Press Pause: Building a Family Tech Plan for Focused Reading and Learning
- Kathryn Carter
- Aug 17
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 18
In today’s fast-paced digital world, screens are everywhere from phones and tablets to TVs and laptops. While technology can be a wonderful tool for learning, too much of it can make it harder for children to concentrate, sleep well, and connect with others emotionally.
As we shift into back-to-school season, now is the perfect time to create a Family Technology Plan that sets digital boundaries and protects time for what matters most: reading, resting, and reconnecting.
Why Digital Limits Matter
Research shows that excessive screen time can:
Decrease attention span
Interfere with sleep patterns
Limit emotional development and empathy
Crowd out time for physical activity, creativity, and yes, reading!
That’s why KP Carter encourages families to use her Rockstar Framework to guide kids toward more balance, better focus, and a lifelong love of learning.
Let’s build your plan together with these simple, family-focused strategies:
1. Set Tech-Free Zones & Times
Make certain parts of your day and home screen-free. This helps create a rhythm that supports healthy routines and focused minds.
Try this:
No phones at the dinner table
No screens 30 minutes before bedtime
Protected daily reading time (start with 20 minutes)
These small changes help children unplug, unwind, and refocus on meaningful activities like family conversation and books.
2. Use Tech Wisely
Not all screen time is created equal. Instead of banning devices entirely, teach your kids to use technology to grow.
Rockstar-Approved Tools:
Audiobooks from your local library app (great for road trips or quiet time)
Educational apps that build vocabulary or phonics skills
E-readers with limited functionality (like Kindle Kids)
Encourage your child to ask: “Is this helping me learn or just helping me scroll?”
3. Talk About the Why
Kids are more likely to follow digital boundaries when they understand the reason behind them.
Tip: Explore simple facts together:
“Did you know that looking at screens too much can actually make it harder to pay attention in class?”“Kids who spend more time reading every day tend to score higher on tests and sleep better at night.”
Make it a two-way conversation. Ask your child how they feel when they spend a lot of time on screens versus reading, playing outside, or doing creative activities.
4. Be the Example
Children model what they see. If we want our kids to unplug, we must be willing to do the same.
That means:
Putting your phone away during meals
Reading a physical book where your child can see you
Saying, “Let’s take a break from screens and do something together.”
The Rockstar Reader mindset starts with YOU. When kids see that grown-ups value books, time together, and real conversations, they’ll follow suit.
FREE Download: Family Tech Agreement
To help your family stay on the same page, we’ve created a Family Tech Agreement. It’s a fun, easy way for parents and children to work together and decide on shared screen time limits, tech-free zones, and expectations.
Download your copy here → Family Tech Agreement Download
Technology isn’t the enemy, but it needs a boundary. When you create a clear family plan, you give your child the gift of structure, focus, and space to grow as a Rockstar Reader.
Let’s pause the scroll and press play on purpose-driven learning.
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