readers' choice awards

Scary Mommy 2026 Readers' Choice Awards Best Screen-Free Device Brands

Technology is cool, even and especially when it doesn’t come through a screen.

by Team Scary Mommy

There is a time and a place for screens. But, especially when your kids are young, there’s also a time and a place for screen-free fun that still introduce the wonders of technology. From toys for toddlers to audio favorites for older kids, these are our favorites.

Scary Mommy’s readers have spoken! Congratulations to our 2026 top Screen-Free Device Brands!

1. tonies

What Scary Mommy readers love about tonies:

  • The cute figurines double as real toys! My toddler loves picking her favorite character and setting it on the box all by herself.
  • A total bedtime savior 💤! Playing sleepy audio calms my kiddos down without a screen in sight so everyone actually gets some rest.
  • Fun, endless tales and songs from “Bluey” to “Paw Patrol”! It keeps the girls entertained for hours while drawing and playing.

2. Yoto

What Scary Mommy readers love about Yoto:

  • Starting our day with the Yoto Daily podcast has become a family tradition! It keeps my kids laughing and learning while eating breakfast.
  • The “Make Your Own” cards are genius! We record Grandma reading stories, plus my older kid listens to full chapter books.
  • Total life-saver for long road trips! The credit-card-sized cards fit in a small binder, keeping car rides completely meltdown-free. 💯

3. Fisher-Price

What Scary Mommy readers love about Fisher Price:

  • A classic for a reason! Their sensory toys keep babies and little ones engaged with fun textures, catchiest tunes, and zero screen time.
  • Our FP toys are virtually indestructible and NEVER need a Wi-Fi connection!
  • I played with Fisher-Price as a kid, and now my children love those exact same happy, hands-on musical favorites!

Photos courtesy of Fisher-Price, Hatch, Loftie, Mighty, tonies

Have questions? Read the official Readers' Choice rules.