Aubrey Hargis, David Hargis
Montessori and Technology: Finding the Balance
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
AUDIO VERSION

Aubrey Hargis, David Hargis
David Hargis 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, 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. She is also the author of "Toddler Discipline for Every Age and Stage", "Baby's First Year Milestones".
Discussion
Your questions will be answered after the conference.
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I like how you explained how technology could be a healthy or r unhealthy relationship. True it is up to the adult to be mindful of the attachment to technology.
Hi Val! Thanks for watching and responding! Yes, it’s our responsibility to always be aware and advocating for our children. – Aubrey
thanks for sharing your own experience with understanding technology in the Montessori home.
It is a balance between hands on learning and being mindful that technology can support learning also and it is part of everyday life.
We are empowered by technology and it’s in our control how we navigate this issue in our family without the fear and negativity.
Lots of great tips without judgement, like the ideas to use apps to identify plants, birds, planets and animal then draw, repeat the sounds or use books to do more research.
Hi Heather! You are so welcome! We are living in a truly transformative time. If we understand children’s developmental needs thoroughly, there’s no need for panic. We knowhow to guide them. Thank you for sharing this time with us here in the conference. – Aubrey