Raising kids in the age of smartphones? It’s a whole new world—and let’s be honest, most of us are just trying to keep up. From screen addiction to mood swings, shorter attention spans to social media drama, today’s kids are growing up with challenges we never had to face. And while we can’t turn back time or unplug everything, we can try to understand what they’re going through.
That’s where the right books come in.
Here’s a list of some of the best reads for parents who want to make sense of the “smartphone generation.” These books dive into everything from screen-time science and teen mental health to real-life parenting stories. Whether you’re worried about your child’s digital habits or just want to build a healthier relationship with tech at home, there’s something here for you.
Think of this as your crash course in raising kids who are tech-savvy and emotionally grounded. No judgment. Just real, helpful insights—one page at a time.
- Smartphone Nation by Kaitlyn Regehr
A fascinating look into how smartphones are shaping teen identity, friendships, and expression. Helps parents better understand what’s really happening behind the screen.
2. The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt
This book explores how smartphones and social media are linked to rising anxiety and depression among teens. A must-read if you’re concerned about your child’s emotional well-being.
3. Disconnected by Thomas Kersting
An accessible guide to how excessive screen time is impacting kids’ behaviour, focus, and emotional development. Ideal for parents looking to restore balance at home.
4. The Tech-Wise Family by Andy Crouch
Offers practical advice for building healthy tech habits as a family. Encourages values-driven decision-making around screen time and devices—without being rigid.
5. First Phone by Catherine Pearlman
Although written for kids getting their first phone, this book is a great resource for parents too. It sets the stage for open conversations about boundaries and digital responsibility.
6. Glow Kids by Nicholas Kardaras
An eye-opening read on how screens affect developing brains. Perfect for parents wondering about the long-term effects of screen addiction.
7. Stolen Focus by Johann Hari
Explores how attention spans are shrinking—and why our teens are especially vulnerable. Offers thoughtful solutions for helping kids (and ourselves) regain focus.
8. The Shallows by Nicholas Carr
Explains how the internet is changing the way we think and process information. A valuable read for parents noticing shorter attention spans and constant multitasking in their teens.
9. The Parents I Met by Mansi Zaveri
A collection of real stories and insights from Indian parents raising children in today’s tech-saturated world. Honest, relatable, and culturally grounded. This book helps redefine success for Indian parents.
10. The Chaos Machine by Max Fischer
Takes a deep dive into how social media platforms manipulate attention and emotion. Important for parents trying to protect teens from the darker side of digital life.
Parul Gupta
Dr Paula Goel
Mansi Zaveri
KSP Team
Antara Parekh
