Digital Devices Demystified: What Every Parent and Educator Should Know

Hello, Techies!

Let’s be honest—technology is not just a part of our lives anymore. It is everywhere.

Whether your child is tapping on a tablet, asking Alexa for the weather, or streaming their favourite show on a smart TV, digital devices have become part of the everyday rhythm at home and in school.

And as parents, teachers, and caregivers, we don’t have the luxury of sitting on the sidelines. We are part of this digital story, too.

The good news? You don’t have to be a tech expert to raise digitally confident kids.
You just need a little clarity—and that is what this 3-part series is here to give you.

Let us start with the basics:
👉🏽 What are digital devices and apps, and why do they matter so much in our children’s lives?

📱 What Counts as a Digital Device?

A digital device is any electronic gadget that processes, stores, and displays information.
These tools go far beyond entertainment—they help us learn, create, communicate, and navigate the world.

Here are some digital devices your child is likely already using (or asking about):

• Smartphones – The everyday companion for calls, messages, internet access, and apps

• Tablets – Great for interactive learning, reading, games, and creative play

• Laptops & Desktops – The heavy lifters for schoolwork, research, and virtual learning

• Smart TVs & Game Consoles – Not just for entertainment—they can stream educational content and support interactive play

• Wearables – Devices like smartwatches and fitness trackers that monitor movement, health, and even send messages

• Smart Home Devices – Tools like Google Home or Alexa that respond to voice commands and control household tech

Even smart fridges and talking toothbrushes (yes, really!) are now part of the tech ecosystem that kids are growing up with.

📲 What About Apps?

Apps—short for applications—are what make these devices functional.

They help us do everything from learning math facts to messaging a friend, watching a documentary, or setting reminders.

Here are a few types of apps your child (or you!) might already be using:

• Educational Apps: Khan Academy, ABCmouse, Duolingo—great for interactive learning through games and lessons

• Communication Apps: WhatsApp, Gmail, Zoom—help kids stay connected to classmates, teachers, and family

• Entertainment Apps: YouTube, Netflix, Spotify—popular choices that often require parent guidance

• Productivity Apps: Google Docs, Microsoft Word—ideal for assignments and collaboration

• Finance Apps: Banking, PayPal, and budgeting tools (helpful for teens learning about money)

• Social Media Apps: Instagram, TikTok, Facebook—spaces where older kids might explore, share, or connect

• AI Chatbot Apps: ChatGPT, Meta AI, DeepSeek—powered by artificial intelligence, these tools support writing, brainstorming, problem-solving, and creative exploration

Apps offer convenience, personalization, and creativity.
But they also come with responsibility—and that’s exactly what we’ll explore in Part 2.

⚙️ How Do Apps Actually Work?

Think of an app as a smart assistant.
It follows coded instructions and interacts with your device’s features—like the microphone, GPS, or camera—to get things done.

Some apps:

• Work offline (e.g., drawing apps or pre-downloaded lessons)

• Require an internet connection (like video calling or streaming platforms)

• Learn your preferences to customize your experience (like Netflix suggesting your next show)

Most apps are downloaded from trusted sources like the Apple App Store or Google Play, and they are built to run on various devices—phones, tablets, computers, even watches.

🖥️ App or Website—What’s the Difference?

Many services are available both through a website and as an app. But apps often offer:

• Faster loading

• Offline functionality

• Push notifications

• Interfaces designed specifically for smaller screens

If your child uses a platform regularly—like Duolingo or Zoom—downloading the app can make for a smoother, more accessible experience.

🔜 Coming Up Next: Privacy, Data, and Digital Safety

In Part 2, we’ll dive into:

• What data apps collect

• Why privacy settings matter

• How to help your child use apps safely and responsibly

Spoiler alert: it’s simpler than you think—and you don’t need a computer science degree to take control.

📘 Want to make digital literacy fun and easy to teach?
Check out Tech Savvy Starts Here—a book filled with real-life examples, conversation prompts, and engaging activities that empower kids to build strong, smart tech habits.

👉🏽 Grab your copy here.

Enjoyed this edition?
Forward it to a friend or colleague who’s navigating tech with kids.
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🧠 Keep learning. | 💬 Keep questioning. | 💥 Keep growing.

Your Tech Partner,
Ijeoma Ndu, PhD