The Toniebox Tested By Two Mums — Here’s Their Opinion
In today’s fast-paced digital world, finding engaging, screen-free entertainment for little ones can be a challenge. With growing concerns about excessive screen time and its impact on children’s development, parents are constantly looking for creative ways to keep their kids entertained while also encouraging learning and imagination.
That’s where the Toniebox comes in — a musical audio player designed just for kids. Combining storytelling, music and education in a fun, interactive way, it’s designed to keep little hands and minds busy without the need for a screen. But can the Toniebox really keep young kids entertained? Two mums with children of different ages put it to the test. Keep reading to find out what they think, or jump to:
- What is the Toniebox?
- What makes the Toniebox stand out?
- A new mom’s review of the Toniebox
- An experienced mom’s review of the Toniebox
- Is the Toniebox worth it?
What Is The Toniebox?
The Toniebox (£79.95) is a musical story box designed for children up to 8 years old, offering hours of screen-free entertainment. With an impressive 7-hour battery life, research shows that children engage with it 148 times more than the average toy. The Toniebox works with Tonies (£14.99), – hand painted, magnetic figurines of beloved characters like Peppa Pig, Gruffalo and Paw Patrol. All the the little listeners need to do is pop the Tonie on top of the Toniebox and get ready for songs and stories galore.
What Makes The Toniebox Stand Out?
The Toniebox is designed for little listeners – no complicated buttons, wires or fragile parts. This soft, cushioned cube is virtually indestructible – so whether it tumbles down the stairs or takes a dive off the kitchen counter, it’ll keep on playing!
The Toniebox plays stories and music when a Tonie is popped on top. Kids just tap or tilt the Toniebox to change tracks or skip to the next story and squeeze the ears to adjust the volume.
With a huge variety of content – from The Gruffalo and Peppa Pig to Disney favourites and educational Tonies – there’s something for every child. Parents can even record personal messages with Creative Tonies.
Save with a Toniebox bundle or grab an individual Tonie for £14.99.
Toniebox Review By Emma, A New Mum
As a first-time mum, I often found myself feeling guilty about how often I reached for the iPad to keep my 3-year-old, Sophie, entertained. Mornings were pure chaos – my coffee always went cold, and my lively three-year-old seemed to need me every second. I craved something screen-free that would hold her attention, even if just for a few precious minutes, so I could catch my breath and start the day feeling a little more human.
So when our neighbour recommended the Toniebox to me, I was intrigued and ordered one along with a few of her favourite characters. The next morning, she placed Frozen’s Elsa on top and was instantly fascinated. For the first time in ages, I actually had a moment to myself.
Now, every morning, she chooses a Tonie while I finally enjoy a hot cup of coffee. It’s been a total game-changer! She adores Peppa Pig and The Gruffalo, and I love that she’s engaging with something imaginative and educational instead of staring at a screen. Plus, the Toniebox is so easy to use, she can operate it all on her own.
Bedtime has also been transformed into a special bonding time. We cuddle up together, enjoying calming stories and soft white noise that help her unwind. With this routine, she feels safe and relaxed, drifting off to sleep much faster.
Toniebox Review By Jessica, A Mum Of Two
With two kids – a eight-year-old daughter and a five-year-old son – my days are packed. Between school runs and after-school activities, our schedule is non-stop. But the real challenge? The weekends. With no structure, they’d spend the entire day arguing over what to watch on TV.
I’d heard about the Toniebox from a few school mums, and after one too many “I want to watch Milo!”– “No, I want the whale story!” debates, I decided enough was enough. I picked up a Toniebox and a few Tonies for each of them, hoping to steer them away from screens.
To my surprise, instead of causing more arguments, it actually solved them. They started taking turns without complaints, and before long, they even found stories they both loved. Now, they listen together, play, dance and let their imaginations run wild – a rare moment of peace in our house! They also love creating their own stories with the figurines. Instead of zoning out in front of the TV, we’re all engaged, creative, and truly interacting as a family. Whether we’re playing games, telling stories, or working on projects together, our weekends have become so much more enjoyable and meaningful for all of us.
Is the Toniebox worth it?
Emma:
Our mornings and evenings have completely transformed — I actually have time to myself now! The Toniebox (£79.95) is exactly what we needed. It’s such a relief knowing Sophie’s enjoying something educational. I only wish we’d discovered it sooner!
Jessica:
A huge thank you to the Toniebox! It’s been a game-changer, keeping my kids engaged and creative all weekend. Instead of just watching TV, they’re now running around, telling me stories, and sharing new facts they’ve learned from their latest Tonie. And of course, they’re already asking for more Tonies to add to their growing collection!
