An example memory sub-system includes a memory device and a processing device, operatively coupled to the memory device. The processing device is configured to perform operations comprising opening a block family associated with the memory device; initialize a timer associated with the block family; assigning a plurality of cursors to the block family; responsive to programming a first block associated with a first cursor of the memory device, associating the first block with the block family; responsive to programming a second block associated with a second cursor of the memory device, associating the second block with the block family; and responsive to detecting expiration of the timer, closing the block family.