The 10 Best iPad Mini Cases for Kids
Editor's Notes
September 17, 2020:
Replaced the Snugg Shockproof with the TopEsct Shockproof, which also offers more than two handles, but doesn't take up quite as much space and comes with a strap. Removed the Duragadget Pink due to quality concerns and replaced it with the Etoden Cat, which has a cute cartoon cat design that little kids are sure to enjoy. Removed the LifeProof Nuud due to availability concerns and replaced it with the OtterBox Defender, which is also a good choice for those who have an iPad that is used both by young kids and by teenagers or adults.
There are several generations of the iPad mini, and the size has changed over the years, so make sure you check which model you have before choosing a case. We included a mix of cases that fit older and newer generations, since tablets used by kids are often hand-me-downs.
June 25, 2019:
If you've ever experienced a cracked screen on a phone or tablet, you know that a protective case for an iPad Mini is a good idea. Especially if that iPad is to be used by children--then it's not just a good idea but a necessity. Kids drop things. And when that thing is a delicate, expensive electronic device, a case is a cheap insurance policy.
Cases come in an array of styles and colors and are made of tough materials like rubber, silicone, or polycarbonate. They are easier to hold onto than the thin, slick surface of an iPad, and many feature an integrated stand so that kids don't have to hold them at all to read or watch their favorite shows.
In this update, we evaluated cases based on durability, functionality, and value. Removed an item due to repeated user complaints about its usability and durability. Added the Duragadget Pink as a good option because of its thick end pieces which make it easy to hold onto and for its integrated kickstand, which can hold the iPad at several different viewing angles. Promoted the Xboun Butterfly to one of our top slots because we like its innovative design with the butterfly's wings also serving as stands that hold the device in either a vertical or horizontal position.
Why Kids Need iPad Cases
Also keep in mind that children play in the dirt, jump in puddles, work with finger paint, and participate in a lot of rather messy scenarios — with their iPad in tow.
If you're an adult with an iPad, you likely have a case for your pro or Air, but may be wondering if you really need to get this accessory for your kiddo. But think about it: if a responsible adult who knows just how much one of these devices cost can still make mistakes, like dropping it or spilling a drink over it, then a clumsy child certainly can, too. Also keep in mind that children play in the dirt, jump in puddles, work with finger paint, and participate in a lot of rather messy scenarios — with their iPad in tow. That's why many cases for kids are water-, dirt-, mud-, and shock-proof, letting your child remain his usual hyper, rowdy self, without putting pricey technology at risk.
Look at a child's lunchbox, locker, or desk, and you'll notice something: kids love to express themselves through their belongings and they tend to do so by decorating everything they own. In fact, some kids have taken crafts like locker decoration to new heights. Children don't want their belongings to look generic. And of course, you probably don't want your little one putting any sort of adhesive or marker on his iPad. Giving your kid a mini iPad case provides a practical way for him or her to show their personality, without harming the actual device. There are plenty of quirky and adorable designs, from ones that look like they have arms and legs to brightly-colored models, offering your youngster a way to customize their gadget.
Kids use iPads for many things, but a major one is program-viewing and e-book reading. But your child shouldn't have to hold his iPad upright for the duration of his favorite TV show, or length of a beloved book. It puts a strain on his small hands. Luckily, many mini cases have kickstands or other components that let them sit upright on their own. This leaves your child's hands free to have a snack or take notes on what he's reading or watching. Even for those times your kiddo just wants to hold his iPad, he should at least have a case with ergonomic, comfortable grips — these are much easier to grasp than the slippery iPad housing.
Other Fun Accessories For iPad Minis
There are plenty of accessories you can add to your child's iPad mini to enhance his experience with the device. While one of the perks of an iPad is the portability that clunky desktops just don't offer, you may still want your child to practice the art of typing. Consider an add-on keyboard. Any model with Bluetooth capabilities should sync up with your child's mini nicely, and help him practice his typing. This will make doing homework on his iPad mini much easier and prepare him for real world jobs in which he might very well need to reach a typing speed of 80 words per minute.
While one of the perks of an iPad is the portability that clunky desktops just don't offer, you may still want your child to practice the art of typing.
If you want to introduce your child to the many wonderful benefits of listening to music, from enhanced focus during studying to emotional calmness, then a quality pair of speakers could be in order. There are Bluetooth-enabled speakers with charging docks, specifically for iPad minis. So, your child can blast Mozart while taking in knowledge and charging their device. Of course, if you and the rest of your family need peace and quiet, you can also add quality headphones as a gift.
Long road trips can be especially trying on kids, and a time when iPad minis become particularly useful. These devices allow your child to watch his or her favorite shows or movies while you drive, rather than asking you questions and distracting you. But you don't want your child to crane their neck looking down at the screen on a lap for hours, so consider a car mount bracket. These can hold the device upright and allow for a more comfortable viewing angle.
Benefits Of Giving Your Child An iPad Mini
There is a lot of discussion among parents, teachers, and child psychiatrists about the pros and cons of giving a child an iPad or similar tablet. But some pros are undeniable. For starters, humans actually retain information better when they can physically interact with, i.e. touch the items they're learning about. iPads allow for plenty of engagement since they have touchscreens. So, kids may better remember what they read if they use their finger to scroll down the page, and they might recall important concepts quicker if they can play educational touchscreen games.
Whether it's entertainment or education your child needs, an iPad mini gives him a way to have that, any time, any place.
Giving your child an iPad mini may reduce some of the clutter in your home, too. It's no secret that children will leave their toys scattered everywhere. While some psychologists suggest parents embrace kid's clutter, moms and dads know the frustration of walking around, stepping on puzzle pieces and figurines from board games. And every mom and dad has found their child's books scattered about the surfaces of their home. But iPads can contain thousands of such games and literature, in their cyber versions, in one place. All your child has to do to "clean up" after playing Monopoly on a screen is press the power button. That's bound to be a swifter process than picking up the pieces of physical Monopoly.
Whether it's entertainment or education your child needs, an iPad mini gives him a way to have that, any time, any place. How many times have you found yourself, waiting at a doctor's office or bank with your child for a half hour and thinking, "He could at least be reading right now?" But you don't pack his books for every outing. That's okay; all you need to do is pack the iPad mini, and any unexpected downtime can turn into a quick study session. And as for those times your hyper child won't stop getting into mischief while you're trying on clothes in the store, just put his favorite show on the screen and he should simmer down.