March 1-7

Teen Tech Week

An awareness observance during the first week of March encouraging teens to explore digital media and technology resources available through libraries.

Yearly Date

First Sunday in March

Observed in

United States

Introduction

Get ready to embrace the future during Teen Tech Week, kicking off on March 3! This exciting celebration of technology was first established by the Young Adult Library Services Association in 2007 to help teens become competent, ethical digital citizens who can not only successfully navigate the digital world, but also contribute positively to it. With an array of activities, workshops, and events, Teen Tech Week aims to inspire teenagers to fuel their passion for technology and innovation. Let's get started - it's time to ignite your creativity and shape the world of tomorrow, today!

Teen Tech Week Timeline

2007

Teen Tech Week Inception

The Young Adult Library Services Association (YALSA) initiated Teen Tech Week to encourage teens to ethically and competently use technology.

2009

Global Attention

Teen Tech Week received broad national and international attention, motivating libraries worldwide to implement their own versions of the event.

2011

Major Tech Companies Support

Prominent tech companies began supporting the event, providing resources and workshops, boosting its recognition and effectiveness.

2013

Digital Creativity Focus

The focus shifted to promoting digital creation, rather than mere consumption – encouraging teens to produce their own digital content.

2015

Expanded Programming

Programming expanded to include coding workshops, 3D printing demonstrations, and more, ensuring that diverse technological interests were covered.

2018

Year-Round Initiative

YALSA declared Teen Tech Week a year-round initiative, emphasizing the importance of consistent technology education for teens.

How to Celebrate Teen Tech Week

1 Join a coding bootcamp

Coding is an in-demand skill in today's tech-driven world. Use this week as an opportunity to join a coding bootcamp or workshop. There are plenty of resources available online, both free and paid.

2 Create your own video game

Video game development has never been more accessible. With platforms like Unity, you can create your own games even without any coding knowledge. Design a simple game and share with your friends for feedback.

3 Organize a tech gadget swap

Gather up all of your unused gadgets and host a tech swap with friends. It's a great way to recycle and reuse technology and you may even find a new gadget you love!

4 Explore the world of robotics

There are plenty of starter kits available that can introduce you to the basics of robotics. Spend Teen Tech Week learning how to build and program robots.

5 Start a tech YouTube channel

If you're a tech enthusiast, consider starting a YouTube channel. Whether it's game playthroughs, gadget reviews, or tutorials on coding, the platform is an engaging way to share your passion for technology with others.

Why We Love Teen Tech Week

Opportunities for Skill Building

Teen Tech Week provides teenagers with the opportunity to build on their digital skills, whether it's coding, video game development, or robotics. This helps them prep for a tech-driven future and gain in-demand abilities that are crucial for various career paths.

Promotes Creativity and Innovation

Through various activities, workshops, and events, Teen Tech Week sparks creativity and encourages innovation. Teenagers get the chance to shape new ideas, design video games, develop robots or even start their own YouTube channel, inspiring them to create and innovate using technology.

Encourages Ethical Use of Technology

Teen Tech Week also emphasizes the importance of being ethical digital citizens. It's not just about understanding technology but also promoting responsible and ethical use of digital resources, making sure teenagers are safe, smart, and aware when they navigate their digital lives.