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Original poster

To be shocked that 97% of 12 years olds have smart phones?

361 replies

Rhayader · 27/09/2024 18:15

My DCs school does not allow smartphones and most of the schools around here are the same. The kids all have Nokias (and often an AirTag or similar for tracking).

I can’t believe it’s 97%! Am I totally out of touch? She’s never even asked for a phone.

https://amp.theguardian.com/technology/2024/sep/23/children-who-dont-have-smartphones

Only 3% of UK 12-year-olds don’t have a smartphone. Here is how four of them feel about it | Smartphones | The Guardian

There has been a huge wave of parental concern about smartphones this year. So do kids without them feel deprived – or more alive?

https://amp.theguardian.com/technology/2024/sep/23/children-who-dont-have-smartphones

OP posts:
VyeBrator · 27/09/2024 18:21

I think you're very easily shocked.

Also I'm not sure why your child not asking for one would mean you're ignorant towards such a huge trend.

Do you not watch the news or listen to/read current affairs?

Procrastinates · 27/09/2024 18:20

I'm surprised you're surprised. I can't imagine any 12 year old being happy with a Nokia.

Greenqueen40 · 27/09/2024 18:20

That's Yrs 7&8, the majority travel to school independently. I'm not letting my son go 40 mins on a bus without having some way of getting hold of me so yes you are being ridiculously unreasonable.

bluebluetoon · 27/09/2024 18:20

Clumsy12345 · 27/09/2024 18:19

Yeah right do all the kids have Nokias 😂

Best laugh in years lol

Original poster
Rhayader · 27/09/2024 18:19

Ponderingwindow · 27/09/2024 18:18

I’m shocked that you are shocked

From the kids I know I would have guessed that at most 1/4 have smartphones.

OP posts:
Clumsy12345 · 27/09/2024 18:19

Yeah right do all the kids have Nokias 😂

Tripleglazed · 27/09/2024 18:19

12 years old is secondary age, many travelling to school alone. I don't know any child with a Nokia or who doesn't have a phone at 12. And I held out till end of year 6 for mobiles in my house and heavily police their useage (apps like quosodio). I believe this stat.

coxesorangepippin · 27/09/2024 18:19

I don't believe it's that high

Ponderingwindow · 27/09/2024 18:18

I’m shocked that you are shocked

offyoujollywelltrot · 27/09/2024 18:17

That's a lot of screen addicted kids.

Olibi · 27/09/2024 18:17

Not surprised. I would’ve said more 80-90% but yeah.