Here's a link to this contract in a Google Doc: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1kJ9LbB16QCDpyo-C641zuvPahhN1FJiWVwtS1DK24vM/edit?usp=sharing
**This is just a SAMPLE - a place to START - it reflects the values of our family and our schedule. Please make changes where you see appropriate. It’s also BEST practice to have the child/pre-teen/teenager create the rough draft BEFORE parents put their “spin” on it. If the student isn’t able, willing or motivated to think through at least some things to consider when writing a phone/screen time contract, they’re not ready for a phone.**
Sample Middle School Technology Use Agreement
This agreement is a mutual commitment between (child name) and parents: (names) to ensure responsible, healthy use of all technology devices including ipads, TV, laptop, gaming devices and cell phones. It reflects current expert recommendations on balancing digital use with personal well-being, encouraging open communication and respect for boundaries.
I, (child name), agree to the following rules and guidelines for technology use. I understand this contract is a team effort between me and my parents to ensure I use my phone responsibly and safely.
Our goals with this agreement are to:
Encourage healthy screen time habits and cell phone use.
Support balance between online and offline activities.
Promote family communication and understanding.
Screen time is defined as any activity where you are physically looking at a screen over 50% of the time. Background music (with a set playlist that just goes without interference) isn’t screen time.
Daily Limits: Screen time will be limited to 1 hour and 15 minutes per day. (child name) is in charge of timing. When asked at any time how much time he has left, he should be able to answer specifically and respectfully. If this doesn’t happen, he will need to temporarily check out all devices and return them to a parent when finished.
Homework and Learning: Use of devices for homework and learning does not count toward screen time limits.
Watching a show, game or video as a family activity doesn’t count as screen time.
Priorities: Monday through Thursday, all homework must be completed after school BEFORE any screen time.
(Child name) agrees NOT to ask for exceptions to these boundaries or extensions of screen time. This is to encourage planning ahead and personal responsibility. It’s also to protect our relationship from nagging and negativity while increasing trust and respect.
Designated Tech-Free Times:
During meals and family gatherings.
One hour before bedtime to support sleep.
During school classes, except when approved for school assignments, or in the case of emergency.
I, (child name), am aware and agree that having a phone is a privilege I have earned and am responsible for continuing to earn through this agreement.
I know my phone has parental controls. These must stay in place as they are put there to protect me.
All devices are owned and managed by parents or the school district and can be thoroughly reviewed at any time.
All passwords must be known and recorded by at least one parent. If an app is found with a private passcode, it will be deleted.
Parental controls will limit my ability to download apps, so I will have to ask if I want to download something new. I understand that my parents will not say yes immediately as they need time to learn about the app - I also understand my parents may say no to apps I want.
I agree all final decisions about my phone privileges will be made by parents.
When I come into the house, I will leave my phone in its parking spot in the charging station. This will help me not have my phone on me at all times when I am at home.
Calling and Messaging: Phones should only be used for calling or messaging during approved times, such as after school or during family-approved hours.
Social Media and Apps: Starting in 2025, (child name) will be able to earn (by showing responsibility through upholding this contract) one parent-approved app or game available through Pinwheel per month. These add-ons can be revoked temporarily or permanently at any time. All downloads must be approved by parents. Social media will not be utilized at this time but this will be re-evaluated when requested.
Online Privacy: Personal information (such as full name, address, school, email) should never be shared online without discussing it first with a parent.
Respectful Communication: Use kind polite and respectful language in texts, emails, and on any type of interactive media. No bullying, harassment, inappropriate photos, or unkind comments.
Location: All devices will be charged in the kitchen at night. All devices will be outside of the bedroom by 9:00 PM to support better sleep habits.
Safety: If something happens online that brings up questions of ethics or feels uncomfortable or scary, (child name) will immediately inform a parent or guardian.
If I have concerns about my phone use or this agreement, I will talk to parents. And if my parents have concerns about my phone, they can talk to me about it.
Physical Activities: Every day includes at least 1 hour of physical activity, like playing outside or doing sports.
Hobbies and Family Time: Weekends include a mix of screen-free activities, like board games, family outings, or creative projects.
If the guidelines in this agreement are not followed, the following steps will be taken:
First Infraction in a Week: Warning. A respectful discussion with parents to understand what happened and how to make better choices in the future.
Second Infraction in a Week: Screen time on all devices except phone (for communication with parents) will be restricted for 1 day.
Third Infraction in a Week: Screen time will be revoked for 1 week except phone (for communication with parents).
Parental Access Review: Continued issues may lead to parents reviewing messages and apps used, re-evaluating the contract and all usage guidelines.
This contract will be reviewed every 3-6 months to discuss what’s working and make any necessary changes based on (child name’s) growing responsibilities and maturity.
Signatures
By signing below, both pre-teen and parents agree to uphold the terms in this agreement.
Pre-teen’s Signature: __________________________ Date: ___________
Parent Signature: ___________________________ Date: ___________
Parent Signature: ___________________________ Date: ___________
Sources:
American Academy of Pediatrics (2021) recommends a maximum of 1-2 hours of recreational screen time per day for children ages 6-12.
The American Psychological Association (2022) recommends establishing digital etiquette to support social skills and online safety.
The Child Mind Institute (2023) emphasizes setting boundaries for phone use, especially around social media, to help children manage their digital presence safely.
The World Health Organization (2023) recommends balancing screen time with physical and social activities to encourage a well-rounded lifestyle.
References:
American Academy of Pediatrics. (2021). Media and young minds. Retrieved from https://www.aap.org/
Child Mind Institute. (2023). The smartphone checklist for tweens and teens. Retrieved from https://childmind.org/
American Psychological Association. (2022). Digital etiquette: Guiding children in social media use. Retrieved from https://www.apa.org/
World Health Organization. (2023). Guidelines on physical activity, sedentary behavior, and sleep for children and adolescents. Retrieved from https://www.who.int