Family Tech Agreement

Creating a family tech agreement together helps establish clear expectations while giving everyone input. This isn't about punishment—it's about building healthy habits as a family.

How to Use This Template

  1. Have a family discussion about what's working and what's not with technology use
  2. Review the suggested items below and check what makes sense for your family
  3. Add your own custom rules in the blank spaces
  4. Everyone signs—including parents!
  5. Post it somewhere visible (fridge, family room)
  6. Review and adjust quarterly as needs change

Our Family Tech Agreement

Committed to balance and wellbeing

Date: _______________

🕐 Tech-Free Times

When we commit to being present together

During family meals (breakfast, dinner, or both)
One hour before bedtime (devices charge outside bedrooms)
During family activities (game night, outings, etc.)
First ___ minutes after arriving home (time to connect)
Other: _______________________________________________

🏠 Tech-Free Zones

Spaces where we prioritize connection over screens

Bedrooms (devices charge in common areas overnight)
Dining table
Bathrooms
Other: _______________________________________________

📱 Responsible Use

How we use technology mindfully and safely

Ask before downloading new apps
Keep location services on for safety
Never share passwords or personal information online
Tell parents if something online makes me uncomfortable
Think before posting: Would I want Grandma to see this?
Be kind online—treat others as I want to be treated
No texting while driving (for teen drivers)
Other: _______________________________________________

⏰ Screen Time Limits

Reasonable boundaries for daily use

Weekday recreational screen time: ___ hours
Weekend recreational screen time: ___ hours
Homework/educational use doesn't count toward limits
Video calls with family/friends don't count toward limits
Screen time must be earned by completing: _______________

💪 Healthy Habits

Balancing screen time with other important activities

Physical activity: ___ minutes per day
Outdoor time: ___ minutes per day (when possible)
Reading time: ___ minutes per day
Take breaks every ___ minutes when using screens
Practice 20-20-20 rule for eye health

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Parent Commitments

Parents agree to model healthy tech habits

Follow the same tech-free times and zones
Put devices away during quality time with kids
Have open conversations about technology, not just rules
Be available to discuss concerns or uncomfortable situations
Review this agreement quarterly and adjust as needed

🎯 Consequences & Rewards

What happens when agreements are kept or broken

If rules are followed consistently:

_________________________________________________________________

If rules are broken:

_________________________________________________________________

✏️ Our Custom Rules

Additional agreements specific to our family

___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________

We Agree to These Terms

Parent/Guardian:

Date:

Parent/Guardian:

Date:

Child/Teen:

Date:

Child/Teen:

Date:

Review date: _____________ (Recommended: 3 months from today)

Tips for Success

Make It Collaborative

  • Involve kids in creating the rules
  • Ask for their input on what's fair
  • Be willing to negotiate details
  • Explain the "why" behind each rule

Start Small

  • Don't try to change everything at once
  • Pick 2-3 priority areas to start
  • Add more rules gradually
  • Celebrate small wins

Be Consistent

  • Follow through on consequences
  • Parents follow the same rules
  • Don't make exceptions without discussion
  • Revisit and adjust as needed

Next Steps

After creating your agreement, explore age-specific strategies and alternative activities to support your family's digital wellness journey.