Children identify different sounds, rhythm and can even move to the beats of music very early in their life. Music provides cognitive benefits that support children’s early development.

Planet Buddies

While music choice is entirely subjective, there’s no denying the positive impact on gross motor skills development and maintaining a healthy active body overall for kids.

For instance, moving to nursery rhymes allows babies and children to discover and manage their body’s range of physical movements.

Digital native parents are navigating the world of audio-visual content consumption while remaining cognisant of the effect of blue-light and sound levels on children’s eyesight and hearing.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), listening to music at a maximum level of 85 decibels (dB) makes it safe for children to enjoy up to eight hours of audio per day without the concern of noise-induced hearing loss.

I haven’t introduced my three-year-old toddler to headphones yet, but I recently purchased the Planet Buddies Wireless Bluetooth Speaker for her enjoyment, in her own space.

It’s a delightful addition to her lifestyle and opens a new world of audio exploration and entertainment, with access to audiobooks, nursery rhymes and songs during playtime.

“Tech for kids that doesn’t cost the earth” is the Planet Buddies twofold tagline. All the materials used in their packaging are 100% recyclable and environmentally friendly, including soy based inks for printing.

Additionally, the wide range of products available on Takealot range between R299 and R699 making it affordable, great quality tech and accessories that you can trust for your kids. The wireless speaker can be purchased for R599 locally.

Planet Buddies Speaker Quick Look

  • Bluetooth compatible with Android and iOS
  • 400mAh battery
  • Up to 4-hour playtime on a full charge (60-day standby time)
  • Full-range sound system with 3W output power
  • Built-in microphone for hands-free call handling

Design

The compact and lightweight design fits perfectly into the palm of your hand and any kids backpack. I particularly love the soft touch.

Planet buddies has created a range of spirited characters who represent endangered, vulnerable, and threatened species from around the world which carries through in every product’s design.

Each speaker is made from 50% recycled plastic. My daughter chose Olive The Owl for its traditional girly appeal in comparison to the other options available locally. However, I would prefer if the speaker came with a protective casing for travel.

Connectivity and Sound

Straight out of the box, the speaker may be used for up to an hour of playtime, after which it will require a full four-hour charge using the USB charging cable that is provided.

When switched on, it shows up as PB Owl Speaker on the list of Bluetooth devices and connects seamlessly within a 10m range.

The power output of 3W is ideal to meet the needs of a child, crystal clear sound and high-quality bass good enough to power a bedroom dance-party.

Additionally, this clever little speaker can be paired with another Planet Buddies speaker to produce a Bluetooth stereo system and enjoy an immersive sound experience for hours.

 

7.7
Score

Pros

  • Attractive and engaging design
  • Excellent sound quality
  • Easy to use

Cons

  • No access to radio frequency
  • Not waterproof considering the nature of kids
Design
8
Features
6
Value for Money
9

Final Verdict

If you are shopping around for an electronic gift for a kid, I highly recommend the Planet Buddies wireless speaker. Its lightweight and compact design makes it easy to move around indoors and take along outdoors. The sound quality is solid, in comparison to another wireless speaker I use with a 4.2W output. Lastly, the educational and ethical aspect of the purchase is undeniably a factor to consider, at least for me, creating more conscious kids that are motivated to be kinder to the planet.