Family Tech Agreement: 20-Minute Setup

Create healthy digital boundaries that actually work. This practical guide helps families establish clear tech rules that everyone can follow—including parents.

20 minutes to complete

Why Every Family Needs a Tech Agreement

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Reduces Decision Fatigue

No more daily battles about screen time. Clear rules mean fewer negotiations.

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Creates Family Unity

When rules apply to everyone, children feel the boundaries are fair.

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Builds Digital Wisdom

Children learn to make good choices about technology use.

4 Simple Steps to Your Family Tech Agreement

Gather the Family

5 minutes

Include all family members who use devices. Even young children benefit from being part of the conversation.

Define Tech-Free Times

5 minutes

Establish when devices are put away: meals, bedtime, family time, and homework sessions.

Set Safety Rules

5 minutes

Create clear guidelines about what apps to use, who to talk to online, and how to handle problems.

Write & Sign Together

5 minutes

Document your agreements and have everyone sign. Post it somewhere visible as a family reminder.

Sample Rules to Get You Started

No devices during family meals
All devices charge outside bedrooms overnight
Ask before downloading new apps
One hour of outdoor time before screen time on weekends
Use AI tools for homework help, but always explain your thinking
If you see something that makes you uncomfortable online, tell a parent immediately

Pro Tip: Start with 3-4 rules that everyone can easily follow. You can always add more later as your family gets comfortable with the agreement.

What to Say to Your Kids

Opening the Conversation:

"Hey family, I've been thinking about how we can all use technology in ways that help us be our best selves. Let's create some agreements together that work for everyone. This isn't about punishment—it's about helping all of us, including me and mom/dad, use our devices in healthy ways."

When Kids Resist:

"I understand this feels limiting. These rules apply to all of us—I'm putting my phone away during dinner too. Let's try this for two weeks and then talk about how it's working. What would make this feel more fair to you?"

Ready to Create Your Family Tech Agreement?

This is just one of many practical strategies covered in "AI & Your Family." Get the complete guide to raising confident, tech-wise children.

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