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Montessori and Technology: Finding the Balance

Aubrey Hargis, David Hargis

Description

Join us for a thoughtful conversation with Montessori educators and parents, Aubrey and David Hargis, co-founders of Child of the Redwoods, as they explore the realities of raising children in a tech-saturated world.

In this session, you’ll gain practical tools and grounded insights on how to manage screen time with intention — all through a Montessori lens.

Aubrey and David share their personal journey as educators and parents navigating technology with their own children, while offering concrete suggestions to help you find balance in your home.

You’ll learn:

  • How to recognize healthy vs. unhealthy tech use

  • Why screen time can feel so addictive — and what to do about it

  • How to integrate digital media with hands-on learning

  • When and how to set boundaries that actually stick

  • Why YouTube Kids can be problematic — and how to use YouTube differently

  • Tips for modeling mindful screen use as a parent

  • How to involve your child in tech decisions in age-appropriate ways

This session also includes real-life examples, a Q&A with parents, and a compassionate approach that understands the pressures modern families face. If you’ve ever wondered how Montessori fits into today’s digital world, this conversation is for you.

Timestamps

00:00 – Introduction and Speaker Welcome
01:18 – Meet Aubrey and David: Montessori Backgrounds
03:26 – The Evolution of Technology in Parenting
06:59 – Navigating Screen Time Recommendations
10:30 – Montessori Perspective on Technology
14:51 – Identifying Healthy and Unhealthy Tech Use
26:47 – Real-World Tech Experiences and Tips
41:46 – The Problem with YouTube Kids
42:07 – Using YouTube for Educational Purposes
43:18 – Parental Control and Technology Management
46:28 – Intentional Technology Use for Teens
48:54 – Balancing Screen Time and Real-Life Activities
52:32 – Involving Children in Technology Decisions
59:00 – Modeling Healthy Technology Use
01:06:39 – Reading on Screens vs. Books
01:09:51 – Establishing Healthy Screen Time Boundaries
01:14:49 – Q&A Session

Featuring

Aubrey and David Hargis

David is the co-creator of Child of the Redwoods, where he helps bring Montessori-inspired homeschooling to life for real families around the world.

A former high school history teacher and educational technology professional, David holds a master’s degree in English and has always been drawn to the intersection of story and learning.

David brings his love of nature, curiosity, and deep respect for parents into every part of his work. When he’s not supporting CotR members, you’ll find him hiking, strumming his guitar, following Giants baseball, or dreaming about another trip to Disneyland.

aubrey-hargis

Aubrey Hargis, M.Ed. is a parent coach and educational consultant best known for her empathetic approach and appreciation for the magic of childhood. As a life-long Montessori advocate and AMS certified guide, her passion has always been to bring Montessori into the mainstream.

As the founder of Child of the Redwoods, she creates online courses and coaches parents in compassionate discipline techniques and Montessori education.

Aubrey lives with her husband and two homeschooled children under a blanket of San Francisco fog, where the coastal cliffs and nearby redwood trails are always beckoning for another adventure.

Lucie-Tamasova-SQ2-461x461

Lucie Brixí Tamášová is first of all a mother of three (+two) children. She has made a significant impact through her NGO, Centrum Dialog, which provides education to underprivileged children in Kenya and Guinea. She is also the owner of Montessorihracky.cz, a shop specializing in Montessori materials and didactical toys. Lucie’s passion for empowering children extends beyond her NGO work; she is the founder of the Childhood Potential Conference and Montessori Parenting courses. As a fervent Montessori enthusiast, Lucie is committed to connecting people and ensuring the Montessori message reaches a global audience by bringing the best speakers to her events. Her work reflects a profound dedication to creating a brighter future for children across the globe.

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