“Tech Talk: How to Bring Your Parents into the 21st Century (Without Losing Your Mind)”
Photo: AdobeStock
Let’s face it—parents can be technologically challenged. They think TikTok is a clock, “the cloud” is in the sky, and they still ask if they’ll get a virus by clicking on an email from your school. We get it. But instead of rolling your eyes and speed-walking out of the room, consider this: teaching your parents about new tech can actually be fun—and make your life way easier.
1. Start Small (Like, Really Small)
Don’t begin by trying to explain NFTs or AI chatbots. That’s like teaching someone to swim by tossing them into the deep end—while blindfolded.
Instead, pick something simple they’ll actually use, like setting up voice commands on their phone (“Hey Siri, what’s the weather?”) or how to send GIFs on WhatsApp. Bonus: Once they learn, they might stop texting you for weather updates or asking what “LOL” means.
“I taught my dad how to use Google Maps properly after he kept printing out directions like it was 2004. Now he brags about ‘beating traffic’ like he’s a hacker or something.” — Zoe, 16
2. Make It About Them
Want them to actually care? Tie the tech to something they love. If your mom is into gardening, show her YouTube tutorials or Pinterest boards full of plant hacks. If your dad’s obsessed with old rock bands, introduce him to Spotify and help him build a custom playlist. The more they see tech as a tool for their own interests, the more invested they’ll be.
3. Be the Chill Tech Guru
Yes, they’re going to ask dumb questions. No, you shouldn’t yell, sigh dramatically, or pretend to lose Wi-Fi just to avoid helping.
Stay calm. Use simple language. No acronyms unless you explain them. Be patient—remember, they once taught you how to tie your shoes, hold a spoon, and not eat dirt. You owe them this.
“My mom didn’t know how to use voice texting, so she’d call me every time she needed to message someone while driving. Now I showed her how to use Siri, and I’ve gained back at least three hours of my life.” — Jordan, 17
4. Turn Mistakes into LOLs, Not Meltdowns
Your dad accidentally posted a blurry selfie of his nose to Facebook? Your mom added her grocery list to her Instagram story? That’s comedy gold—laugh with them, not at them. Making mistakes is part of learning. If you keep the vibe light, they’ll be more open to trying again.
5. Show, Don’t Just Tell
Explaining over the phone or through a vague “just click the thingy” doesn’t work. Sit next to them and go step by step. Better yet, record a screen tutorial with your voice and send it to them so they can rewatch later (and stop asking the same thing every week).
6. Celebrate the Wins
When they finally post a story without tagging a random stranger or manage to use Google Calendar on their own, give them props. A high five. A “proud of you” emoji. Or even just, “Hey, that was pretty tech-savvy of you.” It builds confidence and keeps the momentum going.
7. Be Honest About Boundaries
Yes, helping is cool—but you’re not 24/7 tech support. It’s okay to say, “Let’s figure it out this weekend,” or, “I can’t help now, but I’ll show you later.” Set some limits so you don’t burn out or start hiding under the bed every time they say, “Can I ask you a quick question?”
Final Thought: The Future is Shared
Your parents aren’t hopeless. They just didn’t grow up with tech in their hands like you did. Think of this as a chance to flip the roles—you get to be the teacher. And who knows? Maybe one day you’ll need their help programming your smart fridge or calming your future robot dog. (Okay, maybe not. But still.)
So power up your patience, grab their phone, and start the crash course. The 21st century isn’t going to wait—so why should they?
