Remember our “Technology for Households” classes with Harris County’s ELQN initiative? The one-year contract was completed this past summer. Today, two of our BridgingApps Team members share about their experiences.
The Specifics
(by Amy Fuchs, BridgingApps Program Manager)
We held 10 in-person Technology for Households workshops, with 4–12 participants each. For maximum convenience, workshops were scheduled during evenings and on weekends, at the closest possible locations to participants’ home zip codes.
Participants were parents and caregivers of children ages 4–8. Among the topics covered were:
- Scanning QR codes
- Setting up and using popular devices
- Finding and downloading apps (with recommendations for age-appropriate educational apps, such as ABC Kids, Khan Academy Kids, Starfall, and Vroom)
- Setting screen-time controls and app limits
- Additional information on mobile device security, app blocking, and parental controls—including specific features on both iOS and Android
Each family also received a free Early Learning Technology Kit ($500 value), which included:
- An iPad or Android tablet (participant’s choice) with protective case
- A gift card for the relevant app source (Apple App Store or Google Play Store)
- A screen-free Yoto Player with a protective case and three card packs
- Child-friendly headphones and stylus
- A folder of documents (in English or Spanish, matching the participant’s preferred language) that included information shared during the workshop, instructions for setting up the tablet and Yoto Player, and more
A total of 93 kits were distributed.
We also provided an overview of other BridgingApps services, including our free assistive-technology (AT) lab where families can come for hands-on exploration of devices, laptop/tablet accessories, and software. (Technology Kit folders included an Easter Seals Greater Houston Fact Sheet and a BridgingApps “Apps for Learning” flyer.)
The Experience
(by Silvia Guajardo, Digital Navigator)
What began as an opportunity to provide families with technology, quickly became a much more meaningful experience as I connected and interacted with the families. I believe that every participating family walked away with greater confidence in using technology as a tool for their children’s development and safety. Many parents were concerned about their children falling behind in school, and some expressed concerns about speech delays. Therefore, they were especially interested in resources that could help their children build knowledge and skills at home.
One of the most rewarding aspects of this project was seeing how grateful families were, not only for the technology they received, but also for the knowledge, hands-on guidance, and ongoing support throughout the program. During follow-up calls, families continued to express interest in learning more; and many asked to be contacted the next time a similar program becomes available.
One thing that stood out to me during each workshop was the clear need for more opportunities like this, where families can learn, ask questions, and feel supported as they navigate the digital world. I was grateful for the opportunity to contribute to this effort, and to witness the excitement and joy of families as they left the workshops with their new devices, knowledge, and confidence.
Participant Feedback: A Sampler
(from workshops and follow-up calls)
- “My children have been using the Yoto player frequently, as it allows all three of them to enjoy and engage with music and storytelling together.”
- “I downloaded the free ABC Kids app; and with consistent repetition, even my almost-3-year-old has begun to recognize some letters, which is exciting progress.”
- “Our internet is not so good, so it’s great to have Khan Academy for activities that work even when the internet is down.”
- “Very grateful for the technology provided. We plan to gradually add more Yoto cards for the children to enjoy, and they are already very enthusiastic about this.”
- “All is working great; my younger child uses the Yoto mostly and my daughter uses the iPad that helps her with school. Thank you so much for all that was provided.”
The BridgingApps team was honored to join Harris County’s ELQN representatives at the press conference, celebrating the impact of community partnerships and their shared commitment to supporting children and families through early learning, technology, and access to resources.
Earlier ELQN/Technology for Households articles:
- Technology for Households Workshops: Our New ELQN Partnership
- From the Classroom to the Family Room: “Technology for Households” Update
See also: Facebook post from last August 4, which highlighted the 2026 Achievement Award that ELQN received from the National Association of Counties, for outstanding work with children and youth.