Screentime

How much screentime (TV/computer/video games) do you allow your school-aged children? I think I'm a bit controlling when it comes to the TV/computer (they do not have video games). On the one hand, I think it's fine and I don't want to take it away completely, but on the other, I can't stand it and am ready to pull the plug!! I hate the battles, (please mom, one more show, the crying, etc. if I tell them to turn it off, and I hate the fighting between my girls about who got more time, more shows, etc.) I give lots of warnings, let them know how much time with timer or how many shows they are allowed. But no matter what it's an issue when it's time to turn it off. It's like a drug. I personally think it's a huge waste of time. Ironically, my parents did not control the TV when we were kids, and I think we watched way too much.

Also, DH and I disagree on what is appropriate (which is another issue). He started lettting my 7 yo watch Disney channel when she was 5 or 6 and I thought she was too young, but finally gave in. Now, she's watching Full House on Teen Nick and these commercials come on that I also think are inappropriate (Degrassi High). He watches his shows (baseball other sports which I guess are fine) in front of them. But sometimes other sitcoms like King of Queens. I never turn the TV on to watch my shows until they are in bed.

Last school year (my older DD was in 1st grade and had HW everyday) we did not watch TV (or computer) at home Mon-Thurs. They did watch a bit at the sitters house sometimes. I will keep the same rules come the start of this school year and our weekends should be busy enough. But, when they have "down time" on the weekends, I would rather they just play and not park themselves in front of the screen.

The computer started when my older was 5, she went on "educational" sites like starfall and Noggin. Now she goes onto all these "girls dress up" sites, and I feel like I've lost control over that too. My younger one is only 4.5 and obviously with an older sibling she is getting exposed to everything a lot earlier. I just feel like they grow up way too fast and I want to stall it!!

My 7 yo has been asking for a DSI (I told her to help with chores she can earn $5 a week and save for one). She doesn't have much saved yet LOL. I refuse to buy her one, because I'm afraid of the battles. But when Christmas comes if it's on her list I may feel bad to not get it.

Please if you have school-aged children share your houserules about screentime. I know I may be in the minority here about my opinions.

Edited to say that DH and I have been separated since January but he does come around to spend time with them, he's still part of our family, and obviously he and I need to communicate about our rules and differences.

Message edited 8/19/2010 2:26:14 PM.

Re: Screentime

We have a rule about no "screens" on school nights (tv, video games, computer unless computer is for homework).

Non school nights there is no hard and fast rule but it's within reason..they can't spend the entire day watching tv, a couple of hours maybe.

DS is 10, almost 11. DD will be 9 in two weeks. They are 6th and 4th grade this year.

Re: Screentime

We have no "rules", but I do reserve the right to veto anything I find inappropriate, and to shut down all TVs, DVDs and video games if I see responsibilities aren't being met.

My kids are starting K and 2 and I feel are well rounded kids so I'm okay with their Tv and video game habits.

Re: Screentime

My kids have been watching waaaaayyyy too much tv this summer. I have to rein it in.

Usually the rule is no screens Mon-Thu during the school year. Do I let my 4 yo watch a half-hour of Noggin while I get ready in the moring? Yes. Do I use my son's video games as a reward for great test scores or great behavior during the week if all his hw and chores are done? You betcha. But as I always say to my kids....

"The mom giveth and the mom taketh away."

So they've also been known to go weeks with no screens at times, if there are grade/behavior/responsibility issues.

Re: Screentime

Re: Screentime