Parent-Approved Wi-Fi Routers and Extenders for Your Kid's Room

Maybe it’s because I’m still chuckling from watching Despicable Me 4 or the fact that this quality, quirky router is so cheap, but I dig Davolink’s Minions-themed routers. Available in “Bob” or “Kevin,” these Wi-Fi 6 routers support WPA3 encryption, the latest router security protocol and parental control settings. Depending on which Minion you choose to join your clan, your router will feature dual- or tri-band frequency and a 2.7GB or 5.4GB transfer rate. Bob is the cheaper option, but you’ll get a better performance from Kevin.

If you have an Eero Wi-Fi system, newer Amazon Echo smart speakers, including the Echo Pop Kids, will double as a Wi-Fi extender for your network. Along with fun designs featuring Marvel or Disney characters, the Echo Pop Kids comes with six months of Amazon Kids Plus, easy-to-use parental controls and “Hey Disney” functionality. It’s great for playing music and telling bedtime stories while also boosting your Wi-Fi network.

Sometimes you have to sacrifice fun for safety. The Gryphon AX mesh router doesn’t resemble any cute characters, but that’s because it takes its job -- parental controls -- seriously. The device equips parents with “active content monitoring, app and website blocking, individualized time limits and comprehensive insights so you can better monitor your kids’ screen time.” Aside from the parental controls, the router itself is impressive, featuring Wi-Fi 6 technology, tri-band frequency and coverage of up to 3,000 square feet.

Newer parents know that, along with the sound machine, a good nightlight is crucial to a sound night’s sleep. While most nightlights simply plug in, light up and have no other function, the Todaair device will also serve as a Wi-Fi extender. I’ll admit the mushroom design is different, but if you’re interested in a nightlight that can boost your Wi-Fi coverage, this is perhaps the best and only option you’ll find.

Kids play video games, and, if you’re like me, parents play video games, too. Depending on the number of players and devices in your household, gaming can take quite a toll on your connection. The solution is a good gaming router, like the Asus RT-AX86U, CNET’s pick for best gaming router overall. Not only does it look cool, the router is designed to keep latency low and speeds high, perfect for online gaming.