Ok, this is something that has been building up for years. My DDs (just turned 7 and 9) absolutely love playing computer games with their Dad. He loves playing with them. In one sense, it's a lovely collaborative thing that they share. But the extent of the gaming time just goes against my values. We hardly ever go out to do stuff at the weekend together (except occasional meals out).
I'm always suggesting ideas, and usually getting shot down. It's not all bad - DH does do other things with them - art, lego etc - but tbh they're the exception rather than the rule. Some weekends they play Minecraft/racing games whatever for up to 5/6 hours.
Recently I've talked to DH lots about how I'm working hard to implement screen limits, and how important that is to me and for the children. Boundary work is a big part of our parenting challenge. Tonight, however, he pulled a new games console out about an hour before bedtime, and repeatedly failed to set the no games after dinner rule. I came down from running the kids' bath to find they'd turned the computer back on and were playing (a very bright, garish arcade type game) again. I feel like I'm the only adult sometimes.
This bedtime, my 7 year old has been crying and distressed, telling me she needs to 'wipe her mind clear'. I know in my gut it's all the screen time. I snapped at DH and he got huffy and said "maybe he's not up to parenting" as he can't help giving in. He's now gone to sleep downstairs. I was left comforting DD who's just dropped off, after asking me again to wipe her mind clear of bad thoughts.
I feel so alone right now. Often, I am always feeling like such a nag because I end up snapping about this issue every weekend - and that is possibly even more distressing for the kids.
Can anyone share similar experiences or what's worked for you?
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AIBU?
To be furious about DH's screen time approach?
6 replies
chummymummy7 · 30/03/2019 22:14
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