Getting a smartphone for high school is a big deal for both parents and children. And it can be a difficult milestone to navigate. In our family we call the process of learning how to use and manage your smartphone as ‘phone school’ and here is our story of day one.
This story is part of our milestones series.
Be Smart with Your Child's Smartphone for High School
Tomos (Aged 11)
I have news. Big news.
After months and months of waiting. Years of being the only one in my class without one.
It has finally happened.
I have a phone. An actual phone.
And I am actually getting to use it for the first time today. But I’m only allowed to ring today. So I don’t get distracted.
I’m going to be starting High School in September. Some days I am going to be getting the bus (which I still need to practice). But if Mum and Dad drop me off, they will stop on this street and then I’ll walk the last bit.
They showed me the way last week. And today I am going to do it on my own – its why I need the phone – just in case I get lost.
“Ring me if you get lost, or are unsure. And when you get to the school gates. OK?” Mum says. I think she is trying to be calm and encouraging. But she’s worried I’m going to get lost. I’m not sure why.
Right, here goes. I am on my way.
Can you believe it? An actual smartphone for High School?
I’ll just check it’s still working.
“Mum?” I ring Mum just to check. “I’m fine. Just checking it works… bye.”
I put it back in my pocket and keep walking.
Past McDonald’s, cross the road with the buses – look right. That is also where the uniform shop is. We haven’t got everything yet but Mum says we will soon.
“Mum, I’m passing the uniform shop.” I tell her quickly before pressing end.
There is the church. I need to cross the road here because if I keep going the pavement runs out by KFC. See, I’m not sure why they worry so much.
“Just ringing to say I’m fine. See you later.” I hang up while she’s still talking. Totally getting the hang of this.
Cross the roads by the lights. Follow the road by the hospital and I’m nearly there.
I did it. I actually walked to school on my own. And I didn’t lose my phone. Or get lost. Not even once. Even I’m a bit surprised.
I ring Mum to tell her I got to the school gates like she asked me to.
No answer.
I ring again.
Still no answer…
How rude!
Does My Kid Need a Smartphone for High School?
If you are still debating whether to give your child a smartphone for high school, here is an excellent article to help you think through the pros and cons.
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