When we envision tweens and young teens with cell phones, the initial thought often revolves around distraction. This distraction can pull them away from family interactions, real-life experiences, and academic responsibilities. I found myself in agreement with this notion, especially when considering my son, Jake, who has ADHD.
Just a few years ago, if you had asked me about giving my 13-year-old son a phone, I would have firmly said no. My reasoning stemmed from the common concerns parents have regarding electronic devices — that adolescents don’t need phones, social media, or the Internet, as all this connectivity can overwhelm a growing mind.
My main worry was the potential for distraction. Jake was diagnosed with ADHD in third grade, and even in preschool, it was evident that he was different from his peers. I feared that giving him a phone would only exacerbate his challenges with focus. Homework time was already a struggle due to the effects of his medication wearing off after school.
However, a significant change in our family dynamics prompted me to reconsider. After separating from my partner, we both needed a reliable way to communicate with Jake. We also faced transportation issues, like late buses, where he would have to borrow a friend’s phone to keep me informed. I began to feel like I was living in the past when I would wait at the bus stop without a clue of what was happening.
Ultimately, we decided to provide Jake with an older model phone that belonged to his father. We established guidelines regarding its use, ensuring that we could check its contents at any time. Surprisingly, these restrictions didn’t become a point of contention. My biggest fear was that the phone would distract him from schoolwork, and while he occasionally grumbles when I ask him to put it down, something remarkable happened—his grades improved.
With the phone, Jake began using it to connect with his classmates regarding assignments. Instead of forgetting about homework or struggling to remember details, he now communicates with friends about what to work on together. They share tips, ask questions, and motivate each other, creating a supportive study environment. This shift has not only reminded him of his responsibilities but has sparked a newfound interest in his education.
The impact has been profound. Jake has transformed from a student who hovered around B’s and C’s to consistently earning A’s. I never anticipated that a cell phone could be such a catalyst for academic improvement, but it has proven to be one of the best decisions we made for him, second only to addressing his ADHD with medication.
While I acknowledge the potential risks of technology, I’m grateful for the positive change this connection with friends has brought into Jake’s life. If you’d like to delve deeper into related topics, check out this insightful post on home insemination or learn more about fertility options at Make a Mom. For additional resources on pregnancy, consider listening to this podcast from Cleveland Clinic.
In summary, providing my son with a cell phone has unexpectedly transformed his academic journey, allowing him to engage more with his peers and take ownership of his education.