Choosing headphones for children requires a different approach than selecting adult models. While sound fidelity matters less, durability, ease of use, and safety are paramount. As parents and tech testers, we’ve evaluated the market to identify the best headphones for kids, considering real-world use by our own families and in classroom settings.
Why Dedicated Kids’ Headphones Matter
Many children’s headphones feature volume limitation, capping output at around 85 decibels – the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s workplace exposure limit. However, this level can still be high. Monitoring your child’s listening volume is crucial. A simple test: if you can’t hear them when sitting nearby, it’s too loud.
Noise-canceling headphones can be useful for travel or study, but awareness of surroundings is vital. Avoid letting children use noise-canceling headphones while biking or walking in traffic.
How We Tested
Our review process involved rigorous testing by four children and one teacher, using the headphones for gaming, streaming, chatting, and even classroom use. We also tested them ourselves to verify sound quality and volume limits.
Essential Accessories: Protecting Your Investment
Even durable headphones are vulnerable. A headphone stand is a smart investment to prevent damage from being stepped on, attacked by pets, or crushed under furniture. Options range from basic $7 stands to wireless charging models for $56.
Top Picks for 2025
- iClever Kids Headphones: A solid all-around choice, offering durability and volume control.
- Heyday Kids’ Wired Headphones: An affordable $10 option from Target, limiting volume to 85 decibels with fun designs.
- Juice Pro Wireless Headphones: Recommended by teachers for comfort, wireless convenience, and decent noise cancellation (UK only).
- BuddyPhones Cosmos Fun: Customizable with stickers, offering three volume limits (75, 85, 94 decibels) and long battery life.
Headphones to Avoid
Some headphones failed to impress:
- Juice Animals Wired Headphones: Developed faults within a week despite being made from recycled plastic.
- StoryPhones: Overpriced for the build quality, with expensive and easily lost story shields.
Choosing the right headphones for your child involves balancing safety, durability, and age-appropriate features. Prioritize volume control, comfort, and consider accessories to protect your investment.
