Episode 9
Technology, Devices, and Screen Time with Kids
In this episode, the hosts reunite after a long winter break, swapping stories about vacations and raccoon encounters. The conversation takes a fun detour into awards season, with Caitlin sharing favorite nominated films while Kallie remains hilariously out of the loop—even missing the latest Timothée Chalamet dating news.
Next, the ever-relatable Mom Fails segment returns, featuring forgotten sheets, travel mishaps, and Christmas decorations that just won’t come down.
The main discussion dives into technology and screen time for kids. Charlotte shares her strategy for introducing phones at 13, using BARK parental controls to set boundaries. Megan talks about managing devices in her household, where her daughters have phones but her son sticks to an iPad. Caitlin keeps a tight rein on her daughters' smartwatches and iPads, enforcing strict internet and messaging rules. Meanwhile, Kallie embraces a tech-minimal lifestyle, with no screens on school days and an intentional approach to phone use in the mornings.
The hosts also reflect on childhood independence, parental control apps, and the importance of screen-free play—contrasting today’s digital habits with their own MapQuest-and-atlas upbringings.
Wrapping up with Pits and Peaks, the group shares everything from fireplace stencil disasters to Bingo losses, new family-favorite meals, and an unexpected squirrel visitor.
Join the conversation for laughs, parenting wins (and fails), and practical insights on navigating screen time with kids in a tech-driven world!
Key Takeaways from Episode 9: Technology, Devices, and Screen Time with Kids
Every Family Handles Screen Time Differently – The hosts share a range of approaches to managing technology, from structured parental controls to a tech-minimal lifestyle. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution—each family finds what works for them.
Introducing Phones at the Right Time – Charlotte believes 13 is the right age for a phone, with strict controls in place. Other hosts use smartwatches or iPads to gradually introduce technology while maintaining parental oversight.
Parental Control Tools Can Help – Apps like BARK, Life360, and Verizon parental controls allow parents to monitor and manage screen time, downloads, and internet access, helping to ensure kids use their devices responsibly.
