New year, new tech, new territory!

 The Christmas bustle is over, all the gifts are open, and now you're staring at a pile of technology that seems to grab your child and never let go. And you're thinking 'What have I done?' but don't worry! There is a great way to start this year off right for your entire family!


I've talked a lot about setting up parental controls and having open conversations with your child about their technology use. I've also talked about how to set the example with your own technology use and making sure you practice what you preach. 

So here's some links as a reminder:

Never Too Late!

Become Tech Savvy

Build Better Families


I also recommend sitting down with your child and engaging with them on that new technology. Did they get a new Chromebook? Ask them how they navigate on it, what they usually do to entertain themselves, and allow them to show you how they play paper.io or some other browser based game they are obsessed with.

What about a new Nintendo switch? I recommend actually playing the game with them! Build up their confidence by letting them win the first round and then crush them in the second one! Make it fun!

New phone? Chat with your child about their preferred phone case, ask them what apps they think they want and really listen to what they have to say. If they want social media, talk with them about what you feel is right for your family. Not their friend's family, not everyone at school, your family. Maybe they want to look up new crochet patterns and keep searching on YouTube, check out some AI together to see if there's a better app out there to help that is safe for your child. 

The goal is to be on the tech together and to go through the learning curve together. Remind your child that this is shared tech, not their tech. You own it and they borrow it. Your shared tech is open and available for the adults in the family to see any time they want!

Remember, you're in this together. Enjoy that new gadget and make it a family thing!

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