Why Some Families Are Bringing Back the Old-School Home Phone

In a world where smartphones rule, some families are looking back to the past for a simpler way to communicate. The idea of a home phone might seem old-fashioned, but for some, it's a way to keep kids safe and connected without the risks of smartphones. Jeanne McCabe, a tech worker from Lafayette Hill, wanted her 10-year-old twins to be able to call their grandma and friends, but she didn't want to give them smartphones. She found out that getting a home phone isn't as easy as it used to be. There are options from big companies like Comcast and Verizon, as well as newer services like Tin Can. But McCabe was worried about adding another monthly fee to her budget. McCabe is not alone. More families are thinking about using old-fashioned phones as an alternative to smartphones. Smartphones have been linked to mental health issues in young people, so some parents want to keep their kids away from screens and social media. Even though home phones are not as common as they used to be, groups like Delco Unplugged and Wait Until 8th are encouraging parents to wait until their kids are older before giving them smartphones. These groups are even hosting events where parents can learn about different tech options for their kids. Getting a home phone in 2025 is different from the past. Decades ago, most homes had landline phones connected by copper wires. But now, most providers use VoIP, which means calls are made over the internet instead of a traditional phone line. This can be a problem during power outages, as home phones now depend on the internet. Some families like having a home phone for different reasons. Some want to filter spam calls away from their cell phones, while others prefer the sound quality or feel safer in emergencies. Sharon Burns from South Jersey got a home phone for her family as a precaution. She wanted to make sure her son could easily call 911 if he ever needed to. Other families have never disconnected their home phones. Marian Hardt from Eagleview likes the sound quality of her home phone and says it's part of her Comcast bundle. She thinks her total cost would actually increase if she dropped the service.