When you and your child agree it’s the right time for them to have a phone, experts recommend creating a family phone plan or contract together. This should include clear rules, expectations, and consequences, with everyone signing to promote accountability and set boundaries around screen time, privacy, and behavior. Ongoing communication and digital citizenship education, such as fostering responsible online conduct and preparing for uncomfortable situations, will help your child develop a healthy relationship with technology. Explore the resources below for support, or use Ally, our AI parenting coach, for practical guidance on creating a family media plan, including having a pre-conversation, scheduling time, and co-creating guidelines tailored to your family.

A collaborative family digital safety agreement outlining clear, practical guidelines to support balanced screen time at home.

A resource by SmartSocial.com outlining clear guidelines to ensure respectful, safe, and effective online engagement.