Let’s face it: Cutting-edge tech and children don’t always mix. Even devices built specifically for kids don’t always survive rambunctious horseplay or an accidental drop to the ground. So, when we see a great tech item for kids that also guarantees a replacement if the original is damaged, our eyes and ears perk up. Such is the case with the Amazon Kindle Kids.
Since its first release almost two decades ago, the Kindle has continued to evolve as the e-book reader of choice for millions, and this version of the Kindle packs in plenty of features. Let’s take a closer look at what it offers, and why it’s a perfect deal if you’re looking for a holiday gift.
New Amazon Kindle Kids, $129.99
The Kindle Kids isn’t just a device your young ones will indulge themselves with for a few months and then forget. This Kindle grows with your child, as it comes with an Amazon Kids+ subscription that provides access to thousands of books and graphic novels for children ages 3 to 12. So, as your child matures and continues to read, the books they need (and want) for their age range will be available.
And parents who are tired of watching their children turn into zombie-like gamers and video watchers via kids’ tablets can rest easy, because the Kindle Kids is built just for reading — nothing more, nothing less. But that doesn’t mean the Kindle doesn’t provide enjoyment. The enhanced black-and-white display can be read in daylight or at night (it has a peak brightness level that’s a 25% improvement over previous models), and it flips through pages faster than ever. Plus, its lightweight design makes it easy to hold and read, even with one hand.
The Kindle Kids comes equipped with a Parent Dashboard that lets you set reading goals, add books to your kids’ libraries on the device, set a “bedtime” for the Kindle, and adjust age filters. The e-reader is also a boon for kids just learning to read, as it also comes with vocabulary and Word Wise programs that help improve reading skills.
The Kindle’s 16GB of internal memory can store thousands of books, and your kids will have plenty of time to read them without interruption thanks to a 6-week battery life when charged. The durable magnetic cover (offered in several different colorful designs) is another nice touch, and as we mentioned up top, if the Kindle Kids breaks for whatever reason within the first two years you own it, Amazon will replace it for free.
Amazon customers give high praise to this Kindle’s ease of use and “amazing” battery life, and the expert reviewers at Tom’s Guide tout the Kindle Kids as being “so good that you may wish Amazon made an adult version.” (And hey, if you want to buy one for yourself, we won’t judge!)
