From robots and retro pets to cameras, calls and screen-free stories, here’s our pick of clever kit for kids.
Tamagotchis are making a major nostalgic comeback. Now it’s your kids’ turn to discover the original virtual pet: hatch it, feed it, play with it and try to keep the little thing alive. R499.99, checkers.co.za
With its brilliantly old-school name, TonieBox is a very modern first phone. Designed in South Africa for kids aged six to 13, the screen-free, Wi-Fi-connected landline only makes and receives calls from parent-approved contacts. Starting at R1,899, tickeybox.co.za
The Yoki Insta Print Camera lets little photographers snap, print and get creative. Photos print instantly in black and white, ready to colour in with the included mini markers. R999, yokico.co.za
If you haven’t discovered the Toniebox yet, you’ve been missing out. This soft, screen-free audio player lets kids listen to stories, audiobooks and songs simply by popping a character figurine on top. It’s an investment, but a very clever one. Starting from R6,584.26, amazon.co.za
A little engineering project powered by sunshine. The Edu-Toy 7-in-1 solar robot kit lets kids build seven different solar-powered robots, with no batteries required, while sneaking in a bit of STEM learning along the way. R184, communica.co.za
The Funkyfing Jr 2 GPS smartwatch gives parents real-time location tracking, while kids can make calls and video chats, but only with approved contacts. A little independence, with some parental peace of mind. Starting at R3,199, funkyfing.co.za
Coding without the screen time. Botley 2.0 introduces kids from age five to coding and STEM through play, and can even transform into a train, police car, ghost and more. R2,899, educanda.co.za
