We strategically researched countless models of alarm clocks on the market and considered each model’s unique features, alarm sounds, display styles, and overall functionality. Our top pick, the Hatch Rest+, offers customizable features, multiple sleep programs, an adjustable night light, and sound machine capabilities. We also consulted Shelby Harris, Psy.D., C.BSM, board-certified sleep specialist, to get her professional insights when curating our list.
Here are the best kid’s alarm clocks for preschoolers to teens. Some additional attributes include 11 soothing sounds that can put your child to sleep or help them sleep soundly throughout the night. Also, the 10-shade customizable night light helps children who are scared of the dark or like to read before bed. Price at time of publish: $90 One downside is that this clock is not as adjustable as others on the market. However, it does allow for some flexibility in the color and longevity of the nightlight. It gets the job done and offers some customization, making it a no-fuss and creative option. With six nightlight colors, three brightness settings, a sound machine, and multiple alarm sounds, the LittleHippo device will mean a peaceful night’s rest and a relaxing morning for any child, even well beyond the years of sleep training. Price at time of publish: $65 The sunrise light simulation increases brightness from 10 percent to 100 in the span of 30, 20, and 10 minutes before the alarm sounds. This allows for a smooth transition from sleep to starting your day. Parents can set up two alarms on the clock, and children can use the device as a night light or reading lamp, all of which are adjustable with the push of a button. Price at time of publish: $60 The clock is tap-to-snooze but provides the option of multiple alarms and timers, all of which are seen through an LED display. It is a compact design that can fit seamlessly into any room design and tech-savvy family home. Price at time of publish: $60 The Winshine Touch Wake Up Night Light with Sunrise Simulation Alarm Clock has a sunrise simulation, meaning the light will slowly start to turn on before the alarm sounds to wake your child up. The alarm can play sounds like rain, charging birds, or crashing waves instead of a traditional beeping, all of which feature an adjustable volume to facilitate an easy morning. Editor’s note: Make sure to consult your child’s healthcare provider if your child has trouble sleeping. Price at time of publish: $43 What sets Loftie apart is the wellness features. Things like breathwork, sound baths, meditations, and sleep stories are accessible within the device and corresponding smartphone app. Our editors even say it is one of the best-designed alarm clocks on the market, making it a game-changing device in anyone’s life. Price at time of publish: $149 We love the wooden design of the clock. You can charge devices like iPhones, Samsung Galaxies, and AirPods, plus take advantage of snoozing options and an adjustable alarm volume. The clock even displays the day and date on the LED analog clock face. The lights can be a bit bright for some, but a solid sleep mask and comfortable bed sheets can help facilitate a peaceful night’s sleep. Price at time of publish: $40

Alarm Sounds

The wake-up sound of an alarm can be jarring for some children. Look for a clock that offers the not-so-traditional beeping to signal that it is time to start the day. Things like ocean waves, nature sounds, or gentle instrumental pieces can be the difference between a peaceful or stressful morning with a child.

Display Style

The age and cognitive abilities of a child should impact the display style of an alarm clock. For someone that is learning to tell time or has vision impairments, the clock should offer a bold typeface or can verbally express the time. This clock style can continue the child’s education when telling time or articulating information for those with other difficulties.

Why Trust The Spruce?

Samantha Parsons performed hours of research, read reviews of both household and smaller names in the category, and analyzed product sales to select the above clock options. If you are starting to sleep train and want the child to get used to the process outside of parental intervention, you can consider an alarm clock that uses light cues earlier. The clock itself is for children who still cannot tell time. Dr. Harris explains that instead of numbers, a sleep training clock uses light to signal that it is now morning and is time for the child to wake up. There are many options on the market, but sometimes simplicity is better. By doing things like using blackout curtains and putting your child to bed at an appropriate time for their age, you are one step closer to sleep-training success. Following this research, Samantha consulted Dr. Shelby Harris. Dr. Harris is board-certified in Behavioral Sleep Medicine and director of the Behavioral Sleep Medicine Program at the Sleep-Wake Disorders Center at Montefiore Medical Center. When she is not spending her time writing for The Spruce, Samantha works for a beauty brand and is constantly reading up on the latest product launches and design trends.