In this scary world full of technology, social media, bullying and all the horrible things in between; thinking about your child having a cellphone of any kind can make you want to wish the damn things were never invented.
They’re great for being able to reach people, but having access to the internet can be a double edged sword – especially for a child / teenager.
Imagine my delight when I saw Kiwi Dad Jasper Mackenzie (and his mate Alex Davidson), has invented a smartphone that has only got the essentials, and none of the scary things.
It’s called the BoringPhone, and for me, it could definitely be an option for my child when she is old enough to need one (trust me when I say, she ain’t getting one anytime soon, but she is only 7).
The BoringPhone has all of the essentials (although podcasts for kids may not be one of the essentials):
And none of the scary things, that a child / teenager doesn’t really need:
The BoringPhone looks like any other sleek, high quality smartphone:
As I said above though, it has no internet browser, no social media, no mobile games and no application store. It has been designed to last several years (although with kids you’ll definitely need a phone case), and of course it has data messaging, voice and video calling.
The BoringPhone is more specifically designed for people who want “less distractions”. For those who just need a phone, and that’s pretty much it.
However, I can see it working really well for a child/teenager if their parents aren’t keen on them having access to the internet.
I know that eventually one day my children will want to have a social media account – I totally understand that. But until I allow that to happen, it’s nice to know there is an in-between.
It’s nice to know that I can give them a way to contact me, and I don’t have to worry about them being on the internet and opening themselves up to a world of … well horrible-ness.
Trust me when I say, the internet can be a wonderful thing – heck it’s how I run Happy Mum Happy Child.
It’s how I manage to stay in contact with so many of you, and I love it.
But it’s also a place where people can say horrible unkind things, most of which would never be said out loud to a person. These words and actions can have terrible consequences, especially on young impressionable minds.
If I can protect my child for as long as possible, I’m going to do it. As ridiculous as that might sound.
Again, I’m realistic that at some point they’ll have access – but until then – BoringPhone it is!
The BoringPhone is in the Kickstarter phase of its journey, so if you’d like to support Jasper and Alex, please visit the Kickstarter page.
This page also has a lot more information about the phone itself, and their idea behind it.
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