The Yoto Player is a screenless, kid-friendly audiobook and podcast media system and a possible answer to the video fixation seen in so many children today.
After days filled with all manner of whistling, beeping, booping, spinning, screaming, howling, and hooting devices designed to keep a kid’s attention, there’s nothing quite like snuggling up with your little one with a great storybook to calm things down before bedtime.
Those moments can spark interest in reading and learning in ways that few other things can. The growing prevalence of screen-centered media for children glues more and more kids to devices like iPads and smart TVs, which may not be the best option for their developing brains.
The Yoto Player addresses that issue with a fun, kid-friendly audiobook program that puts them in control of storytime and away from overstimulating screens.
Yoto Player Basics
The Yoto Player is essentially a small speaker box with a simple light display on the front that operates by inserting a story card into a slot. Once a card is inserted, the box plays whatever book, song, or story the card holds.
There are tons of options available for purchase, but they can also be made with user-created audio files and playlists. That means your kids can hear grandma, grandpa, or other distant relatives read stories in their own voices.
The Yoto Player also features a daily podcast for kids with facts, games, riddles, and jokes. Having a podcast of their own can make little ones feel more grown-up by emulating things they see mom and dad doing.
Safety and Features
The Yoto Player is Bluetooth compatible, so parents can play music through it if they so desire. Parents, however, also remain in control of the device through an app that allows them to do things like set bedtimes or configure the player’s nightlight feature. Also, the speaker won’t listen to commands like other smart speakers, and therefore it won’t potentially connect to videos or audio that may be inappropriate for children.
How Much?
The Yoto Player is available for MSRP $100. That price includes the player, magnetic charge cord, and a welcome card. For an additional $10, you can kickstart your child’s Yoto experience with a six-card starter pack.
The Yoto Card Store carries single cards and thematic card collections, with age-appropriate options for infants through preteens.
The Yoto Player promises to be the perfect intro to the universe of audiobooks and podcasts for kids surrounded by screens. And even if your little ones have books at the ready all day, no one is saying you still can’t save a few for mom and dad to read.
Learn more at YotoPlay.com.
