Creating a Family Media Plan Rooted in Faith

Screens are everywhere: phones, tablets, TVs, gaming consoles, and laptops for school. They aren't going away, and they can be used for good. But without a plan, screens can quietly crowd out family time, sleep, prayer, and real connection. A simple family media plan helps everyone use technology with purpose.

The heart behind it

Ephesians 5:15–16: "See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, Redeeming the time."

Philippians 4:8: "Whatsoever things are true… whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely… think on these things."

A media plan isn't about rules for rules' sake. It's about protecting what matters most.

Building your plan

1. Start with your values. As a family, talk about what matters most: time with God, time together, sleep, schoolwork, kindness, and purity.

2. Create tech-free zones. Common examples include the dinner table, bedrooms at night, and the car on short trips.

3. Set tech-free times. The first hour of the morning, family dinner, an hour before bed, or one day a week.

4. Agree on content guidelines. What shows, games, apps, and music fit your family? Use ratings, reviews, and parental controls.

5. Set daily limits that fit each child's age and maturity.

6. Plan the alternatives. Screens fill empty time. Fill it with something better: board games, puzzles, outdoor play, reading, crafts, or cooking together.

7. Write it down and post it where everyone can see it.

Parents go first

Kids notice when parents scroll at dinner or check phones during conversations. Follow the plan yourself. Your example will teach more than any rule.

Use screens for good, too

• Worship music in the car
• Bible apps and audio Bibles
• Faith-based shows and movies as a family
• Video calls with grandparents

Review it often

Revisit your plan every few months, especially as kids grow. Let older kids help shape it so they feel ownership.

Choose faith-filled phone cases as a small daily reminder of who you serve, even when you're on your phone.

A family prayer

Lord, help our family use technology wisely. Protect our eyes, minds, and hearts. Help us put down our screens to look at each other, and at You. Let our home be full of real connection. Amen.

More: Protecting Your Kids Online.