Increasingly, technology plays an important role in the daily lives of children, both at home and at school. Making informed decisions about the wise application and frequency of technology and media use can be both challenging and overwhelming for parents, caregivers and educators. Many issues surround the unwise use of technology and media by children. Programming containing violence and sexual content, as well as programming produced solely for marketing commercial products, is not appropriate for children. Additionally, children's engagement with technology should not stand in competition with valuable time that could be spent in active and creative pursuits outdoors. The amount of time spent passively engaged with television and other devices has been associated with childhood obesity and other negative outcomes. Understanding that economic and political powers control the media, parents and educators should be aware that children are vulnerable targets and may be exploited for financial or personal reasons. Thus, media-educated individuals must be prepared to make wise choices regarding its use. Emphasis should be placed on using technology as a tool for learning and active engagement.