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IN THE NEWS
Today’s Top Tech 📲

⚠️ When Violence Goes Viral | Recent tragedies have shown how quickly graphic videos spread online, often before content moderation systems, families, or traditional media can respond. On social media, your kids are likely seeing the unfiltered version of the headlines. Parents: please talk with them about how to handle disturbing content and when it’s time to step away.

📱 ChatGPT Teen Safety Update | OpenAI is adding parental controls and age checks after a lawsuit alleged the chatbot contributed to a teen taking his own life. Parents will be able to link accounts, set blackout hours, and get alerts if ChatGPT flags distress, but kids can bypass controls, so conversations at home matter most.

🍎 Apple Expands Protections | Apple’s latest updates bring clearer app ratings (13+, 16+, 18+), stronger teen defaults, and tools for parents to approve contacts. These features give families more control to ensure safer, age-appropriate experiences. Start here with our guide to Apple parental controls. If you don’t think your child’s ready for an iPhone, check out our guide to safe smartphones here.

👀 Roblox: Fun or Risky Business? | Roblox isn’t just play. It’s packed with ads, in-game purchases, and predators. A recent lawsuit claims a 15-year-old was groomed on Roblox and Discord and later took his own life. Parents: don’t assume the platform is safe. Talk to your kids about the dangers, set boundaries, and remind them to come to you if something feels off.

🎤 Bieber’s “It’s Not Clocking” Meme | In the world of teen vernacular, Justin Bieber’s summer slip-up with slang went viral, sparking endless memes and a response track. It’s a good reminder that online moments can live forever.

TRENDING
What’s the Best Kid-Friendly Smartwatch? ⌚️

Smartwatches are one of the most popular first devices for kids, but not all of them are created equal… 😅

In this video, Melvin reviews seven of the top parent-approved options, comparing features, safety tools, and cost. Melvin’s daughter even put each of the devices to the test.

You’ll see how each watch handles things like GPS tracking, school mode, and parental controls, along with a few surprises we found along the way. Plus, grab our free side-by-side comparison PDF to make the choice even easier.

GIVEAWAY: As a bonus, all those who follow us on Instagram and tag a friend on this post will be entered to win a free Cosmo JrTrack 5 ($150 value) and three free months of service* (starts at $9.99/month). The more friends you tag, the more times you’ll be entered to win. We’ll announce the winner on our Parent ProTech Instagram on September 22.

* After the gifted period, the winner will be responsible for continuing service if they choose to keep using the device.

PROTECH CURRICULUM
Glitch McClick: Fun Lessons for Safer Screens 🤖

In our newest early elementary video series, Krystina and her animated sidekick Glitch McClick make online safety simple and engaging.

Perfect for classrooms or parents at home, each episode tackles real digital dilemmas (oversharing, misinformation, cyberbullying, and too much screen time) with relatable stories and memorable lessons. Our favorite part is Glitch’s excessive robot reactions. 😆

Kids walk away knowing how to stay safe and balanced online, and these lessons spark conversations that stick.

THE TECH TRANSLATOR PODCAST
Tech, Boundaries, and a Professional Athlete’s Journey 🏀

In this episode of The Tech Translator Podcast, pro basketball player Gabe McGlothan (2024 College Slam Dunk Contest winner + current Indiana Pacers G League athlete) opens up about the real challenges of growing up with tech as a student-athlete. From the pressures of social media to the importance of boredom, Gabe shares how technology shaped his path and the guardrails he’s put in place to protect his focus and future.

Parents, coaches, and athletes will walk away with practical insights on:

• How online activity can impact scholarships and careers

• Why boredom is a secret weapon for creativity

• What it looks like to set screen boundaries that stick

🎧 Watch + Listen → YouTube | Spotify | Apple