As winter sets in and kids spend more time indoors, South African families are once again facing the challenge of keeping learners focused, productive, and engaged at home. Whether it’s online classes, digital research, or even revision in the living room, smart technology can turn screen-time into study-time – if used intentionally. While not every household has the same setup, a few simple tech tweaks can make a big difference.

Smart screens for focused learners

Smart TVs aren’t just for Netflix. When used creatively, they can become powerful learning tools. Screen mirroring from a tablet or laptop onto a TV gives learners a larger, clearer view of class material – ideal for everything from visual learning apps to coding tutorials and video lectures.

Split-screen or multi-view modes also allow students to view two resources side-by-side – think of an educational video playing while they take notes from a digital worksheet. Hands-free voice search is another underrated benefit: instead of scrolling, students can ask the TV to launch a specific app or video lesson.

Parents worried about overexposure to screen content have more control than ever. Many of today’s Smart TVs include robust parental controls that allow guardians to set limits on screen time and restrict content by age, app or channel. Educational platforms like MasterClass, YouTube Kids, and Highbrow are also easily accessible via app stores.

“When tech is used thoughtfully, it can empower kids to be more curious, focused, and independent learners,” says Carol Guedes at LG Electronics South Africa.

Monitors that make homework easier

If your child spends long hours on a screen, their eye health and posture should be a priority. Monitors with dedicated eye-care features, such as Reader Mode and Flicker Safe, help reduce eye strain and flicker-related fatigue. These features are especially helpful for high schoolers or university students doing long-form writing, coding, or viewing longer video classes.

Monitors also help streamline multitasking. Widescreen monitors allow students to view multiple windows side-by-side – ideal for research and referencing. No more constant tab-switching when they need to draft assignments, consult textbooks, or join Zoom classes.

Audio tools that enhance learning

Although often labelled as party accessories, smart portable speakers have hidden educational potential. With support for Bluetooth, Google Assistant, or Apple Siri, learners can practise language skills, set reminders, and play audio lessons with a simple voice prompt.

There’s also growing evidence that the right audio environment supports productivity. Background music, ambient sound, or even white noise has been shown to improve focus, reduce stress, and enhance memory retention – especially during revision or project work.

Pairing a soundbar with a student’s tablet or TV can also elevate clarity during video calls, lectures or YouTube learning sessions. Voice playback is clearer, and the audio feedback can be used to set calendar notifications or manage timers during study blocks.

Peace of mind for parents

Of course, enabling smart learning at home doesn’t mean handing over full control. Most smart devices come with customisable safety settings. Parental control tools, embedded in quality brands’ TV operating systems as standard, enable content filtering and screen-time limitations, helping parents guide younger learners towards constructive content without constant supervision.

Curating the right learning apps can also provide peace of mind. From coding platforms to language games and interactive quizzes, there’s no shortage of content – but it pays to choose wisely. Installing only verified educational apps on smart TVs or linked devices gives children a safe digital playground.

Create a smart study corner this winter

You don’t need a full home classroom or -studio to support your child’s learning. A dedicated, quiet corner with ergonomic seating, smart lighting, and a few well-chosen or -harnessed smart devices can create a productive study zone. Start by evaluating what your child needs most – whether it’s screen space, audio clarity, or distraction-free content – and then build around that.

With a few thoughtful additions or upgrades to the tech you already own, your home can double as a classroom that keeps learners motivated and equipped for success this winter.