One Tech Tip: How to keep your child’s tablets, laptops from becoming distractions from schoolwork

August 28, 2026 - 02:53

Many schools now hand out laptops and tablets for daily classwork, but when those devices come home, they often turn into gaming consoles or endless video portals. Parents frequently find themselves in a battle over whether the screen is being used for a math assignment or for yet another round of online videos. It is a common struggle, but there are practical ways to keep the device focused on school without turning your home into a police state.

First, check if the school or the device itself has built-in management tools. Most education-focused tablets and Chromebooks come with a basic admin console that lets you set time limits for specific apps. You do not need to be a tech expert to find these settings. Look for a section called "family link" or "school time" in the device settings. If the school owns the device, ask the teacher or IT department for a simple guide. They often have a preset mode that blocks games after a certain hour.

If the device is yours, consider setting up a separate user profile just for homework. This profile can have only the necessary apps and no access to the browser for fun. You can also use a physical timer. Agree that the tablet stays in a common area, like the kitchen table, during study time. That way, you can glance over and see what is on the screen without hovering. When the timer goes off, the device goes into a drawer or a charging station in another room.

Another trick is to turn off notifications for everything except school apps. A constant ping from a group chat or a game invite is enough to break any child's focus. You can also schedule a "wind down" period where the device only works in grayscale mode. That makes the screen less appealing for entertainment. Finally, talk to your child about the rule. Explain that the device is a tool, not a toy, during homework hours. Set a clear consequence, like losing the device for the evening if they sneak onto a game. It is not about being strict, but about creating a habit that helps them finish work faster so they can actually enjoy their free time.