Recent technological advancements initiated the debate, whether children should use smart speakers. Undoubtedly, there are advantages and disadvantages for children to use advanced technologies. Parents must decide if the advantages outweigh the disadvantages and at what age to introduce their children to technologies. Companies have realised the problem that parents face and have responded. Some smart speakers are specifically designed for children to use. The blog will outline the three best smart speakers for children.
What Smart Speakers are Best for Children?
The three most suited speakers are Amazon Echo Dot Kids (5th Generation), Tonies Toniebox and Yoto Player. They all serve different purposes and some may be more suited for older children.
Amazon Echo Dot Kids, 5th Generation (Children Aged: 5-12)
The Amazon Echo Dot Kids (5th Generation) is the newest version of the Echo Dot Kids series. The most obvious change to the Amazon Echo Dot is that the smart speaker has an owl or dragon design. In the fourth generation, this used to be a panda or tiger. Specific table stands are also available to improve the smart speaker’s visual appearance. In terms of audio performance, the device performs just as well as the Amazon Echo Dot, as it has the same hardware and speakers.
Special Features
Moreover, this smart speaker has an explicit music filter, which will disable the access to music that is inappropriate for children. Additionally, kid-friendly Alexa responses reduce any parents’ worry that the child receives inappropriate responses to a question or voice command. The Echo Dot also allows parents to set daily limits to ensure that their child does not become addicted to the speaker. They can also review their kids’ activities via the parent dashboard. This gives them the chance to intervene at any stage. We know that children like to drop items, therefore, Amazon has included a two-year warranty.
When purchasing an Echo Dot Kids, a subscription of Amazon Kids+ is included for one year. After the one year trial, it is optional to purchase it for $4.99 monthly. Amazon Kids+ gives access to audible books, interactive games and an educational Alexa that can help kids explore the world of smart speakers. Evenly important, the smart speaker comes without a camera, eliminating any privacy concerns that may exist.
Purchasing the Amazon Echo Dot Kids (5th Generation) costs £64.99, which is just £10 more than the Amazon Echo Dot. Considering the extra security it provides and Amazon Kids+ that is included, it is definitely worth the extra money and will help ease the kids access to technology.
Tonies Toniebox (Age 3+)
Tonies Toniebox is a cubed smart speaker (12 x 12 x 12cm) that is water repellent and slightly cushioned to prevent damage when dropped. It is a rechargeable and portable smart speaker that lasts up to 7 hours.
The Toniebox does not respond to voice or audio commands. Instead, pre-recorded content is played when a character is placed on top of the box. This content ranges from stories to playing songs.
In total, there are six different colours for the Toniebox. Kids can choose between red, purple, green, light blue, pink and grey. Additionally, over 140 characters are available, making sure that your child will never run out of content. Characters range from Disney favourites (Winnie the Pooh, Aladdin or Finding Nemo) to Paw patrol crew. No matter what preference your child has, Tonie will have an equivalent character.
Tonies Toniebox is ideal for kids music or good bedtime stories that help your child fall asleep. Additionally, there are no screens, ads, cameras or microphones that give parents maximum security. Children at the age of 3+ are safe to listen and operate a Toniebox themselves. A Tonies Toniebox costs £79.99, and is definitely worth its investment.
Yoto Player (Age 3-10)
The third and final smart speaker is the Yoto player. The dimensions of the Yoto Player are 10 x 10 x 10cm. Two large buttons are on top of the cube to control the volume. There is also a slot to insert the Yoto card that plays the content. It is again a screen-free audio device that entertains and educates children. It works by using physical cards to play a range of pre-recorded content. The highlight of the Yoto player is the pixelated display (no screen) that uses LEDs to visualise animations that match with the content played.
The audio performance of the Yoto Player is excellent, leading to a clear and loud audio that makes Storytime an immersive experience. The manuals of the player are easy and kids will learn how to use the speaker very fast. In addition, it is possible to create your own Yoto card, which can give any story your personal touch.
The Yoto Player is also available as a Yoto Mini version. The smaller version is easier to transport but it is not as loud as the Yoto player and it does not have the nightlight. Apart from that all features are the same and it is a bit cheaper. The Yoto Mini costs $69.99. The Yoto Player costs $120 without any cards.
Final Advice
These three examples display opportunities for parents to buy smart speakers for their children without having to feel insecure or unsafe. Considering the technology implemented in each device, the Yoto Player and Tonies Toniebox can be used from ages 3+. Children above the age of 5 can use the Amazon Echo Dot Kids since it responds to audio commands. Amazon Echo Dot Kids is recommended for children above the age of 5, since this one has audio commands. Either way, parents should follow the parental guide to ensure their kids interact safely with the speakers.