Creating personalized playlists on your Yoto account is a fantastic way to tailor audio experiences for your children. Whether it’s for bedtime stories, educational content, or travel entertainment, custom playlists, known as make your own playlists, can enhance your child’s Yoto experience. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, making it easy even if you’ve never used Yoto before.

Step 1: Set Up Your Yoto Account

Create an Account

1. Visit the Yoto Website: Go to Yoto’s official website(US) or Yoto UK (UK).
2. Sign Up: Click on the “Sign Up” button usually found at the top right corner of the homepage. Enter your email address and create a password. You can sign up and use Yoto and the playlists feature for free.
3. Verify Your Email: Check your inbox for a verification email from Yoto and follow the instructions to verify your account.

Log In

1. Log In to Your Account: After verifying your email, log in to your Yoto account using the credentials you just created.

Step 2: Prepare Your Audio Files

Choose Your Audio Content

1. Select Audio Files: Decide which audio files you want to include in your playlist. These can be MP3 files of stories, music, educational content, or even custom recordings.
2. Organize Files: Create a folder on your computer where you can store all the audio files for your playlist. This makes it easier to upload them later.

Ensure Compatibility

1. File Format: Ensure all your audio files are in MP3 format, as Yoto primarily supports this format for custom content.

Step 3: Access the Yoto App

Download the Yoto App

1. Download: Get the Yoto app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
2. Install: Follow the prompts to install the app on your device.

Log In to the App

1. Open the App: Launch the Yoto app on your device.
2. Log In: Use your Yoto account credentials to log in.

You will be brought to the screen on the left. If you have any physical cards this is where you will see them saved as your ‘library.’

Step 4: Upload Your Audio Files To A Playlist

Navigate to Make Your Own Cards

Access MYO Section: In the Yoto app, navigate to the “Make Your Own” (MYO) section. This is usually found in the main menu or settings.

The screen to the right will open up and you’ll be able to choose an artwork for the playlist, give the playlist a name and also add a description if you want to. After this you’ll be given the option to upload audio files.

Upload Audio Files To A Playlist

1. Upload Files: Click on the option to upload audio files. You can select multiple files at once from the folder you organized earlier.
2. Name Your Files: Give each file a meaningful name that will help you identify them when creating your playlist.

Once you have added some files to your playlist, you’ll be able to navigate to the playlist and the screen will look something like the picture on the right. You’ll be able to add more audio, edit the playlist information, share the playlist and link it to a card. Linking it to a card means you’ll put a blank make your own playlist card into the Yoto player and it will write the audio to the card. When you have done this the card can be used in the player without internet.

You can also play the playlist without writing it to a card if you have internet. You simply click the “Play this on” option at the bottom and change “This Phone” to your Yoto player.

There should be a pop-up like the picture on the left once you click “This Phone” and change it to the Yoto player that is linked to the account.

If you don’t have a Yoto player you can play it via a phone or tablet. We have the same account logged in on iPads, iPhones and Android devices.

Customize the Playlist

1. Edit Details: You can edit details such as the playlist cover image and description to make it visually appealing and easy to recognize. On a desktop it is easier to change the images and you can add absolutely anything – which is much better for making the playlists visually appealing and easy for children to understand what they are from one image.
2. Save: Save your playlist once you’re happy with the setup.

Step 5: Use Your Playlist

Play Your Playlist

1. Access on Yoto Player: Once synced, your playlist should appear in the MYO section on your Yoto player. You can now use this any time you want from your account. Even if you get a new phone these playlists will still exist when you log back in to your Yoto account.
2. Enjoy: Select your playlist and enjoy the custom audio experience you’ve created for your child.

Tips for Creating Effective Playlists

Theme Your Playlists

• Bedtime Stories: Create a playlist of calming stories to help your child wind down at night.
• Educational Content: Include educational audio files for learning on the go.
• Travel Entertainment: Compile fun and engaging stories or music to keep your child entertained during travel.

Update Regularly

• Add New Content: Regularly update your playlists with new audio files to keep the content fresh and engaging.
• Get Feedback: Ask your child for feedback on what they enjoy and adjust the playlists accordingly.
• Change The Order Of Audio: Yoto will play the first audio file when you go to the playlist, if you want the child to be able to listen to different audio files without playing with the device (e.g. bedtime) you may want to change the order of the audio files to mix it up a little for them.

Make It Personal

• Custom Recordings: Consider adding custom recordings of your voice reading stories or leaving messages. This adds a personal touch that your child will love. I recorded myself reading a story about a dinosaur with autism and Travis LOVED it. The way he reacted when he realised it was my voice still makes me smile.
• Get family involved: You can also ask family members to record stories and send the files over for you to add to your Yoto playlist. I recommend saving the files elsewhere so you have access to them rather than recording them from within the Yoto app because if they are in the app they can’t be taken out of the app.

Backup Your Playlists

• Save Copies: Keep copies of your playlists and audio files on your computer or cloud storage to ensure you don’t lose them.

Creating your own playlists on Yoto is a fantastic way to customize your child’s audio experience, making travel and daily routines more enjoyable and educational. By following these steps, you can easily set up and manage playlists that cater to your child’s interests and needs. Enjoy!

The post How to Create Make Your Own Playlists on Yoto appeared first on Autism Family Travel Guide.

My Favourite Travel Yoto Cards

As a family that loves to travel, especially with our autistic children, finding engaging and educational content that can keep the kids entertained and stimulated during our trips is crucial. The Yoto Mini has become an indispensable part of our travel gear, thanks to its wide range of cards that cater to various interests and ages. Here, I’m sharing my favourite Yoto cards specifically related to travel, countries, the planet, history, and cultural stories. These cards not only keep our children entertained but also offer enriching educational experiences that align with our family’s passion for exploring the world.

Click here to buy your own Yoto player direct from Yoto, using my referral link. This link will give you 10% off your first purchase, which has to be over £59.99 which is the cost of a Yoto Mini Player. Alternatively, you can click through to this shoppable video I made for TikTok and purchase it there.

Activity Travel Yoto Cards

Around the World

The “Around the World” card is an incredible travel activity that introduces kids to different countries and cultures through fun facts and ends with an interactive quiz. This card is packed with fascinating facts, engaging activities, and stories about various places around the globe. It’s perfect for sparking curiosity and broadening our children’s understanding of the world.

Flags of the World

“Flags of the World” is another fantastic travel activity card that helps kids learn about different countries through their flags. This card includes games and quizzes that make learning fun and memorable. It’s a great way for children to recognize and remember the flags of different nations, which adds an educational layer to our travel experiences. The different flags display on the small screen of the Yoto mini!

Stories from Specific Locations

5-Minute Stories from Around the World

This card offers a collection of short stories from various cultures, making it a delightful addition to our travel library. The stories are perfect for short bursts of entertainment, whether we’re waiting in an airport or on a long car ride. Each story provides a glimpse into the traditions and folklore of different countries, fostering a sense of global awareness and appreciation.

Alex’s Good Fortune

“Alex’s Good Fortune” is a charming story that introduces children to Chinese New Year traditions. Through Alex’s adventure, kids learn about the cultural significance of the holiday, the customs, and the festive activities associated with it. This card is particularly engaging and educational, offering a rich cultural experience through a captivating narrative.

Music Cards Related to Travel

Songs for Little Explorers

“Songs for Little Explorers” is a lively music card that features songs inspired by different parts of the world. It’s perfect for keeping the energy up and creating a fun, musical atmosphere during travel. The catchy tunes and varied musical styles introduce children to different cultures through music.

Child of Nature

“Child of Nature” is a beautiful music card that celebrates the wonders of nature and the outdoors. The soothing melodies and nature-inspired lyrics are perfect for creating a calming environment during travel, helping to relax and entertain our children.

Ticket to Ghana, Ticket to Brazil, and Ticket to Mali

These country-specific music cards are some of our favourites. Each “Ticket to” card features traditional and contemporary music from Ghana, Brazil, and Mali, respectively. They offer an immersive musical experience that transports listeners to different parts of the world, enhancing our travel experiences and fostering an appreciation for global music cultures.

You can shop the “Ticket To Mali” card via my TikTok shoppable video here, or “Ticket To Ghana” can be found here.

Exploring Different Areas of the Planet

Ladybird Audio Adventures: The Frozen World and Rainforests

These Ladybird Audio Adventure cards are a hit with our kids. “The Frozen World” takes listeners on an icy adventure through the polar regions, while “Rainforests” explores the lush, vibrant ecosystems of the world’s rainforests. These cards are filled with interesting facts, engaging storytelling, and immersive soundscapes that make learning about these environments exciting and fun.

Our Planet Series: Oceans, Tropical Rainforests, The Polar Regions

The “Our Planet” series is an exceptional set of cards that delve into various ecosystems. “Oceans,” “Tropical Rainforests,” and “The Polar Regions” offer in-depth looks at these diverse habitats, complete with stunning descriptions and captivating narratives. These cards are fantastic for teaching kids about the importance of conservation and the beauty of our planet.

BBC Series: The Blue Planet 2, The Green Planet 2, and The Frozen Planet 2

The BBC series cards are a treasure trove of information and adventure. “The Blue Planet 2,” “The Green Planet 2,” and “The Frozen Planet 2” take listeners on extraordinary journeys through the oceans, forests, and polar regions. The high-quality audio and engaging storytelling make these cards a standout choice for educational entertainment during travel.

You can find these cards on my TikTok shop here.

Historical & Significant Global Groups

Meet the Ancient Greeks

This card introduces children to the fascinating world of ancient Greece, covering mythology, daily life, and significant historical events. It’s a wonderful way to spark an interest in history and provide context for visits to historical sites.

Meet the Ancient Romans

“Meet the Ancient Romans” is another fantastic card that delves into the rich history of the Roman Empire. From gladiators to emperors, this card covers a wide range of topics that are both educational and entertaining, making history come alive for young listeners.

Meet the Pirates

Who doesn’t love a good pirate story? This card explores the history and myths surrounding pirates, offering exciting tales and historical facts that capture the imagination. It’s perfect for adding a touch of adventure to our travel experiences.

Meet the Ancient Egyptians

“Meet the Ancient Egyptians” takes listeners on a journey through ancient Egypt, exploring the wonders of the pyramids, pharaohs, and daily life along the Nile. This card is packed with intriguing stories and facts that make learning about ancient civilizations engaging and fun.

You can also purchase a Yoto card case via this TikTok shoppable video.

Click here to buy your own Yoto player direct from Yoto, using my referral link. This link will give you 10% off your first purchase, which has to be over £59.99 which is the cost of a Yoto Mini Player. Alternatively, you can click through to this shoppable video I made for TikTok and purchase it there.

The Yoto Mini and its diverse range of cards have become essential for our family travels. Whether it’s through activity cards, stories, music, or educational content about the planet and history, these cards provide endless entertainment and learning opportunities for our children. For families who travel, especially those with autistic children, the Yoto Mini offers a perfect blend of fun and education, making every journey more enjoyable and enriching.

Happy travels and happy listening!

The post My Favourite Travel Yoto Cards appeared first on Autism Family Travel Guide.

Travel toys for babies age 6 months to 1.5 years: 11 fantastic options

Travel toys for babies is a hotly-debated topic in the Travel Mum Facebook groups… I’ve been travelling with my kids since they were babies, the first trip being in 2016 with a baby. I have a lot of experience of what toys to bring for baby when you travel and I’d love to share my experience with you to make your next trip with baby a breeze.

Traveling with young children, especially those on the autism spectrum, can be challenging. Keeping your little ones engaged and comfortable during the journey is crucial. Packing the right toys in your carry-on bag can make all the difference. Here’s a list of eleven toys that are perfect for keeping babies aged 6 months to 1.5 years amused while traveling.

1. Magnetic Cubes

Magnetic cubes are a fantastic travel toys for babies. These colourful, magnetic blocks can be easily connected and disconnected, providing endless possibilities for creativity and learning. They are compact and lightweight, making them ideal for travel. Magnetic cubes help develop fine motor skills, spatial awareness, and problem-solving abilities.

We really like the MagiCubes with different themes, like ocean animals and Paw Patrol. This gives the magnetic cubes a whole new dimension and purpose.

Paw Patrol MagiCubes

Ocean Animal MagiCubes

Coloured MagiCubes

2. Fidget Pop Toy

The fidget pop toy is a sensory toy that’s perfect for little hands. It features a grid of silicone bubbles that can be pushed in and popped out, providing a satisfying tactile experience. This toy is great for soothing and calming children, especially during long flights or car rides. The repetitive popping action can also help improve fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. Sylvie has already recognised turn-taking when using this and she is only 1 year old.

Below are links to TikTok shoppable videos I’ve created about the fidget pop square so you can purchase it directly via TikTok shop.

Fidget Pop Square

Please bear in mind I have two TikTok affiliate shops and you could be linked to either one of them (@moustashiio and @themeldrumsworld)

I will try to add more videos soon of different styles and colours of these.

There are many shapes and colours available, this just happens to be the one Sylvie has in her backpack.

3. Fidget Track Toy

A fidget track toy is another excellent choice for travel. This toy consists of a series of interlocking tracks that can be twisted and turned into various shapes. It’s lightweight and portable, making it easy to carry in your bag. The fidget track toy helps develop fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and spatial awareness. It’s also a great way to keep your child occupied and focused during the journey.

The video below is a video of the fidget track toy on my TikTok with shoppable links to buy the track toys from within the TikTok app. Make sure to open any links on a mobile device as that seems to be the only place TikTok shop works.

Fidget tracks

4. Stretchy Animal

Stretchy animals are fun and engaging travel toys for babies. These stretchy, squishy animals can be pulled, twisted, and stretched, providing a sensory-rich experience for young children. They are lightweight and easy to pack, making them a great addition to your carry-on. Stretchy animals help develop fine motor skills and hand strength while providing a soothing sensory experience.

5. Baby Board Books

Baby board books are a travel essential for young children. These sturdy books feature bright, colourful pictures and simple text, making them perfect for little hands. Board books are durable and can withstand the wear and tear of travel. Reading to your child during the journey can help keep them engaged and entertained while also promoting early literacy skills.

One of our favourites has a mirror in the back, Sylvie loves looking in it and making funny faces.

Set of 4 board books about happiness

Just to make you aware, I have two TikTok affiliate shops (@moustashiio and @themeldrumsworld and the links here may take you to either of these).

6. Suction Spinners

Suction spinners are compact, portable toys that can provide hours of entertainment for young children. These toys feature a series of colourful, spinning sections that can be manipulated and rotated. Suction spinners help develop fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and sensory processing abilities. They are small enough to fit in your carry-on bag and can be easily used during travel.

7. Suction Animals

Suction animals are versatile travel toys that can be attached to various surfaces, such as airplane windows, tray tables, or car windows. These colourful, suction-cup animals can be stuck and unstuck, providing a fun and engaging activity for young children. Suction animals help develop fine motor skills, hand strength, and sensory processing abilities. They are also easy to clean and transport.

Here are some of my TikTok shop videos of the suction toys. We have an animal set, number set and a couple of suction men.

Suction buddies

Suction animals

Suction animals summer activity

Interested in what toys to bring for an autistic child? Read here.

8. Muffik Play Mats in Mini Size

Muffik play mats are small, portable play mats that provide a sensory-rich experience for young children. These interlocking mats feature various textures and patterns, making them perfect travel toys for babies seeking sensory exploration. Muffik play mats are lightweight and easy to pack, making them an ideal travel companion. They help develop sensory processing skills, tactile awareness, and fine motor skills.

I have done a whole article about the mini play mats and you can read that here.

TikTok shop also has these mats available and I really need to make more videos and also buy more types of these smaller mats to show you what is available.

I also see that Muffik recently released keychain sized mats! These would be great additions to a travel backpack or in an easily accessible slot in my travel tote bag.

Mini play mats

I will add more videos of the mats as soon as possible.

9. Yoto Player

The Yoto Player is a child-friendly audio player that can keep your child entertained during travel. This compact device plays a variety of audio content, including stories, music, and educational podcasts. The Yoto Player is easy to use and does not have a screen, making it a great alternative to traditional electronic devices. It helps develop listening skills, imagination, and a love for reading.

We travel with a Yoto Mini, with an added blue jacket for protection. We find the mini to be very portable and versatile – and we especially love the option to make your own playlists and make your own cards. This option has meant that we have been able to make Sylvie her very own Machine Gun Kelly playlist as this is one of the only artists she will settle to! Check this cute video of her even more tiny and rocking out to MGK.

Here are links to my Yoto Mini shoppable videos:

Yoto Mini new cable update

10. Busy Felt Book

A busy felt book is a handmade, interactive book that provides a range of activities for young children. These books feature various textures, buttons, zippers, and flaps that can be manipulated and explored. Busy felt books are lightweight and easy to pack, making them perfect for travel. They help develop fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and sensory processing abilities. The engaging activities in the busy felt book can keep your child occupied and focused during the journey.

11. Silicone Pull + Pop Toy

The silicone pull and pop toy is a mixture of two types of interaction: pulling and pushing.

Traveling with young children, especially babies or those with autism, requires careful planning and preparation. By packing the right toys in your carry-on, you can ensure a smoother and more enjoyable journey for both you and your child. These eleven toys are not only entertaining but also provide valuable sensory and developmental benefits. From magnetic cubes to busy felt books, each toy on this list is designed to keep your child engaged, calm, and happy during travel. Happy travels!

Don’t forget to upgrade your changing bag game, check out the Wing of Wild changing bag with the ultimate pocket and storage sections inside. Read more about it here.

The post 11 Travel Toys For Babies (Age 6m – 1.5y) appeared first on Autism Family Travel Guide.