At Hybridge, we manage the IT systems that power your Firms — but we also know that tech decisions don’t stop at the office. As venture capitalists and business leaders, you’re often ahead of the curve when it comes to gadgets, security, and digital tools. That’s why we’ve put together this quick, no-nonsense guide to what you should be buying your kids this back-to-school season — tech that’s smart, secure, and built to last.

Computers

Elementary to Middle School

Apple iPad (with Magic Keyboard + Pencil) - for younger students in creative or digital-first schools, the iPad is still the best — versatile, secure, and supported by most learning platforms.

High School and College

MacBook Air M4 - Fast, light, and with enough power to handle multitasking and media-heavy workloads. The MacBook wins for simplicity, performance, and longevity

Pro Tip from Hybridge: Avoid budget Windows laptops — they often cost more in frustration than they save in price, and school support can be spotty for Windows

Cybersecurity for Kids (Because Phishing Doesn’t Care About Age)

Your child’s school may not be enforcing strict security policies — but you should. Consider setting them up with:

  • 1Password Family (password manager with shared vaults)
  • Find my Phone or Life360 to track devices and the kids they are attached to
  • Apple Screen Time or Google Family Link (parental controls and usage monitoring)

You already take security seriously at work — do the same at home. Especially as your kids start creating online accounts for school and social platforms.

Accessories That Matter More Than You Think

  • Noise blocking or canceling headphones (JBL Endurance Run 2 Wired or AirPods Pro 2 or Max)

    • For focused study sessions, remote classes, or just tuning out a noisy sibling. The JBLs are bulletproof and cheap, the AirPods are the gold standard.

  • USB-C Portable Charger or Battery Pack

    • Schools don’t always have outlets. A good portable battery = fewer headaches. Anker is a good brand.

  • Backpack with Tech Compartment

    • Look for padded sleeves and external pockets large enough to hold a water bottle securely so you don’t soak the laptop when the bottle leaks. Nomatic and Bellroy are expensive but nice upgrades from the basic JanSport options.

Bonus Round: For the Tech-Forward Parent

If you're the kind of VC who wants to really equip your kid for success:

  • Raspberry Pi 5 or Arduino Starter Kit – For hands-on STEM learning
  • 3D Printer (Prusa or Bambu Lab) – For creative minds and science fairs
  • Oculus Quest 3 – Yes, it’s for games. But also, virtual labs, language immersion, and social development in the new age.

A Final Word From Hybridge

Make sure to have age-appropriate conversations about digital/online safety - don’t share personal information, follow the school’s plagiarism/AI policy, report online bullying, share some examples of phishing and online blackmail, and keep tabs on their online activities and friends.

You don’t need to turn your home into an IT department, but investing in the right tech for your kids sets them up with the same benefits you expect from your own tools: reliability, speed, and security.


Share this blog:

back-to-school-25