Switched to a flip phone for my 12yo instead of a smartphone

Jan 41 min read

Yeah I'm probably that dad but hear me out - my son was getting constant notifications, checking his phone every 30 seconds, couldn't focus on homework, the whole thing. So I got him a basic flip phone. He can text and call. That's it. First week was brutal (he was legitimately angry) but now? He's actually present at dinner, his grades went up, and he's reading again. Do I feel like a dinosaur? Yes. Is it working? Also yes. I know it won't last forever but I'm pushing it as long as I can. Probably unpopular opinion here but figured I'd throw it out there.

6 comments431 views

Comments(6)

NNoah B.RegularJan 4

My 11yo has started asking for a dumb phone instead of a smartphone because her friends are always on their phones and she's tired of it. Maybe you're onto something.

DDan M.RegularJan 6

How does he contact you if he needs something? Like for emergencies or if you need to pick him up early from school?

BBradRegularJan 4

The notifications thing is real. My son literally couldn't focus on homework with his phone nearby even if it was silent. Something about knowing it's there.

AArchie M.RegularJan 5

I'm genuinely curious how long this lasted before he demanded a smartphone back. What's the trade off you're using as motivation?

CChristopherNew DadJan 5

You're not that dad, you're just paying attention to what your kid actually needs instead of what everyone else is doing. Good on you.

TTyler K.RegularJan 6

Not gonna lie I thought this was crazy at first but the more I think about it the more it makes sense. What flip phone did you get him?