Author’s Note: I came across this on Facebook and decided to check it out for myself—and it turns out, it’s actually real. I called and listened to each option, and I have to say, it genuinely made me smile.
In a world that often feels overwhelming, there’s a little-known gem that delivers hope, humor, and heart—all through the innocent voices of children. Dial 707-873-7862, and you’ll reach the Peptoc Hotline, a creative and heartfelt project brought to life by the students and teachers of West Side Elementary School in Healdsburg, California.
Originally launched as a public art initiative, this phone line became an unexpected global sensation after going viral in early 2022. What started as a sweet school project has turned into a lifeline of joy, receiving millions of calls from around the world—and for good reason.
When you call, you won’t reach a business or a scam—what you will hear is pure, unfiltered encouragement straight from the mouths of kindergartners. You’re greeted with a cheerful voice and a delightful menu of choices, such as:
- Press 1 if you’re feeling mad, frustrated, or nervous.
- Press 2 for words of encouragement and thoughtful life advice.
- Press 3 for a classic pep talk from kindergartners who just want to see you smile.
- Press 4 to hear spontaneous, contagious laughter from children.
- Press 5 for messages of love and encouragement en español.
- Press 6 if you’d like to support this magical project with a donation.
The brilliance of Peptoc lies in its simplicity. No screens, no algorithms—just genuine messages of love and wisdom from children who remind us that even the smallest voices can make a big difference.
So the next time your spirit feels a little low, or you need a break from the chaos of adult life, dial 707-873-7862. You might just laugh. You might cry. You’ll definitely hang up feeling a little lighter.
This isn’t just a hotline. It’s a hug from a child you’ve never met—and sometimes, that’s exactly what the world needs.
