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Why I Won’t Get My 10-Year-Old a Cell Phone
As my kids grow, I’ve realized that shopping for them gets trickier. It’s like dealing with a double-edged sword: Either A. They know they want “stuff,” but can’t pinpoint what, or B. They have a list of things they want, but there’s no way in the world I’m buying those.
Take today, for instance—my oldest, Jake, is turning 10. After a chaotic few weeks, I finally got my act together to find him some gifts. But here’s the kicker: he told his dad that he wants a phone for his birthday. Wait, what? Absolutely not.
Now, I’m not saying it’s completely bonkers for every 10-year-old to have a phone. I get that some kids might need one if their parents are often away or if they’re regularly left alone at home or during sports activities. But that’s not the case for us.
Since I work from home, I’m available when he is, and when I take him places, I’m usually right there with him. Plus, he has enough electronics already. The only reason he wants a phone at this point is for status—let’s be real, if anyone in this house gets a status symbol, it’s definitely going to be my partner or me.
We’re not driving flashy cars or rolling in with a yacht. We don’t flaunt expensive jewelry or wear designer clothes. And you know what? That’s perfectly fine. Having been around the block a few times, I understand that material possessions don’t determine your worth in life. It’s my job now to teach my kids these lessons.
So, sorry kiddo. Not this year. Maybe next time!
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In summary, I believe that children don’t need a cell phone at such a young age, especially when parental supervision is readily available. The desire for a phone, in my view, is more about status than necessity.