6 Cell Phone Rules For Teens To Consider

As I watched my oldest, James, sit hunched over his cell phone, a flash of memories came to mind—his little hands once gripping a stuffed giraffe, his eyes sparkling with curiosity.

How had we gone from building block towers and hide-and-seek to negotiating screen time and safe texting practices?

I knew we needed a set of rules in place to keep his cell phone use from spiraling into constant distractions, while also helping him build responsible habits.

After a few deep breaths (and several cups of coffee), I came up with a few guidelines that have been game-changers for our family.

Here are 6 rules we use to keep James’s cell phone time balanced, safe, and enjoyable—for both him and us.

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6 Cell Phone Rules For Kids

1. Set Clear Screen Time Limits

It’s easy for teens to lose track of time when scrolling through social media or playing games.

Establish daily or weekly limits that allow them to have fun but still focus on homework, family time, and other responsibilities.

I’ve found it helpful to set these limits on a parental control app like Bark that not only restricts screen time but also offers insights into his online activity.

2. No Phones at the Dinner Table

This one took some getting used to—James tried sneaking his phone under the table, only to be met with my classic mom-stare.

Establishing a no-phone rule at the dinner table encourages meaningful conversations and keeps everyone present.

If needed, consider getting a phone basket where everyone can place their devices before sitting down to eat.

3. Keep Nighttime Phone-Free

Teens need sleep, and phone screens can interfere with their rest. A good rule is to have them charge their phones outside the bedroom overnight.

We got James a digital alarm clock so he doesn’t need to rely on his phone’s alarm. Plus, a little break from the screen helps him wind down and wake up refreshed.

4. Monitor Social Media Use

The social media world can be a minefield for teenagers.

Establish rules around which platforms they’re allowed to use and talk openly about what’s appropriate to post and share.

I also invested in a monitoring app that helps keep an eye on his accounts, ensuring he’s safe and not overexposed to negative influences.

5. Discuss Online Etiquette and Privacy

Teens need to know what’s okay to post, comment, and share online.

Establish rules about not sharing personal information, avoiding negative or hurtful language, and respecting others’ privacy.

We printed out a list of “Digital Manners” and keep it on the fridge, reminding him that what he says online is just as impactful as saying it in person.

A great resource is the Social Media Manners Guide I found that covers this topic in more depth.

6. Balance Online and Offline Activities

Make sure they spend time outside or engaging in non-screen activities each day. I set a rule that for every hour spent on the phone, James needs to do something active, like a bike ride or playing basketball in the yard.

To encourage outdoor activities, I bought him a new basketball hoop for the driveway. The balance has helped him enjoy his online time more and discover new hobbies.

Bottom Line

Each family’s approach will be a little different, but these rules have given us structure and a sense of peace, knowing that James is developing healthy habits.

The transition hasn’t been perfect (cue the occasional eye-roll), but with consistency and open communication, I’ve seen positive changes in his relationship with technology.

What cell phone rules have worked best for your family? Share your tips and stories below!

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