Phones are tiny libraries, stages, and gossip halls that fit in a pocket. Let’s make them boringly manageable.
Promise
In 5 minutes, make a Family Phone Plan: where, when, and what—together.
Quick Takeaways
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Co-created rules work better.
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Decide places (no phones at table/bedrooms), times (school nights), and privacy basics.
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One repair plan for mistakes.
What We Now Know (evidence)
CPS recommends using a Family Media Plan to manage screen use. MediaSmarts finds kids in homes with rules are less likely to engage in risky online behavior. Caring for Kids+1
Try-This Toolkit
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Plan Template: Places (no bedrooms/meals), Times (off by X), Content (age-ok), Consequences (repair steps, not shame).
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Repair Script: “We broke the rule. Tonight we’ll [turn in phones at 8] and review Saturday.”
ND & Accessibility
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Use written rules & visual cues; set one-screen limit at a time. MediaSmarts
Real-Talk Q&A
“They sneak it.” Tighten charging station rules; devices sleep in kitchen.
“But they need it for homework.” Agree on one app at a time, timer on.
Resource Box
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CPS: Screen use & digital media — why/ how to make a media plan. Caring for Kids
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MediaSmarts: Helping kids use smartphones — research-backed household rules. MediaSmarts
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MediaSmarts: Family rules tip sheet — conversation starters. MediaSmarts
One CTA
Download the Family Phone Plan (PDF) — fill-in-the-blanks + signature lines.
