As a dad in 2025, I get it—technology is everywhere, and our kids are growing up in a world where screens are practically glued to their hands. While I’d rather my kids be outside playing pickleball or setting up obstacle courses, I also know that technology has its benefits. Whether it’s keeping an eye on a sleeping baby, making learning fun, or setting digital boundaries for preteens and teens, tech gadgets can actually help parents (and save our sanity).
So, here are some of the best tech gadgets for every age group—because if we’re going to use tech, it might as well make our lives easier.
For Babies: The “Why Won’t They Sleep?” Stage
Babies are adorable, but let’s be real—they are tiny sleep thieves. Here are some gadgets that actually help:
- Hatch Rest+ 2nd Gen – A sound machine, nightlight, and time-to-rise trainer all in one. Plus, it has two-way audio so you can tell your toddler to get back in bed without getting up. Check it out here.
- Nanit Pro Smart Baby Monitor – Tracks sleep, breathing, and movement. Bonus: It gives you sleep insights, so you know exactly how much rest (or lack of it) they got last night. See more details.
- Baby Brezza Formula Pro Advanced – Basically the Keurig for baby bottles. Press a button, and it dispenses the perfect-temperature formula. Learn more.
For Toddlers: The “Into Everything” Phase
Toddlers are constantly on the move and have a knack for getting into things they shouldn’t. Here’s how to use tech to your advantage:
- Yoto Player – A screen-free audiobook and music player that lets toddlers pick stories without touching your phone. Check it out.
- Jiobit Smart Tag – A GPS tracker for your little explorer who thinks running away in Target is a game. Find it here.
- Munchkin Bluetooth Light & Sound Machine – Helps set a bedtime routine with calming lights and sounds. Learn more.
For Young Kids (Ages 5-8): The “But Why?” Stage
At this age, kids ask so many questions, and they want to do everything themselves. Here are a few gadgets to make learning fun and keep them entertained in a way that isn’t just watching YouTube.
- Toniebox Audio Player – A screen-free audio player that plays bedtime stories and music by placing different characters on the box. Check it out.
- Osmo Genius Starter Kit – Turns an iPad into an interactive learning tool for math, spelling, and creativity. Learn more.
- Fitbit Google Ace LTE – A smartwatch designed for kids with GPS tracking and call/text capabilities (but no internet or social media). Find it here.
For Preteens: The “I Need a Phone” Phase
Preteens want independence but still need boundaries. These gadgets help keep them connected and safe:
- Troomi Phone – A kid-safe phone with built-in parental controls that lets you monitor texts, calls, and apps. Check it out.
- Pinwheel Phone – No social media, no internet browsing—just talk, text, and GPS tracking. A great starter phone. Learn more.
- Nintendo Switch Lite – For road trips, family game nights, and keeping kids entertained in a way that isn’t TikTok. Find it here.
For Teenagers: The “I Know More Than You” Stage
At this point, they probably have their own phone and think they don’t need your advice. But these gadgets help them stay responsible:
- Tile or Apple AirTags – So they never lose their keys, backpack, or wallet again. Check them out.
- Aura Digital Frame – So they can send actual pictures to their grandparents instead of just Snapchats. Learn more.
- Wisephone II – A minimalist phone with calling, texting, and GPS but no social media or internet browsing. Perfect for teens who need a little less distraction. See more.
Tech That Helps Parents Stay Sane
Let’s be honest—some of this tech isn’t just for kids, it’s for us too. Here are a few parenting gadgets that make life easier:
- Robotic Vacuum (Roomba, Roborock, etc.) – Because kids will spill things, and you shouldn’t have to vacuum every day.
- Tile or AirTags – Not just for kids—use them to keep track of your keys, wallet, and sanity.
- Echo Show 8 – The perfect smart home hub for setting reminders, checking cameras, and keeping a digital family calendar.
Final Thoughts: Tech Isn’t the Enemy (When Used Right)
As much as I’d love to keep my kids unplugged and outside all day, the reality is that tech is here to stay. The key is using it wisely—picking gadgets that actually help, rather than just entertain. Whether it’s a safe phone for a preteen, an audiobook player for a toddler, or a smart baby monitor for exhausted parents, tech can make life easier.
So, if we’re going to embrace it, let’s make sure it’s the right kind of tech. What gadgets have saved your sanity as a parent? Let me know in the comments!
