Need accountability on screen time rules

3w ago·1 min read

I've been the worst about enforcing our own house rules on devices. I tell my kids no screens after 8pm but then I'm scrolling in bed until 11. My oldest called me out on it last week which was embarrassing. I know I can't expect them to respect boundaries I don't respect myself. Looking for some dads who have actually stuck to reasonable tech rules and what worked. How do you lead by example on this stuff? Also open to hearing if anyone uses apps or other tools to help manage it.

4 comments124 views

Comments(4)

DDannyRegular3w ago

Man I feel this in my soul. We had the same rule and I was letting it slide constantly. What finally worked for us was making it a thing where the kids had to physically hand me their devices at 8pm, no exceptions. Made it less about me enforcing and more about them knowing what to expect.

JJasonNew Dad2w ago

This is literally me right now. No screens after 7 rule that I enforce maybe 50% of the time. The guilt is real but at least you're acknowledging it and wanting to change it.

SSam T.Regular2w ago

The hard part is being consistent when you're tired right? I started using my phone as the bad example instead of the rule enforcer. Like I'd put mine away first and make a show of it. Kids respond better when they see you actually doing the thing.

AAlexRegular2w ago

What's your timeout looking like after 9pm? Just asking because we switched to a reward system instead of punishment and it's been way less of a fight.