Osmo Genius Kit Review: Hands-On Learning That Still Uses the iPad

This post contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This kit was gifted to us.

Screen time, but their hands are busy

If you've got a kid who lives on the tablet, you know the struggle.

The Osmo Genius Starter Kit doesn't take the tablet away. It changes what they do with it.

The iPad sits in a little base. A red clip goes over the camera. Then your kid plays with real pieces on the table, and the game reads them.

Real life verdict (my video, gifted): "Here's the coolest part. She just lays out the real number tiles on the table, and the game reads them. There's no tapping, clicking or anything like that, so it's really hands-on."

Questions answered before you buy

Will it work with my tablet? Check this first. The listing says it works with most iPads, except the oldest ones: iPad 1st to 4th gen, the first iPad Air and iPad mini 1st to 3rd gen. It needs iOS 15 or later. There's also a Fire tablet version, so buy the one that matches your tablet.

Is the iPad included? No. You get the base, the red camera clip and the game pieces.

Does it need WiFi? The listing says no WiFi is needed to play. You will need it to download the games.

What ages? It's listed for ages 6 to 10. My daughter is 9, so right in that range.

What games come with it? The listing names 7, including Tangram, Numbers, Words, Masterpiece and Newton. Math, spelling, drawing and problem solving.

The one thing I'd tell a friend

Each game is its own app.

If your kid's iPad needs your approval to download apps, like mine does, download all of the games the first time. Otherwise you'll be setting them up one at a time, over and over.

The pick

The pick: Osmo Genius Starter Kit for iPad (7 games)

See the Osmo Genius Kit for iPad on Amazon →

Want more for the tablet? Amazon Kids+ has kid-friendly books, games and shows with parent controls. Free trial for eligible new members, and the terms are on Amazon.

Try Amazon Kids+ free on Amazon →

Shopping for Christmas? Try my Christmas Gift Finder, and check the Black Friday deals before you buy.

More hands-on ideas for kids: clay and pottery kits and slime and squishy kits.

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