The dos and don’ts of buying back-to-school gadgets

By Dan Kricke

Today, there is a world of difference between the technology that is required to help you get through high school or college and the kind of electronics a third grader needs to pull straight As. Check out our helpful list of the dos and don’ts of buying back-to-school gadgets.

DON’T: Laptop

If he already has a laptop, this is a moot point, but if the only computer in the house he’s allowed access to is the family computer, that’s fine for now. It’s easier to monitor and while schoolwork can be challenging and research intensive at times in the later grades leading up to high school, that’s not reason enough to splurge for a Sony VAIO Fit. As a little back to school gift for mom or dad on the other hand? Not a bad plan, especially with the 2.5 percent Cash Back savings from Best Buy.

DO: Flash Drive

Your child may not need a computer, but if they’re working on projects in a computer lab that need extra attention at home, a flash drive is a great, inexpensive way to cart work from school. This SanDisk 16GB Cruzer USB Flash Drive is only $12.99 at Radio Shack, where customers can get 3 percent Cash Back.

DON’T: iPad

Similar to a laptop, the only thing a third grader could do with an iPad in class is become a huge distraction. It’s certainly tempting to get them what is essentially an inexpensive laptop that would double as a babysitter with its numerous multimedia capabilities, but if you’re intent on an Apple gadget for your son or daughter consider something smaller.

DO: iPhone

Smaller like an iPhone, to be specific. Provided your child understands that they can’t start playing Candy Crush in the middle of Algebra, an iPhone is an ideal gadget for a young scholar. They can quickly take notes on things they need to remember to bring home from class, they can send themselves emails or interface quickly with a tech-savvy teacher if they miss class, and of course, they can call for a ride when they stay late for detention. The iPhone 5 is just $199 at the Apple Store, where you can get 1.5 percent Cash Back.

DO: Multi-purpose Scanner/Printer/Copier

We live in a streamlined, wireless society, so it’s almost a necessity to get a streamlined gadget for printing, scanning and copying. Oh yeah, and it should connect to the family Wi-Fi, too. Something like the HP Officejet Pro 8600 ought to do the trick. This bad boy is a wireless printer, copier, scanner and fax machine. Best of all, get it from Staples and get 4.5 percent Cash Back!

So you see, there’s no reason to get a new laptop for these eager young learners, but there are plenty of gadgets available that will make their lives, and yours, easier as they get their education.