The Pros and Cons of Smart Devices

Smart devices are everywhere—phones, tablets, TVs, gaming consoles, computers, and even smartwatches. For today’s kids, these tools are part of daily life. They connect us, educate us, and entertain us—but they also come with real risks if not used responsibly. So how can parents decide what’s too much, what’s just right, and how to teach digital safety without fear? Let’s explore the pros and cons of kids using smart devices.

The Pros

Access to Knowledge and Learning

The internet opens doors to endless learning. Educational apps, online classes, and documentaries can inspire creativity and curiosity in kids of all ages.

Staying Connected

Smart devices let kids stay in touch with family, friends, and classmates even when they can’t be together in person.

Skill Building for the Future

Digital literacy is now an essential life skill. Learning how to navigate technology responsibly can set kids up for success in school and future careers.

Entertainment and Creativity

From drawing apps to music creation to family movie nights, tech can encourage creativity and connection when used intentionally.

The Cons

Screen Time

Too much time on devices can affect sleep, attention, and emotional health. It’s important to balance screen time with real-world activities.

Online Safety Risks

Anything connected to the internet—phones, watches, or gaming systems—can expose kids to inappropriate content, online predators, or privacy concerns.

Social Pressure and Comparison

Social media and online games can create unrealistic expectations and lead to comparison, anxiety, or low self-esteem.

Loss of Face-to-Face Interaction

While digital communication is easy, it can’t replace in-person connection, empathy, and the social skills kids develop through real conversations.

Creating a Better Digital Future

There can be so much good that comes from our smart devices. We, as parents, can help direct our children to the the good with the right guidance. Smart Devices can become tools for growth rather than distraction and harm. The key is teaching kids how to use technology, not letting technology use them.

I used to get overwhelmed with the amount of knowledge I was being asked to teach my kids. I wanted something already sitting out on table that would remind me to have these important conversation but also not be too lengthy that my kids would get distracted easily.

That's why I created Let’s Chat: Smart Devices—31 simple conversations that could help my family and other families build digital safety, smartphone responsibility, and healthy tech habits together.

Because the best filter you can ever give your child is having continual caring, informed conversations together!

With Love,

Heather