Children's Cameras, Walkie-Talkies and Gadgets

Camera, walkie-talkie or clock: what each needs

Kids' cameras use a small CMOS sensor, so photos are fine for sharing on a screen but not for large prints. Look for a rubberized body, a simple menu, a screen and, where listed, video recording. Many store pictures on a microSD card that may or may not be in the box, and the listing should state the card type and the largest capacity it accepts. Check the battery type, because some use built-in rechargeables and others take AAs.

Walkie-talkies are sold in pairs, and both units must be on the same channel to talk. A larger channel count helps avoid other users nearby. The range on the box is a best case in open ground; indoors, through walls or in a built-up area, expect far less. Learning clocks, sleep trainers and sound machines serve a different purpose: they help with routines, using colors, icons or sounds to mark time for bed and waking.

Drop resistance, hearing safety and connected features

Children's electronics take knocks, so look for a rugged or rubberized shell and a battery door that needs a screw or tool to open, which keeps batteries away from small hands. Sound machines and headphones should have volume limits; loud audio close to a child's ears can harm hearing. Compare the number of sounds, timer options and whether the device runs from wall power or batteries overnight.

Be cautious with anything that connects to the internet. A camera or toy with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth or an app can collect images and voice data, so check what it records, where files go and whether parents can control sharing. For young children, offline devices with a memory card are simpler to supervise. Electronic pets and robots need batteries or charging at regular intervals, so check the power type before gifting.

Questions about Children's Cameras, Walkie-Talkies and Gadgets

How far do kids' walkie-talkies reach?

The advertised range is for open ground with a clear line of sight. Indoors, around buildings or among trees it falls sharply. Both units must be set to the same channel, so pick one with enough channels to avoid interference from neighbors using similar devices.

Does a children's camera need a memory card?

Many do. Photos are saved to a microSD card that is sometimes sold separately, and the listing should state the type and the largest capacity supported. Without a card, some cameras store little or nothing at all.

What is a sleep trainer clock?

It is a bedside clock that uses colors, a sun and moon icon or similar signals to show a child when it is time to sleep and when it is acceptable to get up. It supports routines for young children who cannot yet read the time.