See if you can find a deal on a phone. For example, look into buying used/refurbished phones on sites like eBay or Swappa. Older devices tend to be cheaper than the newest flagships. Also, your family’s current carrier may be able to offer you a discount. This can be very helpful if money is a big concern for your parents.
If your parents are worried about money, then they are likely to say that they can’t afford a new phone. Many parents have practical concerns in regards to cost and monthly bills when it comes to a cellphone. You can offer to pay for some of the phone yourself by getting a part-time job or save up your allowance to help with finances. If you play a lot of video games, then your parents may worry that you’ll download too many gaming apps. If your older sibling got caught talking to someone they weren’t supposed to, then your parents may worry that you’ll do the same.
Show your parents that the phone won’t cost as much as they think, or explain to them how you will help pay for it. Ask your friends for free gaming apps, or be prepared to promise your parents that you won’t download any games. If it’s the time you spend gaming that your parents are worried about, then promise to cut back on video games if you get the phone. Promise to let your parents periodically check who you are texting or messaging.
Promise to be responsible with the phone. Let your parents know that you’ll be upfront with them about what you’re doing on the phone and will use it responsibly. Promise to limit your time on the phone. You can agree to only use the phone for a set number of hours each day. A phone would allow you to call your parents if you’re in trouble or to contact emergency services if you’re in danger. [3] X Expert Source Saul Jaeger, MSPolice Captain, Mountain View Police Department Expert Interview. 21 February 2020. Also, it’s okay to exaggerate just a little bit but if you’re too dramatic your parents might think that you’re joking and are immature and not able to ask Remind them that kids your age often encounter peer pressure, so having an easy way to contact them would allow you to have an “out” in such situations. If you miss school, you could ask your friend for their notes and the assignments. Or if you missed a day of school and needed to catch up or maybe if you forgot a book or notes you need. Remind your parents that if you don’t get your own phone, you’re going to have to keep using theirs which is pretty annoying for them.
Emphasize any learning possibilities from the phone. For example, you can listen to audiobooks or download apps to help you organize your homework. Tell your parents unlimited texting can allow you to alert them of your whereabouts if you’re ever running late.
Remember to do your homework every day. Do all of your chores without your parents asking and maybe even do extra chores that your parents would like. Take care of your clothes, backpack, and video games. Getting a job, if legally permissible, and won’t interfere with your studies. Responsibly spend your lunch money and save any money you receive as a gift.
You can start the conversation with something like, “Hey, I’d like to talk to you guys about something that’s been on my mind. " To introduce the topic of the cellphone, say something like, “I’ve been really wanting a cellphone for awhile now. "
You can let your parents know you want to talk by saying something like, “Do you guys have a minute? I wanted to talk something over with you. " If your parents are busy with an activity, it’s okay to let them know that you want to talk to them when they have a free moment. Say, “Hey, mom. I see that you’re making dinner right now, but if you have time tonight, I’d like to talk about something. ” Consider writing a letter to request the phone.
If you go out of town for a sport or activity, tell your parents that the phone will allow you to stay in contact with them while you’re gone. Tell them a story about a kid who was in danger and needed to call someone. For example, say, “Remember last month when a stranger stopped that girl two streets down? She used her cell phone to call 911 and got help. ” Explain how not having a phone has negatively affected you socially, with making or keeping friends.
For example, say something like, “I would really like to be able to interact with my friends. I’d be using the phone for socializing, so I wouldn’t be doing anything irresponsible. " Add any benefits. For example, say, “My friend has this neat app that helps them organize their schedule. That could help me stay on track with homework. "
For example, if your parents pick you up from practice, tell them that you could call when it’s time to pick you up. Use your planned responses. Say, “I know that you’re worried that I’ll play on my phone during dinner, but I promise to leave it in my bedroom the whole time we’re eating. ”
Try a parenting blog that says you should get a kid a phone at your age or younger than you are. Avoid posts written by other kids and make sure the adult that wrote the article is reliable.
Suggest ways that they can check your phone to ensure that you’ve followed their rules. You may even suggest a phone tracking app so that they can track your location. If your parents say that you’re not allowed to do something like texting friends, don’t get upset. Over time, they will allow you to if you show you’re mature and responsible, which will help when it comes to asking for other things, whether they’re related to the phone or not.
For example, say something like, “I know how hard you guys work to pay for everything and I really appreciate that. "
Do not say, “But why? Everyone else has one!” Instead, try something like, “Okay, but is there any particular reason you’re saying no?”
Avoid phrases like, “It’s not fair!” This can come off as argumentative. Instead, try something like, “Okay, thank you for listening, but I feel like you’re not hearing my side. "
Stay calm, and take a deep breath before you respond. Avoid arguments. Arguing with your parents won’t change their minds; instead, they’ll likely become more resistant to the idea of you getting a phone. Understand their response. If your parents say no, remember that they have a good reason. They have your best interest in mind, or may just not be able to add the expense of a phone right now.
You can also offer to earn the phone in other ways. For example, ask if you can have a phone in exchange for bringing your math grade up. Say something like, “I could put $25 of my own money towards the bill each month. "
If they say yes, ask them for their rules and expectations. Say, “I’m so excited about getting my new phone! How can I prove to you guys that you’re making a good decision?” If they say no, ask them what you can do to show them that you’re ready for a phone. Say, “What can I do to show you that I’m responsible enough for a phone?”
If they say no, remember that you can ask again or they may reconsider, so try not to get upset. Instead, think about what you can do now to help yourself be successful the next time you ask. Remember, when you are asking your parents for the phone, never disturb them by again and again asking to buy the phone. They won’t be satisfied with your behavior.
End the conversation by saying something like, “Thank you for your time anyway. I appreciate you guys listening. "
