Where Imagination
Meets Growing Up
Personalised audio stories built on child development research - for challenges, learning, and connection.
No credit card required • First story free
Listen to a Real Story
Mia is 4, shy, and nervous about her first day at school. This is the story we made for her. Narrated in a New Zealand accent — you can choose British, American, Australian or New Zealand.
School Starter — validates nerves, models a coping strategy, and ends with quiet confidence
A Story for Whatever They're Going Through
Real parenting moments, matched to the right kind of story.
A note from the founder
I built Gently Told because I wanted bedtime stories that were actually about my daughter - her name, her world, whatever she's going through that week. Not a generic fairy tale. Something that helps her feel understood.
So I went deep on the research - bibliotherapy, attachment theory, social narratives - and built every story around a specific child development framework. Whether it's helping them through something tough, sparking their curiosity, or just making them feel safe and loved, there's real evidence behind it. It's just me and my wife building this, and a very opinionated three-year-old who lets us know when a story isn't good enough.
- Will, Auckland 🇳🇿
Read our researchFrom Idea to Story in Minutes
Choose a story
Browse curated themes like "new sibling", "first day of school", or "space adventure". Each one is designed for a specific age and purpose.
Make it theirs
Answer a couple of quick questions about what's happening in their life right now. The story is written around their world.
Their story comes to life
Written to a child development framework, narrated in your chosen accent, mixed with background music.
You approve every word
Read the full story before your child hears it. Edit anything, or start fresh.
Listen anywhere
In the app, as an MP3, or synced to a Yoto Player.
First story free. Then buy credits.
No subscription. Buy a pack when you need it. Credits never expire.
5 stories
NZD $4.99
Perfect for trying it out
15 stories
NZD $9.99
Best for regular bedtime stories
50 stories
NZD $24.99
Great for families with multiple kids
Prices shown in NZD; your bank converts automatically.
You Stay in Control
AI makes truly personalised stories possible. You review every word before your child hears it.
You Control Everything
Every story requires your approval before your child hears it. Read every word, edit anything, or reject it entirely. Topics are checked for safety before a single word is written, and language matches your child's age.
Built for How Kids Actually Grow
Stories come from curated themes designed around child development research - bibliotherapy for challenges, inquiry-based learning for curiosity, attachment theory for connection. Each includes a parent discussion guide.
Listen Anywhere, Screen-Free
Download MP3s for the car, play in-app on your phone, or sync to a Yoto MYO card for completely screen-free listening. However your family listens, it just works.