15 gadgets your kids need to go back to school in 2024

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!