About the product
What are Tribal Tongue Talking Flashcards and how do they work?
Tribal Tongue Talking Flashcards are a screen-free learning device designed to help children pick up new languages through play. Simply insert a flashcard into the slot and the device reads the word out loud in the language you're learning. Press the repeat button to hear it again, adjust the volume to suit your child, and let them explore at their own pace. No Wi-Fi, no apps, no setup required.
What age are the flashcards suitable for?
The flashcards are designed for children aged 3 and up. They're ideal for toddlers and early learners who are building vocabulary, developing speech, and growing their cultural awareness — all through independent play.
How many words does each set teach?
Each set teaches 224 everyday words across themes including animals, family, vehicles, food, fruits & vegetables, home items, clothing, nature, colours, people, work and shapes. The set aims to give children a solid foundation for real-life conversations.
Who records the audio? Are they native speakers?
Yes, every single word is recorded exclusively by native speakers. No exceptions. We work with professional language tutors to ensure every word reflects authentic tone, pronunciation, and rhythm.
Do I need batteries?
No batteries needed. The device is fully rechargeable via USB-C. A full charge lasts up to 6 hours of use, and there are no cords required while playing.
Does it require Wi-Fi or an app to work?
No apps, no Wi-Fi, no setup. It's fully screen-free and offline from the moment you take it out of the box.
Do I have to charge the device before first use?
Yes, we recommend fully charging the device before first use. A red light will show while charging and will turn off once the battery is full.
Can I adjust the volume or repeat words?
Yes. There's a dedicated volume button and a repeat button, so your child can hear each word as many times as they like at a comfortable level.
Are the flashcards durable for young children?
The cards are built tough for little hands. They're designed to withstand the enthusiastic handling of toddlers and young children during independent play.
Can it be used for more than one child?
Absolutely. Siblings can share and learn together, whether taking turns or listening as a group. It's a great tool for family learning time.
About the languages
Which languages are currently available?
We currently offer talking flashcards in Twi (Ghana), Yoruba (Nigeria), and Igbo (Nigeria).
Are more languages coming soon?
Yes! We're working hard to expand our range. If you'd like to be the first to know when new languages drop, sign up to our email list and we'll keep you updated.
Can adults use the flashcards to learn, or are they just for kids?
They work for both. The flashcards are designed with children in mind, but many diaspora parents use them alongside their children to brush up on a language they grew up with or are reconnecting with. If anything, learning together makes the whole experience even better.
Do the flashcards include English translations?
English translations do not appear on the cards but you can download full list of English translations for each language at the following links:
About shipping & orders
Where do you ship to?
We ship from the UK to customers across the UK, EU, USA, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
How long does delivery take?
Here's a breakdown of our standard delivery times:
- UK: Free standard shipping, 3–5 days. Express shipping available for £3.50, next day.
- EU: €5 flat rate, 5–8 days.
- USA & Canada: £8 flat rate (converted to your local currency at checkout), 7–12 days.
- Australia & New Zealand: £8 flat rate (converted to your local currency at checkout), 7–12 days.
All orders are fully tracked.
Do you offer free shipping?
Yes — standard shipping within the UK is free on all orders.
Can I track my order?
Yes, all orders are fully tracked. You will receive tracking information once your order has been dispatched. Your shipping confirmation will arrive in your mailbox or by SMS if you have only added a contact phone number.
What is your returns policy?
You can return your flashcards within 30 days of delivery for a full refund. The item must be in its original condition with all parts included. To request a return, please complete the contact form on our Contact page. See our Refund Policy.
Do I have to pay customs fees?
We ship from the UK. If you're ordering from outside the UK, your order may be subject to import duties or customs fees set by your country's government. For US orders, we ship on a Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) basis — any import duties and taxes are included in what you pay at checkout, so there are no extra charges on delivery. We recommend checking with your local customs office for guidance on charges specific to your country.
About Tribal Tongue
Who is behind Tribal Tongue?
Tribal Tongue was founded by James Kofi Ankobia, a British Ghanaian who grew up in the UK and gradually lost his Twi. Fed up with feeling like a tourist every time he returned to Ghana, he set about relearning his mother tongue, and discovered just how hard it was to find the right tools to do it. Tribal Tongue was built so the next generation never has to face that same struggle. Read the full story on our About page.
Why did you start this company?
The short answer: we built the flashcards we wished we had. Every product decision at Tribal Tongue comes from a lived experience of growing up in the diaspora and wanting to stay connected to a heritage language. Our mission is simple: no child should return home a stranger.
Do you work with schools or cultural organisations?
We'd love to. If you represent a school, supplementary school, cultural organisation, or community group interested in bringing Tribal Tongue into your setting, please get in touch via our Contact page and we'll be happy to talk.
Can I suggest a new language?
Absolutely — we'd love to hear from you. Reach out via our Contact page and let us know which language matters most to you. Community feedback genuinely shapes which languages we develop next.