Toddler-proof your iPad

Posted on February 3, 2013 by Lorraine

The iPad is out, we’re playing Casey’s Contraptions:

Do it like this…

No, not like that

Let me show you!

This is not, as you may think, me talking to Bowser, but him talking to me. It’s true; he probably is more iPad savvy than I am.

Used in moderation and alongside conventional learning tools I think tablets can be a great learning tool for toddlers and preschoolers. Bowser is extremely keen to practice forming his letters if it involves the iPad whereas he won’t voluntarily pick up a pen and paper to do the same. We’ve downloaded Apps to learn simple maths, money, ABCs and letter writing. And before I sound too holier than thou of course there is also a lot of Angry Birds, Candy Crush and Cut the Rope played too.

While Bowser may be savvy when it comes to the Apps, he’s not so hot when it comes to looking after the device itself. Sticky fingers, over-zealous jabbing at the screen, leaving the tablet camouflaged on the sofa for someone to sit on – all crimes against the gadget that go on in our house. I know, it’s sensible to set rules such as washing your hands before you start, sitting down to play, no carrying the iPad around and putting it away when you’ve finished, but you know, kids forget, accidents happen. So I’ve been checking out some kid-proofing options for tablets.

The Speck iGuy iPad case is perfect for the youngsters. It’s bright, sturdy and with its friendly arm-shaped handles it’s very easy for the little ones to grip which means it’s less likely to be dropped, but if that does happen the PVC-fee EVA foam is good protection. Its feet also make it great for free standing if it’s being used for watching a cartoon. If you’re looking for a colourful and fun iPad or iPad Mini case, the iGuy is just the ticket.

We’ve got a Speck iGuy lined up to give away so be sure to pop back on Friday for a chance to win one!

If you’re looking for something a bit less bulky these are a few more options available in the kid-friendly iPad and iPad Mini case range:

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The Gripcase is made of thick, soft EVA foam and is very lightweight. The handle all the way around is perfect for holding and for tilting and turning the iPad when playing movement based games. It’s perfect for the very young or children with learning delays or disabilities to use because it is so sturdy and easy to hold. A separate stand can be purchased for the Gripcase if you want it freestanding to watch videos.

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The fun and functional KaysCase KidBox has a handle for carrying which can be pushed back into a stand for watching videos. It’s also made from EVA foam which is strong yet lightweight. This one may be a little harder to put around the iPad, but this is intentional – the designers said “We would rather make it a little harder to put in, so it will stay safely in.”

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M-Edge Supershell weighs just nine ounces. The squishy foam material wraps around the edges of your iPad for a secure fit while the dimpled texture and ridges allow for better grip, but even if your little one does drop it, the SuperShell bounces to protect your tablet from dings.

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The i-Blason ArmorBox Kido Series, which looks a lot like the KidBox, is a sturdy shock-absorbent polycarbonate case available for iPad or iPad mini. The handle is hinged so you can either use it to carry the tablet or prop or stand it to watch movies, etc.