Educational technology is a daily part of school for kids, from learning apps and video lessons to digital group projects. But is all this screen time actually helping kids learn?

In this episode of Raising Us, host Elise Hu explores the benefits and challenges of educational technology in classrooms, including concerns around distraction, data privacy, and child development.

Kate Brody, educator, parent, and VP of Schools Beyond Screens, shares how her first grader’s experience with classroom technology sparked conversations with teachers and her school district about finding a healthier balance after the pandemic.

Later, Elise is joined by Emily Cherkin, founder of The Screen Time Consultant, to define what educational technology can look like when it works best for both students and teachers.

Kate and Emily offer practical advice for starting productive conversations with educators about technology and learning, and how to be intentionally active in how tech expands in our kids’ lives.

Key Takeaways:

• Understand the difference between ed tech and tech ed; we can teach our kids about technology without requiring them to use it directly.

• Be brave in opting out of tech when it’s not as beneficial for your child’s learning.

• Research what a balanced relationship with educational technology looks like for your family.

• Prioritize play, skills, and relationships over screens.

• Advocate for kids to use educational technology more effectively at schools and home.