All my 2.5 DS wants to do is watch TV despite my constant attempts to get him to play

[midthirtiescrisis]

My DS of 2.5 is going through a very difficult stage of crying, shouting and moaning constantly and all he wants to do is watch TV. All this I am not too worried about as I know deep down there is a bright sociable child who will re emerge again when he is over his early years life crisis!

My problem is I am finding it increasingly difficult to tear him away from the TV despite many attempts of encouraging play. Nothing I suggest gives the slightest spark of interest and any other reaction but go away and leave me to my TV!!!

Any suggestions, ideas to make me a more exciting TV alternative!

We go to various toddler groups and soft play during the week but its the afternoons when he decides he wants to be watching telly. Drives me mad-even if its switched off, he doesn't want to engage with me apart from playing chasing games which I suppose is something. He is not remotely interested in sitting down and drawing or painting. He would rather be climbing, jumping and running about daft. Is this normal?

Agree with whoever said you are the mum and you can set the rules.

At this age DS watched I think 3 programmes a day; once those were over, that was it, telly off.

Obviously it's personal - you might think an hour is enough, or two programmes; whatever...the principle is that YOU are the one who is in charge, not him! OK you may have to put up with a tantrum or ten - you just have to decide that you can put up with it. He doesn't know why, so naturally he WILL be cross; but you as the adult know why too much is not good for him, etc, so you need to take the control. He is only two; you can be in charge. Lots of good ideas here for other things to absorb him, but I tihnk the main thing is you will have to be prepared for big tantrums, no matter how good the distraction techniques. But he is young and his habits will change!

ok ladies you all inspired me to switch the box off today so I'd like to report back. My DS has not watched any telly today and not once has he asked to watch it! He did get to watch an episode of Thomas on You tube while I made tea but he has been happy and chatty all day-like a different boy. Am def going to persevere so thanks to you all!!

That's great .

good for you!

Just had another thought: swimming. My DS LOVES this.. he gets a bit carried away. It's great for knackering them out.

We have loads of snow which is proving to be a great distraction!