Digital use in the family: practical guide

09 March, 2025

At a time when digital technology is playing an increasingly important role in our lives, establishing a clear framework for its use in the family is becoming essential. Les Belles Combines offers you a practical guide for harmonious management of digital devices, accompanied by a fun tool to involve children: "My digital rules".

The family tablet: first step towards shared digital technology

The tablet is often the first digital device shared in the family. Its use requires clear organization to be harmonious and safe.

Installation and configuration

  • A single main account managed by parents
  • No password sharing with children
  • Apps chosen and installed only by parents
  • Parental control enabled and personalized
  • Age-appropriate screen time with pre-programmed alarms

Rules for daily use

  • Use in common areas only
  • Set times (eg: 30 minutes after homework)
  • Request permission before each use
  • Return to parents after use
  • Do not use during meals or 1 hour before bedtime.

The family computer: a more complex tool

As children grow, computers become necessary for schoolwork and creative projects. Managing them requires more organization.

Optimal configuration

  • Password protected parent session
  • Children's sessions with restrictions
  • Browsing history enabled
  • Installed Content Filters
  • Positioning in a common space

Organization of files and access

  • Shared folder for family documents
  • Personal files for each child
  • Clear rules on downloads
  • Usage time defined according to needs

The first phone: towards digital autonomy

Acquiring a personal phone marks an important step towards digital autonomy. This decision, generally considered around the age of 14, must take into account:

  • The maturity of the child
  • Real needs (transport, activities)
  • The ability to follow the rules
  • Understanding responsibilities
  • The family budget

Maintaining a healthy digital environment

The accountability of each individual is essential for harmonious use of digital technology.

Parental responsibilities

  • Regular checking of histories
  • Update restrictions
  • Download Control
  • Storage space monitoring
  • Establishing consistent rules

Children's responsibilities

  • Closing applications after use
  • Storage of documents
  • Reporting Problems
  • Respect for usage times
  • Deleting unnecessary files

Little tip: “My digital rules”

To help children integrate these good practices, we have created a fun and interactive poster. This little trick allows you to:

  • Clearly visualize the rules of use
  • Check the commitments met
  • Track your progress
  • Create a positive routine around digital

[Download our “My digital rules” poster for free]

Conclusion

Harmonious management of digital devices in the family is based on a balance between technical control, clear rules and open communication. Our poster "My digital rules" supports you in this process by making the rules more fun and understandable for children.

🚀 Find this article and much more in the Octave app : shared calendar, collaborative task list, meal planner, centralization of family information and autonomy monitoring - your number 1 ally for an organized family life! 📱✨