15 Common Tech Rules

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One of the hardest things to manage as a parent today is technology. It has advanced so much since we were teens and it’s hard to stay on top of all the devices, platforms, websites, etc. Having firm rules helps a lot when our teens start pushing the limits. Here are 15 common tech rules:

  1. No phones in the bedroom at night.

  2. All devices charged in one place, often the parents’ room.

  3. No devices during family times, like meals.

  4. Only one screen at at a time (my husband and I are terrible about this)

  5. Turn off push notifications - less common I think but I like it

  6. Limited access to social media

  7. No screen time until chores and homework are done.

  8. Parents know the passwords.

  9. Don’t give out personal information online.

  10. Technology use will be monitored.

  11. If you break it, you pay for it. Some families require all phones to be paid for.

  12. Follow screen time limits set by parents.

  13. Respond to parents’ texts and phones as soon as you can.

  14. No bullying, recording audio or video without the other person’s permission, lying to others, etc. Basically be the same person online that you are offline.

  15. Certain things can only be done in common areas, like watching YouTube. 

You don’t have to have all of these rules at your house, but know that you aren’t alone if you have any of these in place! Sit down with your teen and create a family agreement with whatever rules and consequences are the best for your family. Have everyone sign it and put it someplace you can refer back to it. Visit it occasionally to change it up if needed. This will help you all stay on the same page!

For more information on my course on screens, click here.

Beau SorensenComment