Setting Digital Boundaries with Kids At Any Age

About this episode

Many parents and caregivers struggle to manage their kids’ use of technology. Whether it’s an elementary schooler binging YouTube shorts or a teen dealing with social media-induced anxiety, the struggles are real. In a recent Wirecutter reader survey, only 9% of parents said they felt confident managing their kids' tech use, and many felt overwhelmed by screen addiction and "brain rot" content. This week, Wirecutter writers Signe Brewster and Ellen Lee walk us through their comprehensive guide on how and when to introduce different types of technology across every age. They discuss why tech addiction is often a broader societal issue (rather than an individual parenting failure), how to establish healthy digital habits early on, the pros and cons of location tracking, and practical tools to help older kids self-regulate before heading off on their own. This episode covers: • Early tech for young kids: Experts recommend minimizing screens before age 2. When introducing media, stick to high-quality content and apps that have "walled gardens" where kids can safely make their own choices. • Avoiding "dark patterns": How to spot predatory app designs that manipulate young kids in