Screen time

If you know my kids at all, I’m sure you’ve heard all about screen time. My kids have even blogged about it. My kids, like most all kids, would play on a computer, game console or watch TV all day, if I’d let them. This summer I decided to implement screen time. It was mostly for them, but a little for me too. Let’s be honest, it’s easy to just let the TV and game consoles babysit.

The main idea behind screen time is similar to that of earning an allowance. They earn different amounts of time for different chores. They all have their daily chores (we call them highlighted chores because they are highlighted on my list) that must be done first every day. Then we have the extra chores. They can either do these as they see a need in order to earn time, or earn time when Mommy or Daddy asks them to do an extra chore (my favorite “extra” chore is having them kill any bug that manages to somehow get in the house). Also, I implemented that they are not allowed on screens until after 1pm, that way they have plenty of time to do their daily chores and a few extra.

Once 1pm rolls around, they are allowed to use the time they’ve gained. They set timers, using Alexa (I’m pretty sure that is what we use her for most), and remove time accordingly. We also have a roll over policy. They aren’t allowed to roll over any more than 2 hours any given day, and on Monday, all times are reset.

It’s really been a great tool. When I first started it this summer, the kids were so excited! I was telling my friend about it, and she seemed skeptical. She was certain it wouldn’t work. Guess what? It’s been 4 months and is still working like a charm! My favorite part is how they are more conscientious about what they are watching. There’s no more mindless screen time. Chuck is happy that they are doing more chores.

I made a cute little white board, that is attached to the refrigerator. I made it with my Cricut machine and 651 vinyl (remember, I like to craft). It hangs on our refrigerator with the list of chores and the time each chore earns. We also have the description of each chore. Each chore must be done to completion in order to get your time. We also have an infractions list where if you break any infraction, you lost points.

I have my chore list, description list and infraction list saved in a word document. If you are interested in seeing them, leave me your e-mail below. Also, I’m always willing to share my fonts with fellow crafters. If you’re curious about a font on my board, just ask.