The Curator: Gadgets for kids who aren’t quite ready for a smartphone yet

THE CURATOR Gadgets for kids who aren’t quite ready for a smartphone yet By Chad Sapieha The Curator Team Posted September 16, 2026 7:00 am Updated September 16, 2026 7:10 am 1 min read View image in full screen Discover kid-friendly tech without social media or endless notifications. LEAVE A COMMENT SHARE THIS ITEM ON FACEBOOK SHARE THIS ITEM ON X SEND THIS PAGE TO SOMEONE VIA EMAIL SEE MORE SHARING OPTIONS DESCREASE ARTICLE FONT SIZE INCREASE ARTICLE FONT SIZE The Curator independently decides what topics and products we feature. When you purchase an item through our links, we may earn a commission. Promotions and products are subject to availability and retailer terms. There’s no shame in keeping a smartphone out of your kids’ paws until you feel they’re ready for one. The trick is trying to keep them happy in the meantime. Fortunately, there’s loads of kid-friendly tech out there that doesn’t include full access to the world wide web. From screen-free audio players and instant-print cameras to e-readers, walkie-talkies, and smartwatches with parental controls, we’ve picked gadgets that will give your kids plenty to do, make, and explore without opening the door to social media and endless notifications.   Yoto Mini (4th Gen) The Yoto Mini gives kids the independence of choosing their own entertainment minus a screen. Pop in a card for audiobooks, music, and educational activities, or use Green Button playlists for easy access to their favourite content. Aimed at younger kids, the tumble-proof 4th Gen can store more than a thousand hours of audio and is ideal for car rides, flights, and bedtime. Just keep in mind that the cards are sold separately. $134.99 ON AMAZON STORY CONTINUES BELOW ADVERTISEMENT   Proscan Children’s Zero Ink Instant Print Camer Have an aspiring young shutterbug? This picture-popper transforms digital photography into something physical. Kids can shoot photos and 1080p video, add frames and effects, then make instant black-and-white prints using inexpensive thermal paper (no ink cartridges required!). A good pick for younger grade schoolers, especially on trips, at parties, and during family gatherings. It could be their first step toward becoming the next Annie Leibovitz. $49.98 AT WALMART CANADA   Kobo Clara Colou Proof that not all screens are bad. Kobo Clara Colour’s six-inch E Ink display is easy on young eyes and, more importantly, free of social feeds, pop-ups, and notification pings. Instead, it opens the door…