My daughter’s words cut me to the heart. I never wanted to be the mum that was on her phone all the time, and I’m trying not to be, but at times it’s really hard.

“Come here, Lucy,” I said, putting my phone down and enveloping her with my arms. “I’m sorry if I’m on my phone too much. Can I explain why?”

I proceeded to tell her that when I’m on my phone I’m not just scrolling Facebook and YouTube videos. My phone is actually a multi-tasking tool. It is a mini-computer. Sometimes I use it for reading the news. Sometimes I’m actually internet banking. I also use my phone to do research and price comparisons when I’m planning a big purchase.

We live in an area where there aren’t many shops so I frequently have to order things online. I also blog on my phone and read articles online. I use my phone to listen to music and to send or receive emails including important ones relating to my children’s health or education.

I use my phone to stay in touch with friends and family and to take photos and videos of my family, capturing memories we can look back on together.

Before smart phones, people read the news in the newspaper. They did their banking at the bank. They did their writing on paper or at a Personal Computer. They did their shopping from catalogues or at the shops. Messages were left on answer-phones at the house or sent by “snail mail.” Photos were taken on proper cameras and mobile phones (when they first emerged) were only used for phonecalls and short texts.

So essentially I’m not just gaming or social networking when I’m on my phone. I’m actually doing stuff that has to get done at some time, somehow. But to the casual observer it looks like I’m just wasting time.

I need to do better at getting these things done when the kids are in school, but honestly, if they’re just watching kids TV shows, why shouldn’t I work on some of these admin things at the same time? I can also give cuddles while I work.

Next time you see a parent on the phone, don’t assume the worst. You really have no idea about the life admin they are trying to get done from their smartphone while managing a busy household in a modern age!