But we cant get there if the GPS doesnt load, my 9-year-old exclaimed.
Of course we can, I replied.
I listed all the ways: I could call my husband and ask for directions.
We could go back inside, fire up the computer, look up the directions and write them down.
We could look up a map of our area.
We could call the diner and ask them which way to turn when we get off the freeway.
This technology is really still so new, I told him.
People used to have to navigate to new placesall the timewithout a phone telling them which way to turn.
This is my generations version of walking two miles to school in a blizzard, uphill, both ways.
He was, I assure you, impressed.
Micaela Birmingham writes that her daughter eventually called her from an unknown phone number:
She went on.
I waited in Starbucks for a really long time.
She didnt see her friends babysitter, but she ordered a drink.
I finally mustered some words:
Where are you?
Are you O.K.?
Yeah, Im fine, she said.
I walked to the really nice apartment building next to Starbucks and asked the doorman to use the phone.
These are prime teach-them-how-to-get-where-they-need-to-go-without-GPS years.
so that my son can start to feel oriented on how our town is laid out.
He should know that the downtown area is south of us and his school is north.
Let them be in charge of the map at the amusement park
Its time for lunch?
Okay, bust out the map, kiddo.
What are our options?
Where are we now and whats the closest place to get a slice of pizza?
Maybe you want to ask a local for a good restaurant recommendation.
And then they can help you remember.
Wait; were we supposed to make a right or a left at the stop sign?
Flip phones do break or get lost and their batteries die.
They should have their address memorized, too, in case they need to put it into someoneelsesGPS.
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