Dear Home Insemination Kit,
I’ve decided not to impose strict limits on my kids’ screen time. Perhaps I’ll rethink this in the future, but for now, my children (ages 7, 5, and 3) are free to watch TV or use their Kindles as often as they like. This routine works for us, even if it may not suit others. However, my mother is constantly criticizing my approach. She believes I’m being too lenient and lazy by allowing unlimited screen access. The truth is, my kids are not glued to their devices—they also play outside, engage in independent play, and interact well with each other and their friends. I’ve attempted to explain this to her, but she gets incredibly upset, especially when I let them use screens during meal times. Am I in the wrong, or is she overreacting?
It’s important to recognize that what works for your family may not be a one-size-fits-all solution. Your approach is clearly effective for your kids, and that’s what matters most. In my view, society places excessive emphasis on screen time, turning it into a coveted activity. When something is deemed valuable, it becomes more desirable, leading to a cycle of craving and competition over it. By treating screens as just one option among many in your home, it’s natural for your kids to learn how to manage their own screen usage. Some days, they might choose screens, while other days are filled with outdoor play.
I’ve noticed similar behavior with my own child; there are times when her iPad goes untouched for days, while other times she wants to binge-watch her favorite shows. Every child is different, and what works for one family may not work for another. If your current method is working for you, that’s fantastic.
Instead of confronting your mom directly, consider sharing a new perspective with her. Adults often binge-watch series like Bridgerton or scroll through TikTok for hours as a way to unwind and escape. Why should it be different for children enjoying their videos or games? If she continues to struggle with this idea, kindly remind her that she has already raised her children, and these kids are yours. They are thriving, even amidst the ongoing challenges of a pandemic. They don’t need Grandma undermining their mother’s authority. Good luck!
For more insights on parenting and related topics, you can check out this blog post or visit Make a Mom for authoritative information. Also, for useful resources about pregnancy, see March of Dimes.
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Summary:
Navigating screen time for kids can be challenging, especially when family members disagree on the approach. It’s essential to understand that what works for one family might not work for another. Emphasizing balance and understanding can help bridge the gap with relatives, allowing parents to maintain their authority while fostering healthy habits in children.
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