Digital Peace Plan

When to use it

Use when notifications interrupt a chosen task or conversation, or when a family wants clearer expectations about device use.

How to use it

1. Identify one specific problem, such as unrelated alerts during homework or divided attention during a conversation. Avoid starting with the assumption that every device activity has the same purpose.

2. Choose one protected time or setting and define the exception. A family may keep an important contact route available while silencing nonessential alerts.

3. Agree on the practical setup: close an app, use an appropriate notification setting, place the device within reach but out of the activity, or choose another accessible arrangement.

4. Decide when messages will be checked and tell relevant people if a slower response might matter. Do not promise availability that conflicts with the protected activity.

5. Before opening an app, name the intended task. After doing it, decide whether to continue rather than automatically following the next prompt or notification.

6. Review the plan after a short trial. Keep changes that help and adjust those that interfere with necessary communication, accessibility, or responsibilities. The aim is a workable agreement, not secrecy or punishment.

A worked example

A practical illustration of the method.

Invented example: During a shared craft session, a family silences game alerts but keeps an agreed caregiver contact available. They check ordinary messages afterward. At review, they move the device to a stand so accessibility features remain usable without drawing attention away from the project.

Use it thoughtfully

Treating necessary or accessible device use as misbehavior.

Blocking important communication without an agreed alternative.

Creating a rule so broad that nobody can apply it consistently.

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