Yes! Mendi is safe for children, as it uses gentle, light-based brain measurement (fNIRS) with no electrical stimulation or radiation.
For practical reasons, we recommend Mendi for kids around age 5 and up, when they can comfortably wear the headset and follow the focus or relaxation tasks.
Safe for Young Brains
Mendi uses red and near-infrared light to measure changes in blood flow and oxygenation just beneath the skin on the forehead.
This same type of light has been used for decades in medical and research settings; including infant and child studies, with no known adverse effects.
Because Mendi only measures brain activity and doesn’t send any signals into the brain, it’s as safe as a pulse oximeter or smartwatch sensor.³
đź’ˇ Tips for Parents and Caregivers
Keep it short: Start with brief sessions (3 minutes). Gradually increase duration if your child enjoys it.
Make it playful: Frame it as a game or “brain exercise,” not a test.
Encourage curiosity: Ask how it felt to focus or relax; help them connect sensations to outcomes.
Join in: Kids often engage more when a parent practices alongside them.
Experiment: See how standing on their heads or laying down could affect the readings. (Do this in Guest mode so it won't affect their overall progress statistics).
A Quick Note on Use
While Mendi is safe, it’s not a medical device.
If your child has a neurological condition, skin sensitivity, or developmental concern, it’s best to consult a healthcare provider before beginning neurofeedback training.