Why We Love Tonnie Boxes: A Screen-Free Storytelling Experience

As a family, we try to be mindful of screen time, so when my parents gifted my 6-year-old and 3-year-old Tonnie Boxes last Christmas, we didn’t know just how much they would love them! These simple, portable devices have become an everyday part of our routine and have completely transformed how we approach storytelling and entertainment.

A Modern Take on an Old-School Classic

Tonnie Boxes offer a fun, screen-free experience that feels like a throwback to the good old days of sitting around the radio, listening to stories. Instead of relying on screens or tablets, the Tonnie Box allows my kids to immerse themselves in the world of storytelling through pre-loaded “Tonnie” figurines. It’s a beautiful way to stimulate their imagination and help them unwind after a busy day.

Perfect for Car Rides and Quiet Time

The best part is that once a Tonnie is loaded into the box, there’s no need for a Wi-Fi connection. My kids take the Tonnie Box with them everywhere — from long car rides to quiet moments at home. Whether it’s the Frozen or Cars Tonnie or their favorites like National Geographic or Paw Patrol, they listen to their stories multiple times a day, each time creating new adventures in their minds. I often see them resighting the words as they listen.

Our Tonnie Box Collection

Over the past year, we’ve built a basket full of Tonnie figurines, each bringing a new world to explore. The National Geographic series is especially a hit with my 6-year-old Owen, who’s developed a love for all things science and the natural world, while the Disney and Paw Patrol Tonnie sets keep both of them entertained for hours. Owen LOVES his Winnie the Pooh and Tigger Tonnies...so sweet for my husband Jimmy and I to watch as he sings or talks along.

Here’s where you can get your own Tonnie Box and sets:

• Basic Tonnie Box: Click here to shop on Amazon

• National Geographic Starter Set: Click here to shop on Amazon

• Disney Princess Starter Set: Click here to shop on Amazon

• Disney Mix Starter Set: Click here to shop on Amazon

• Frozen Starter Set: Click here to shop on Amazon

• Paw Patrol Starter Set: Click here to shop on Amazon

Why a Screen-Free Storytelling Experience is So Good for Kids

In today’s digital world, it’s easy for kids to be glued to screens. However, screen-free storytelling, like the Tonnie Box, offers unique benefits that screens simply can't provide. Listening to stories without the distraction of images or videos allows children to use their imagination, which is essential for cognitive development. It encourages creativity and helps them build problem-solving skills as they visualize characters and settings in their minds. Also, with the Tonnie Boxes, it is so easy for little ones to be independent and use on their own.

Screen-free entertainment fosters better attention spans and can create a more peaceful, calming environment for kids. Instead of the rapid pace and overstimulation often associated with screen-based media, these audio-based stories promote a slower, more thoughtful way of engaging with narratives, which is particularly helpful when winding down for bedtime or quiet moments.

In our home, we’ve found that the Tonnie Box is a beautiful tool for nurturing creative, mindful play — one that supports the healthy development of both their imaginations and their emotional well-being.