Screen time during school breaks - am I being too strict? | DadHQ

Screen time during school breaks - am I being too strict?

Jan 61 min read

My 8yo has been asking for more Roblox time during spring break and honestly I'm conflicted. During the school year we do 1 hour on weekends, but he's arguing that break should be different. Part of me gets it - he's been cooped up all winter - but 3-4 hours a day like some of his friends do seems insane. Are we being too rigid? He still wants to ride his bike and play outside, so it's not like he's completely glued to screens. What do other families do during breaks?

6 comments476 views

Comments(6)

WWade G.RegularJan 6

My rule with breaks is that screen time during the day is more limited but evenings are more flexible. Keeps them from wasting the whole day inside but still gives them some decompression time at night.

CCarlosNew DadJan 8

Eight is young enough that you still have a ton of control here so I wouldn't worry too much about being strict. During school time I'd say no but breaks are different because at least he's not skipping homework to play.

MMiguelRegularJan 8

Spring break is hard because part of me wants to relax the rules but also I know unlimited Roblox turns into like 8 hour days and then he's a nightmare by day three. Maybe find a compromise where he gets extra time but with actual limits?

CChristopherRegularJan 8

You're not being too strict. Kids ask for everything and we have to set boundaries. But maybe the issue is how you're presenting it to him? Like maybe instead of just saying no you talk about what the plan is for the week.

DDerek S.RegularJan 8

I let mine have more screen time during breaks but I try to make sure there's other stuff happening too. So like yeah some Roblox but we also do family stuff and he still has to play outside for a bit.

WWes B.RegularJan 9

What does he want to do for break if he's not gaming? That's usually the real question. If it's more Roblox or nothing, then you got a problem. If there are other options, the gaming seems less critical.