Parents across Canada are increasingly seeking engaging alternatives to digital screens for their young children. In response to this trend, CTV Shopping Trends has published a dedicated guide highlighting worthwhile screen-free toy options for toddlers. The article, published on January 12, 2026, at 3:49 PM EST, serves as a resource for caregivers looking to foster imaginative, hands-on play.
The Growing Demand for Digital Detox in Playtime
The guide acknowledges a conscious shift among many families towards reducing screen time in early childhood. This movement is driven by concerns over development and a desire to encourage more tactile and social forms of learning. The CTV Shopping Trends team, which operates independently of CTV News journalists, compiled this list to help Canadian parents navigate the market. It is important to note that the team may earn a commission from purchases made through their provided links.
What Makes a Toy "Worth Looking Into"?
The curated selection focuses on toys that promote creativity, problem-solving, and motor skills without any digital interface. These are traditional and modern physical toys designed to captivate a toddler's attention and support key developmental milestones. The guide emphasizes that the prices listed were accurate at the time of publication, with efforts made to keep them updated, though slight changes may occur.
Beyond Toddler Toys: Other Trending Shopping Guides
The screen-free toy guide is part of a broader series of product recommendations from CTV Shopping Trends. Other recent publications for Canadian shoppers include a list of 17 renter-friendly home upgrades and a guide to the best mixology kits in Canada for 2026. The team also highlighted products that trended on TikTok in 2025, suggesting they remain worthy of consideration in the new year.
Additional focused guides cover a wide range of lifestyle needs, from the best hand warmers and heated socks for Canadian winters to beauty products like bronzing drops and hair perfumes. The commitment to featuring Canadian brands is also evident, with a dedicated list of 10 Canadian brands to keep consumers stylish and warm during the winter season.
For parents, the core takeaway is clear: a robust market exists for high-quality, screen-free entertainment for toddlers. By choosing toys that engage the senses and mind, caregivers can create a rich play environment that supports healthy development while offering a fun break from screens.
