Looking for kid's gifts that are educational, fun and budget friendly? Here's a few gift ideas for STEAM Tech Products under $70. ...

Looking for kid's gifts that are educational, fun and budget friendly? Here's a few gift ideas for STEAM Tech Products under $70.

Thames & Kosmos

My Robotic Pet: Coding Chameleon (Age: 8/12+ | $54.95)

Build a robotic chameleon pet that responds to gestures, changes colors, and fires/retracts its tongue! STEM learning: explore color/infrared sensors, RGB LEDs, and coding basics.

Biomimicry insights: discover how nature inspires real-world engineering design.

Hero: Sound-Sensing Robot (Age: 8+ | $64.95)

Equipped with three directional microphones to perceive and react to sounds and Four Interactive Play Modes – Hero can locate and follow you, respond to sound commands, be remote-controlled, and even battle you in a tug-of-war game.

Innovative Design – Movable arms retract into its spherical body; giant illuminated eyes show expressions.
STEM Building Kit – Assemble Hero from 100+ parts with a 52-page, full-color manual and adventure comic.
Educational Fun – Learn about super-hearing, sound waves, and spatial hearing while you play.

Available at Amazon and www.ThamesAndKosmos.com

Abacus Brands

Pixicade: Draw Your Own Video Games (Ages: 6+ | $19.99 )

Turn your drawings into playable games in minutes—no coding required. Simple Process – Draw characters and levels, snap a photo, and start playing instantly.

Complete Activity Set – Includes 5 washable markers (each color = different action) and a 108-page game design guidebook with 30 activities & 100+ example games.
Boost Creativity & Skills – Encourages critical thinking, problem-solving, and endless custom creations.
Share & Play Anywhere – Share your games online; available on App Store & Google Play.

Available at Amazon, Walmart and www.Abacusbrands.com

ESPN Virtual Reality (Ages 8+ | $36.99)

Immerse yourself in live sports with 360° views of legendary arenas worldwide. Step Into the Game – Experience exclusive content from ESPN’s SportsCenter with 20+ interactive VR sports experiences and three included Championship Medals.

Comprehensive DK Illustrated Book – 148 pages covering history, gameplay & strategies for sports from Karate to Skateboarding to Baseball.
Hands-On Play – Use included VR goggles to swing a bat, land a skateboard trick & more while learning rules and skills.

Available at Costco and www.AbacusBrands.com

Smartivity

Pinball Machine (Ages 6-12 | $34.99)

Kids can make their own wooden Pinball Machine at home with this DIY Kit following the easy step-by-step instructions. From learning about STEM concepts like Levers and Momentum, it is everything science and everything fun!

No glue, no tools needed - uses elastic bands for joining mechanisms to design fun, learning games for kids. Easy to assemble, dismantle and reassemble with age-apt instructional manuals and videos.

Available on Amazon.com

Multi Sports Kit Machine (Ages 6-12 | $24.99)

Give the gift of entertainment and learning combined. Kids can shoot, kick and bowl with this mechanical machine. The step-by-step instructional manual ensures a deeply engaging DIY experience, perfect for boys and girls to construct and enjoy for hours.

Made from the highest quality engineered wood, that is safe for kids and has long-lasting durability.

Available on Amazon.com

ENTER TO WIN THIS GIVEAWAY!

• (1) Pixicade: Video Game Maker and Creation Studio

WAYS TO ENTER:

Entries must be made on or before 11:59 p.m. December 8, 2025.

Pixicade Video Game Maker
TERMS AND CONDITIONS

Winner will be selected randomly. Giveaway main entry must be completed before extra entries will count. Winner will be contacted by email and must respond within 24 hours or a new winner will be selected. Open to residents of the U.S. with a valid email and street address.

Whether through storytelling, interactive games, or creative challenges, Miko robots make imagination a daily adventure. Combining cutti...

Whether through storytelling, interactive games, or creative challenges, Miko robots make imagination a daily adventure.

Combining cutting-edge artificial intelligence with educational content, Miko robots are designed to nurture creativity and transform the way children learn, play, and imagine.

Miko Mini ($149) (blue or purple)

Designed for kids ages 3 and up, Miko Mini combines learning and play with interactive storytelling, sing-alongs, and age-appropriate educational content tailored to a child’s pace.



Key features include:

• Ignites curiosity - Miko Mini uses AI to stimulate young minds, prompting questions and fostering exploration. It introduces intriguing topics, ensuring kids are always eager to learn more and delve deeper into the wonders of the world around them.
• Endless fun: There's never a dull moment with Miko Mini! It's constantly exploring for fun, prompting fun play and encouraging critical thinking. From fun facts and stories to fresh daily activities, Miko Mini keeps you on your toes as you dance, joke and learn hours away.
• Adaptive learning: Miko's advanced AI nurtures children's confidence in learning. It crafts personalised plans that encompass reading, writing, maths, and communication, enhancing their critical thinking skills. With Miko, every child embarks on a tailored educational adventure, ensuring a holistic development.
• Stress free parenting: The Miko Parent App streamlines your parenting journey. Set goals for your kids that align with your unique parenting style and values. With the App, you can track progress through analytics, customize settings, and ensure security.
• Explore with Miko: Miko Mini transports the world straight into your home, offering content handpicked by international experts. It introduces young minds to varied cultures, ideas, and breakthroughs, setting them up for a world without borders. Enjoy exclusive content from renowned brands like Walt Disney Company, Paramount Consumer Products, and Kidoodle.TV, easily accessible on tablets, iPads, and more.
• Playful sidekick: Beyond the books, Miko Mini encourages dance, play, and interactive adventures, ensuring a balanced blend of mental and physical growth.

And with robust privacy controls and parental management, Miko Mini is a safe, trusted partner for any family.

Miko 3 ($249) (Martian Red or Pixie Blue)

Designed for ages 5 to 12, Miko 3 engages young minds with interactive educational content, natural conversations, and fun activities. Its advanced AI adapts to your child’s unique needs, making every interaction meaningful and safe.



Key features include:

• Empowering learning and curiosity: Miko ignites curiosity and supports children's natural desire to learn, explore, and grow by providing interactive educational content tailored to their pace.
• Strengthening emotional connections: Miko acts as a friend, encouraging kids to express themselves and fostering meaningful conversations that go beyond traditional screen time.
• Safe and trusted partner for families: With robust privacy controls and parental management, Miko prioritizes a secure, child-friendly experience that parents can trust.
• Fostering creativity and confidence: By introducing coding, problem-solving, and games, Miko helps children build confidence in their abilities, nurturing creativity and critical thinking skills.
• Fostering STEAM learning: Miko help kids learn in a fun and engaging way via interactions, and playful apps, making kids smarter everyday.

Miko 3 is the ultimate smart companion for kids, combining learning, fun, and technology in one adorable package.

Learn more, visit - www.miko.ai

ENTER TO WIN THIS GIVEAWAY!

• (1) Miko Mini AI Kids Robot (Purple)

WAYS TO ENTER:

Entries must be made on or before 11:59 p.m. December 15, 2025.

Miko Mini AI Kids Robot
TERMS AND CONDITIONS

Winner will be selected randomly. Giveaway main entry must be completed before extra entries will count. Winner will be contacted by email and must respond within 24 hours or a new winner will be selected. Open to residents of the U.S. with a valid email and street address.

Pinwheel, makers of smartphones for children and teens, now has a smartwatch offering age-appropriate, parent-monitored and voice-activated ...

Pinwheel, makers of smartphones for children and teens, now has a smartwatch offering age-appropriate, parent-monitored and voice-activated AI chat (PinwheelGPT).

Designed specifically for safe use by children ages 7-14, the Pinwheel Watch is a solution for parents seeking a way to stay connected with their kids without giving them a phone.

The watch provides parents with GPS tracking and management tools while enabling kids to text and make calls (among parent-approved contacts), and take and share photos.

And – unlike any other kid's smartwatch on the market – Pinwheel Watch offers unlimited access to a voice-activated and parent-monitored AI chat app (PinwheelGPT) that comes pre-loaded on every device.

Pinwheel Watch Features

Calling + Texting

Children can text (using voice commands or a keyboard) and make calls on the Pinwheel Watch – but only with those who parents have approved to add to the "Contact Safelist." Later this year, Pinwheel will enable video calling at parents' discretion on the watch.

Just as with the Pinwheel phone, the Pinwheel Watch enables parents to allow or deny image texting by contact and to remotely monitor a child's text messages and call history.

Apps

The Pinwheel Watch will come pre-loaded with a host of useful features and unique apps, including:

• PinwheelGPT - your child can ask a kid-friendly version of ChatGPT questions via voice or text to receive AI-generated responses (moderated for age-appropriate content and viewable to you remotely on the parent dashboard).
• Calculator
• Alarm + stopwatch
• Calendar reminders
• Games
• Camera

Schedules + Modes

• Parents can set schedules for a child's usage of different features, e.g. enabling or disabling calling, texting and/or camera use at certain specified times

Hardware

• Bluetooth-compatible
• Durable

For families with multiple children of different ages, the Pinwheel Watch enables parents to use the same parent portal to manage watches and phones for multiple kids, and it's easy to move to a phone when it's time. You can copy over contacts and settings and then get $50 off your Pinwheel phone when it's time to upgrade.

The Pinwheel Watch costs $159 + a $14.99/month monthly subscription fee to access the Pinwheel parental management tools and cellular service.

It is available now on Pinwheel site, and will be sold on Amazon later this year.

Learn more, visit - www.pinwheel.com

My teen son loves to draw and is always looking for ways to improve his artwork. So when we learned about the free virtual Wacom Creativity ...

My teen son loves to draw and is always looking for ways to improve his artwork. So when we learned about the free virtual Wacom Creativity Camp, he was excited to attend the workshops.

Note: I received product samples for review purpose. Any personal views expressed are always 100% my own.

To help him learn to draw in new ways, the Wacom team sent him the Wacom Intuos Drawing Tablet (with Bluetooth), which was compact and saved space but still gave precision for his drawing designs.

While it did come with software, the Wacom Intuos tablet and pen can also be used with any software program to draw, paint, edit photos/videos, create designs, etc. So my son had no problem setting things up via bluetooth and being ready for the Wacom workshops.


During each workshop he learned about a design concept and resource, had practice drawing time applying the lesson and then live discussions about the lesson. There was also QnA moments on various art related topics.


He enjoyed the live interaction and sharing, along with having drawing examples he can learned from. After the workshops there was "homework" and my son could submit his design work for feedback.


The Wacom Creativity Camp workshops helped my son learn how to improve his drawings and the Wacom Intuos Drawing Tablet was a great device for his new skills and ideas.

Wacom One Products

The new Wacom One products are ideal for creative beginners, students, educators, or those working in an office or home. The Wacom One S and M are the first entry level pen tablets with 4K pressure sensitivity that support tilt for calligraphy effects.

The Wacom One product line is all about choice and customization. It is comprised of the Wacom One S and Wacom One M pen tablets as well as the Wacom One 12 and Wacom One 13 touch pen displays.

Wacom One 13 touch pen display Standard model for $599.99 USD
Wacom One 12 pen display Standard model for $399.99 USD
Wacom One M pen tablet Standard model for $149.99 USD
Wacom One S pen tablet Standard model for $99.99 USD

In addition to the standard models available in select resellers the Wacom eStore is offering an option to purchase the display or tablet only. Customers can then select accessories, including their preferred pen, the correct cabling for their configuration or a stand.

The ability to customize may reduce the cost because you will only purchase the accessories needed.

Wacom One 13 touch pen display eStore model starting at $499.95 USD
Wacom One 12 pen display eStore model starting at $299.95 USD
Wacom One M pen tablet eStore model starting at $109.95 USD
Wacom One S pen tablet eStore model starting at $59.95 USD

The Wacom One pen tablets and displays can be used with Windows, macOS, Android and ChromeOS and connecting them is easy as plug and play via a single USB-C cable connection.

The added Bluetooth connectivity for the Wacom One S and M tablets plus the slim design (just 11.5 mm thick displays and 7.9mm thick tablets), light weight and compact footprint of all four devices make the entire Wacom One series a highly mobile and portable solution.

Personalize your Wacom experience in the Wacom eStore, where every artist can find accessories ranging from different colored pens to cables and stands and other accessories that add to the customization options.

Wacom Creativity Camp Art Workshops

Wacom Creativity Camp is a free online character design workshop series happening this summer, presented by Wacom in partnership with Best Buy.

Want to create your own original character for comics, manga, anime, video games, an illustrated story, a Dungeons & Dragons campaign, or just for fun – but don’t know where to start? Join Wacom Creativity Camp.

Taught by MCAD professor Lafe Smith, Creativity Camp is perfect for young folks, beginning artists, or anyone else who wants to strengthen their character design skills.

It’s free, and you don’t need any digital art tools to participate – pencil and paper is fine!

During this workshop series, you’ll learn the basics of how to create a character – including finding inspiration, sketching ideas, crafting silhouettes, and creating expressive faces and poses – and will end up with a complete model sheet for your original character!

Throughout, you’ll also get expert feedback and support from a professional artist and art school professor.

Join Creativity Camp live on Zoom on Mondays, July 28 – August 18, 2025, from 3:00-4:30pm PDT!

Wacom Creativity Camp 2025 Trailer



Each session builds on the last, so if you attend every workshop you’ll have a completed character model sheet at the end.

It’s OK if you can’t make it to every session, though – they’ll have recap materials and “homework” to get you caught up, and eventually will publish recordings of the workshops on YouTube.

One more reason to attend live, though: we’ll be giving way Wacom drawing tablets during each session, and only attendees are eligible!

Learn more, visit - community.wacom.com/en-us/creativity-camp-2025/

The Sphero team shared how parents and families can explore how AI impacts STEM education, why human skills still matter, and how they can s...

The Sphero team shared how parents and families can explore how AI impacts STEM education, why human skills still matter, and how they can support their kids through this pivotal shift.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is here and it's changing how kids learn - from personalized learning tools to hands-on coding experiences.

But as a parent, you might wonder: What does this mean for my child's future? And how can you help your child thrive in a world where AI is the norm?

My Other Related Posts

• Sphero BOLT+ Coding Robot Features & Activities
• Sphero STEM Summer Camps & Resources

How AI Supports STEM Learning

AI transforms education to benefit your kids, especially in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM).

Personalized Learning

Imagine a tutor who never gets tired and adapts to your kid's needs. That's what AI-powered platforms like DreamBox (www.dreambox.com) do – adjust content in real time to focus on the areas where your kids need the most help.

Whether your learners are breezing through variables or stuck on coding loops, AI tools tailor lessons for a more engaging and practical experience.

Instant Feedback and On-Demand Help

AI tools can grade assignments and provide feedback in seconds. This gives students immediate insight into their work and helps them improve faster.

Tools like ChatGPT (www.chatgpt.com) can also act as study buddies, offering explanations or brainstorming help even after school hours.

Real-World Tech Exposure

Today's students aren't just learning theory — they're using AI to solve real problems. From building voice-command apps to analyzing data with machine learning, these hands-on projects prepare them for a tech-driven future.

What AI Can't Do (and Why It Matters)

While AI is a powerful tool, it can't do everything. There are key areas where learners need to build human skills and where your support matters most.

Creativity and Critical Thinking

AI can generate content and suggest solutions, but it can't develop new ideas or think creatively. Your kids’ ideas, logic, and curiosity drive real innovation, and AI needs those human traits to be truly useful.

Human Connection

A great teacher doesn't just deliver facts; they inspire. AI might explain a coding concept, but it can't sense when students are frustrated or spark their curiosity the way a mentor or parent can.

Foundational Skills Still Matter

You might ask: "If AI can write code, do my kids still need to learn it?" The answer is yes. Without understanding how coding works, they won't be able to guide or correct AI when it makes mistakes (which it often does). Think of AI as an intelligent assistant, not a replacement.

What You Can Do as a Parent

You don't need to be a tech expert to support your learners’ interest in AI and STEM. Here are four practical ways to help:

Encourage STEM Exploration

Try coding camps, AI challenges, or hands-on tools like Sphero robots. Platforms like Scratch (www.scratch.mit.edu) make programming fun and approachable, even for beginners.

Talk About Tech Ethics

AI raises important questions about fairness, privacy, and bias. Discussing how AI makes decisions helps kids think critically and build media literacy skills.

Combine Creativity with Coding

Help your learners pair imagination with technology. Whether designing art with AI tools like DALL·E (www.openai.com/index/dall-e/) or writing stories with AI assistants, they learn to create, not just consume.

Celebrate Mistakes

Trial and error is part of learning. If your kids get stuck or frustrated, remind them that every bug or failed attempt is a step toward success.

Making AI Concepts Click with the Right Tools

One of the most engaging ways to introduce your learners to AI and computer science is through hands-on tools like Sphero BOLT+. This interactive robot blends learning with play, allowing kids to program real-world actions and see results instantly.

Using the Sphero Edu App, kids can start with simple drag-and-drop coding and gradually explore more advanced concepts like text coding, sensors, and automation. They can even design programs where BOLT+ lights up in patterns, follows custom paths, or reacts to commands, building foundational AI and programming skills.

In this AI-focused lesson, BOLT Meets ChatGPT, students learn how AI chatbots like ChatGPT work, work to modify a JavaScript program to make BOLT/BOLT+ introduce itself, and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of AI chatbots.

This real-life "debugging" lesson allows them to question and iterate on what ChatGPT provided, teaching them to navigate the nuances and complexities of programming with an AI tool.

What's more, tools like BOLT+ foster teamwork and resilience. When kids collaborate to solve problems, debug code, and refine their designs, they learn more than just tech, building confidence, communication, and creativity.

The Big Picture: AI + Human Imagination

AI isn't replacing computer science; it's enhancing it. The learners who will thrive in tomorrow's world are the ones who know how to work with AI, not just use it. That means teaching them to code, think critically, and stay curious.

As a parent, your encouragement matters more than ever. You don't need to know how to build an algorithm to support your kids’ tech journey; you just need to help them ask questions, try new things, and believe in their ability.

Learn more, visit - www.sphero.com

For parents with kids going into kindergarten, there's lots to get ready for including learning letters, understanding numbers, and buil...

For parents with kids going into kindergarten, there's lots to get ready for including learning letters, understanding numbers, and building social-emotional skills.

A tool families can use is Smile Zemi, a professionally developed learning tablet, designed specifically for elementary students, that helps build real, school-ready skills in a structured, engaging way.

Built around real academic standards (including Common Core), Smile Zemi delivers structured, step-by-step instruction in Math and English Language Arts (ELA), and now, a brand-new Kindergarten program is making it easier to get kids ready for school.

Smile Zemi Kindergarten Curriculum

The recently launched Kindergarten curriculum introduces foundational skills in Alphabet, ELA, Math, Social Skills, Science, Thinking Skills, and Art & Music through interactive lessons, exercises, and guided instruction.

The experience is designed to mirror a classroom-style education, minus the distractions. With no internet access, no internet games, and no open browsing, kids can focus while still having fun through progress-based rewards and engaging visuals.

Smile Zemi’s Achievement Test course also gives students the chance to strengthen state test prep skills in a supportive and motivating environment.

Priced at $99.99 per month, the Smile Zemi Kindergarten Course includes a 21-day home trial, giving families the opportunity to explore the platform at their own pace.

Smile Zemi Learning System

What is Smile Zemi?



Developed by JustSystems, one of Japan’s largest manufacturers of educational software, Smile Zemi features a professionally developed curriculum and materials, including instructional videos, exercises, and quizzes to help students most effectively study Math and English Language Arts (ELA) on their own and in support of Common Core State Standards.

Why Smile Zemi

• At home learning system that allows students to work independently on Math and ELA subjects.
• The durable and sturdy tablet is designed for learning purposes only, with no access to web browsers or games.
• Proven academic success! Step-by-step approach, fun exercises, and easy to understand explanations.
• Following Common Core State Standards, students enhance their problem-solving and reading comprehension skills.
• The system tracks your child’s progress, parents can monitor in real-time via smartphone.

Motivating Rewards keep your child engaged in learning

• Avatars - Your child can create their very own custom avatar.
• Collection Cards - Your child can also receive Collection Cards. Smile Zemi helps them expand their knowledge through cards
• Wallpapers - Stars can be exchanged for Avatar items, collection cards, and wallpapers.
• Camera/ Albums
• Awards - Earn awards that get presented at a monthly award ceremony!

Smile Zemi is the first tablet-based educational learning system tailored to meet the needs of elementary school children grades 1 through 5 and specifically designed to improve academic performance aligned with Common Core State Standards.

Learn more, visit- www.smile-zemi.com

Just in time for Global Day of Unplugging (March 7-8), I attended the first Verizon Digital Wellness Summit, where host Drew Barrymore joine...

Just in time for Global Day of Unplugging (March 7-8), I attended the first Verizon Digital Wellness Summit, where host Drew Barrymore joined panelists to discuss how to live in a digital world in a responsible way.

Note: I was invited as media to this event. However, any views expressed are always 100% my own.


During the various panels, including with Sowmyanarayan Sampath (Verizon Consumer CEO), it was highlighted that Verizon recognizes the challenge of managing screen time and its impact on overall well-being.

To help promote healthy digital habits for families, Verizon has formed partnerships and provides digital resources.

Verizon Digital Wellness Partnerships

My Digital TAT2

Partnering to offer free workshops in select Verizon retail stores for parents and caregivers, providing tools to foster children's digital wellness and navigate emerging tech trends.

Discovery Education:

Collaborating on a new Digital Citizenship Initiative to provide K-12 students with free tools, resources and skills needed to thrive in today’s digital world. Content is free on the website and to classrooms within the Discovery Education Experience.

Older Adults Technology Services (OATS) from AARP

Developing a new digital wellness course for older adults, delivered both in-person and virtually through SeniorPlanet.org, focusing on safe and effective technology use, privacy protection, and staying connected.

Sesame Workshop

Conducting a research study with the Joan Ganz Cooney Center focused on digital well-being of children during key developmental ages of 8 to 12. The findings will address challenges families face with technology use and guide the creation of future digital wellness programs.

Verizon Arcade Unplugged NYC Pop-Up Experience

In celebration of the Global Day of Unplugging, this FREE family pop-up transforms digital games into larger-than-life challenges. From mind-bending puzzles to action-packed adventures, parents and kids alike can put their phones down, and reconnect IRL.

Experience is recommended for walking age children and above.

Learn more, visit - events.bizzabo.com/711494

Verizon Family App

The Verizon Family app is available for all Verizon mobile customers on postpaid plans through the App Store and Google Play.

With features like location sharing, Parental Controls, Safe Walk with SOS, Crash Detection and Roadside assistance to keep families connected and protected.

Learn more, visit - www.verizon.com/verizonfamily and www.verizon.com/parenting

Did you know that Apple devices have built-in tools that helps families to keep safe while using their devices? During a family-focused brie...

Did you know that Apple devices have built-in tools that helps families to keep safe while using their devices? During a family-focused briefing, I was invited by the Apple team to learn more.

Note: I was invited as media to the event. Views expressed are always 100% my own.

Here's a breakdown of what I learned, including devices features and online resources.

Creating a Child Account

For family groups with kids, you can create accounts just for them with built-in parental controls to help you monitor their Screen Time and approve their purchases. Every child should have their own account to make the best use of parental controls, including age appropriate restrictions of apps, movies, books and more.

By default you will be able to approve your child’s purchases from the App Store, iTunes Store, and Apple Books. And, you can share your child’s location with other family members as needed in the Find My app.

Once they have an Apple Account, kids automatically appear as part of your family group with all the parental controls that you wanted to have in place right from the start. You can also add another adult in the family as a parent or guardian too, so they can help manage your child’s settings and controls.

Device setup for a child

Once you have your child’s account set up, it’s really easy to set up an iPhone or iPad for them with a feature called Quick Start. If you're a parent or guardian in a Family Sharing group, you can use your iPhone or iPad to help set up a child's new device with your preferred parental controls.

Simply turn on your child's new device and place it near your device and follow the steps: choosing who will be using the new device, or if you want to create a new child account in the family.

Screen Time & Communication Safety

Screen Time is great for helping you and your family manage time spent on your devices. Screen Time gives you a better understanding of the time you and your kids spend using apps, visiting websites, and on your devices overall.

You’ll see suggested content restrictions, based on your child’s age, and you can tap “Turn On Restrictions” to use these suggested restrictions.

Then, you can read about Communication Safety, which is designed to help protect your child from viewing sensitive photos and videos.

— Communication Safety is turned on by default for all under-13 children accounts, and starting in iOS 18, iPadOS 18, and macOS Sequoia, the feature will require that the Screen Time passcode for the Family Sharing group be entered on the child’s device in order to view or send a sensitive image.

Learn more about Communication Safety, visit - support.apple.com/en-us/105069

Communication Limits

With Communication Limits, parents can control who their children can communicate with, both throughout the day and during Downtime. These limits apply to Phone, FaceTime, Messages, and iCloud contacts.

There's also “Always Allowed” options, for parents who want to select certain apps that their child can always use — even if it’s Downtime — like maybe Books for school.

Phone, Messages, FaceTime, and Maps are always allowed by default — you can remove them if you want.

Content & Privacy Restrictions

With Content & Privacy Restrictions, parents can decide the type of content that appears on their child’s device. They can block inappropriate content, purchases, and downloads, and set privacy settings.

Learn more, visit - support.apple.com/en-us/105121

Family Sharing

Family Sharing is the easy and secure way to share purchases, subscriptions, and more with up to 5 other people. You can easily share subscriptions to Apple TV+, Music, News+, Arcade, Fitness+, as well as other eligible third-party subscriptions with everyone in your family group.

You can also share items you purchase and download from the Apple TV app, Apple Books, or the App Store. Family groups can also share iCloud storage too, giving everyone enough space to store photos, videos and files without having to purchase separate plans.

Importantly, personal content stored on each family member’s device won’t be shared — photos, videos, messages, and files will remain private. And, if you don’t want to share certain apps or other purchases, you can hide them from the rest of the family group.

Family Checklist

To help you make the most of Family Sharing, Family Checklist provides tips and suggestions, such as updating a child’s parental controls as they get older, turning on location sharing, or just reminding you that you can share your iCloud+ subscription with the whole family.

Family Checklist is found in Settings, then by tapping on “Family."

Family Checklist shows if parental controls and Communication Limits for the children in the family have been set up. If they are already enabled, it tells the parent when they were last reviewed.

By tapping on any of the options, you can get right into the relevant setting to make adjustments. Further down in Family Checklist, you can easily see whether Emergency Contacts, Location Sharing and iCloud+ features are enabled.

As you can see there's alot of options for parents and families to use to keep kids safe and focused while enjoying Apple devices.

Learn more, visit - www.apple.com/families

T-Mobile’s new SyncUP KIDS WATCH 2 elevates the concept of kids' gadgets by combining fun, functionality, and safety in one compact devi...

T-Mobile’s new SyncUP KIDS WATCH 2 elevates the concept of kids' gadgets by combining fun, functionality, and safety in one compact device.

As parents raise their kids in a digital era, they’re faced with decisions around how to navigate screen time, social media and technology at home and while away.

T-Mobile’s SyncUP KIDS WATCH 2 is the perfect tool for families looking to stay connected while giving children a taste of independence.

SyncUP KIDS WATCH 2 is designed with a variety of safety and entertainment features including:

• Real-time location tracking allows parents to always know their child's whereabouts
• Plus virtual boundary alerts notify parents if their child leaves designated areas
• Talk and text capabilities with approved contacts ensure safe communication
• Dual cameras for video calling and selfies to stay in touch while apart for activities
• An LED flashlight for added safety
• More games for more playtime and to make car rides and long lines better for all
• Bluetooth to pair with wireless earbud to keep kids engaged during downtime

Just in time for back-to-school season and designed for kids ages 5-12, the smartwatch also offers practical tools like task reminders and a school mode to help children stay focused when needed.

New and existing T-Mobile customers can pick it up free when adding a SyncUP KIDS WATCH plan (full price: $174).

Learn more, visit - www.t-mobile.com/news/devices/t-mobiles-syncup-kids-watch-2

Back-to-School Tech Deals

T-MOBILE PHONES

• FREE iPhone 15 Pro (up to $1000 off) when you trade in an eligible device on Go5G Next.
• FREE iPhone 15 (up to $830 off) when you trade in an eligible device on Go5G Plus.
• FREE iPhone 14 (up to $730) when you trade in an eligible device and add a line on one of our best Go5G plans.
• FREE Samsung Galaxy A15 5G (up to $300 off) when you add a new line on ANY plan.
• FREE Samsung Galaxy S24/S23 or Google Pixel 8 (up to $800 off) when you add a line on Go5G Plus or Go5G Next.
• 50% off Samsung Galaxy S23 FE when you add a new line on ANY plan.

METRO PHONES

• FREE moto edge or Samsung A35 when (up to $499) when you sign up for Metro Flex Plus and bring your number to Metro.
• FREE moto g stylus or REVVL 7 (up to $259) when you sign up for Metro Flex Plus.
• FREE Samsung A15 (up to $229) when you sign up for Metro Flex Up and bring your number to Metro.

T-MOBILE CONNECTED DEVICES

• FREE SyncUP KIDS Watch 2 (up to $174 off) when you add a qualifying watch line.
• $200 off Apple Watch (SE 2nd Gen, Series 9, Ultra 2) when you add a qualifying watch line.
• 50% off iPad 9th Gen (64GB) when you add a qualifying tablet line.
• FREE Samsung Galaxy Watch6 (up to $380 off) when you add a qualifying watch line.
• FREE Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ 5G (up to $276 off) when you add a qualifying watch line.

METRO CONNECTED DEVICES

• FREE TCL TAB 8 LE (up to $159) when you add a new tablet line.
• $19.99 Galaxy Tab A7 (up to $180 off) when you add a new tablet line.
• $99.99 Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 40MM (up to $150 off) when you add a qualifying watch line.

HOME INTERNET

Get $200 back when signing up for T-Mobile Home Internet online. Students and families can stress less since T-Mobile Home Internet has no annual contracts or exploding bills.

Plus, it’s fast, reliable 5G home internet that’s easy to set up – just plug in one cord, set up the gateway and get connected in 15 minutes or less.

BoT Talk, a mobile communication device for children for 5-10 year, fills the gap between a watch and mobile device for kids to keep connect...

BoT Talk, a mobile communication device for children for 5-10 year, fills the gap between a watch and mobile device for kids to keep connected with their families.

BoT Talk is compact, lightweight, shockproof and ultra-durable device that kids can use to communicate without internet and social media.

2-Way Voice Messaging

Effortlessly communicate with your child using just your voice, no matter where you are. It’s the ultimate tool to foster meaningful interactions and stay up-to-date with your child’s day-to-day activities.

Consistent GPS Tracking

BoT Talk utilizes a range of advanced location technologies, from GPS satellites to Assisted GPS, WiFi/Cell Tower Cloud Positioning, and Motion Positioning.

This comprehensive approach ensures consistent location tracking, even in challenging environments such as indoors, underground, or while in motion, where traditional GPS systems often struggle to provide accurate positioning.

Bot Talk US



Securely attach BoT Talk to your child’s backpack, clothing, or use as a wearable, depending on the comfort and preference of the child.

Learn more, visit - www.bot.app/us

The Microsoft Store has kicked off its annual Back to School sale, running July 16 – September 10, with deals on a variety of devices sure t...

The Microsoft Store has kicked off its annual Back to School sale, running July 16 – September 10, with deals on a variety of devices sure to make schoolwork a breeze.

Microsoft Store’s top Back to School deals include:

• Save up to $600 on Surface Laptop Studio 2. Offer will run Aug. 11-25.
• Save up to 80% on select Windows and Xbox apps like Nitrado, Dolby Access and Movie Maker (Windows only). Offer live and ends Sept. 10.
• Bundle savings on hot new Copilot+ PCs, providing additional configurations including a range of models and memory space options that are exclusive to Microsoft Store. Offer now live.
• And don’t forget M365 Personal for Students is now only $2.99 per month, to help students make the most of their new devices with the apps, security, and storage they need to accomplish their goals.

Eligible students and institutions can also get Office 365 Education for free*

*You must be a full-time or part-time student or staff member at an eligible academic institution and:

• Have a school-specific email address provided by the school that can receive external email
• Be of legal age to sign up for an online offer individually
• Have internet access

Stressed about your picky student finding a laptop they’ll love?

Microsoft Store offers free returns for 60 days so your student can experience their new device in the classroom, at their dorm and everywhere in between before deciding they love it or that they want to try a different color or model

Learn more, visit - www.microsoft.com/en-us/store/b/sale

Sphero has launched the BOLT+™ coding robot, that uses STEM education with its advanced features to empower students to explore coding, crea...

Sphero has launched the BOLT+™ coding robot, that uses STEM education with its advanced features to empower students to explore coding, creativity, and core curriculum subjects through interactive lessons and activities.

Ideal for providing dynamic, hands-on learning, the BOLT+ robot caters to all programming levels and abilities. Students can design animations, games, and unique projects, making coding personalized.

With upgraded sensors, a vivid 128x128-pixel LCD screen, 38 newly designed, standards-aligned lessons, BOLT+ integrates into subjects like math, science, and language arts, offering a multidimensional, cross-curricular learning experience.

KEY FEATURES & BENEFITS

• Vivid LCD Screen - Promote creativity and self-expression with over 650 vibrant graphics and playful animations. Display real-time sensor data, aiding precision in code debugging.
• Engineered for Fun - Durable, waterproof polycarbonate shell keeps it safe from drops, crashes, and liquids!
• New Programming Blocks - Exclusive new programming blocks for BOLT+ allow students to expand programming possibilities.
• Program 3 Ways - Using the Sphero Edu app, program BOLT using draw and drive commands, drag-and-drop blocks, or JavaScript text programming.

ACTIVITIES

BOLT+ Programming - Explore 16 lessons that introduce and reinforce the key algorithm and programming standards from beginner to advanced.

Elementary ELA - Level up reading and writing skills in grades 3-5 with eight fun and hands-on BOLT+ lessons.

Middle School Games - Introduce key concepts of game design and play a variety of games with new lessons designed specifically for BOLT+’s unique capabilities.

Available now for preorder, BOLT+ single robots are priced at $199, shipping August 2024.

Learn more, visit - www.sphero.com/products/sphero-bolt-plus

Mother’s Day is coming! Don’t miss these top deals on tech for Mom at T-Mobile – all available right now and through Mother’s Day: FR...

Mother’s Day is coming! Don’t miss these top deals on tech for Mom at T-Mobile – all available right now and through Mother’s Day:

• FREE iPhone 15 (up to $830 off) with eligible trade on Go5G Plus or Go5G Next, or when you add a line on most plans.
• FREE Samsung Galaxy S24 with eligible trade OR when you add a line on Go5G Plus or Go5G Next.
• 50% OFF iPad 9th Gen 64GB when adding a line.
• FREE Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 (40mm or 44mm) when adding a watch line.
• $300 OFF the Harman Kardon Onyx Studio 8 Speaker in any color.
• FREE Apple Watch SE 2nd Gen 40mm (or 44mm for just $30) when adding a new watch line.

That means Mom can get the brand-new iPhone 15 AND Apple Watch SE, or a Samsung GS24 AND Galaxy Watch 6!

To learn more about latest deals at T-Mobile, visit - www.t-mobile.com/offers

And if you’re searching for other gifts, check out T-Mobile’s Mother’s Day gift guide packed with best-selling wireless earbuds, speakers and more – a few top picks below:

• Apple AirPods Max ($549.99 plus tax)
• Apple AirPods Pro 2nd Gen with MagSafe Charging Case ($249.99 plus tax)
• Case-Mate Floral Gems Case for Apple iPhone 15 ($49.99 plus tax)
• mophie Snap Plus Juice Pack ($49.99 plus tax)
• CaseMate Magnetic Wallet Folio for MagSafe Devices ($39.99 plus tax)

Once Mom has joined T-Mobile, she can get all the perks and freebies that only Un-carrier customers can enjoy — like VIP treatment with Magenta Status, stacked with one-of-a-kind experiences and deals on things like hotels, rental cars, food, concert and movie tickets and more.

When doing the math, T-Mobile customers can unlock $1,500 in added value every year in Magenta Status perks alone.

Plus, T-Mobile customers can get loads more stuff they love included on value-packed plans — from Apple TV+ on Us, Hulu on Us, Netflix on Us and free season-long subscriptions to MLB.TV, to free in-flight Wi-Fi, high-speed data abroad, Scam Shield protection, exclusive deals and freebies every week through T-Mobile Tuesdays and more.

To learn more, visit - www.t-mobile.com/devices/tech-gifts

As summer approaches, Sphero has available engaging educational resources tailored for STEM summer camps and other programs. These resou...

As summer approaches, Sphero has available engaging educational resources tailored for STEM summer camps and other programs.

These resources are designed to make STEM learning engaging and fun for young minds.

With Sphero indi, BOLT, RVR+, and littleBits, students can engage in various hands-on activities that promote creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.

From introducing early learners to robotics with Sphero indi to fostering inventiveness and innovation with littleBits, Sphero's tools offer endless possibilities for summer learning.

• Summer Camp Guides offer tailored solutions for different age groups, from PK–2 with Sphero indi to elementary-aged learners with littleBits. Plus, waterproof Sphero BOLT and versatile RVR+ are perfect companions for summer adventures in STEAM.


• Our After School Guide showcases how Sphero robots and littleBits kits can seamlessly integrate STEM learning into after-school programs, extending the learning day and providing students with valuable experiences in computer science and engineering.


• Funding for STEM Summer Camps & After School Programs is available through ESSER funding, allowing you to address learning loss and provide enriching student experiences.

Learn more, visit - www.sphero.com/pages/stem-summer-camps

Apple is once again supporting and uplifting the next generation of developers, creators, and entrepreneurs with the Swift Student Challenge...

Apple is once again supporting and uplifting the next generation of developers, creators, and entrepreneurs with the Swift Student Challenge, which opened February 2024 and will be live for three weeks (February 25)!

New for 2024

Out of 350 winners, Apple will recognize 50 Distinguished Winners for their outstanding submissions and invite them to Apple in Cupertino for an extraordinary experience.

All Challenge winners will receive one year of membership in the Apple Developer Program, a complimentary voucher to take an App Development with Swift certification exam, and a special gift from Apple.

Swift Student Challenge 2024

Applying

To be eligible for the Challenge, at the time you submit your app playground you must:

• Be 13 years of age or older in the United States, or the equivalent minimum age in the relevant jurisdiction (for example, 16 years of age in the European Union);*
• Be registered for free with Apple as an Apple developer or be a member of the Apple Developer Program; and
• Fulfill one of the following requirements:
• Be enrolled in an accredited academic institution or official homeschool equivalent;
• Be enrolled in a STEM organization’s educational curriculum;
• Be enrolled in an Apple Developer Academy; or
• Have graduated from high school or equivalent within the past 6 months and be awaiting acceptance or have received acceptance to an accredited academic institution.

You can receive a Swift Student Challenge award up to four times.

Building Your App Playground

Create an interactive scene in an app playground that can be experienced within three minutes. Be creative. If you need inspiration, use the provided templates for a head start on more advanced creations. Make them your own by adding graphics, audio, and more.

Requirements:

• Your submission must be an app playground (.swiftpm) in a ZIP file.
• Your creation should not rely on a network connection and any resources used in your app playground should be included locally in the ZIP file. Submissions will be judged offline.
• Your ZIP file can be up to 25 MB.
• Your submission must be created by you as an individual or a template modified by you as an individual. Group work will not be considered. You may include third-party open source licensed code and/or public domain images and sounds, with credit and an explanation of why it was used.
• Your app playground must be built with and run on Swift Playgrounds 4.4 or later (requires iPadOS 16 or macOS 13.5, or later) or Xcode 15 on macOS 13.5, or later. You may incorporate the use of Apple Pencil.
• All content should be in English.

Supporting Educators

To help bring app development to learners, Apple works with educators around the globe. To support teaching Swift Playgrounds for educators, four new Everyone Can Code Projects provide step-by-step resources to guide students in developing essential skills while creating apps that solve problems they care about.

In addition to working with educators worldwide, Apple supports learners in 99 countries and regions through its Community Education Initiative, such as the National Coalition of Certification Centers (NC3).

NC3 provides hands-on professional development opportunities to prepare community and technical college and high school instructors to teach App Development with Swift.

This year, the organization is committing to helping more students than ever submit their app projects for the Swift Student Challenge in 2024.

Students can continue exploring learning resources and tools like Swift Playgrounds and Xcode to brush up on their coding skills, and learners can also dive into coding Today at Apple sessions (www.apple.com/today/calendar) at their local Apple stores.

New Everyone Can Code Projects

Everyone Can Code Projects can be integrated into any subject area, and are perfect for the classroom or coding clubs. They introduce students to SwiftUI and use the latest app-building technologies in Swift Playgrounds.

As they code, students can see how their app changes in real time with App Preview.

Four new Projects available include:

• Design a Simple App: Students can create an app prototype in Keynote to learn the fundamentals of app design, practice rapid prototyping, and collect feedback, following the same steps as professional developers.
• Build with Stacks and Shapes: Students can take the first steps of building an app in Swift Playgrounds and code a self-portrait or a work of art using SwiftUI to learn the fundamentals of user interface design.
• Build Custom Shapes: Students can bring an app interface to the next level by designing a shape, learning how to plot the coordinates, and coding their custom shape using SwiftUI and the About Me sample app within Swift Playgrounds.
• Design an App Icon: Students can learn and apply app design principles to create a unique and memorable app icon that communicates an idea; practice rapid prototyping; collect feedback; and upload the icon to Swift Playgrounds to become part of an app.

Since it launched in 2020, the global Challenge has given thousands of student developers the opportunity to showcase their creativity and coding capabilities through app playgrounds, and earn real-world skills that they can take into their careers and beyond.

Learn more, visit - developer.apple.com/swift-student-challenge/

Puro Sounds Labs new PuroQuiet Plus headphones enables volume-limiting to prevent ear damage for kids. The PuroQuiet Plus now features ...

Puro Sounds Labs new PuroQuiet Plus headphones enables volume-limiting to prevent ear damage for kids.

The PuroQuiet Plus now features a USB-C connector and has added two attractive color options to the range, purple and teal.

Noise Cancellation

In addition to the sleek design, the PuroQuiet Plus headphones have an active noise cancellation feature that suppress ambient noise levels and provides a superior listening experience in even the loudest of environments.

It blocks out daily noise and background sounds up to 22 dB, complemented by 82% noise isolation and puts the wider world on mute so youngsters can listen clearly in a loud environment.

It can also help calm children down in a loud and unfamiliar environment, reduce noise related stress and increase their overall focus on one thing without the distraction of ambient noise.

Puro Sound Labs is the first ever company to be Certified Sensory Inclusive.

Hearing Protection

The PuroQuiet is designed to keep music at suitable volume levels for children, while maintaining a balanced sound signature. The default 85dB volume limiting prevents kids and teens from suffering the gradual, but permanent hearing damage by cranking the sound up too high unintentionally.

Additional features include the latest Bluetooth profiles for CD-like quality wireless audio, a highly sensitive microphone for taking calls or gaming with friends and up to 16-hours of active battery life. They also fold flat, which allows for easy portability when kids are travelling.

The PuroQuiet Plus wireless kids headphones are available for $139.99 in 6 colors on Amazon.

To learn more, visit - www.purosound.com

Xplora's award-winning X6Play and XGO3 are smart device for kids ages 4-11, who are not yet ready for a cell phone, and for parents who ...

Xplora's award-winning X6Play and XGO3 are smart device for kids ages 4-11, who are not yet ready for a cell phone, and for parents who want a kid-friendly alternative.

Xplora smartwatches helps families keep in touch for coordinate pick-up times, extracurricular activities, field trips, and weekend adventures.

Xplora smartwatches features

The X6Play and the XGO3 include features that gives kids the freedom to explore while staying connected.

• The ability to make and receive calls and texts from a set list of contacts
• School mode for distraction free learning
• GPS location tracking and an emergency call function
• Step counter that rewards kids with prizes and games for the steps they take through Xplora's Activity Platform or lets them donate their rewards to charities
• The XGO3 is available in multiple colors and the X6 Play is customizable in more than 3,400 color variations with colorful frames, straps and loops

Available at retail and online at Best Buy, Walmart, Target, Amazon, Kohl’s, HSN and more.

Learn more, visit - shop.myxplora.com

Activate – the indoor, interactive gaming experience – opened a new location inside American Dream Mall, New Jersey and invited my family fo...

Activate – the indoor, interactive gaming experience – opened a new location inside American Dream Mall, New Jersey and invited my family for a first experience of their gaming rooms.

Note: I was invited as media for review purpose. However, any views expressed are always 100% my own.

And what an experience it was! Overall this new location has a lot for gaming families with kids over age 10, teens, or just adults to enjoy including

• Pressure-sensitive, color-changing tiles that challenge players to step on or avoid specific tiles to complete each round.
• Mega Grid, which tests gamers; quick thinking as they race to- the right spot and freeze into statues at the perfect moment.
• Strike, an innovative evolution of the fan-favorite Arena.

My mom and teen sons group had a blast playing whether it was with each other in a laser game to complete a task or against each other in the basketball game room. We can't wait to go back and play more!

Here's a few reasons that made our experience so fun

Check in Process & Locker

The check in process is so quick and smooth. After checking in for your pre-reservation, you finish up the process and sign all the forms on a tablet. You also scan and setup your gaming bands.

From there put your stuff in a locker, which also uses a scan band and your set! I was able to fit two bags, jackets and more in our locker easily. So we were free to game and not drag stuff around from room to room.

Interactive Team Gaming

When you have a team of people, there's no limit to the fun and no way anyone is going to be bored or feel left out. We love that!

We were so impressed that each room offered game play that could be experience more then one way. As a team you decided what version of a game you want to play in the room. And if you weren't sure how to play, the panel gave basic instructions.

Once in the rooms, we play as a group to finish the goal. The game start off easy so you get a feel for the game and then you can level up for more challenging game play.

But there's nothing super hard, so us moms were able to keep up with the teens. Heck, some times we played better then them. Some games are physical, while other are more logical. But all of the game are so fun!

We also liked that each room is on a timer. So no long game play if the team doesn't enjoy the game or if your waiting on a room your team did enjoy playing.

There's leaderboards to check your ranking and monitors to check your points, badges earned and more.

Rewards and Incentives to Return

I was so surprised (and please) to learn after our gaming session, during check out your score is tallied and you earn rewards! I earned a key chain that digital saved my current score so I didn't have to start from zero when I returned. How cool is that?!

They also have other perks and rewards, so visit to learn more! I don't want to tell you everything!

Activate Holiday Promotions

Activate is offering several promo codes for guests to use this upcoming fall season!

• Halloween: HALLOWEEK to get 20% off the week of Halloween (Oct 30 – Nov 3)
• Veterans Day: VETDAY50 for 50% off with a military ID – Valid Nov 11
• Veterans: Year-round code: MILITARY10

Activate offers a one-of-a-kind experience that combines physical activity with cutting-edge technology. With nine rooms of games and challenges to choose from, you can test your skills and compete with your family in a thrilling and immersive environment.

In the Laser room, kids and parents will test their agility and strategy as they navigate through a labyrinth of laser beams. Test memory and reflexes with the “Push” and “Climb” rooms, where players will be challenged to recall or complete certain patterns and sequences to pass the assorted challenges.

Ticket prices start at $19.99 each for 30 minutes of play time or $24.99 each for 50 minutes of playing time. Walk-ins are accepted, but reservations are recommended and can be booked in advance by calling (201) 636-7588 or online.

Learn more, visit - www.activate.games/newjersey