The gift of story time, wherever you are
Cali Reader keeps families connected through books, from grandparents far away to bedtimes you can’t make and little readers ready to go solo.
Three moments made for Cali
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For the grandparent who lives far away
Distance doesn’t have to mean missing out on story time. Cali Reader keeps grandparents part of the bedtime ritual, so every page turn feels a little closer to home.
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For bedtime when you can’t be there
Late shifts, work trips, busy nights. Cali Reader helps keep the bedtime routine steady and comforting, so your little one still drifts off with a story, even on the nights you’re away.
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For the child who wants to read alone
That first “I can do it myself!” is a big moment. Cali Reader gives growing readers the confidence to explore books on their own, at their own pace.
How it works
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Snap in a story
Snap a Cali Story into the Reader. Their library grows with them.
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Press any page
Every page has its own press point, so kids hear one page at a time and follow along with the words.
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Read on their own
As they get older, they read it themselves and press only when they get stuck.
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Make it personal
In the Cali app, family anywhere can record their own narration.
2026 Good Housekeeping Toy Award winner
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30%
stronger decoding of unfamiliar words
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20%
more accurate, fluent reading of passages
*Preliminary data from current RCT - Read about the study
Backed by NSF- and NIH-funded research
“We started reading together before bedtime, and it's become a special part of our nightly routine.”
“This book allows her to hear a story read to her while she's able to look at the pictures and turn the page herself.”
FAQs
What is the Cali Reader?
A screen-free story player for kids ages 3 and up. Your child places a story booklet in the Reader, turns the pages and presses a button to hear the story read aloud.
Can I record my own voice?
Yes. A parent, grandparent or caregiver can record a story, so the child hears a familiar voice any time.
Is it really screen-free?
Yes. There is no tablet, video or autoplay. Your child listens, looks at the pictures and turns the pages.
What ages is it for?
Ages 3 and up.
When will my order arrive?
8-15 business days depending on your location. Orders are processed within 24 hours.