Larry Magid: You or your kids got tech for the holidays. Now what?

If you or a member of your family are among the millions of people who got high-tech gifts this year, I wish you a happy setup and silent nights free of error messages or music on hold while waiting for tech support. Unfortunately, unlike most holiday movies, tech wishes don’t always come true. There’s no final scene where everything magically fixes itself.

Before you unbox

That’s why it pays to slow down before you tear into the packaging. Before you unbox a tech gift, make sure you have a place to put everything, including the box, manuals and cords, in case you need to return it. Test the device well before the return window closes. Many stores allow returns through January 31, but some deadlines come sooner.  I’ll let you figure out where the person bought it and how to navigate the delicate conversation that can come with returning a gift.

What looks broken often isn’t. Many devices work just fine once they’re properly configured. If the manual is indecipherable or nonexistent, which is often the case, a clear YouTube video or online guide can help. You can also turn to tools such as ChatGPT or Gemini. They don’t always get it right and sometimes rely on outdated information, but they can still be useful starting points. Most manufacturers also offer online support, and if you’re lucky, live chat or phone help. Be prepared to wait, especially in the days right after Christmas.

Small things that make a difference

A few practical habits can also save headaches. Many devices come with power bricks that don’t identify the product they belong to, so I label the adapter right away in case it gets separated from the device it powers. If products have lots of parts, cords or accessories, I often place them together in zip-up bags to make sure everything stays together.

Accessories can also be platform-specific, so make sure items designed for iOS or Android actually work with what you have. And check whether the device requires a subscription. It may be a gift, but it may not be free to use.

I know it’s painful to read a manual, but sometimes it matters. There may be instructions about fully charging the device before first use. If the gadget connects to a phone or computer, check for firmware updates, which can fix problems.

If the device uses Wi-Fi, and most do, make sure you know your Wi-Fi password before you begin. If you’ve never changed it, it’s often printed on the router or gateway itself.

One more thing. Some products become harder to return once they’re activated or personalized, so hold off on signing in or registering until you’re sure the device is a keeper. And remember the old warning, “batteries not included.” If your gift needs one, make sure you have it on hand before you declare the device broken.

Kids and connected devices

If kids in your family got phones, tablets, PCs, game consoles or any other devices that connect to the internet, now is a good time to have “that talk.” Not the talk your parents gave you, but one that focuses on using connected devices safely and responsibly.

Make sure they understand how to protect their privacy and security, including why passwords matter, why location sharing should be limited, and why they shouldn’t feel pressured to share personal information, photos or videos. Talk about what to do if they see something confusing, upsetting or inappropriate, and make it clear they can come to you without fear of getting in trouble.

It’s also important to talk about online behavior, including bullying. Kids should understand that being a bully, including in a group chat or game, can hurt others and have real consequences. They should also know what to do if they are being bullied, targeted or harassed online and that they don’t have to handle it alone.

This is also a good time to set expectations around screen time, apps, games and online behavior. Parental controls can help, but they work best when kids understand the rules and the reasons behind them.

Finally, remind kids that not everyone they meet online is who they claim to be. Encourage them to be cautious, to think before they click or share and to ask for help if something doesn’t feel right.

You’ll find parent guides and other information on these and related topics at ConnectSafely.org.

No holiday miracles required

Both Christmas and Hanukkah celebrate miraculous events, including stories of a virgin birth and candles that burned for eight days. Technology, especially when kids are involved, usually requires something far less miraculous, such as patience, planning and a few thoughtful conversations about online safety. Taking the time now can help make the holidays happier and the coming year safer for the whole family.

Larry Magid is a tech journalist and internet safety activist. Contact him at larry@larrymagid.com.