15 gadgets your kids need to go back to school in 2024
Pack your kids’ bags with the back-to-school tech that may help them stay productive this school year.
![A kid studying using his tablet and laptop.](/content/dam/blogs/images/norton/am/back-to-school-tech-hero.jpg)
As summer winds down and the school year approaches, back-to-school tech becomes a hot topic for parents and students alike. Whether it’s ensuring your kids have the right tools to succeed in the classroom or managing screen time at home, we’ve got you covered.
Here are 15 must-have tech gadgets for your children in 2024.
1. Cell phone
Age group: Middle school and up
It’s hard imagining going back to living in a world before cell phones. It has become an essential tool in everyday life, helping us to be connected and reaching your kids when you need to.
Cybersecurity tip: Use a mobile security app to protect your child's phone from malware and unauthorized access. Also, take your time to check the parental controls.
2. Laptop
Age group: Middle school and up
Long gone are the days of writing a paper on paper. A laptop is crucial for school projects and online learning.
Cybersecurity tip: Install antivirus software, like Norton 360, and use a strong password to help secure your laptop.
3. Printer
Age group: Middle school and up
Maybe there’s no need to write a paper on paper, but the teacher may request a physical copy nonetheless.
Cybersecurity tip: Secure your printer network to prevent unauthorized access by limiting network printing or using a strong password.
4. External storage
Age group: Middle school and up
External storage devices or cloud storage help students back up important schoolwork. If a system error occurs, their work is saved.
Cybersecurity tip: Encrypt your data backup to protect sensitive data.
5. Charging dock
Age group: Elementary and up
A charging dock keeps all devices organized and charged. Multi-device options that can charge phones, tablets, and smartwatches simultaneously can be very convenient.
Cybersecurity tip: Avoid public USB charging stations to reduce the risk of juice jacking.
6. Portable charger
Age group: Elementary and up
We all have forgotten to charge our devices overnight. When that happens, portable chargers come in handy, keeping devices powered throughout the school day.
Cybersecurity tip: Only purchase portable chargers from reputable brands to avoid potential safety hazards.
7. eReader
Age group: Elementary and up
eReaders make reading more accessible and engaging. They can store thousands of books, reducing the need for physical copies to help the backpack feel lighter.
Cybersecurity tip: Ensure your eReader has up-to-date software to prevent potential security vulnerabilities.
8. Fitness tracker
Age group: Middle school and up
Fitness trackers encourage physical activity. Using alerts may help your kid to create healthy habits.
Cybersecurity tip: Regularly update your fitness tracker's firmware to protect personal data.
9. Smartwatch
Age group: High school and up
More robust than a fitness tracker, smartwatches may help your kid stay active and organized.
Cybersecurity tip: Set up privacy settings to control data sharing.
10. Bluetooth speaker
Age group: Elementary and up
Bluetooth speakers are great for kids to listen to educational podcasts, music, or audiobooks wherever they can.
Cybersecurity tip: Ensure your Bluetooth speaker has a secure connection to prevent unauthorized access.
11. Noise-canceling headphones
Age group: Elementary and up
These headphones help limit distractions during homework time. Check with your school to ensure they are allowed in class.
Cybersecurity tip: Ensure the Bluetooth connection is secure to prevent unauthorized access.
12. Password manager
Age group: Middle school and up
A password manager helps students create strong passwords, store them and manage them securely. Check out Norton Password Manager.
Cybersecurity tip: Use multi-factor authentication (MFA) when possible for added security.
13. Smart assistant
Age group: Middle school and up
Smart assistants may help answer quick questions and organize your kid’s day, keeping track of schoolwork, chores, and extracurricular activities.
Cybersecurity tip: Change the default wake word and review privacy settings to protect personal information.
14. Tablet
Age group: Elementary and up
Acting almost like a laptop but with more versatility, tablets can be used to access educational apps and parental controls.
Cybersecurity tip: Set screen time limits and use parental controls to manage content access.
15. Smart notebook
Age group: Elementary and up
Smart notebooks allow students to digitize handwritten notes. If your kid has a tablet, you can check out an app to store notes.
Cybersecurity tip: Use secure apps to sync notes to the cloud safely.
Exercise parental controls to help keep your kids on track
Your kid’s well-being always comes first, and part of it is their online security. Always check parental controls and keep account of all the devices they own.
Remember these tech gadgets may be an opportunity for your kids to learn to manage tech and stay productive, while keeping you connected to their day-to-day activities. Stay safe!
Editorial note: Our articles provide educational information for you. Our offerings may not cover or protect against every type of crime, fraud, or threat we write about. Our goal is to increase awareness about Cyber Safety. Please review complete Terms during enrollment or setup. Remember that no one can prevent all identity theft or cybercrime, and that LifeLock does not monitor all transactions at all businesses. The Norton and LifeLock brands are part of Gen Digital Inc.
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