How to replace streaming services for kids
Children's streaming services have become expensive, ad-filled, and saturated with low-quality content. Parents looking to move away from them struggle to find internet-restricted hardware—like handheld media players that run specific apps without granting full web access—preventing them from successfully transitioning their kids' media time.
What people tried
Every workaround mentioned in the threads below. We haven’t tested any of them — and nobody here is claiming they worked.
- 1Using Plex or Emby media servers
- 2Buying used DVDs or Blu-rays from thrift stores and marketplaces
- 3Borrowing or renting DVDs from the local library
- 4Using free ad-supported streaming platforms or PBS Kids
- 5Checking out or buying physical media like CDs, cassettes, and CD players
- 6Using screenless kids' audio players like Yoto
- 7Locking down old or cheap prepaid smartphones using parental control apps
- 8Loading MP3 files onto basic screenless MP3 players or USB sticks
In their words
Unedited, grouped by where they were said, most upvoted first within each place, each linked to the thread it came from.
“I had this dilemma exactly.”source ↗
“Basically I’m just wondering if anyone might know of an mp3 player/iPod sized device that I can download apps like iHeart radio and Pandora on, but that doesn’t give her actual access to the internet.”source ↗
“I’ve been on the hunt, too! I haven’t found anything yet 😭😭😭”source ↗
“They keep getting more expensive, had ads, serve up garbage content. Basically devolving into the same expensive garbage I tried getting away from when cord cutting.”source ↗
“We’re jumping on the anti streaming bandwagon and I am trying to determine the best way to move forward with the kiddos tv time.”source ↗
Where this came up
People with this problem also raised
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- 6Why is it so hard to cancel digital subscriptions?
- 7How to set up playdates when you're too busy and don't know other parents
- 5How to switch schools in the middle of the school year
- 6How to stop doing exhausting children's birthday parties
- 3How to move an online community without losing members