Everything you need to know
How StoryTail works, how we keep stories safe for children, and how to get the most from every story.
How StoryTail works
child_careChild safety
headphonesYoto player compatibility
auto_storiesGetting the most from StoryTail
How StoryTail works
What is StoryTail?
StoryTail generates personalised audio stories for children using artificial intelligence. You tell us your child's name, choose an adventure setting, pick a companion character, and select a story theme — and we create a unique, narrated MP3 story in under 60 seconds.
How long are the stories?
Each story is approximately 750–800 words, which narrates to around 5 minutes of audio — the perfect length for a bedtime story or car ride. Stories are complete with a beginning, an exciting middle, and a warm, satisfying ending.
Who narrates the stories?
Stories are narrated by ElevenLabs AI voices — high quality, expressive voices that bring the story to life. We use warm, friendly voices specifically selected to appeal to children.
What devices can I play stories on?
Stories are delivered as MP3 files which play on any device — phone, tablet, computer, smart speaker, or Bluetooth speaker. They are also fully compatible with the Yoto player (see Yoto section below).
Child safety
How do you ensure stories are safe for children?
We use a three-layer safety system. First, all input you provide is checked for inappropriate content before it reaches our AI. Second, our AI is given strict content guardrails — no violence, no adult themes, no scary content, no swearing, and stories must always end happily. Third, every generated story is scanned again before it is narrated to catch anything unexpected.
Does StoryTail collect data from my child?
No. StoryTail is a service for adults — your child does not have an account and does not interact with our platform directly. The only child-related information we store is the first name and age you provide when creating a story, which is associated with your adult account and used solely to personalise the story.
Can I preview a story before my child hears it?
Absolutely — and we recommend it. Every story is saved to your library and you can listen before sharing it with your child. You can also read the full story text in your library.
What topics are excluded from stories?
Our AI is instructed to never include violence, weapons, injury, death, adult themes, alcohol, drugs, romance, horror, dark themes, real-world dangers, unresolved bullying, or any offensive language. Stories always end positively with the child feeling proud and loved.
What if I'm not happy with a story?
Simply generate a new one — each story is unique. If you believe a story contains inappropriate content, please contact us immediately at support@storytail.com.au and we will investigate.
Yoto player compatibility
What is the Yoto player?
Yoto is a screen-free audio player designed for children aged 3–12. Children insert cards into the player to play stories, music, and podcasts. It has no screen, no internet browsing, and no ads — making it one of the safest audio devices for young children.
How do I load a StoryTail story onto my Yoto?
Every StoryTail story can be loaded onto a Yoto Make Your Own card. Here's how: download the MP3 from your StoryTail library, open the Yoto app on your phone, tap Make Your Own, create a new card, and upload the MP3 file. Your child can then insert the card into their Yoto player and the story plays automatically.
Are StoryTail MP3s in the right format for Yoto?
Yes — all StoryTail stories are generated as standard MP3 files at 128kbps which is fully compatible with Yoto Make Your Own cards. No conversion or editing is needed.
Can I put multiple stories on one Yoto card?
Yes. The Yoto app lets you add multiple tracks to a single Make Your Own card. You can create a themed collection — for example all of your child's space adventures on one card.
Getting the most from StoryTail
What makes a great story request?
The more specific you are, the better the story. Instead of "jungle adventure", try "jungle safari where they discover a hidden waterfall". Instead of a generic companion, try "Grandma who calls the child Little Star". The companion nickname feature creates magical moments children love.
What age group are stories best suited for?
Stories are designed for children aged 2–10. For younger children (2–4) we recommend simpler adventures like "magical garden" or "friendly farm". For older children (7–10) you can try more elaborate settings like "space explorer" or "pirate quest" with more complex themes like courage or perseverance.
Can grandparents create stories too?
Absolutely — that's one of our favourite use cases. A grandparent can create an account, generate a story featuring their grandchild's name with a companion named after themselves, and email the MP3 directly to the parents. It's a deeply personal gift that costs less than a cup of coffee.
What are the best story themes?
Themes that work beautifully include kindness, bravery, sharing, trying new things, believing in yourself, the importance of family, and being a good friend. These get woven naturally into the adventure without feeling like a lecture.
My credits ran out mid-month. What can I do?
You can top up with individual story credits at $0.99 each from your subscription page, or upgrade to a higher plan. Credits on monthly plans reset on your billing date each month.
Ready to create your first story?
Your child's first story is on us — no credit card needed.