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. ⏱️ Timestamps: Keep the conversation going at home with our FREE Conversation Kit companion guide: https://delivery.shopifyapps.com/-/68b2a3f16e84424f/443227901429762f Learn more about Schools Beyond Screens: https://www.schoolsbeyondscreens.com/ Follow Emily Cherkin on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thescreentimeconsultant New episodes every Tuesday: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AKidsCo Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/raising-us-a-parenting-podcast/id1552286967 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2bIRVxM8hbriNxydkSv6VG Or wherever you get your podcasts. 🔗 START HERE 📌 Get free weekly conversation kits: https://akidsco.com/pages/raising-us 📌 Browse A Kids Co. books that pair with episodes: https://akidsco.com 📌 Follow Elise Hu: https://www.instagram.com/elisewho ABOUT THE SHOW Raising Us | Parenting Podcast for Kids, Tweens, & Conscious Caregivers Award-winning journalist Elise Hu (TED Talks Daily, Forever35) hosts Raising Us, a parenting podcast for grownups raising Big-Question Kids. From puberty and identity to tech and body image, each episode gives you tools to spark real conversations with the kids in your life. Created by A Kids Co. (a family media company) the show blends expert-backed insights with real, lived experiences featuring trusted doctors, educators and purpose-driven public figures sharing age-appropriate advice so you don't have to wing the hard stuff. Follow on: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AKidsCo Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/raising-us-a-parenting-podcast/id1552286967 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2bIRVxM8hbriNxydkSv6VG Or wherever you get your podcasts. If you like parenting podcasts like Good Inside with Dr. Becky, The Longest Shortest Time, Raising Good Humans or Ask Lisa, this podcast is for you. Topics Covered on Raising Us: Parenting kids and tweens Mental health for kids Talking to kids about racism, identity, and inclusion Screen time and social media Puberty, anxiety, and big feelings Building emotional intelligence in families Conscious and values-driven parenting Elise Hu parenting podcast A Kids Co. podcast series Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
