Parents are twice as likely as non-parents (39%, versus 19%) – to exceed their monthly mobile phone data allowance , a study has found.
Some of the top ways mums and dads use their smartphones after having kids include taking photos (67%), sending WhatsApp messages (62%), and checking the weather forecast (60%).
Meanwhile, over a third (36%) use their device to keep their little ones entertained while out and about, by downloading or streaming up to 12 hours of content each week.
As a result, one in three (34%), of the 1,000 parents polled, with kids aged up to six years old, have found themselves increasing their data to accommodate their mobile phone usage.
However, 61% say their device is one of their most useful parenting tools – and 43% claim they have “no idea” how people raised children before smartphones came along.
On average, parents snap 23 photos of their little ones each week, as well as sending 11 messages to their nearest and dearest – and using a search engine as many as 77 times to seek parenting help and advice.
The research was commissioned by network provider Three UK, which is working with digital inclusion charity, Good Things Foundation, on its National Databank, to double its data donation to two million gigabytes.
Aislinn O’Connor, at Three UK, said: “We know the important role phones play in people’s lives. As the research shows, this role becomes even more important after you’ve had a child – your phone becomes a critical addition to your family, playing the role of entertainer, doctor, connector, and much more in everyday life.
“Through our work with Good Things Foundation, we’ll ensure people across the country get online – and, in doing so, that thousands of parents are able to use their phones as a helping hand in their new family.”
Other mobile phone uses for mums and dads include getting advice quickly, shopping for baby-related items, and researching illnesses and ailments.
And the research, via OnePoll.com, found 74% claim their phone has helped them during really difficult parenting moments – but this comes at a cost, as the average parent exceeds their designated mobile data amount each month by a total of five gigabytes.
Three UK has also partnered with father and musician, Professor Green, to highlight the importance of being connected through your phone as a new parent.
He said: “When I became a father, I found out that phones become your second or third pair of hands. They are an amazing source of information, advice, and connect you to your support network your when you need it most.
“Phones are amazing tools, but even more so when you’re a new parent. They are a direct line to gran when you’re in an emergency, a vital research tool when the little one is feeling ill, or the source of much needed entertainment, for you and the kid, while you’re on the move.
“All the things you took for granted about your phone before, suddenly become a blessing as a parent. That’s why it’s so important to help people that need to be connected, like new parents, get connected.”
According to the brand, the initiative will see free pre-paid SIM cards distributed over the next two years to those who are unable to afford or access them – ensuring everyone can use their phone freely wherever they need to, whenever they need to.
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