeks, parents are barraged by a slew of advertisements promoting gifts and gadgets for their families. Cutting through the clutter to identify products that will avoid the bottom of the toy chest and last well into the New Year is a challenge most parents would prefer to avoid.
This year`s toy tests and awards -- including the widely acclaimed "Today`s Toy Test 2002" from NBC`s "Today Show", Toy Wishes` "Hot Dozen" list of the season`s top products, and the 2002 Hot Picks from Toys "R" Us -- chose LeapFrog learning products as some of the very best, making them a smart choice for parents and children. LeapFrog`s top product winners, including iQuest(TM) Interactive Talking Handheld, Leap`s Phonics(TM) Railroad, LeapStart(TM) Learning Table, Pretend & Learn(TM) Shopping Cart and Quantum Pad(TM) Learning System, picked up wins in an array of categories.
"With well over 100 awards to-date, LeapFrog has established a history of success even in the industry`s toughest toy tests," said Mike Wood, CEO and president of LeapFrog. "Repeat recognition of our products in top awards, such as the Toy Industry Association`s People`s Choice Best Educational Toy of the Year and the "Today Show`s" annual toy test, is a testament to LeapFrog`s commitment to providing children of all ages with effective and engaging learning experiences."
"LeapFrog consistently produces some of the industry`s most innovative and fun products," said Jim Silver, co-publisher of Toy Wishes. "The Quantum Pad learning system hit our Hot Dozen list because it is a stellar example of a strong product for this holiday season, combining learning and fun in a creative interactive format."
"We`ve always been able to count on LeapFrog products to be popular throughout the holiday season," said Jim Feldt, president of TRU marketing and merchandising, Toys "R" Us. "The company`s wide array of toys, such as the Explorer(TM) Globe and Learning Drum(TM) products, appeals to our customers` needs and are therefore flying off the shelves at a tremendous pace."
Holiday toy test awards are determined by industry experts, child development experts, educators, parents, day care centers and most importantly, children. Products are generally used by children and reviewed for several weeks while educators and supervisors observe the children`s interaction with the toys. Toys are then graded based on factors such as quality, durability, ease of assembly, maintenance, short-term interest, long- term interest, educational value, safety and fun.
In addition to the successes achieved through industry recognition and toy test awards, LeapFrog`s innovative products are continually praised by a loyal consumer following.
"LeapFrog makes excellent learning toys that have worked their magic on my daughter, Greer," said Maggi Hill, parent of a four-year-old. "Greer mastered her ABC`s in less than two weeks with LeapFrog`s Read and Sing Little Leap(TM) Plush Toy, and her new favorite toy is the LeapPad® learning system. We have just subscribed to Leap`s Pond(TM) magazine as a Christmas gift and are also planning to purchase the Explorer Globe."
"My son, Nicholas, is doing very well in his kindergarten class because he enjoys playing with the LeapPad® learning system and Phonics Writing Desk(TM) at home," said Sandi Bownas, Nicholas` mother. "LeapFrog`s fun, refreshing and creative approach has built his confidence and promoted his learning skills. I make it a point to talk about LeapFrog products with other parents at the toy stores because of the huge difference in my son`s life."
LeapFrog Wins Big with Products for All Ages This Holiday
LeapStart(TM) Learning Table -- Nurtures an infant`s natural love of
music while introducing the entire alphabet, counting 1 to 10, shapes,
colors and more
-- Children`s Software Revue All Star Award
-- Great American Toy Test 2002 (KTVU-FOX)
-- Parenting Toy of the Year
-- PlayDate`s Top 10 Best Selling Toys Sold in Specialty Stores
-- Toy Wishes All Star -- Infant Category
Pretend & Learn(TM) Shopping Cart -- Enhances traditional shopping role-
play and encourages imagination while teaching fundamental preschool
math, including numbers, counting, quantities and more than/less than
concepts
-- "Today Show" Toy Test 2002 Winner`s Circle
-- Annual Consumer Toy Test Thumb`s Up Award (WBNS-CBS)
-- Babyzone -- Toddler Category
-- Children`s Software Revue All Star Award
-- Parenting magazine`s Best Toys of the Year -- Learning Category
-- Parents` Choice Approved Award Winner
-- Toy Wishes All Star -- Preschool Category
-- The National Parenting Center Seal of Approval
-- Family Fun Toy Awards -- Active Toy Category
Leap`s Phonics(TM) Railroad -- The only motorized train set that teaches
preschoolers the alphabet and phonics as they engage in a rich train-play
experience
-- "Today Show" Toy Test 2002 Winner Circle
-- Annual Consumer Toy Test Top Toy Award (WBNS-CBS)
-- Great American Toy Test (KTVU-FOX)
Quantum Pad(TM) Learning System -- Incorporates interactive games and
activities to make learning school subjects like math, science and social
studies enjoyable
-- "Today Show" Toy Test 2002 Winner`s Circle
-- Toy Wishes All Star -- Education & Learning Category
-- Toy Wishes Hot Dozen
iQuest(TM) Interactive Talking Handheld -- Engaging and effective way for
sixth, seventh and eighth graders to study for tests in math, science and
social studies
-- Parents` Choice Recommended Award Winner
-- Popular Science`s What`s New is 2002
-- The National Parenting Center Seal of Approval
-- Toy Wishes All Star -- Education and Learning Category
Product Availability and Pricing
LeapFrog`s products are available now at major retailers nationwide, including Toys "R" Us, Target and Wal-Mart.
Product Ages MSRP Available
Infant/Toddler
LeapStart(TM) Learning Table 6 months & up $39.99 Now
Learning Hoops(TM) Basketball 6 months & up $24.99 Now
Bake-a-Shape (TM) Sorter 6 months & up $14.99 Now
See & Learn(TM) Piano 6 months & up $14.99 Now
Discovery Ball 6 months & up $19.99 Now
Learning Drum 6 months & up $19.99 Now
Preschool
Pretend & Learn(TM) Shopping Cart 2 years & up $45.99 Now
Leap`s Phonics(TM) Railroad 2 years & up $59.99 Now
Learn to Read Phonics Desk(TM)
System 3 years & up $39.99 Now
Imagination Desk(TM) Learning
System 3 years & up $39.99 Now
LeapPad
My First LeapPad 3 years & up $39.99 Now
LeapPad(R) Learning System 4-8 years $49.99 Now
Quantum Leap
Quantum Pad(TM) Learning System Grades 3-5 $49.99 Now
iQuest(TM) Interactive Talking
Handheld Grades 5-8 $59.99 Now
Turbo Twist(R) handheld BRAIN
QUEST(R) edition Grades 1-6 $29.99 Now
Additional information on LeapFrog and its products can be found at www.leapfrog.com.
About LeapFrog
LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. is a leading designer, developer and marketer of innovative, technology-based educational products and related proprietary content, dedicated to making learning effective and engaging. Based in Emeryville, California, LeapFrog has developed six platforms, more than 25 stand-alone educational products and more than 40 interactive books, covering important subjects such as phonics, reading, math, music, geography, social studies, and science. All products contain educational curricula and reflect a teaching style designed to be fun, engaging, and effective.
LeapFrog and its products have received more than 100 awards from educators, publishers, print and broadcast media, consumer groups and industry organizations, including the most coveted award in the toy industry, the first-ever PEOPLE`S CHOICE TOY OF THE YEAR (T.O.T.Y.) AWARD for the popular LeapPad® Learning System, as well as the BEST EDUCATIONAL T.O.T.Y. AWARD. LeapFrog products also received accolades from the Oppenheim Toy Portfolio, the Great American Toy Test, Toy Wishes Magazine`s Holiday Hot Dozen and the National Parenting Center. In addition to national distribution at retailers across the United States, LeapFrog products are available in more than 25 countries and produced in five different languages.
NOTE: LEAPFROG is a registered trademark of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. LEAPSTART, LEARNING HOOPS, SEE & LEARN, BAKE-A-SHAPE, PRETEND & LEARN, LEAP`S PHONICS, PHONICS DESK, IMAGINATION DESK, LEAPPAD, QUANTUM PAD, IQUEST, LEAP`S POND, READ AND SING LITTLE LEAP, EXPLORER GLOBE, PHONICS WRITING DESK, LEARNING DRUM, and TURBO TWIST are trademarks of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
Contacts:
Leah Davis Lorie Appelbaum
Manning, Selvage & Lee Manning, Selvage & Lee
916-983-7729 415-364-3805
leah.davis@mslpr.com lorie.appelbaum@mslpr.com
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Source: LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
Reuters
LeapFrog jumps on research reports
Tuesday January 7, 12:48 pm ET
NEW YORK, Jan 7 (Reuters) - Shares of educational toymaker LeapFrog Enterprises Inc.(NYSE:LF - News) rose on Tuesday, after bullish research reports touted the company`s strength in a tough retail environment.
ADVERTISEMENT
LeapFrog, which went public last year, was up $1.84, or 7 percent, at $28.10 in early afternoon trade after hitting a session high of $28.80 earlier in the day.
The company, which makes a laptop-sized system called the LeapPad that teaches children a variety of subjects through different software programs, has become a top name in the growing market for educational toys.
Despite the sluggish economy, analysts and the company expected a strong sales report for the holiday season, saying parents were less likely to cut back spending on educational items for their children.
US Bancorp Piper Jaffray analyst Anthony Gikas boosted his fourth-quarter earnings estimate on LeapFrog to 42 cents per share from 37 cents, and lifted his target for the stock price to $29. Gikas has an "outperform" rating on the stock.
Analysts, on average, had been expecting LeapFrog to earn 39 cents per share, according to research firm Thomson First Call.
"There`s a huge demand for these types of products and we haven`t seen many in this category," Gikas said. "Kids love playing with it they`re not only educational but fun and engaging.
Other products made by LeapFrog, controlled by former junk bond tycoon Michael Milken, include handheld toys, a phonics railroad and a learning shopping cart.
Deutsche Bank analyst Jeetil Patel raised his fourth quarter revenue forecast to $225 million from $193 million, and his earnings expectations to 48 cents from 37 cents. Patel reiterated his "buy" rating on LeapFrog.
"Our channel checks have indicated that both the LeapPad and MyFirst LeapPad products sold very well at retail, with retailers indicating that indicating sporadic out-of-stock positions," Patel said in a research note.
LeapFrog jumps on research reports
Tuesday January 7, 12:48 pm ET
NEW YORK, Jan 7 (Reuters) - Shares of educational toymaker LeapFrog Enterprises Inc.(NYSE:LF - News) rose on Tuesday, after bullish research reports touted the company`s strength in a tough retail environment.
ADVERTISEMENT
LeapFrog, which went public last year, was up $1.84, or 7 percent, at $28.10 in early afternoon trade after hitting a session high of $28.80 earlier in the day.
The company, which makes a laptop-sized system called the LeapPad that teaches children a variety of subjects through different software programs, has become a top name in the growing market for educational toys.
Despite the sluggish economy, analysts and the company expected a strong sales report for the holiday season, saying parents were less likely to cut back spending on educational items for their children.
US Bancorp Piper Jaffray analyst Anthony Gikas boosted his fourth-quarter earnings estimate on LeapFrog to 42 cents per share from 37 cents, and lifted his target for the stock price to $29. Gikas has an "outperform" rating on the stock.
Analysts, on average, had been expecting LeapFrog to earn 39 cents per share, according to research firm Thomson First Call.
"There`s a huge demand for these types of products and we haven`t seen many in this category," Gikas said. "Kids love playing with it they`re not only educational but fun and engaging.
Other products made by LeapFrog, controlled by former junk bond tycoon Michael Milken, include handheld toys, a phonics railroad and a learning shopping cart.
Deutsche Bank analyst Jeetil Patel raised his fourth quarter revenue forecast to $225 million from $193 million, and his earnings expectations to 48 cents from 37 cents. Patel reiterated his "buy" rating on LeapFrog.
"Our channel checks have indicated that both the LeapPad and MyFirst LeapPad products sold very well at retail, with retailers indicating that indicating sporadic out-of-stock positions," Patel said in a research note.
LeapFrog SchoolHouse Programs Adopted By Utah State Board of Education
Thursday January 16, 10:30 am ET
English Language Development Curriculum and Character Development Series Added To List of Approved Programs: Expands List of LeapFrog SchoolHouse Adopted Materials in Utah
EMERYVILLE, Calif., Jan. 16 /PRNewswire/ -- LeapFrog SchoolHouse, the school division of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. (NYSE: LF - News), a leading developer of innovative technology-based learning products, today announces that the Language First! program, a multisensory English language development curriculum, and the Character Development Series, an interactive storybook series titled "Lessons For Life", have been adopted by the Utah State Board of Education in Utah for the state`s language acquisition and character education programs, respectively.
ADVERTISEMENT
The Utah State Board of Education approved the two LeapFrog SchoolHouse programs after reviewing the evaluation reports submitted by the Utah State Instructional Materials Committee. Utah`s 40 school districts and 482 elementary schools may purchase the Language First! program and Character Development Series materials with funds designated for state instructional materials.
This is the second time the Utah State Board of Education has recognized and adopted LeapFrog SchoolHouse products. In 2000, The Literacy Center, a multisensory, research-based curriculum that provides teachers with a systematic approach to teaching phonemic awareness, phonics and other key early reading skills was placed on the adoption list.
"We are honored to have achieved back-to-back adoptions in Utah," said Bob Lally, LeapFrog SchoolHouse president. "With LeapFrog SchoolHouse programs, Utah students have the opportunity to experience learning success with our multisensory LeapPad® platform and engaging curriculum offerings."
The Language First! program was adopted under the Language Acquisition and Academic Enhancement category. These instructional materials may be used or purchased by Utah educators and are in limited alignment with the Core or U-PASS requirements. The Language First! program can be used as a multisensory, hands-on supplement to any English Language Development or ESL program for PreK-Grade 2+ classrooms.
The Character Development Series was adopted in the Character Education category. These instructional materials are in alignment with the content, philosophy and instructional strategies of the core and may be used by students as the principle sources of study as they provide comprehensive coverage of course content and support U-PASS requirements. The "Lessons For Life" program can be used as a stand-alone character education program for PreK-Grade 3 classrooms.
LeapFrog SchoolHouse, an award-winning developer of interactive learning tools for the classroom, sells its products in all 50 states and is actively seeking state adoptions for its language and assessment programs. To date, the company`s learning materials have been adopted or listed in Texas, Nevada, California, Oklahoma, Illinois, New York City, Idaho and Utah, and have been endorsed by the National Even Start Association.
To purchase LeapFrog SchoolHouse materials, contact Alan Hooper, Educational Sales Specialist at (801) 944-9043 and alanhooper@darnfastnet.com , or call the LeapFrog SchoolHouse Sales Service office toll-free at 800-883-7430.
About the Language First! program
The Language First! program materials provide PreK - Grade 2+ students with ample opportunities to listen to English in meaningful contexts as they learn in a print-rich and interactive environment. Language patterns and structures are integrated with everyday vocabulary to help students move quickly to English language fluency. The program is based on nine universally popular themes, and each theme in the program includes interactive books at four developmental levels, to address the needs of all English language learners, making the program easy to use in a class with diverse levels of English proficiency. Audio support from the LeapPad® platform engages the students and provides for repetition with immediate and corrective feedback. Students can work independently and at their own pace to get the practice they need to learn English. The program is flexible and can be used for whole class, small group or individual instruction.
There are four books for each of the nine Language First! themes for a total of 36 interactive LeapPad books. A simple orientation to each 28-page story in six languages -- English, Spanish, Vietnamese, Cantonese, Japanese or Hmong -- helps prepare the student to use the book. The School theme, for example, includes four developmentally sequenced books that focus on people at school, places around the school, school activities and school-home connections. Students are led from concrete to more abstract activities, from highly predictable to less predictable text, and from simple to more complex language structures. The Language First! program addresses state standards and supports numerous national textbooks.
The Language First! complete nine-theme program can be purchased in several configurations for maximum flexibility. Pricing ranges from $2,199 for 108 interactive books, 9 teachers manuals and 6 LeapPad units, and a Teacher`s Resource Kit to $189 for a single theme starter kit, which includes one LeapPad platform, four leveled interactive LeapPad books with one Teacher`s Manual and a Teacher`s Resource Kit.
About the Character Development Series
The Character Development Series features four interactive books and a Teacher`s Manual that engages PreK-3 students and helps develop good character traits. These 24-page "Lessons for Life" books are a collection of lively stories with compelling messages. Students learn important lessons about caring, fairness, trustworthiness, and responsibility from protagonists who do the right thing. The Teacher`s Manual provides lesson plans and black line masters for each book.
A Character Development Series complete kit, with one copy of each interactive book, the Teacher`s Manual, a LeapPad platform, headphones, AC adapter and batteries, is $115. A single-copy set, with one copy of each book plus the Teacher`s Manual, is $59. All the interactive books published by LeapFrog SchoolHouse can be used with either the LeapPad platform, which is ideal for PreK-2 students, or the Quantum Pad(TM) learning system, designed for students in Grade 3 and higher.
About LeapFrog SchoolHouse Division
LeapFrog SchoolHouse publishes assessment and curriculum content for the PreK-8 education market. The content is designed to correlate to state and national standards and is enhanced by LeapFrog`s proprietary technology-based learning platforms. LeapFrog SchoolHouse product areas currently include early literacy, reading, language arts, math, and English language development. LeapFrog SchoolHouse offers the LeapTrack(TM) Assessment and Instruction System, which provides teachers with the ability to instantly assess their students, personalize student instruction, and continuously monitor student progress relative to state standards. LeapFrog SchoolHouse also offers curriculum programs that are research-based and include interactive, multisensory, electronic learning aids, as well as the tools a teacher needs to integrate the program easily into the classroom. LeapFrog SchoolHouse was established in response to numerous requests from educators to customize LeapFrog`s award-winning technology and educational products for the classroom.
LeapFrog SchoolHouse is a business division within the Education & Training Group of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc., a leading developer of innovative, technology-based educational products and content. Phone 800-883-7430 or visit www.LeapFrogSchoolHouse.com for more information.
About LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. is a leading designer, developer and marketer of innovative, technology-based learning products and related proprietary content, dedicated to making learning effective and engaging. Based in Emeryville, California, LeapFrog has developed six platforms, more than 55 stand-alone educational products and more than 100 interactive content titles, covering important subjects such as phonics, reading, math, music, geography, social studies and science. All products contain educational curricula and reflect a teaching style designed to be fun, engaging and effective.
In addition to national distribution at retailers across the United States, LeapFrog products are available in more than 25 countries and produced in five different languages.
LEAPPAD is a registered trademark of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. LEAPFROG SCHOOLHOUSE, the LeapFrog SchoolHouse logo, LANGUAGE FIRST!, QUANTUM PAD, and LEAPTRACK are trademarks of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
For more information contact:
Sue deLeeuw Charlene Blohm
LeapFrog SchoolHouse C. Blohm & Associates, Inc.
510-596-3322 210-656-2324
SdeLeeuw@LeapFrogSchoolHouse.com charlene@cblohm.com
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Source: LeapFrog SchoolHouse
Thursday January 16, 10:30 am ET
English Language Development Curriculum and Character Development Series Added To List of Approved Programs: Expands List of LeapFrog SchoolHouse Adopted Materials in Utah
EMERYVILLE, Calif., Jan. 16 /PRNewswire/ -- LeapFrog SchoolHouse, the school division of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. (NYSE: LF - News), a leading developer of innovative technology-based learning products, today announces that the Language First! program, a multisensory English language development curriculum, and the Character Development Series, an interactive storybook series titled "Lessons For Life", have been adopted by the Utah State Board of Education in Utah for the state`s language acquisition and character education programs, respectively.
ADVERTISEMENT
The Utah State Board of Education approved the two LeapFrog SchoolHouse programs after reviewing the evaluation reports submitted by the Utah State Instructional Materials Committee. Utah`s 40 school districts and 482 elementary schools may purchase the Language First! program and Character Development Series materials with funds designated for state instructional materials.
This is the second time the Utah State Board of Education has recognized and adopted LeapFrog SchoolHouse products. In 2000, The Literacy Center, a multisensory, research-based curriculum that provides teachers with a systematic approach to teaching phonemic awareness, phonics and other key early reading skills was placed on the adoption list.
"We are honored to have achieved back-to-back adoptions in Utah," said Bob Lally, LeapFrog SchoolHouse president. "With LeapFrog SchoolHouse programs, Utah students have the opportunity to experience learning success with our multisensory LeapPad® platform and engaging curriculum offerings."
The Language First! program was adopted under the Language Acquisition and Academic Enhancement category. These instructional materials may be used or purchased by Utah educators and are in limited alignment with the Core or U-PASS requirements. The Language First! program can be used as a multisensory, hands-on supplement to any English Language Development or ESL program for PreK-Grade 2+ classrooms.
The Character Development Series was adopted in the Character Education category. These instructional materials are in alignment with the content, philosophy and instructional strategies of the core and may be used by students as the principle sources of study as they provide comprehensive coverage of course content and support U-PASS requirements. The "Lessons For Life" program can be used as a stand-alone character education program for PreK-Grade 3 classrooms.
LeapFrog SchoolHouse, an award-winning developer of interactive learning tools for the classroom, sells its products in all 50 states and is actively seeking state adoptions for its language and assessment programs. To date, the company`s learning materials have been adopted or listed in Texas, Nevada, California, Oklahoma, Illinois, New York City, Idaho and Utah, and have been endorsed by the National Even Start Association.
To purchase LeapFrog SchoolHouse materials, contact Alan Hooper, Educational Sales Specialist at (801) 944-9043 and alanhooper@darnfastnet.com , or call the LeapFrog SchoolHouse Sales Service office toll-free at 800-883-7430.
About the Language First! program
The Language First! program materials provide PreK - Grade 2+ students with ample opportunities to listen to English in meaningful contexts as they learn in a print-rich and interactive environment. Language patterns and structures are integrated with everyday vocabulary to help students move quickly to English language fluency. The program is based on nine universally popular themes, and each theme in the program includes interactive books at four developmental levels, to address the needs of all English language learners, making the program easy to use in a class with diverse levels of English proficiency. Audio support from the LeapPad® platform engages the students and provides for repetition with immediate and corrective feedback. Students can work independently and at their own pace to get the practice they need to learn English. The program is flexible and can be used for whole class, small group or individual instruction.
There are four books for each of the nine Language First! themes for a total of 36 interactive LeapPad books. A simple orientation to each 28-page story in six languages -- English, Spanish, Vietnamese, Cantonese, Japanese or Hmong -- helps prepare the student to use the book. The School theme, for example, includes four developmentally sequenced books that focus on people at school, places around the school, school activities and school-home connections. Students are led from concrete to more abstract activities, from highly predictable to less predictable text, and from simple to more complex language structures. The Language First! program addresses state standards and supports numerous national textbooks.
The Language First! complete nine-theme program can be purchased in several configurations for maximum flexibility. Pricing ranges from $2,199 for 108 interactive books, 9 teachers manuals and 6 LeapPad units, and a Teacher`s Resource Kit to $189 for a single theme starter kit, which includes one LeapPad platform, four leveled interactive LeapPad books with one Teacher`s Manual and a Teacher`s Resource Kit.
About the Character Development Series
The Character Development Series features four interactive books and a Teacher`s Manual that engages PreK-3 students and helps develop good character traits. These 24-page "Lessons for Life" books are a collection of lively stories with compelling messages. Students learn important lessons about caring, fairness, trustworthiness, and responsibility from protagonists who do the right thing. The Teacher`s Manual provides lesson plans and black line masters for each book.
A Character Development Series complete kit, with one copy of each interactive book, the Teacher`s Manual, a LeapPad platform, headphones, AC adapter and batteries, is $115. A single-copy set, with one copy of each book plus the Teacher`s Manual, is $59. All the interactive books published by LeapFrog SchoolHouse can be used with either the LeapPad platform, which is ideal for PreK-2 students, or the Quantum Pad(TM) learning system, designed for students in Grade 3 and higher.
About LeapFrog SchoolHouse Division
LeapFrog SchoolHouse publishes assessment and curriculum content for the PreK-8 education market. The content is designed to correlate to state and national standards and is enhanced by LeapFrog`s proprietary technology-based learning platforms. LeapFrog SchoolHouse product areas currently include early literacy, reading, language arts, math, and English language development. LeapFrog SchoolHouse offers the LeapTrack(TM) Assessment and Instruction System, which provides teachers with the ability to instantly assess their students, personalize student instruction, and continuously monitor student progress relative to state standards. LeapFrog SchoolHouse also offers curriculum programs that are research-based and include interactive, multisensory, electronic learning aids, as well as the tools a teacher needs to integrate the program easily into the classroom. LeapFrog SchoolHouse was established in response to numerous requests from educators to customize LeapFrog`s award-winning technology and educational products for the classroom.
LeapFrog SchoolHouse is a business division within the Education & Training Group of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc., a leading developer of innovative, technology-based educational products and content. Phone 800-883-7430 or visit www.LeapFrogSchoolHouse.com for more information.
About LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. is a leading designer, developer and marketer of innovative, technology-based learning products and related proprietary content, dedicated to making learning effective and engaging. Based in Emeryville, California, LeapFrog has developed six platforms, more than 55 stand-alone educational products and more than 100 interactive content titles, covering important subjects such as phonics, reading, math, music, geography, social studies and science. All products contain educational curricula and reflect a teaching style designed to be fun, engaging and effective.
In addition to national distribution at retailers across the United States, LeapFrog products are available in more than 25 countries and produced in five different languages.
LEAPPAD is a registered trademark of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. LEAPFROG SCHOOLHOUSE, the LeapFrog SchoolHouse logo, LANGUAGE FIRST!, QUANTUM PAD, and LEAPTRACK are trademarks of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
For more information contact:
Sue deLeeuw Charlene Blohm
LeapFrog SchoolHouse C. Blohm & Associates, Inc.
510-596-3322 210-656-2324
SdeLeeuw@LeapFrogSchoolHouse.com charlene@cblohm.com
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Source: LeapFrog SchoolHouse
LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. Reports 2002 Net Income Up 349% on 69% Sales Increase
Monday February 10, 7:06 pm ET
4th Quarter Net Income Increases 155% on 62% Sales Increase
EMERYVILLE, Calif., Feb. 10 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. (NYSE: LF - News), a leading developer of innovative technology-based educational products, today reported financial results for the fourth quarter and year ended December 31, 2002.
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Net income for 2002 increased 349% to $43.4 million compared with net income of $9.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2001. Net income per fully diluted share increased to $0.86 compared with $0.25 per fully diluted share in the prior year. The fully diluted share count increased significantly in 2002, primarily as a result of the company`s July 25, 2002 initial public offering on the New York Stock Exchange.
The company recorded net income for the fourth quarter ended December 31, 2002 of $29.4 million, up 155% compared with net income of $11.5 million for the fourth quarter of 2001. Net income per fully diluted share was $0.50 in the fourth quarter of 2002, compared with $0.27 per fully diluted share in the fourth quarter of 2001.
Net sales for 2002 were $531.8 million, up 69% compared with $314.2 million for 2001. Net sales for the fourth quarter of 2002 were $248.4 million, up 62% compared with $153.4 million in the fourth quarter of 2001.
For 2002, net sales from the U.S. Consumer segment, which represented 86% of total net sales for the year, were $458.1 million, up 58% from $289.1 million in 2001. Net sales from the International segment, which represented 10% of total net sales for 2002, were $53.6 million, up 228% from $16.3 million in 2001. The Education and Training segment, which represented 4% of total net sales for 2002, produced $20.1 million of net sales, up 129% from $8.8 million in 2001.
For the fourth quarter of 2002, net sales from the U.S. Consumer segment were $218.5 million, up 55% from $140.6 million in the fourth quarter of 2001. Net sales from the International segment were $23.9 million, up 156% from $9.3 million in the fourth quarter of 2001. Net sales from the Education and Training segment were $6.0 million, up 72% from $3.5 million in the fourth quarter of 2001.
For 2002, Gross Profit margin was 51.2%, up 520 basis points over 46.0% in 2001. For the fourth quarter of 2002, Gross Profit margin increased to 51.4%, up 480 basis points over 46.6% in the fourth quarter of 2001. As anticipated, the company`s 2002 fourth quarter margin was affected by $3.0 million of added airfreight costs related to the west coast dockworkers` labor dispute.
For 2002, Operating Expenses were 37.7% of net sales, a 310 basis point improvement in leverage over 40.8% in 2001. For the fourth quarter of 2002, operating expenses were 32.2% of net sales, a 190 basis point improvement in leverage over 34.1% in the fourth quarter of 2001. The company`s 2002 fourth quarter operating expenses reflect improved leverage in SG&A and Research and Development expense offset by increased television advertising expense.
"I am very pleased that we were able to follow our strong performance in the third quarter with another solid performance in the fourth quarter of 2002, in spite of a very challenging economic environment," said Mike Wood, president and chief executive officer of LeapFrog Enterprises. "We are proud that our LeapPad software and LeapPad platform were the top two selling products in the entire toy category in 2002, according to The NPD Group, Inc. This is the third year in a row that we have had the number one selling educational product, and the second consecutive year that we have had the best selling product in the entire toy industry. We are also proud of our success in entering the infant/toddler category. This is a category we first entered in 2001. We became the third largest manufacturer in infant/toddler category in 2002, and in December our LeapStart Learning Table was the number one selling product in this category. Finally, we are proud of our success and growth in the `tween-and-teen ELA category. In 2002 our iQuest, for kids in 5, 6, 7, and 8th grade (and SAT preparation), and our Quantum Pad, for kids in the 3, 4, and 5th grade, were the number one and two selling products in the ELA category.
"Having sold more than 14 million platform products through the end of 2002, we are now eagerly adapting our shelf space allocation in retail stores to showcase our extensive content library for young readers," said Wood. "Our six successful platform products and our extensive library of content titles are contributing to the growing success of our Learning Center, a one-stop destination for learning needs. In the first half of 2003, we hope to expand upon the success of our LeapFrog Learning Centers within some of our retail partners` stores."
Net sales from the company`s library of proprietary software and content (interactive books and cartridges) increased to 34% of total net sales in the December 2002 quarter from 27% of total net sales in the December 2001 quarter. "We now have 74 content titles available to our My First LeapPad, LeapPad, and Quantum Pad platform customers on U.S. retail shelves," said Wood. "In addition, we now have 15 iQuest and Turbo Twist platform titles available for sale on U.S. retail shelves, and we are expanding our content library for all our existing platforms. We believe our content library should be as broad as a child`s imagination, and we work to uphold the highest quality standards in all our content offerings."
LeapFrog will participate in American International Toy Fair, a leading industry trade show, in New York City from February 18 through 21. "I look forward to introducing some of our exciting new standalone products, platform products, and software titles for 2003," said Wood.
Full Year and Quarterly Guidance for 2003
LeapFrog offers financial guidance to investors and analysts to promote understanding of its highly seasonal business. This guidance is reflective of the company`s current expectations, which are based on information available at the time of this release and are subject to changing conditions, many of which are outside the company`s control. The company`s financial guidance for 2003 is as follows:
Full Year 2003
Net sales $625 to $675 million
Gross profit margin 52% to 53% of net sales
Operating expenses 37% to 39% of net sales
Effective tax rate 37%
Net income $55 to $62 million
Fully diluted share count of 60 million shares
Diluted net income per share $0.91 to $1.02
As LeapFrog`s business is highly seasonal, the company provides the following quarterly guidance to allow investors more insight into our full year guidance:
First Quarter 2003
Net sales $68 million to $73 million
Operating loss $(12) million to $(16) million
Effective tax rate 40%
Diluted net loss per share $(0.13) to $(0.17)
Second Quarter 2003
Net sales $55 million to $65 million
Operating loss $(14) million to $(18) million
Effective tax rate 40%
Diluted net loss per share $(0.15) to $(0.19)
Third Quarter 2003
Net sales $225 million to $235 million
Operating income $54 million to $57 million
Effective tax rate 38.5%
Diluted net income per share $0.55 to $0.58
Fourth Quarter 2003
Net sales $277 million to $297 million
Operating income $66 million to $71 million
Effective tax rate 37%
Diluted net income per share $0.68 to $0.74
The company will provide further detail on its annual and quarterly financial guidance at its Inaugural Analyst Meeting on February 18, 2003 starting at 8:00 a.m. Eastern time. The Inaugural Analyst Meeting will be web cast.
Conference Call
A conference call will be held tomorrow, Tuesday, February 11 at 8:00 a.m. Eastern time (5:00 a.m. Pacific time) to discuss these announcements and to provide further discussion of results for the quarter and outlook for 2003. A live webcast of the conference call will be offered on LeapFrog`s investor relations website at www.leapfroginvestor.com and on www.ccbn.com. A replay of the webcast will be available on these websites through March 11, 2003. To participate in the call, please dial (706) 634-0183.
About LeapFrog
LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. is a leading designer, developer and marketer of innovative, technology-based learning products and related proprietary content, dedicated to making learning effective and engaging -- for all ages, in home and in schools, around the world. The company was founded in 1995 and is based in Emeryville, California.
In Homes: LeapFrog has developed six learning platforms that come to life with almost 100 interactive software titles, covering important subjects such as phonics, reading, math, music, geography, social studies, and science. In addition, the company has created more than 55 stand-alone educational products for ages six months to sixteen years. All products contain educational curricula and reflect a teaching style designed to be fun, engaging, and effective. The U.S. consumer products have won over 150 awards in the U.S. and are available at major retailers.
In Schools: In 1999, the company created its school division, LeapFrog SchoolHouse, in response to countless requests from educators to customize LeapFrog`s award-winning technology and educational products for the classroom. The LeapFrog SchoolHouse curriculum programs are currently in over 13,000 classrooms in the U.S. with over 200 interactive books, over 265 skill cards representing more than 5,000 pages of exclusive, school-only content. In addition the SchoolHouse products have won over 20 educational industry awards.
Around the World: Interest for LeapFrog learning products is worldwide and LeapFrog currently has offices in Canada, France and the United Kingdom. LeapFrog consumer products are available in more than 30 countries and produced in five different languages.
NOTE: LEAPFROG, The LeapFrog Logo, LEAPSTART, QUANTUM PAD, IQUEST, TURBO TWIST and LEAPPAD are trademarks or registered trademarks of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
Forward-Looking Statements
Cautionary Statement Under The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act Of
1995:
Except for the historical information contained herein, this news release contains forward-looking statements, including the company`s anticipated sales, gross margin, effective tax rate or earnings results and performance in the year ending December 31, 2003 or any other future periods. These forward- looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, including the company`s ability to invent, develop, introduce and market products, the existence, number and effectiveness of Learning Centers established at the company`s customers` stores and the acceptance of its products in the market. These and other risks and uncertainties detailed from time to time in the company`s SEC filings, including its Registration Statement on Form S-1, as amended on July 26, 2002, and its reports on Form 10-Q filed on August 29, 2002 and November 12, 2002, could cause the company`s actual results to differ materially from those discussed in this release. All forward-looking statements are based on information available to the company on the date hereof, and the company assumes no obligation to update such statements.
LEAPFROG ENTERPRISES, INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(In thousands, except share and per share data)
December 31,
2002 2001
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents $73,327 $8,269
Accounts receivable (A) 169,670 115,499
Inventories net 84,460 46,103
Other current assets 21,443 9,107
Total current assets 348,900 178,978
Property and equipment, net 20,239 16,857
Other long term assets 5,351 2,816
Intangible assets, net 23,192 23,322
Total assets $397,682 $221,973
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS` EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable $58,844 $34,412
Accrued liabilities 25,496 9,342
Deferred revenue 3,006 2,250
Cooperative advertising 15,037 5,380
Income taxes payable 21,832 9,634
Total current liabilities 124,215 61,018
Long term debt -- 61,163
Other long term liabilities 4,669 2,805
Redeemable convertible Series A
preferred stock -- 24,139
Total stockholders` equity 268,798 72,848
Total liabilities and stockholders`
equity $397,682 $221,973
(A) Accounts Receivable are presented net of allowances of $16,388 and
$9,854 at December 31, 2002 and 2001, respectively.
LEAPFROG ENTERPRISES, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(In thousands, except share and per share data)
Three Months Year
Ended December 31, Ended December 31,
2002 2001 2002 2001
Net sales $248,447 $153,415 $531,772 $314,243
Cost of sales 120,826 81,871 259,740 169,598
Gross profit 127,621 71,544 272,032 144,645
Operating expenses:
Selling, general and
administrative 26,957 23,112 80,915 55,519
Research and
development 14,595 10,344 54,405 38,376
Advertising 35,769 17,269 56,722 30,124
Depreciation and
amortization 2,699 1,527 8,639 4,191
Total operating expenses 80,020 52,252 200,681 128,210
Income from operations 47,601 19,292 71,351 16,435
Interest expense (1) (958) (823) (2,889)
Interest income 235 142 694 613
Other income (expense) 966 (32) 1,051 294
Income before provision
for income taxes 48,801 18,444 72,273 14,453
Provision for income
taxes 19,440 6,926 28,829 4,784
Net income $29,361 $11,518 $43,444 $9,669
Net income per common
share - basic $0.59 $0.34 $1.09 $0.29
Net income per common
share - diluted $0.50 $0.27 $0.86 $0.25
Shares used in
calculating net income
per share - basic 49,839,669 33,592,191 39,694,538 33,449,009
Shares used in
calculating net income
per share - diluted 58,740,526 42,993,536 50,743,842 38,469,996
CONTACT: Jim Curley, Chief Financial Officer, +1-510-420-5000, or Christopher Bunn, Director, Investor Relations, +1-510-420-5150, both of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Source: LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
Monday February 10, 7:06 pm ET
4th Quarter Net Income Increases 155% on 62% Sales Increase
EMERYVILLE, Calif., Feb. 10 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. (NYSE: LF - News), a leading developer of innovative technology-based educational products, today reported financial results for the fourth quarter and year ended December 31, 2002.
ADVERTISEMENT
Net income for 2002 increased 349% to $43.4 million compared with net income of $9.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2001. Net income per fully diluted share increased to $0.86 compared with $0.25 per fully diluted share in the prior year. The fully diluted share count increased significantly in 2002, primarily as a result of the company`s July 25, 2002 initial public offering on the New York Stock Exchange.
The company recorded net income for the fourth quarter ended December 31, 2002 of $29.4 million, up 155% compared with net income of $11.5 million for the fourth quarter of 2001. Net income per fully diluted share was $0.50 in the fourth quarter of 2002, compared with $0.27 per fully diluted share in the fourth quarter of 2001.
Net sales for 2002 were $531.8 million, up 69% compared with $314.2 million for 2001. Net sales for the fourth quarter of 2002 were $248.4 million, up 62% compared with $153.4 million in the fourth quarter of 2001.
For 2002, net sales from the U.S. Consumer segment, which represented 86% of total net sales for the year, were $458.1 million, up 58% from $289.1 million in 2001. Net sales from the International segment, which represented 10% of total net sales for 2002, were $53.6 million, up 228% from $16.3 million in 2001. The Education and Training segment, which represented 4% of total net sales for 2002, produced $20.1 million of net sales, up 129% from $8.8 million in 2001.
For the fourth quarter of 2002, net sales from the U.S. Consumer segment were $218.5 million, up 55% from $140.6 million in the fourth quarter of 2001. Net sales from the International segment were $23.9 million, up 156% from $9.3 million in the fourth quarter of 2001. Net sales from the Education and Training segment were $6.0 million, up 72% from $3.5 million in the fourth quarter of 2001.
For 2002, Gross Profit margin was 51.2%, up 520 basis points over 46.0% in 2001. For the fourth quarter of 2002, Gross Profit margin increased to 51.4%, up 480 basis points over 46.6% in the fourth quarter of 2001. As anticipated, the company`s 2002 fourth quarter margin was affected by $3.0 million of added airfreight costs related to the west coast dockworkers` labor dispute.
For 2002, Operating Expenses were 37.7% of net sales, a 310 basis point improvement in leverage over 40.8% in 2001. For the fourth quarter of 2002, operating expenses were 32.2% of net sales, a 190 basis point improvement in leverage over 34.1% in the fourth quarter of 2001. The company`s 2002 fourth quarter operating expenses reflect improved leverage in SG&A and Research and Development expense offset by increased television advertising expense.
"I am very pleased that we were able to follow our strong performance in the third quarter with another solid performance in the fourth quarter of 2002, in spite of a very challenging economic environment," said Mike Wood, president and chief executive officer of LeapFrog Enterprises. "We are proud that our LeapPad software and LeapPad platform were the top two selling products in the entire toy category in 2002, according to The NPD Group, Inc. This is the third year in a row that we have had the number one selling educational product, and the second consecutive year that we have had the best selling product in the entire toy industry. We are also proud of our success in entering the infant/toddler category. This is a category we first entered in 2001. We became the third largest manufacturer in infant/toddler category in 2002, and in December our LeapStart Learning Table was the number one selling product in this category. Finally, we are proud of our success and growth in the `tween-and-teen ELA category. In 2002 our iQuest, for kids in 5, 6, 7, and 8th grade (and SAT preparation), and our Quantum Pad, for kids in the 3, 4, and 5th grade, were the number one and two selling products in the ELA category.
"Having sold more than 14 million platform products through the end of 2002, we are now eagerly adapting our shelf space allocation in retail stores to showcase our extensive content library for young readers," said Wood. "Our six successful platform products and our extensive library of content titles are contributing to the growing success of our Learning Center, a one-stop destination for learning needs. In the first half of 2003, we hope to expand upon the success of our LeapFrog Learning Centers within some of our retail partners` stores."
Net sales from the company`s library of proprietary software and content (interactive books and cartridges) increased to 34% of total net sales in the December 2002 quarter from 27% of total net sales in the December 2001 quarter. "We now have 74 content titles available to our My First LeapPad, LeapPad, and Quantum Pad platform customers on U.S. retail shelves," said Wood. "In addition, we now have 15 iQuest and Turbo Twist platform titles available for sale on U.S. retail shelves, and we are expanding our content library for all our existing platforms. We believe our content library should be as broad as a child`s imagination, and we work to uphold the highest quality standards in all our content offerings."
LeapFrog will participate in American International Toy Fair, a leading industry trade show, in New York City from February 18 through 21. "I look forward to introducing some of our exciting new standalone products, platform products, and software titles for 2003," said Wood.
Full Year and Quarterly Guidance for 2003
LeapFrog offers financial guidance to investors and analysts to promote understanding of its highly seasonal business. This guidance is reflective of the company`s current expectations, which are based on information available at the time of this release and are subject to changing conditions, many of which are outside the company`s control. The company`s financial guidance for 2003 is as follows:
Full Year 2003
Net sales $625 to $675 million
Gross profit margin 52% to 53% of net sales
Operating expenses 37% to 39% of net sales
Effective tax rate 37%
Net income $55 to $62 million
Fully diluted share count of 60 million shares
Diluted net income per share $0.91 to $1.02
As LeapFrog`s business is highly seasonal, the company provides the following quarterly guidance to allow investors more insight into our full year guidance:
First Quarter 2003
Net sales $68 million to $73 million
Operating loss $(12) million to $(16) million
Effective tax rate 40%
Diluted net loss per share $(0.13) to $(0.17)
Second Quarter 2003
Net sales $55 million to $65 million
Operating loss $(14) million to $(18) million
Effective tax rate 40%
Diluted net loss per share $(0.15) to $(0.19)
Third Quarter 2003
Net sales $225 million to $235 million
Operating income $54 million to $57 million
Effective tax rate 38.5%
Diluted net income per share $0.55 to $0.58
Fourth Quarter 2003
Net sales $277 million to $297 million
Operating income $66 million to $71 million
Effective tax rate 37%
Diluted net income per share $0.68 to $0.74
The company will provide further detail on its annual and quarterly financial guidance at its Inaugural Analyst Meeting on February 18, 2003 starting at 8:00 a.m. Eastern time. The Inaugural Analyst Meeting will be web cast.
Conference Call
A conference call will be held tomorrow, Tuesday, February 11 at 8:00 a.m. Eastern time (5:00 a.m. Pacific time) to discuss these announcements and to provide further discussion of results for the quarter and outlook for 2003. A live webcast of the conference call will be offered on LeapFrog`s investor relations website at www.leapfroginvestor.com and on www.ccbn.com. A replay of the webcast will be available on these websites through March 11, 2003. To participate in the call, please dial (706) 634-0183.
About LeapFrog
LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. is a leading designer, developer and marketer of innovative, technology-based learning products and related proprietary content, dedicated to making learning effective and engaging -- for all ages, in home and in schools, around the world. The company was founded in 1995 and is based in Emeryville, California.
In Homes: LeapFrog has developed six learning platforms that come to life with almost 100 interactive software titles, covering important subjects such as phonics, reading, math, music, geography, social studies, and science. In addition, the company has created more than 55 stand-alone educational products for ages six months to sixteen years. All products contain educational curricula and reflect a teaching style designed to be fun, engaging, and effective. The U.S. consumer products have won over 150 awards in the U.S. and are available at major retailers.
In Schools: In 1999, the company created its school division, LeapFrog SchoolHouse, in response to countless requests from educators to customize LeapFrog`s award-winning technology and educational products for the classroom. The LeapFrog SchoolHouse curriculum programs are currently in over 13,000 classrooms in the U.S. with over 200 interactive books, over 265 skill cards representing more than 5,000 pages of exclusive, school-only content. In addition the SchoolHouse products have won over 20 educational industry awards.
Around the World: Interest for LeapFrog learning products is worldwide and LeapFrog currently has offices in Canada, France and the United Kingdom. LeapFrog consumer products are available in more than 30 countries and produced in five different languages.
NOTE: LEAPFROG, The LeapFrog Logo, LEAPSTART, QUANTUM PAD, IQUEST, TURBO TWIST and LEAPPAD are trademarks or registered trademarks of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
Forward-Looking Statements
Cautionary Statement Under The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act Of
1995:
Except for the historical information contained herein, this news release contains forward-looking statements, including the company`s anticipated sales, gross margin, effective tax rate or earnings results and performance in the year ending December 31, 2003 or any other future periods. These forward- looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, including the company`s ability to invent, develop, introduce and market products, the existence, number and effectiveness of Learning Centers established at the company`s customers` stores and the acceptance of its products in the market. These and other risks and uncertainties detailed from time to time in the company`s SEC filings, including its Registration Statement on Form S-1, as amended on July 26, 2002, and its reports on Form 10-Q filed on August 29, 2002 and November 12, 2002, could cause the company`s actual results to differ materially from those discussed in this release. All forward-looking statements are based on information available to the company on the date hereof, and the company assumes no obligation to update such statements.
LEAPFROG ENTERPRISES, INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(In thousands, except share and per share data)
December 31,
2002 2001
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents $73,327 $8,269
Accounts receivable (A) 169,670 115,499
Inventories net 84,460 46,103
Other current assets 21,443 9,107
Total current assets 348,900 178,978
Property and equipment, net 20,239 16,857
Other long term assets 5,351 2,816
Intangible assets, net 23,192 23,322
Total assets $397,682 $221,973
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS` EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable $58,844 $34,412
Accrued liabilities 25,496 9,342
Deferred revenue 3,006 2,250
Cooperative advertising 15,037 5,380
Income taxes payable 21,832 9,634
Total current liabilities 124,215 61,018
Long term debt -- 61,163
Other long term liabilities 4,669 2,805
Redeemable convertible Series A
preferred stock -- 24,139
Total stockholders` equity 268,798 72,848
Total liabilities and stockholders`
equity $397,682 $221,973
(A) Accounts Receivable are presented net of allowances of $16,388 and
$9,854 at December 31, 2002 and 2001, respectively.
LEAPFROG ENTERPRISES, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(In thousands, except share and per share data)
Three Months Year
Ended December 31, Ended December 31,
2002 2001 2002 2001
Net sales $248,447 $153,415 $531,772 $314,243
Cost of sales 120,826 81,871 259,740 169,598
Gross profit 127,621 71,544 272,032 144,645
Operating expenses:
Selling, general and
administrative 26,957 23,112 80,915 55,519
Research and
development 14,595 10,344 54,405 38,376
Advertising 35,769 17,269 56,722 30,124
Depreciation and
amortization 2,699 1,527 8,639 4,191
Total operating expenses 80,020 52,252 200,681 128,210
Income from operations 47,601 19,292 71,351 16,435
Interest expense (1) (958) (823) (2,889)
Interest income 235 142 694 613
Other income (expense) 966 (32) 1,051 294
Income before provision
for income taxes 48,801 18,444 72,273 14,453
Provision for income
taxes 19,440 6,926 28,829 4,784
Net income $29,361 $11,518 $43,444 $9,669
Net income per common
share - basic $0.59 $0.34 $1.09 $0.29
Net income per common
share - diluted $0.50 $0.27 $0.86 $0.25
Shares used in
calculating net income
per share - basic 49,839,669 33,592,191 39,694,538 33,449,009
Shares used in
calculating net income
per share - diluted 58,740,526 42,993,536 50,743,842 38,469,996
CONTACT: Jim Curley, Chief Financial Officer, +1-510-420-5000, or Christopher Bunn, Director, Investor Relations, +1-510-420-5150, both of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Source: LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
8:22AM Leapfrog upgraded at BofA (LF) 19.01: Banc of America upgrades to Buy from Neutral based on valuation; firm also anticipates buying interest will renew this week due to a combination of yesterday`s inaugural investor day, this week`s Int`l Toy Fair at which LF will display its 2003 product releases, and firm`s Thursday night investor dinner with mgmt. Target is $30.
LeapFrog Reports Strong 1st Quarter Results on 32% Net Sales Increase
Wednesday April 23, 4:38 pm ET
EMERYVILLE, Calif., April 23 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. (NYSE: LF - News), a leading developer of innovative technology-based educational products, today reported financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2003.
Net sales for the first quarter of 2003 were $76.7 million, up 32% compared with $58.0 million in the first quarter of 2002.
Net sales from the U.S. Consumer segment were $59.7 million, up 32% from $45.2 million in the first quarter of 2002. Net sales from the International segment were $11.1 million, up 21% from $9.2 million in the first quarter of 2002. The Education and Training segment produced $5.9 million of net sales, up 67% from $3.6 million in the first quarter of 2002. The three segments represented 78%, 14% and 8%, respectively, of consolidated quarterly net sales for the first quarter of 2003, as compared with 78%, 16%, and 6% of consolidated quarterly net sales in the first quarter of last year.
The company recorded a net loss for the first quarter of 2003 of $(969,000), or $(0.02) per share, compared with a net loss for the first quarter of 2002 of $(5.1) million, or $(0.15) per share. The company`s share count increased significantly since the March 2002 quarter, primarily as a result of the company`s July 25, 2002 initial public offering on the New York Stock Exchange and the exercise in November of 2002 of outstanding warrants.
"We continue to see a strong commitment in the United States and around the world to helping children learn," said Mike Wood, president and chief executive officer. "Our bottom line improvement reflects solid sales growth across all segments, along with increased operating efficiencies, which combined to produce a 56% reduction in our operating loss, as compared with the first quarter of 2002. Cash flow from operations exceeded $50 million, compared with $41 million in the first quarter of 2002.
"I am pleased to report that we had a successful presentation at New York Toy Fair. Retailer reactions to our new product introductions were very favorable and confirmed LeapFrog`s reputation for innovation. We are working vigorously to deliver on our plans for a strong 2003," said Wood. "We are anticipating strong growth in the shelf space our retail partners will allocate to our LeapFrog® Learning Centers in stores this fall and holiday season. We are hard at work on the new learning products that will be a part of our expected growth this year."
In addition to new software content for its platform products and new standalone products, LeapFrog plans to launch three new platform products in the second half of this year. Currently, the company offers six platform products and more than 90 software content and book titles for use with these six platform products. The three new platforms for 2003 include:
-- The TogetherTime(TM) LeapPad learning system, which brings a parent and
child together for an enriching storytime experience that encourages
and stimulates baby`s development and builds a foundation for early
reading,
-- The LeapPad(R) Plus Writing learning system, which takes LeapFrog`s
award-winning LeapPad learning system to a whole new level of learning
by helping children not only to read, but also to write and do
arithmetic with a special dual-function writing stylus, and
-- The Leapster(TM) all-learning game system, which combines animated game
technology that thoroughly engages children with the proven LeapFrog
approach to learning.
While the TogetherTime and LeapPad Plus Writing platforms will join the LeapPad family of learning products, the Leapster handheld educational game platform represents a new market opportunity for LeapFrog. With the introduction of the Leapster platform, LeapFrog plans to introduce new educational content to the handheld electronic game market. New educational software title introductions for the company`s six continuing and three new platform products are expected to expand the company`s retail content learning library to over 100 titles in time for the holiday season this year.
Sales of LeapFrog`s software and interactive book content accounted for 45% of total net sales in the first quarter of 2003. Hardware platform sales comprised 30% of total net sales in the quarter, with the balance of net sales, 25%, coming from sales of stand-alone, non-platform products.
"Everything we do is aimed at making learning fun and engaging, and every product we develop is based on a curriculum we have developed over the last eight years with the help of education experts and teachers," said Wood. "With nine educational platform products on the market this holiday season intended for kids ranging from 6 months to high school age, we believe our product line will address a full range of individual learning needs and interests. Our LeapPad family of products -- the My First LeapPad® platform for children aged 3 years and up, the LeapPad platform for children aged 4 years and up, and the Quantum Pad(TM) platform for children aged 8 years and up -- has helped many children learn to read in classrooms or at home, on their own or with help from mom and dad. We believe our products make complicated learning challenges simple, intuitive and enjoyable for children, parents, and teachers."
Conference Call
A conference call will be held tomorrow, Thursday, April 24 at 8:00 a.m. Eastern time (5:00 a.m. Pacific time) to discuss these announcements and to provide further discussion of results for the quarter and outlook for the remainder of 2003. A live webcast of the conference call will be offered on LeapFrog`s investor relations website at www.leapfroginvestor.com and on www.ccbn.com. A replay of the webcast will be available on these websites through June 30, 2003. To participate in the call, please dial 706-634-0183.
About LeapFrog
LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. is a leading designer, developer and marketer of innovative, technology-based learning products and related proprietary content, dedicated to making learning effective and engaging for all ages, at home and in schools, around the world. The company was founded in 1995 and is based in Emeryville, California.
In Homes: LeapFrog has developed six learning platforms that come to life with more than 90 interactive software titles, covering important subjects such as phonics, reading, math, music, geography, social studies, spelling, vocabulary and science. In addition, the company has created more than 35 stand-alone educational products for ages six months to 16 years. All products contain educational content and reflect a teaching style designed to be fun, engaging, and effective. LeapFrog`s award-winning U.S. consumer products are available at major retailers.
In Schools: In 1999, the company created its school division, LeapFrog SchoolHouse, in response to countless requests from educators to customize LeapFrog`s award-winning technology and educational products for the classroom. The LeapFrog SchoolHouse curriculum programs are currently in over 14,000 classrooms in the U.S. with over 200 interactive books, over 265 skill cards representing more than 5,000 pages of educational content. In addition the SchoolHouse products have won numerous awards from the education industry, including the Golden Lamp Award and Distinguished Achievement Award from the Association of Educational Publishers, the Award of Excellence from Technology & Learning magazine and the Teacher`s Choice Award from Learning magazine.
Around the World: Interest in LeapFrog learning products is worldwide. LeapFrog currently has offices in Canada, France and the United Kingdom. LeapFrog consumer products are available in more than 25 countries and produced in five different languages.
NOTE: LEAPFROG, The LeapFrog Logo, LEAPSTER, TOGETHERTIME, QUANTUM PAD, IQUEST, and LEAPPAD are trademarks of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
Forward-Looking Statements
Cautionary Statement Under The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act Of
1995:
Except for the historical information contained herein, this news release contains forward-looking statements, including the company`s anticipated growth in retail shelf space, planned new product introductions and expected sales and earnings growth. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, including the company`s ability to invent, develop, introduce and market products, the existence, number, scope and effectiveness of Learning Centers established at the company`s customers` stores, the acceptance of the company`s products in the market and the potential disruption of operations related to the recent outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome, or SARS, in Asia and elsewhere. These and other risks and uncertainties detailed from time to time in the company`s SEC filings, including its 2002 annual report on Form 10-K filed on March 28, 2003, could cause the company`s actual results to differ materially from those discussed in this release. All forward-looking statements are based on information available to the company on the date hereof, and the company assumes no obligation to update such statements.
LEAPFROG ENTERPRISES, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(In thousands, except share and per share data)
March 31, December 31,
2003 2002 2002 (A)
(unaudited)
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents $113,832 $1,436 $73,327
Short term investments 14,186 -- --
Accounts receivable 57,989 45,564 169,670
Inventories, net 81,872 43,291 84,460
Other current assets 16,594 11,020 21,443
Total current assets 284,473 101,311 348,900
Property and equipment, net 20,541 18,128 20,239
Other long term assets 10,905 3,636 5,351
Intangible assets, net 26,031 23,675 23,192
Total assets $341,950 $146,750 $397,682
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS`
EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable $23,237 $19,124 $58,844
Accrued liabilities 21,201 12,394 40,533
Deferred revenue 2,186 2,344 3,006
Income taxes payable -- 138 21,832
Total current liabilities 46,624 34,000 124,215
Long term debt -- 17,204 --
Deferred rent and other
long term liabilities 573 274 550
Deferred income taxes 3,344 2,193 4,119
Commitments and contingencies
Redeemable convertible
Series A preferred stock -- 24,139 --
Total stockholders` equity 291,409 68,940 268,798
Total liabilities and
stockholders` equity $341,950 $146,750 $397,682
(A) Derived from audited financial statements.
LEAPFROG ENTERPRISES, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(In thousands, except share and per share data)
(Unaudited)
Three Months Ended March 31,
2003 2002
Net sales $76,733 $57,980
Cost of sales 35,230 30,564
Gross profit 41,503 27,416
Operating expenses:
Selling, general and administrative 21,521 16,170
Research and development 14,404 12,686
Advertising 6,355 5,043
Depreciation and amortization 2,765 1,590
Total operating expenses 45,045 35,489
Loss from operations (3,542) (8,073)
Interest expense (3) (485)
Interest income 326 106
Other income (expense) 1,604 24
Loss before benefit for income taxes (1,615) (8,428)
Benefit for income taxes (646) (3,369)
Net loss $(969) $(5,059)
Net loss per common share -
basic and diluted $(0.02) $(0.15)
Shares used in calculating net loss
per common share - basic and diluted 55,161,533 33,694,444
LEAPFROG ENTERPRISES, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(In thousands)
(Unaudited)
Three Months Ended 31,
2003 2002
Net loss $(969) $(5,059)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to
net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization 3,867 2,162
Allowances for accounts receivable 3,173 2,939
Deferred income taxes 631 (2,668)
Deferred rent 23 29
Deferred revenue (820) 94
Amortization of deferred compensation 557 192
Conversion of stock appreciation rights
to non-statutory stock options -- 331
Stock option compensation related to
nonemployees 220 9
Tax benefit from exercise of stock options 11,194 --
Amortization of bond premium (18)
Other changes in operating assets and
liabilities:
Accounts receivable 108,508 66,996
Inventory 2,588 2,812
Prepaid and other current assets (2,539) (482)
Notes receivable due from related parties 276 (5)
Other assets 152 55
Accounts payable (35,606) (15,288)
Accrued liabilities (19,332) (1,947)
Income taxes payable (21,832) (9,496)
Net cash provided by operating activities 50,073 40,674
Investing activities:
Purchases of property and equipment (4,009) (3,286)
Purchase of intangible assets (3,000) (250)
Purchases of short term investments (14,168) --
Net cash used for investing activities (21,177) (3,536)
Financing activities:
Borrowings under credit agreement -- 100,637
Repayments under credit agreement -- (144,596)
Proceeds from the payment of notes
receivable from stockholders 2,624 --
Proceeds from the exercise of
stock options, including Employee
Stock Purchase Plan 9,042 --
Net cash provided by (used in) financing
activities 11,666 (43,959)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash (57) (12)
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash
equivalents 40,505 (6,833)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning
of year 73,327 8,269
Cash and cash equivalents at end
of period $113,832 $1,436
CONTACT: Jim Curley, Chief Financial Officer, +1-510-420-5000, or Christopher Bunn, Director, Investor Relations, +1-510-420-5150, both of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Source: LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
Wednesday April 23, 4:38 pm ET
EMERYVILLE, Calif., April 23 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. (NYSE: LF - News), a leading developer of innovative technology-based educational products, today reported financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2003.
Net sales for the first quarter of 2003 were $76.7 million, up 32% compared with $58.0 million in the first quarter of 2002.
Net sales from the U.S. Consumer segment were $59.7 million, up 32% from $45.2 million in the first quarter of 2002. Net sales from the International segment were $11.1 million, up 21% from $9.2 million in the first quarter of 2002. The Education and Training segment produced $5.9 million of net sales, up 67% from $3.6 million in the first quarter of 2002. The three segments represented 78%, 14% and 8%, respectively, of consolidated quarterly net sales for the first quarter of 2003, as compared with 78%, 16%, and 6% of consolidated quarterly net sales in the first quarter of last year.
The company recorded a net loss for the first quarter of 2003 of $(969,000), or $(0.02) per share, compared with a net loss for the first quarter of 2002 of $(5.1) million, or $(0.15) per share. The company`s share count increased significantly since the March 2002 quarter, primarily as a result of the company`s July 25, 2002 initial public offering on the New York Stock Exchange and the exercise in November of 2002 of outstanding warrants.
"We continue to see a strong commitment in the United States and around the world to helping children learn," said Mike Wood, president and chief executive officer. "Our bottom line improvement reflects solid sales growth across all segments, along with increased operating efficiencies, which combined to produce a 56% reduction in our operating loss, as compared with the first quarter of 2002. Cash flow from operations exceeded $50 million, compared with $41 million in the first quarter of 2002.
"I am pleased to report that we had a successful presentation at New York Toy Fair. Retailer reactions to our new product introductions were very favorable and confirmed LeapFrog`s reputation for innovation. We are working vigorously to deliver on our plans for a strong 2003," said Wood. "We are anticipating strong growth in the shelf space our retail partners will allocate to our LeapFrog® Learning Centers in stores this fall and holiday season. We are hard at work on the new learning products that will be a part of our expected growth this year."
In addition to new software content for its platform products and new standalone products, LeapFrog plans to launch three new platform products in the second half of this year. Currently, the company offers six platform products and more than 90 software content and book titles for use with these six platform products. The three new platforms for 2003 include:
-- The TogetherTime(TM) LeapPad learning system, which brings a parent and
child together for an enriching storytime experience that encourages
and stimulates baby`s development and builds a foundation for early
reading,
-- The LeapPad(R) Plus Writing learning system, which takes LeapFrog`s
award-winning LeapPad learning system to a whole new level of learning
by helping children not only to read, but also to write and do
arithmetic with a special dual-function writing stylus, and
-- The Leapster(TM) all-learning game system, which combines animated game
technology that thoroughly engages children with the proven LeapFrog
approach to learning.
While the TogetherTime and LeapPad Plus Writing platforms will join the LeapPad family of learning products, the Leapster handheld educational game platform represents a new market opportunity for LeapFrog. With the introduction of the Leapster platform, LeapFrog plans to introduce new educational content to the handheld electronic game market. New educational software title introductions for the company`s six continuing and three new platform products are expected to expand the company`s retail content learning library to over 100 titles in time for the holiday season this year.
Sales of LeapFrog`s software and interactive book content accounted for 45% of total net sales in the first quarter of 2003. Hardware platform sales comprised 30% of total net sales in the quarter, with the balance of net sales, 25%, coming from sales of stand-alone, non-platform products.
"Everything we do is aimed at making learning fun and engaging, and every product we develop is based on a curriculum we have developed over the last eight years with the help of education experts and teachers," said Wood. "With nine educational platform products on the market this holiday season intended for kids ranging from 6 months to high school age, we believe our product line will address a full range of individual learning needs and interests. Our LeapPad family of products -- the My First LeapPad® platform for children aged 3 years and up, the LeapPad platform for children aged 4 years and up, and the Quantum Pad(TM) platform for children aged 8 years and up -- has helped many children learn to read in classrooms or at home, on their own or with help from mom and dad. We believe our products make complicated learning challenges simple, intuitive and enjoyable for children, parents, and teachers."
Conference Call
A conference call will be held tomorrow, Thursday, April 24 at 8:00 a.m. Eastern time (5:00 a.m. Pacific time) to discuss these announcements and to provide further discussion of results for the quarter and outlook for the remainder of 2003. A live webcast of the conference call will be offered on LeapFrog`s investor relations website at www.leapfroginvestor.com and on www.ccbn.com. A replay of the webcast will be available on these websites through June 30, 2003. To participate in the call, please dial 706-634-0183.
About LeapFrog
LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. is a leading designer, developer and marketer of innovative, technology-based learning products and related proprietary content, dedicated to making learning effective and engaging for all ages, at home and in schools, around the world. The company was founded in 1995 and is based in Emeryville, California.
In Homes: LeapFrog has developed six learning platforms that come to life with more than 90 interactive software titles, covering important subjects such as phonics, reading, math, music, geography, social studies, spelling, vocabulary and science. In addition, the company has created more than 35 stand-alone educational products for ages six months to 16 years. All products contain educational content and reflect a teaching style designed to be fun, engaging, and effective. LeapFrog`s award-winning U.S. consumer products are available at major retailers.
In Schools: In 1999, the company created its school division, LeapFrog SchoolHouse, in response to countless requests from educators to customize LeapFrog`s award-winning technology and educational products for the classroom. The LeapFrog SchoolHouse curriculum programs are currently in over 14,000 classrooms in the U.S. with over 200 interactive books, over 265 skill cards representing more than 5,000 pages of educational content. In addition the SchoolHouse products have won numerous awards from the education industry, including the Golden Lamp Award and Distinguished Achievement Award from the Association of Educational Publishers, the Award of Excellence from Technology & Learning magazine and the Teacher`s Choice Award from Learning magazine.
Around the World: Interest in LeapFrog learning products is worldwide. LeapFrog currently has offices in Canada, France and the United Kingdom. LeapFrog consumer products are available in more than 25 countries and produced in five different languages.
NOTE: LEAPFROG, The LeapFrog Logo, LEAPSTER, TOGETHERTIME, QUANTUM PAD, IQUEST, and LEAPPAD are trademarks of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
Forward-Looking Statements
Cautionary Statement Under The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act Of
1995:
Except for the historical information contained herein, this news release contains forward-looking statements, including the company`s anticipated growth in retail shelf space, planned new product introductions and expected sales and earnings growth. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, including the company`s ability to invent, develop, introduce and market products, the existence, number, scope and effectiveness of Learning Centers established at the company`s customers` stores, the acceptance of the company`s products in the market and the potential disruption of operations related to the recent outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome, or SARS, in Asia and elsewhere. These and other risks and uncertainties detailed from time to time in the company`s SEC filings, including its 2002 annual report on Form 10-K filed on March 28, 2003, could cause the company`s actual results to differ materially from those discussed in this release. All forward-looking statements are based on information available to the company on the date hereof, and the company assumes no obligation to update such statements.
LEAPFROG ENTERPRISES, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(In thousands, except share and per share data)
March 31, December 31,
2003 2002 2002 (A)
(unaudited)
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents $113,832 $1,436 $73,327
Short term investments 14,186 -- --
Accounts receivable 57,989 45,564 169,670
Inventories, net 81,872 43,291 84,460
Other current assets 16,594 11,020 21,443
Total current assets 284,473 101,311 348,900
Property and equipment, net 20,541 18,128 20,239
Other long term assets 10,905 3,636 5,351
Intangible assets, net 26,031 23,675 23,192
Total assets $341,950 $146,750 $397,682
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS`
EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable $23,237 $19,124 $58,844
Accrued liabilities 21,201 12,394 40,533
Deferred revenue 2,186 2,344 3,006
Income taxes payable -- 138 21,832
Total current liabilities 46,624 34,000 124,215
Long term debt -- 17,204 --
Deferred rent and other
long term liabilities 573 274 550
Deferred income taxes 3,344 2,193 4,119
Commitments and contingencies
Redeemable convertible
Series A preferred stock -- 24,139 --
Total stockholders` equity 291,409 68,940 268,798
Total liabilities and
stockholders` equity $341,950 $146,750 $397,682
(A) Derived from audited financial statements.
LEAPFROG ENTERPRISES, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(In thousands, except share and per share data)
(Unaudited)
Three Months Ended March 31,
2003 2002
Net sales $76,733 $57,980
Cost of sales 35,230 30,564
Gross profit 41,503 27,416
Operating expenses:
Selling, general and administrative 21,521 16,170
Research and development 14,404 12,686
Advertising 6,355 5,043
Depreciation and amortization 2,765 1,590
Total operating expenses 45,045 35,489
Loss from operations (3,542) (8,073)
Interest expense (3) (485)
Interest income 326 106
Other income (expense) 1,604 24
Loss before benefit for income taxes (1,615) (8,428)
Benefit for income taxes (646) (3,369)
Net loss $(969) $(5,059)
Net loss per common share -
basic and diluted $(0.02) $(0.15)
Shares used in calculating net loss
per common share - basic and diluted 55,161,533 33,694,444
LEAPFROG ENTERPRISES, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(In thousands)
(Unaudited)
Three Months Ended 31,
2003 2002
Net loss $(969) $(5,059)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to
net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization 3,867 2,162
Allowances for accounts receivable 3,173 2,939
Deferred income taxes 631 (2,668)
Deferred rent 23 29
Deferred revenue (820) 94
Amortization of deferred compensation 557 192
Conversion of stock appreciation rights
to non-statutory stock options -- 331
Stock option compensation related to
nonemployees 220 9
Tax benefit from exercise of stock options 11,194 --
Amortization of bond premium (18)
Other changes in operating assets and
liabilities:
Accounts receivable 108,508 66,996
Inventory 2,588 2,812
Prepaid and other current assets (2,539) (482)
Notes receivable due from related parties 276 (5)
Other assets 152 55
Accounts payable (35,606) (15,288)
Accrued liabilities (19,332) (1,947)
Income taxes payable (21,832) (9,496)
Net cash provided by operating activities 50,073 40,674
Investing activities:
Purchases of property and equipment (4,009) (3,286)
Purchase of intangible assets (3,000) (250)
Purchases of short term investments (14,168) --
Net cash used for investing activities (21,177) (3,536)
Financing activities:
Borrowings under credit agreement -- 100,637
Repayments under credit agreement -- (144,596)
Proceeds from the payment of notes
receivable from stockholders 2,624 --
Proceeds from the exercise of
stock options, including Employee
Stock Purchase Plan 9,042 --
Net cash provided by (used in) financing
activities 11,666 (43,959)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash (57) (12)
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash
equivalents 40,505 (6,833)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning
of year 73,327 8,269
Cash and cash equivalents at end
of period $113,832 $1,436
CONTACT: Jim Curley, Chief Financial Officer, +1-510-420-5000, or Christopher Bunn, Director, Investor Relations, +1-510-420-5150, both of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Source: LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
Dow Jones Business News
Leapfrog Enterprises CEO Raises 2003 Earnings Outlook
Thursday April 24, 9:56 am ET
By Dwight Oestricher, Of DOW JONES NEWSWIRES
NEW YORK (Dow Jones)--Leapfrog Enterprises Inc. President and Chief Executive Mike Wood lifted the learning toy company`s 2003 earnings projection to a range of $1.00 to $1.11 a share from a previous 91 cents $1.02 based on the company`s first-quarter performance.
ADVERTISEMENT
A Thomsom First Call analyst survey had a 2003 earnings projection of $1.04 for the year.
Leapfrog said late Wednesday that its net loss in the first quarter came to $ 969,000, or 2 cents a share, narrower than the loss of $5.1 million, or 15 cents a share, of the year ago quarter and better than the analyst projection of a 13-cent loss.
The company said net sales rose to $76.7 million in the quarter from $58 million a year ago on sales of its LeapPad, Quantum Pad and IQuest hardware and related software and books. The products are designed to teach children from preschool to high school age such subjects as phonics, reading, math, geography and social studies.
Margins came in at 54.1% in the quarter, about 590 basis points higher than last year, on the software and book sales. The company expects a margin of 52% to 53% for the year, but Wood said the figure could be higher if transportation costs and other expenses moderate through the year.
While the second-quarter should benefit from Easter holiday sales, Wood reminded those on the conference call to discuss earnings Thursday that the second-quarter is usually the lowest sales volume period.
Wood said the company expects shelf space in retail stores for Leapfrog products to increase by 40% from last year. The company plans to release three new platforms - the TogetherTime LeapPad, LeapPad Plus Writing and Leapster learning game systems - later this year.
Wood said that while the new LeapPad`s products might cannibalize sales of existing systems, he added that writing aspect of the new LeapPad will attract some consumers while others will add another LeapPad product to their homes.
By Dwight Oestricher, Dow Jones Newswires; 201-938-5266; dwight.oestricher@dowjones.com
Leapfrog Enterprises CEO Raises 2003 Earnings Outlook
Thursday April 24, 9:56 am ET
By Dwight Oestricher, Of DOW JONES NEWSWIRES
NEW YORK (Dow Jones)--Leapfrog Enterprises Inc. President and Chief Executive Mike Wood lifted the learning toy company`s 2003 earnings projection to a range of $1.00 to $1.11 a share from a previous 91 cents $1.02 based on the company`s first-quarter performance.
ADVERTISEMENT
A Thomsom First Call analyst survey had a 2003 earnings projection of $1.04 for the year.
Leapfrog said late Wednesday that its net loss in the first quarter came to $ 969,000, or 2 cents a share, narrower than the loss of $5.1 million, or 15 cents a share, of the year ago quarter and better than the analyst projection of a 13-cent loss.
The company said net sales rose to $76.7 million in the quarter from $58 million a year ago on sales of its LeapPad, Quantum Pad and IQuest hardware and related software and books. The products are designed to teach children from preschool to high school age such subjects as phonics, reading, math, geography and social studies.
Margins came in at 54.1% in the quarter, about 590 basis points higher than last year, on the software and book sales. The company expects a margin of 52% to 53% for the year, but Wood said the figure could be higher if transportation costs and other expenses moderate through the year.
While the second-quarter should benefit from Easter holiday sales, Wood reminded those on the conference call to discuss earnings Thursday that the second-quarter is usually the lowest sales volume period.
Wood said the company expects shelf space in retail stores for Leapfrog products to increase by 40% from last year. The company plans to release three new platforms - the TogetherTime LeapPad, LeapPad Plus Writing and Leapster learning game systems - later this year.
Wood said that while the new LeapPad`s products might cannibalize sales of existing systems, he added that writing aspect of the new LeapPad will attract some consumers while others will add another LeapPad product to their homes.
By Dwight Oestricher, Dow Jones Newswires; 201-938-5266; dwight.oestricher@dowjones.com
LeapFrog Reports Strong 2nd Quarter Results on 57% Net Sales Increase
Wednesday July 23, 4:24 pm ET
U.S. Consumer Sales up 37%, International Sales up 94%, SchoolHouse Sales Up 151%
EMERYVILLE, Calif., July 23 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. (NYSE: LF - News), a leading developer of innovative technology-based educational products, today reported financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2003.
ADVERTISEMENT
Company Net Sales Up 57% For 2nd Quarter
Net sales for the second quarter of 2003 were $68.0 million, up 57% over the same period in 2002. For the first six months of 2003, net sales were $144.8 million, up 43% over the same period in 2002.
Net Sales Up in Each Division For 2nd Quarter and 1st Half of 2003
Net sales from the U.S. Consumer segment were $45.8 million in the second quarter, up 37% over the same period in 2002. Net sales from the International segment were $9.1 million in the second quarter, up 94% over the same period in 2002. Net sales from the Education and Training segment (which consists predominantly of the SchoolHouse division) were $13.1 million in the second quarter, up 151% over the same period in 2002.
In the first six months of 2003, net sales from the U.S. Consumer segment were $105.4 million, up 34% over the same period in 2002. Net sales from the International segment were $20.3 million in the first six months of 2003, up 46% over the same period in 2002. Net sales from the Education and Training segment were $19.1 million in the first half of 2003, up 117% over the same period in 2002.
Company Net Loss Reduced by 48% For 2nd Quarter
The company recorded a significantly reduced net loss for the second quarter of 2003 of $(3.9) million, or $(0.07) per share, an improvement from a net loss of $(7.5) million, or $(0.22) per share over the same period in 2002. In the first six months of 2003, net loss was $(4.9) million or $(0.09) per share, an improvement from a net loss of $(12.6) million or $(0.37) per share in the first half of 2002.
"We are pleased to report that all three of our business divisions achieved very strong net sales growth in the second quarter," said Mike Wood, president and chief executive officer. "We continued strong growth in our U.S. Consumer division, we expanded our International division into new markets, and our SchoolHouse division recorded over 150% net sales growth. This broad-based success is consistent with our corporate mission to become the leading provider of quality, innovative technology-based educational products for school and home use for all ages around the world."
Wood continued, "We are proud of the achievements of our SchoolHouse division, which develops and markets classroom products for educators. Our SchoolHouse segment recorded its strongest quarter ever, achieving net sales of $13.1 million. We are particularly pleased with our LeapTrack instruction and assessment system. The LeapTrack system leverages the benefits of the LeapPad and Quantum Pad platforms to enable teachers to quickly assess each student`s skills relative to state standards, pinpoint areas for improvement, and create an individualized learning path across reading, language arts, and math. The LeapTrack system was introduced in August 2002, and represented approximately 20% of SchoolHouse net sales in the second quarter of 2003," said Wood.
Wood concluded, "With these strong performances in the first half of the year from all of our business divisions, we believe LeapFrog is well positioned for the second half of 2003. We are looking forward to introducing our 2003 U.S. Consumer product line, which includes 3 new learning platforms, 31 new educational software titles and 15 new stand-alone products. We are also excited about entering new international markets, and our ongoing success in our SchoolHouse business."
Conference Call
A conference call will be held tomorrow, Thursday, July 24 at 9:00 a.m. Eastern time (6:00 a.m. Pacific time) to discuss these announcements and to provide further discussion of results for the quarter and outlook for the remainder of 2003. A live web cast of the conference call will be offered on LeapFrog`s investor relations website at www.leapfroginvestor.com and on www.ccbn.com. A replay of the web cast will be available on these websites through October 31, 2003. To participate in the call, please dial (706) 634-0183.
About LeapFrog
LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. is a leading designer, developer and marketer of innovative, technology-based learning products and related proprietary content, dedicated to making learning effective and engaging for all ages, at home and in schools, around the world. The company was founded in 1995 and is based in Emeryville, California.
In Homes: LeapFrog has developed six learning platforms that come to life with more than 90 interactive software titles, covering important subjects such as phonics, reading, math, music, geography, social studies, spelling, vocabulary and science. In addition, the company has created more than 35 stand-alone educational products for ages from six months to 16 years. All products contain educational content and reflect a teaching style designed to be fun, engaging, and effective. LeapFrog`s award-winning U.S. consumer products are available at major retailers.
In Schools: In 1999, the company created its school division, LeapFrog SchoolHouse, in response to countless requests from educators to customize LeapFrog`s award-winning technology and educational products for the classroom. The LeapFrog SchoolHouse curriculum programs are currently in over 15,000 classrooms in the U.S. with over 200 interactive books and over 265 skill cards representing more than 5,000 pages of educational content. In addition the SchoolHouse products have won numerous awards from the education industry, including the Golden Lamp Award and Distinguished Achievement Award from the Association of Educational Publishers, the Award of Excellence from Technology & Learning magazine and the Teacher`s Choice Award from Learning magazine.
Around the World: Interest in LeapFrog learning products is worldwide. LeapFrog currently has offices in Canada, France, Mexico and the United Kingdom. LeapFrog consumer products are available in more than 25 countries and produced in five different languages.
NOTE: LEAPFROG, The LeapFrog Logo, LEAPPAD, LEAPTRACK and QUANTUM PAD are trademarks of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
Forward-Looking Statements
Cautionary Statement Under The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act Of 1995:
Except for the historical information contained herein, this news release contains forward-looking statements, including the company`s planned new product introductions and expected market acceptance of the company`s consumer and SchoolHouse learning products. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, including the company`s ability to invent, develop, introduce and market products, the acceptance of the company`s products in U.S. schools and international markets and the potential disruption of operations related to the outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome, or SARS, in Asia and elsewhere. These and other risks and uncertainties detailed from time to time in the company`s SEC filings, including its 2002 annual report on Form 10-K filed on March 28, 2003 and its quarterly report on From 10-Q filed on May 14, 2003, could cause the company`s actual results to differ materially from those discussed in this release. All forward-looking statements are based on information available to the company on the date hereof, and the company assumes no obligation to update such statements.
LEAPFROG ENTERPRISES, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(In thousands)
June 30, December 31,
2003 2002 2002
(Unaudited) (1)
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents $114,956 $388 $73,327
Short term investments 14,124 -- --
Accounts receivable, net 55,174 29,804 169,670
Inventories, net 96,135 62,137 84,460
Other current assets 16,134 7,458 4,660
Deferred income taxes 11,270 6,760 16,783
Total current assets 307,793 106,547 348,900
Property and equipment, net 21,210 20,195 20,239
Other long term assets 372 987 484
Deferred income taxes 16,034 6,327 4,867
Intangible assets, net 25,670 23,514 23,192
Total assets $371,079 $157,570 $397,682
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS` EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable $36,727 $32,363 $58,844
Accrued liabilities 20,795 13,575 40,533
Deferred revenue 1,520 2,786 3,006
Income taxes payable -- -- 21,832
Total current liabilities 59,042 48,724 124,215
Long term debt -- 22,228 --
Deferred rent and other
long term liabilities 579 387 550
Deferred income taxes 2,787 -- 4,119
Commitments and contingencies
Redeemable convertible series A
preferred stock -- 24,139 --
Total stockholders` equity 308,671 62,092 268,798
Total liabilities and
stockholders` equity $371,079 $157,570 $397,682
(1) Derived from audited financial statements.
LEAPFROG ENTERPRISES, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(In thousands, except share and per share data)
(Unaudited)
Three Months Six Months
Ended June 30, Ended June 30,
2003 2002 2003 2002
Net sales $68,030 $43,218 $144,763 $101,198
Cost of sales 32,209 22,277 68,301 52,979
Gross profit 35,821 20,941 76,462 48,219
Operating expenses:
Selling, general
and administrative 21,904 14,923 43,425 31,093
Research and
development 13,272 12,987 27,676 25,673
Advertising 6,330 3,985 12,685 9,028
Depreciation and
amortization 2,257 1,601 4,160 3,053
Total operating
expenses 43,763 33,496 87,946 68,847
Loss from operations (7,942) (12,555) (11,484) (20,628)
Interest expense (2) (210) (5) (695)
Interest income 382 94 708 200
Other income, net 1,018 99 2,622 123
Loss before benefit
for income taxes (6,544) (12,572) (8,159) (21,000)
Benefit for
income taxes (2,618) (5,031) (3,264) (8,400)
Net loss $(3,926) $(7,541) $(4,895) $(12,600)
Net loss per common
share - basic and
diluted $(0.07) $(0.22) $(0.09) $(0.37)
Shares used in
calculating net
loss per share
- basic and
diluted 56,836,698 33,774,099 56,003,775 33,734,768
LEAPFROG ENTERPRISES, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(In thousands)
(Unaudited)
Six Months Ended June 30,
2003 2002
Net loss $(4,895) $(12,600)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash
provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and Amortization 8,165 4,961
Provision for allowances for
accounts receivable 5,184 3,520
Deferred income taxes (6,986) (6,819)
Other noncash items 24,644 1,698
Other changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable 109,312 82,175
Inventory (11,675) (16,034)
Other current assets (11,474) (5,405)
Other assets 112 56
Accounts payable (22,116) (2,049)
Accrued liabilities (19,738) (739)
Income taxes payable (21,832) (9,634)
Net cash provided by operating activities 48,701 39,130
Investing activities:
Purchases of property and equipment (8,632) (7,991)
Purchase of intangible assets (3,000) (250)
Purchases of short term investments (14,207) --
Net cash used for investing activities (25,839) (8,241)
Financing activities:
Borrowings under credit agreement -- 156,689
Repayments under credit agreement -- (195,624)
Proceeds from the payment of notes
receivable from stockholders 2,624 --
Proceeds from the exercise of stock options,
including Employee Stock Purchase Plan 16,170 231
Net cash provided by (used in)
financing activities 18,794 (38,704)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash (27) (66)
Increase (decrease) in cash and
cash equivalents 41,629 (7,881)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year 73,327 8,269
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period $114,956 $388
CONTACT: Jim Curley, Chief Financial Officer, +1-510-420-5000, or Christopher Bunn, Director, Investor Relations, +1-510-420-5150, both of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Source: LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
Wednesday July 23, 4:24 pm ET
U.S. Consumer Sales up 37%, International Sales up 94%, SchoolHouse Sales Up 151%
EMERYVILLE, Calif., July 23 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. (NYSE: LF - News), a leading developer of innovative technology-based educational products, today reported financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2003.
ADVERTISEMENT
Company Net Sales Up 57% For 2nd Quarter
Net sales for the second quarter of 2003 were $68.0 million, up 57% over the same period in 2002. For the first six months of 2003, net sales were $144.8 million, up 43% over the same period in 2002.
Net Sales Up in Each Division For 2nd Quarter and 1st Half of 2003
Net sales from the U.S. Consumer segment were $45.8 million in the second quarter, up 37% over the same period in 2002. Net sales from the International segment were $9.1 million in the second quarter, up 94% over the same period in 2002. Net sales from the Education and Training segment (which consists predominantly of the SchoolHouse division) were $13.1 million in the second quarter, up 151% over the same period in 2002.
In the first six months of 2003, net sales from the U.S. Consumer segment were $105.4 million, up 34% over the same period in 2002. Net sales from the International segment were $20.3 million in the first six months of 2003, up 46% over the same period in 2002. Net sales from the Education and Training segment were $19.1 million in the first half of 2003, up 117% over the same period in 2002.
Company Net Loss Reduced by 48% For 2nd Quarter
The company recorded a significantly reduced net loss for the second quarter of 2003 of $(3.9) million, or $(0.07) per share, an improvement from a net loss of $(7.5) million, or $(0.22) per share over the same period in 2002. In the first six months of 2003, net loss was $(4.9) million or $(0.09) per share, an improvement from a net loss of $(12.6) million or $(0.37) per share in the first half of 2002.
"We are pleased to report that all three of our business divisions achieved very strong net sales growth in the second quarter," said Mike Wood, president and chief executive officer. "We continued strong growth in our U.S. Consumer division, we expanded our International division into new markets, and our SchoolHouse division recorded over 150% net sales growth. This broad-based success is consistent with our corporate mission to become the leading provider of quality, innovative technology-based educational products for school and home use for all ages around the world."
Wood continued, "We are proud of the achievements of our SchoolHouse division, which develops and markets classroom products for educators. Our SchoolHouse segment recorded its strongest quarter ever, achieving net sales of $13.1 million. We are particularly pleased with our LeapTrack instruction and assessment system. The LeapTrack system leverages the benefits of the LeapPad and Quantum Pad platforms to enable teachers to quickly assess each student`s skills relative to state standards, pinpoint areas for improvement, and create an individualized learning path across reading, language arts, and math. The LeapTrack system was introduced in August 2002, and represented approximately 20% of SchoolHouse net sales in the second quarter of 2003," said Wood.
Wood concluded, "With these strong performances in the first half of the year from all of our business divisions, we believe LeapFrog is well positioned for the second half of 2003. We are looking forward to introducing our 2003 U.S. Consumer product line, which includes 3 new learning platforms, 31 new educational software titles and 15 new stand-alone products. We are also excited about entering new international markets, and our ongoing success in our SchoolHouse business."
Conference Call
A conference call will be held tomorrow, Thursday, July 24 at 9:00 a.m. Eastern time (6:00 a.m. Pacific time) to discuss these announcements and to provide further discussion of results for the quarter and outlook for the remainder of 2003. A live web cast of the conference call will be offered on LeapFrog`s investor relations website at www.leapfroginvestor.com and on www.ccbn.com. A replay of the web cast will be available on these websites through October 31, 2003. To participate in the call, please dial (706) 634-0183.
About LeapFrog
LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. is a leading designer, developer and marketer of innovative, technology-based learning products and related proprietary content, dedicated to making learning effective and engaging for all ages, at home and in schools, around the world. The company was founded in 1995 and is based in Emeryville, California.
In Homes: LeapFrog has developed six learning platforms that come to life with more than 90 interactive software titles, covering important subjects such as phonics, reading, math, music, geography, social studies, spelling, vocabulary and science. In addition, the company has created more than 35 stand-alone educational products for ages from six months to 16 years. All products contain educational content and reflect a teaching style designed to be fun, engaging, and effective. LeapFrog`s award-winning U.S. consumer products are available at major retailers.
In Schools: In 1999, the company created its school division, LeapFrog SchoolHouse, in response to countless requests from educators to customize LeapFrog`s award-winning technology and educational products for the classroom. The LeapFrog SchoolHouse curriculum programs are currently in over 15,000 classrooms in the U.S. with over 200 interactive books and over 265 skill cards representing more than 5,000 pages of educational content. In addition the SchoolHouse products have won numerous awards from the education industry, including the Golden Lamp Award and Distinguished Achievement Award from the Association of Educational Publishers, the Award of Excellence from Technology & Learning magazine and the Teacher`s Choice Award from Learning magazine.
Around the World: Interest in LeapFrog learning products is worldwide. LeapFrog currently has offices in Canada, France, Mexico and the United Kingdom. LeapFrog consumer products are available in more than 25 countries and produced in five different languages.
NOTE: LEAPFROG, The LeapFrog Logo, LEAPPAD, LEAPTRACK and QUANTUM PAD are trademarks of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
Forward-Looking Statements
Cautionary Statement Under The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act Of 1995:
Except for the historical information contained herein, this news release contains forward-looking statements, including the company`s planned new product introductions and expected market acceptance of the company`s consumer and SchoolHouse learning products. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, including the company`s ability to invent, develop, introduce and market products, the acceptance of the company`s products in U.S. schools and international markets and the potential disruption of operations related to the outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome, or SARS, in Asia and elsewhere. These and other risks and uncertainties detailed from time to time in the company`s SEC filings, including its 2002 annual report on Form 10-K filed on March 28, 2003 and its quarterly report on From 10-Q filed on May 14, 2003, could cause the company`s actual results to differ materially from those discussed in this release. All forward-looking statements are based on information available to the company on the date hereof, and the company assumes no obligation to update such statements.
LEAPFROG ENTERPRISES, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(In thousands)
June 30, December 31,
2003 2002 2002
(Unaudited) (1)
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents $114,956 $388 $73,327
Short term investments 14,124 -- --
Accounts receivable, net 55,174 29,804 169,670
Inventories, net 96,135 62,137 84,460
Other current assets 16,134 7,458 4,660
Deferred income taxes 11,270 6,760 16,783
Total current assets 307,793 106,547 348,900
Property and equipment, net 21,210 20,195 20,239
Other long term assets 372 987 484
Deferred income taxes 16,034 6,327 4,867
Intangible assets, net 25,670 23,514 23,192
Total assets $371,079 $157,570 $397,682
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS` EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable $36,727 $32,363 $58,844
Accrued liabilities 20,795 13,575 40,533
Deferred revenue 1,520 2,786 3,006
Income taxes payable -- -- 21,832
Total current liabilities 59,042 48,724 124,215
Long term debt -- 22,228 --
Deferred rent and other
long term liabilities 579 387 550
Deferred income taxes 2,787 -- 4,119
Commitments and contingencies
Redeemable convertible series A
preferred stock -- 24,139 --
Total stockholders` equity 308,671 62,092 268,798
Total liabilities and
stockholders` equity $371,079 $157,570 $397,682
(1) Derived from audited financial statements.
LEAPFROG ENTERPRISES, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(In thousands, except share and per share data)
(Unaudited)
Three Months Six Months
Ended June 30, Ended June 30,
2003 2002 2003 2002
Net sales $68,030 $43,218 $144,763 $101,198
Cost of sales 32,209 22,277 68,301 52,979
Gross profit 35,821 20,941 76,462 48,219
Operating expenses:
Selling, general
and administrative 21,904 14,923 43,425 31,093
Research and
development 13,272 12,987 27,676 25,673
Advertising 6,330 3,985 12,685 9,028
Depreciation and
amortization 2,257 1,601 4,160 3,053
Total operating
expenses 43,763 33,496 87,946 68,847
Loss from operations (7,942) (12,555) (11,484) (20,628)
Interest expense (2) (210) (5) (695)
Interest income 382 94 708 200
Other income, net 1,018 99 2,622 123
Loss before benefit
for income taxes (6,544) (12,572) (8,159) (21,000)
Benefit for
income taxes (2,618) (5,031) (3,264) (8,400)
Net loss $(3,926) $(7,541) $(4,895) $(12,600)
Net loss per common
share - basic and
diluted $(0.07) $(0.22) $(0.09) $(0.37)
Shares used in
calculating net
loss per share
- basic and
diluted 56,836,698 33,774,099 56,003,775 33,734,768
LEAPFROG ENTERPRISES, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(In thousands)
(Unaudited)
Six Months Ended June 30,
2003 2002
Net loss $(4,895) $(12,600)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash
provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and Amortization 8,165 4,961
Provision for allowances for
accounts receivable 5,184 3,520
Deferred income taxes (6,986) (6,819)
Other noncash items 24,644 1,698
Other changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable 109,312 82,175
Inventory (11,675) (16,034)
Other current assets (11,474) (5,405)
Other assets 112 56
Accounts payable (22,116) (2,049)
Accrued liabilities (19,738) (739)
Income taxes payable (21,832) (9,634)
Net cash provided by operating activities 48,701 39,130
Investing activities:
Purchases of property and equipment (8,632) (7,991)
Purchase of intangible assets (3,000) (250)
Purchases of short term investments (14,207) --
Net cash used for investing activities (25,839) (8,241)
Financing activities:
Borrowings under credit agreement -- 156,689
Repayments under credit agreement -- (195,624)
Proceeds from the payment of notes
receivable from stockholders 2,624 --
Proceeds from the exercise of stock options,
including Employee Stock Purchase Plan 16,170 231
Net cash provided by (used in)
financing activities 18,794 (38,704)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash (27) (66)
Increase (decrease) in cash and
cash equivalents 41,629 (7,881)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year 73,327 8,269
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period $114,956 $388
CONTACT: Jim Curley, Chief Financial Officer, +1-510-420-5000, or Christopher Bunn, Director, Investor Relations, +1-510-420-5150, both of LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Source: LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
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