We built Kite Phone because our own children needed it.
A West London art studio. A tech consultant who knew too much about smartphones. And a group of parents who wanted something different.
Why We Created a Children's Landline Phone
"With many years working in tech, I know exactly how smartphones affect children."
"That's why I built something different for the community."
Pundarik Ranchhod
Tech Consultant
Pundarik spent years in the technology industry. He understood the engagement mechanics, the algorithmic design, the dopamine loops. When it came to his own children, he wasn't willing to hand them the same devices he'd seen designed to maximise screen time.
But the alternative—no phone at all—meant his children couldn't call their friends. Couldn't coordinate playdates. Couldn't reach their grandparents.
He needed a third option.
From Pilot to Service: The Kite Phone Story
In November 2025, we set up landlines—with some bells and whistles—for our children and a few of their friends.
The idea was simple: give children their own phone number, but make it a landline. No internet. No apps. No portable screen to disappear into. Just a phone that sits in the kitchen and rings when a friend calls. See exactly how Kite Phone works.
We started with three families in West London. Children aged 8 to 10. The trial would tell us if this was a real solution or just a pleasant idea.
Built on 20 Years of Community Trust
"West London families trust Kite Studios with developing their children's interest in art."
"We're building on that trust to help them protect their children's creativity."
Auriol Herford
Founder, Kite Studios
Kite Studios has been part of West London's family community for nearly 20 years. Thousands of children have come through our doors for art classes, holiday camps, and creative programmes.
Parents trust us. That trust isn't something we take lightly.
When we saw an opportunity to help families navigate the smartphone dilemma, we knew we had to do it right. Not as a tech company selling devices. As a community organisation that understands what families actually need.
What Families Told Us After the Trial
The phones were a hit.
The trial children loved having their own number. They called each other constantly. Group calls for homework help. Conference calls just to chat.
Parents loved it too. Their children were learning real phone skills—dialling, leaving messages, taking messages for others. Independence without the risks.
So we packaged it up into a service that is simple to use for the community. Subscribe to Kite Phone today.
Who We Are Today
Kite Studios
Founded in 2007. A creative arts education organisation based in Shepherds Bush. We run classes, camps, and programmes for children across West London—including Kite Inclusive, our SEN arts programme supporting children and adults with special needs.
Kite Phone
Launched in 2025. A landline phone service designed for children aged 5 to 12. One phone per household. Unlimited UK calls. No internet, no apps, no surveillance. All profits support Kite Inclusive.
Our Values
Connection over protection
We're not trying to build a fortress around your child. We're giving them a tool to connect with the people they care about.
Independence with limits
Children learn by doing. A phone they can use themselves—within boundaries you've set���teaches responsibility better than an app that watches their every move.
Community over customers
We're a Community Interest Company. Our goal isn't growth—it's serving the families who trust us. If Kite Phone helps ten families brilliantly, that's better than helping a thousand families badly.