The perfect headphones for kids this Christmas

Most families in the wake of the ‘home-schooling’ years are familiar with the necessity of headphones for the younger members of the household. And most of us have probably made the mistake of plonking adult headphones on their ears - and then battled with them constantly to moderate a safe volume level.

While it’s not a new area by any stretch, there are far more choices these days when it comes to headphones specifically designed with children in mind. The latest to hit the shelves at JB is the Belkin SoundForm Minis that come in four different colours: black, white, pink, and blue. The headphones fit on the ears and can be perfectly sized with an adjustable headband. Light in weight, the SoundForms are, importantly, comfortable to wear.

While these headphones are wireless and connect via Bluetooth 5.0, there’s a 3.5mm jack on the right cup and a 1.2 m cable supplied for a wired connection if needed. However, the Bluetooth option, which will work within a five to ten-metre range of the device, is convenient and means there are no trailing wires to knock drinks all over a tablet or, worse, a laptop. The all-important battery life factor has been well catered for, with an extensive 30 hours on a single charge via a micro-USB port.

The last few years have driven more learning and online communication, and the SoundForm Minis will work on Zoom and Seesaw or school video content. There's also a microphone included for talkback options with teachers or friends.

For any concerned technophobes out there, these are simple headphones to use for kids (and you!). Volume controls, play/pause, and Bluetooth pairing are mapped to touch controls – it couldn’t be easier.

And the volume is capped here at a safe 85db, so there are no ongoing struggles – or concerns – that damage is being done, and no volume battles to fight with the kids. It’s reassuring as a parent. Belkin states that the SoundForm Minis have been tested to withstand accidents and spills for up to two years, which, even if you reduce that to cater to the most accident-prone youngsters in the world, is still great value for money. If you’re in the market for a pair of kid’s headphones for school or general use at home, the SoundForm Minis are certainly worth tossing into the mix.

5 tips for your kid’s ear gear

• Make sure you keep them regularly cleaned. A warm, damp microfibre cloth will generally be all that’s needed.

• We all know how easily kids lose things (school jackets, anyone?), so it’s essential to clearly label your headphones with your child’s name.

• If your mini-me chooses to use the wired connection, teach them the importance of carefully removing the cable so they don’t damage the jack.

• Limit the use of headphones where possible and take regular breaks.

• If the headphones don’t come with a protective case, find a tough bag or similar to store them in and prevent damage when thrown in the bottom of a school bag.