As kids become active on social media, setting expectations upfront about respectful media use can help deter future problems. My kids and I wrote a family media agreement before they received their first phones. For example, one of our primary household media rules is to have all devices turned off overnight to ensure a smooth and restful bedtime. That rule is still effective.
Revisit family media agreements because kids and technology are often changing!
But revisiting media agreements on a regular basis is probably wise as kids evolve through technology and peer groups. So when my daughter’s school sent out a link to Common Sense Media’s Family Media Agreement, I took notice. The agreement was easy to read, customizable, age-appropriate, and respectful to both kids and parents.
In other words, I liked it so much I wrote the team at Common Sense Media to request permission to share it here on the blog. Let’s take a look!
Elementary, middle and high School
Scrolling through the pages, you will see how the contract covers a wide age range: elementary school through high school. Whether your kids are young or old, media has an important impact on their daily lives. It’s never too early to start thinking thoughtfully about how families use technology.
Stay balanced
I especially like Common Sense Media’s point about staying balanced:
I will be mindful of how much time I spend in front of screens, and I will continue to enjoy the other activities – and people – in my life.
Have a conversation
Page four of the agreement has some excellent conversation topics to cover as a family. How long should media be used each day? What happens if a device gets lost or stolen? What does it mean to be respectful online?
Make your own
The last page of the agreement has fields to fill out based on the conversation above. I like how Common Sense Media realizes that all families may have different needs, and allows enough space for kids and parents to come to their own sense of understanding.
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Lorraine Akemann | Co-Founder and Editor | Moms With Apps
