6 ways your home phone can keep your family organized

Many parents dream of having a more organized family so they can spend less time dodging chaos and more time enjoying each other’s company.

Even if you don’t intend to go full “Marie Kondo,” small efforts can net big results. That’s where technology comes in. Rather than adding on new digital infrastructure to improve family organization, a smart solution may be right under your nose—a family phone at home.

I’m talking specifically about intelligent home phones that provide all the advantages of a traditional home phone and more at a fraction of the monthly service cost. Learn the six key ways a VoIP home phone can help your family become more organized so you have more time to spend with the those who bring you joy.

1. Central point of contact

For decades, the home phone was the central command post for household communications. Even though the majority of U.S. adults now live in a home without a landline, home phones have more value than you may think. In today’s cell phone culture, a home phone can still remain a centralized portal, keeping family members in the loop about appointments, household needs and more.

For example, a parent may be grocery shopping and needs someone at home to check how many eggs are in the fridge. A neighbor may want to reach the household about a delivery they signed for. Your service vendors, such as plumbers or landscapers, may need to reschedule an appointment.

Rather than the fragmented communication of cell phones, a home phone line can keep your family functioning as a unit. One family phone number is easier for children (and grandparents) to memorize than multiple emergency numbers.

2. Less clatter with Call Blocking

Using a Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) phone service can feel like switching from a Flintstones phone to a Jetsons phone. VoIP phones give users access to a more robust set of advanced features at a lower price than what’s offered through traditional phone companies.

For example, VoIP phone service providers generally offer call-blocking options to fight back against robocalls.

With customizable call blocking, your family dinner is less likely to be interrupted by a phone call about an “inheritance” from a relative you never met. By cutting the auditory disturbance of unnecessary phone calls, your family can stay focused on the things that matter.

3. Emergency preparedness

Calling 911 is not something you do often. But during a home emergency, you assume 911 will work effortlessly and swiftly to summon help. That’s not always the case with mobile phones because they don’t always show your precise location.

If you call 911 from a home phone, emergency medical service providers and fire fighters on an Enhanced 911 system will see your home address pop up on their display. As long as you’ve provided your current address when setting up your VoIP system, the dispatcher will see it just like they do with landline calls. This is particularly useful if you’re unable to speak or a child dials 911 to get help for a caregiver.

Safety tip: Make sure to update your VoIP provider with your current address if you move.

4. Remote access with a mobile app

Access to your home phone doesn’t need to be limited to when you’re at home. Because VoIP phone service transmits calls over the internet, many providers offer mobile apps so customers can access their home phone service from anywhere. Use the app to keep tabs on household communications when you’re at work, out running errands, or on vacation and expand your availability. Another benefit is you can save money when you call internationally.

5. Phones that serve as intercoms and monitors

Your VoIP telephone hardware itself can improve your family’s communications. Some devices provide intercom functionality, allowing you to talk between two handsets on the same home phone system. An integrated intercom makes it easy for family members to communicate, especially about important household events such as when a fresh pot of coffee is ready or a guest has arrived.

Some VoIP phones can even be used as a monitor to listen in on a baby, sick child or family member with a disability.

6. Easy-to-find phones

Unlike mobile phones, which have a habit of getting lost and running out of juice, landline phones placed in a central location of your home can be easily found in their designated family phone spot, ready to make and receive calls. VoIP phones come in a wide range of styles—from hamburger and lips phones to pink Trimline phones and black retro kettle phones—making them easy for guests and babysitters to find and a fun way to add personality to your home.

The family phone spot is also a great place to:

• keep a directory with important phone numbers and emergency contacts
• teach kids phone etiquette
• place a basket to collect mobile phones

Ready for VoIP home phone service?

If you’ve never had a home phone, or got rid of one because you were tired of paying high service bills, give VoIP home phone service a try. Learn more about how Ooma can help your family stay organized and connected with a phone at home. We even have an Ooma Family Phone Bundle to help you get started.