Ben and Erin Napier, stars of HGTV’s Home Town, are raising their two daughters, Helen and Mae, with a unique parenting philosophy that limits exposure to technology and social media. Erin Napier recently sparked conversations when she shared her firm stance on keeping her children tech-free. The couple’s nonprofit, Osprey—short for “Old School Parents Raising Engaged Youth”—aims to promote social media-free childhoods until kids graduate from high school. This mission aligns with their strict family rules, which include avoiding tablets at home and even pulling their six-year-old daughter, Helen, out of school on days when digital devices are part of the curriculum.
Erin shared details about their approach on Instagram, explaining how their daughters’ limited interaction with technology is intentional. Helen and Mae only use screens to FaceTime with grandparents, staying disconnected from digital distractions common among their peers. The Napiers believe that childhood should be a time for creativity and hands-on learning, fostering activities like visiting Ben’s woodshop or enjoying outdoor adventures instead of screen time. Despite criticism from some fans, Erin defended their approach, arguing that digital education in elementary school isn’t essential for future tech competency. She referenced expert opinions to back up her views, emphasizing that children can quickly adapt to technology later in life without any disadvantage.
In response to fans’ questions, Erin addressed concerns about long car rides, flexible work schedules, and how her kids adapt to mandatory digital tests. She shared practical alternatives, like using books and drawing boards for entertainment, and clarified that while their household is screen-light, they do enjoy watching TV as a one-way engagement. Erin dismissed fears of disadvantaging children by delaying their tech use, quoting experts who argue that technology evolves so rapidly that early exposure isn’t necessary. The Napiers’ parenting philosophy, though unconventional, invites a broader conversation about balancing technology and childhood development, with Helen and Mae at the heart of their mission to preserve a more traditional upbringing.