Talk
Talk about phone use without fighting
Structure the talk so it doesn’t become blame.
communicationboundariesfamily
Start with shared goals
Pick a shared goal: “more calm mornings”, “better sleep”, “more presence at dinner.” Goals reduce defensiveness.
Agree on one change
One change is better than ten rules nobody follows.
- Phone-free dinner 3 nights/week
- No social apps before school/work
- Phone stays off the bed
Add a replacement ritual
If you remove a habit without replacing it, tension rises. Replace it with connection.
- 2-minute check‑in prompt
- 10-minute walk
- One shared playlist + tea
Quick checklist
- Write down the shared goal.
- Pick one rule for 7 days.
- Pick one replacement ritual.
- Review weekly (Mom&Dad Tracker).
Make the conversation easier
Use Social Pause for the reflex. Use Mom&Dad Tracker to guide the weekly conversation and keep it cooperative.