A Guide for Parents: Choosing Tech Gifts for Kids This Christmas
As Christmas approaches, tech gifts are often at the top of kids' wish lists. While these gifts can be fun, educational, and engaging, parents should consider a range of factors to ensure their choices are age-appropriate, safe, and beneficial. Here’s some guidance to help you with choosing great tech gifts for your kids at Christmas.
Consider Age-Appropriateness
Whatever device or media your children are asking for this Christmas, above all, make sure it is age-appropriate for them. Look out for tech toys or gadgets with an interface that is age-appropriate and with content that is right for them.
Find advice and info about the PEGI ratings for video games and how important it is for your child to play age-appropriate games at pegi.info/what-do-the-labels-mean.
If you don’t already know what something on your child’s wish-list is, search for it at Common Sense Media before you say ‘Yes’ or ‘No’. They give fantastic reviews of games, films, apps, TV shows and more, all from a parent’s perspective. It’ll help you make a well informed decision that you can pass on to Santa and his Elves.
Prioritise Educational Value
While tech gifts can entertain, they can also provide opportunities for learning or skill development. Look for products that encourage problem-solving, creativity, or STEM skills. Examples include:
- Coding kits like Raspberry Pi, BBC micro:bits, a Crumble Controller or LEGO Robotic systems.
- Science kits with interactive components.
- Apps or platforms that teach languages, maths, or art.
Check Safety Features
Children’s tech gifts should prioritise safety. Do your research and make sure they come from a reputable manufacturer and seller. Look for:
- Devices with robust parental controls to manage content and usage.
- Toys that don’t require internet connectivity to function.
- Gadgets that meet safety certifications and avoid small parts for younger kids. The UK government has issued guidance around e-bikes and e-scooter fires.
- Avoid electrical goods that might seems temptingly cheap as they are most likely counterfeit. Stick with the old saying of 'if it seems too good to be true, it probably is.'
Mozilla’s Privacy Not Included site is a brilliant place to go to help you make smart choices to help protect your own, and your children’s privacy when it comes to tech. Expert product reviews, tips, tricks and articles will all help guide you through the Christmas season and beyond.
Set Healthy Boundaries
Tech gifts can inadvertently lead to excessive screen time. Establish guidelines for usage, especially when it’s colder and wetter over the winder months and children have less opportunities to get active outside:
- Use parental controls to limit screen time and access to age-appropriate content.
- Encourage tech use in communal spaces to monitor engagement and ensure safety.
- Balance tech gifts with non-digital activities to promote physical play and social interaction.
internetmatters.org provide a one-stop-shop where you can find really clear advice and guidance on the parental settings available for a huge range of devices and services. They offer clear, step-by-step guides, with screenshots, that walk you through what’s possible and how to set things up. You can download, print or email the guides to yourself and the site has lots of other great online safety advice too.
Avoid Overly Expensive or Trendy Items
Trendy gadgets like the latest smartphones or gaming consoles may quickly lose their appeal or become obsolete. Instead:
- Choose timeless or expandable tech, such as building kits that grow with the child.
- Opt for durable devices with good customer support.
Be Mindful of Budget
It’s easy to overspend in general at this time of year, but that's especially the case when buying tech, but there are plenty of affordable options that offer great value. Compare reviews and prices before purchasing, and consider refurbished or second-hand items from reputable sellers to save money. Take a look at this article for good places to find great second-hand tech: Best trustworthy sites to buy refurbished tech online in the UK.
Final Thoughts
Tech gifts can open up exciting worlds of discovery for children, but thoughtful selection is key. By prioritising safety, educational value, and balance, you can ensure your child’s Christmas gift is both meaningful and enjoyable.
Take time to set new devices up properly before your children dive in. Add those parental settings, spending limits and privacy settings if they are connecting with others online and be strict on age-ratings for all media. The ratings are there for a reason!
Happy shopping!
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