We’re not here to sell you a brand. We’re here to help you make the best decision when it comes to purchasing a Metal Detector for your child. Of course, there are so many things to consider; where do you even start? Well, you can start with this comprehensive guide on finding the best metal detector for your child.

We’ve explored the features and technology of some of the top Metal Detectors for kids. Unlike other guides, we’ll take a look at what’s missing, because you don’t know what you don’t know! We’ve taken the guesswork out of it so you can make an informed, educated choice when researching good metal detectors for kids.

When you’re searching for a metal detector price is a primary concern, so in our metal detector reviews, we highlight price at one of the main factors to consider.

Remember, there is no true “best” metal detector. There is only the one that is best for you, and we’ll help you find it.

But before we start digging at the metal detectors for sale, let’s take a quick look at the three main features of each of our top five choices of children’s metal detectors. Then, we’ll take an in-depth look at each model and explore some of the most frequently asked questions out there about purchasing and using a child’s metal detector.

OUR TOP FIVE PICKS – A QUICK VIEW

Our number one choice for value, and your child will love its cool features!

NHI Forager I Metal Detector

• Lowest priced model for the variety of features and ease of use.
• Extras bundle included in the purchase: A free 72-page Beginner’s Guide and a folding shovel for digging up treasure.

MORE GREAT CHOICES…

Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV Metal Detector

• Basic model that is simple to use and budget-conscious.
• Motion all-metal mode will find all types of metal, including gold and silver.
• Safe, ergonomic design is ideal for children.

Bounty Hunter Quick Silver Metal Detector

• Three-tone audio feedback for quick and easy detection and distinguishing between metals and junk.
• Built-in headphone jack for privacy while treasure hunting.
• Lightweight design for easy handling.

Bounty Hunter Junior Metal Detector

• Age and size appropriate for younger children.
• Has three-foot range depth detection for hunting coins and larger objects.
• Provides automatic feedback with visual and audio target indicators

Garrett ACE 150 Metal Detector

• Push-button controls for simple, one-touch operation
• Large LCD screen for easy target identification of target/treasure
• Submersible search coil to use in water as well as on land

Why did we choose the NHI Forager I as our top pick?

Now, you’ll notice that three of our top five picks are Bounty Hunter, but none beat out our number one pick of the NHI Forager I metal detector. Why? A couple of reasons…

Bounty Hunter is a revered brand of metal detectors for beginners and children because it is so easy to use. However, simplicity often involves more sophisticated technology hidden beneath a basic design. And more complex technology almost always comes with a higher price tag.

Short and sweet, the Forager is a better price for what you get–and it’s also a well-known and trusted brand.

And it’s hard to beat the NHI Forager I bundle of goodies. Such value means you won’t have to spend extra on separate accessories.

The clincher for us is the educational material included in the purchase of the Forager. So, grab a juice, sit down with your child, and read through the Beginner’s Guide together–what an excellent way to introduce your child to technological literature than with the fun in metal detecting?!

IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS WHEN PURCHASING A METAL DETECTOR FOR YOUR CHILD

TOYS VS. THE REAL THING

Should metal detectors for children be different than metal detectors for adults?

The short answer is no. Of course some metal detectors are made especially for children, like the Bounty Hunter Junior for example. In some cases these are a better option if you are looking for specific features. But most basic models have simple enough technology for even young children to use, like the ones we review in this guide.

We don’t recommend fussing around with any stand-in for the real thing. A toy metal detector, though it may appear easier to use, will only cause your child frustration if he or she wants to find real treasure. And frustration will only hinder your child’s learning!

A real machine, suitable for adult use and basic enough for a young mind to operate is going to be your best bet. If you purchase an adjustable design then your child can use it for life.

And, real metal detectors typically come with a warranty of at least one year. If you have any problems with operation or ergonomic design, you can return it or trade it for a different model.

AGE AND DEVELOPMENTAL LEVEL OF YOUR CHILD

Children’s brains are different than adults’. They take in and process information at a remarkable speed. Because of this fascinating biological development, children learn a little differently than adults.

Children require immediate feedback for learning. They have shorter attention spans for acquiring new information. They don’t retain information as well as adults. But they have a remarkable ability to digest information through hands-on experience.

Four years of age is generally a good time to introduce children to the wonderful world of metal detecting for a few reasons:

• Their motor and hand-eye coordination is stronger and more precise.
• They can lift and hold heavier-weighted objects for longer periods of time.
• Their attention spans are longer so they can stay with an activity for more than just a few minutes.
• They start developing individual interests.
• They’re fascinated by science, and what better place to encourage this than in the natural world, digging up treasure?

EDUCATIONAL BENEFITS

An educational expert recommends looking for the following features when scoping out a metal detector for you child:

• Multiple sensory modes of detection to suit different learning styles and provide immediate feedback (see our review of the Bounty Hunter Junior Metal Detector).
• A reference guide, like the one included with our top pick Forager model. An useful educational resource for teaching your child how to use the machine and show how much fun metal detecting can be.
• Lightweight and adjustable design for safe and developmentally appropriate handling as your child grows (see our review of the Bounty Hunter QSIGWP Quick Silver Metal Detector)
• Simple, straightforward technology to ensure frustration-free operation, like the Garrett ACE 150.

Now, this doesn’t mean that you should only buy a machine that has every one of these features. You need to decide which ones are most important for you and your child. These specifications match all the models we’ve reviewed here so any choice you make from these options will be a good one. We believe the educational guide included in the Forager bundle is one of the best features.

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