Clear, supportive expectations for everyday computer use.
Computers can be used for schoolwork, games, videos, creativity, communication, research, and so much more.
Because many different activities can happen on one device, expectations can quickly become unclear or inconsistent.
The Computer Family Agreement gives your family a practical way to create shared expectations around computer use, online activity, responsibility, safety, privacy, and family routines.
Rather than waiting for a problem to happen, this printable agreement helps your family talk through expectations ahead of time and create a clearer understanding of what responsible computer use looks like at home.
Clearer Expectations for a Multi-Purpose Device
This agreement helps families talk through areas such as:
- When and where the computer may be used
- Computer-free times and routines
- Responsibilities that may need to happen first
- Appropriate websites, programs, games, and online content
- Searching, downloading, and file use
- Messaging, chats, and other online interactions
- Privacy and personal information
- Safe and respectful digital behavior
- What to do when something online feels confusing, uncomfortable, or unsafe
- How your family will respond when an expectation is not followed
The goal is not to create a long list of restrictions.
It is to give your family clear, shared expectations you can return to as computer use becomes more independent.
This Resource May Be a Good Fit If…
Your family:
- Has a child who regularly uses a computer
- Wants clearer expectations around when computer use begins and ends
- Is navigating schoolwork and recreational computer use on the same device
- Is experiencing repeated negotiations around screen time
- Is beginning to manage searches, downloads, messaging, gaming, or social features
- Wants clearer expectations around privacy and online safety
- Would like boundaries in place before a problem occurs
- Needs an agreement that can be revisited as your child grows
Built to Grow With Increasing Independence
Computer use often becomes more complex as children get older.
What begins with schoolwork, videos, and simple games may eventually include independent searches, downloads, communication tools, multiplayer features, and other online activities.
The Computer Family Agreement gives you a starting point your family can revisit and adjust as your child's needs, responsibilities, and technology use change.
Clear expectations. Safer choices. Supportive boundaries your family can grow with.
Want to Reflect Before Creating Your Agreement?
The Screen Time Reflection Guide helps caregivers think more intentionally about their child, family routines, technology use, and the boundaries that may make the most sense at home.
Explore the Screen Time Reflection Guide →
Looking for a Different Family Agreement?
Parenting Pal Family Agreements are also available for:
Cell Phones · Tablets · Gaming Consoles · Multiple Media Devices
For younger children, see the Screen Time Expectations Family Agreement: Ages 3–6.
You can also explore the Screen Time Family Agreements Bundle for the complete collection.
