Children love playing with Apple Inc.’s iPad. But what if mommy and daddy don’t want to give such an expensive device to their kids?

El Segundo software company Fuhu Inc. has an answer.

It’s called the Nabi, and is an Internet-ready tablet with a tough case that comes preloaded with games, music, e-books and math exercises for children.

That’s an advance from most electronic tablets for kids that come preloaded with games and no web access. Priced at $200, the device has been an instant hit at Toys “R” Us, where online preorders sold out.

“When the iPad came out, we started to see that children wanted to play with our iPads, but at the same time, you’re hesitant to give your child a $600 device,” said Fuhu Chief Executive Jim Mitchell. “We had to have a price point that’s appropriate for people who buy things for their children.”

The tablet also is a big jump for Fuhu, which was founded four years ago and makes software that comes preinstalled on computers and other devices. One popular program is its Fooz Kids software that allows kids to safely surf the Internet.

Fuhu’s not the only kid-focused company jumping on the tablet craze. LeapFrog, an Emeryville company that develops educational software, began selling a tablet called the LeapPad in August.

But Mitchell said Nabi is the first children’s tablet that is Wi-Fi ready and functions much like other tablets. Nabi even has a “mommy mode” that let’s parents check e-mails and watch movies as they would on an iPad.

Toys “R” Us started shipping online orders last week, and will begin stocking the tablet on store shelves in a few days.

“The Nabi is definitely popular,” said Bob Friedland, a spokesman for the retailer.