To my daughter, they're called 'plug ears" and they're her single most favorite "gear" item because when she wears them, she knows it's for something fun. Whether listening to a favorite storybook podcast or drowning out stimulation from the outside world, headphones are ever-necessary in our increasingly tech-driven world. Having come a long way since the headphones of my childhood, these days, headphones come in a variety of designs with a variety of must-have features. Whether you're looking for a basic pair of high-quality headphones or you want something with a little more pizazz, we've got you covered. Take a look at our favorite headphones currently available for kids. Mpow Over-Ear Headphones Versatile ComfortWhether watching a movie on a road trip or participating in online schooling, these headphones deliver with clear sound, a microphone, and compatibility with virtually all media.Best OverallFind on Amazon Sometimes products labeled “kids” translate to a cheaper, worse-quality item than those made for adults. That’s definitely not the case with these Mpow Over-Ear Headphones. Manufactured with hi-fi stereo sound, there’s a built-in mic that allows for convenience and communication for online learning, gaming, or chatting with friends. These are ideal for traveling, as well, due to the fact that the 3.5mm plug can be used in any 3.5mm jack devices (and that means car movies, too). Other notable features include a comfortable fit, a cushioning ring for ear protection, a lightweight and fully adjustable band, and 2 modes of volume control. Oh, and there is a wide variety of delightful color choices, to boot. Pros: Pinch-free hinges for safety. Two volume limit controls with a quick switch (85dB and 94dB). Lightweight, smaller design that perfectly fits smaller heads and ears. Soft ear pads. Fully adjustable head band. Cons: The microphone will not work on a desktop computer. iClever On-Ear Headphones No More Tangled MessTangled wires are a thing of the past with these premium nylon fabric cable. Bonus: it's extremely durable, too. Best Tangle-Free WiresFind on Amazon Zero tangled cables; clean, clear, crisp sound; and a tough, durable, kid-proof design. These features alone would make this pair of headphones a favorite, but it’s the features, too, that seal the deal. First, the wire: made with an extremely durable nylon cable, this wire resists getting caught up in itself. And as we all know, tangled wires are the most frustrating part about wired headphones, so this is a definite plus. Next: ear cushions. Made of hypoallergenic, supremely comfortable cushions, these headphones fit perfectly over your children’s sensitive ears. And speaking of sensitivity, there’s a volume protection device that caps the limit on sound at 94dB. With a surprisingly bendable band, these headphones are totally kid-proof. Pros: Fits children 4-12 years of age. Works with all 3.5mm aux input. Ultra-flexible band. Tangle-free wires. Cons: The safest limit for sound should be 85dB; these are set at a max of 94dB. Noot Products Kids Headphones Wherever You GoThese handy headphones collapse in on themselves for easy packability on trips.Most VersatileFind on Amazon Ideal for everything from airplanes and car rides to school, these headphones are versatile, comfortable, and produce high-quality sound at a safe volume. Compatible with a variety of devices including iPads and tablets, computers, smartphones, and more, these are the ideal headphones to keep on hand. Due to the fact that they’re durable, versatile, and comfortable, they’re a great option for keeping handy in the car for those longer car rides. In fact, the headband is completely foldable, so they’ll easily store directly in the vehicle without creating clutter. Pros: Soft, padded cushions for comfort. Lightweight enough for someone as young as three years old. 5-foot cord resists tangling. Adjustable headband for a perfect fit. Cons: There is no microphone. CozyPhones Kids Headphones Even Toddlers Need HeadphonesPerfect for road trips, airplanes, and just cozy nooks at home, these ultra-soft (yet totally durable) headphones are ideal for toddlers.Best for ToddlersFind on Amazon Would it be weird if we got one of these for ourselves? Exceptionally comfortable, these headphones fit like a fun, soft headband. And parents, rest assured: these earphones have built-in volume-limiting speakers for extra-safe listening. Ideal for travel (no bulky headphones to contend with car seat padding), the soft headband can even slip down over tired eyes. With a 52-inch braided, hassle-free cord, and a 3.5mm plug, you can use this adorable headphone band with any compatible device. Pros: Speakers are limited to 90 dB. Multiple cute characters to choose from. Fully adjustable. Easy to pack in a carry-on or backpack (they simply fold right up). Cons: These are definitely on the small side, so they’re more appropriate for younger preschool-aged children. Frequently Asked Questions Are headphones safe for kids? There are a variety of headphones on the market today, some of which are perfectly safe for kids, and others that are decidedly not. Wondering where to start? For young children, it is best to avoid headphones that insert directly into their sensitive ear canals. Opt for over-the-ear headphones, instead. There are a variety of kinds here to choose from, so as you can see, there are definitely some options. Regardless, always choose headphones that actually fit your child. You’ll want them to fully cover your child’s ears. What’s the recommended age for head phones? Worried about hearing loss or harming your child’s ears? That’s understandable – there’s ample cause for concern. However, these days, there are a variety of headphones that are safe for children even as young as three. As long as you’re mindful of the volume (keep it at no more than 85 decibels), headphones for kids are perfectly safe, even for preschoolers. Is there a way to clean headphones? It’s actually pretty easy to clean your headphones, and it’s a good idea, too. Bacteria growth can and does happen on headphones, and it can lead to ear infections if not properly cleaned. While this tends to be especially true for earbuds, it’s also important to clean your headphones. Don’t worry, though – it’s pretty easy. Simply wet a cotton ball with alcohol and wipe down your entire set, making sure to get in all those tricky grooves. Extend the band fully and clean that, too. Dry the headphones completely with a soft cloth prior to using them again. Related posts:Powered by SearchIQ The Best Robot Dogs For Kids Read more The Best Dog Earmuffs in 2024 Read more The Best Dog Ear Cleaners Read more