This is the Christmas gift I’m recommending to any parent battling with kids over screen time

Finding a Christmas present children will use beyond Boxing Day can be tricky, especially when so many gifts involve screens. As a mum to an eight-year-old, I'm always looking for alternatives to tablets, which is why the Yoto Player has become one of my favourite things in our home.

My son absolutely loves his, and whenever my mum friends tell me about arguments over screen time, it's one of the first things I recommend.The Yoto Player is a screen-free audio device that lets children listen to stories, music, audiobooks and activities using physical cards. Simply pop a card into the player and they're ready to go.

What I love most is that my son can choose what he wants to listen to independently, without needing my phone or a tablet. It's a simple way to encourage children to enjoy entertainment without always watching something.

Yoto has a huge collection of cards to choose from. There’s audio books from Harry Potter to Julia Donaldson music such as Frozen, Abba and even Bob Marley. Plus educational cards from Space and Science to Blue Planet. There really is something to suit different interests and ages. The daily activities hosted by Jake are another bonus.

You can also build a collection over time, making new cards an easy birthday or Christmas present. I think the Yoto Player makes a brilliant gift because it can grow with your child. My eight-year-old still loves his, and I like having a screen-free option ready when he needs some entertainment.

It's not a magic fix for every screen-time battle, but having alternatives helps. If you're looking for a present that's fun, practical and encourages independence, the Yoto Player is one I'd happily recommend to other parents.

Natalie Dixon is our Lifestyle reporter, if you liked this article and want to read more about lifestyle you can follow Natalie Dixon on X here.

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