Walkie-Talkies for Kids: What to Look For in a Toy Set

Walkie-talkies are a classic kids’ toy for good reason: they get children outdoors, playing games and talking to each other without a screen. Toy sets vary a lot, though. This is a short guide to choosing one.

Toy radios and licensed radios are different things

Toy walkie-talkies are meant for short-distance play. Adult consumer radios, such as FRS and GMRS handhelds, follow FCC rules for certified equipment and, in the case of GMRS, a license. A set sold as a toy is not a substitute for a communication device in a real emergency, and a child should never be the only way an adult can reach them.

What to look for

• Ease of use: big, clear buttons and a simple channel selector.
• Batteries: check whether batteries are included and what type they use. The store listing for the set we carry says it requires four AAA batteries, which are not included.
• Durability: a rubbery case and a sturdy belt clip help with younger kids.
• Channels: more than one channel helps two groups play without hearing each other.
• Volume control: useful for protecting younger ears.
• Number of radios: two is the minimum. For a group of kids, buy more than one set and check that they work together.

Range: what to expect

Packages often promise miles. For a toy, plan on a backyard, a park or a campsite rather than a neighborhood. Walls, trees and hills reduce range further. It is worth testing a set indoors and out before a trip.

Safety and house rules

• Decide where the radios can be used, such as the yard and the playground.
• Agree on a check-in time and what to do if the radio stops working.
• Keep radio use friendly. Anyone on the same channel can hear the conversation.
• Supervise young children, especially around small parts and batteries.

Games to play with them

Scavenger hunts, treasure maps where one child directs another, hide-and-seek with clues, and camping check-ins all work well. Kids learn to give clear directions and take turns talking, which is a useful habit with any radio.

When they outgrow toys

Older kids and teenagers who want a real radio can use FRS handhelds, which need no license. Our FRS vs GMRS guide explains the difference between FRS and GMRS.

The store carries a set of kids’ walkie-talkies in several colours. Check the product page for its current details.

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