Screen time interfering with life and learning - on a mission to change!

[anonanon22]

I'm afraid that we have slipped down the rabbit hole of bad habits around screens. We used to be good with no devices in bedrooms, at meal times (if they're eating e.g. brekkie on their own) or during certain times in the day etc but it's all gone by the wayside with my two teens.

I'm ready to work to reverse it back to how it was, aiming to get even better (including myself!), with little steps to start with.

I've been looking for a programme/documentary about families that use mobiles/screens in a dysfunctional way. I'm sure I've seen one mentioned a while back on MN but can't find it. Does anyone have any recommendations for a good programme that can be our catalyst for discussion and change?

Hi. I would love to cut the screen time down. My goal is for start of school year, no screens during the week days. We try to limit screens, but they still watch too much. They still read at least, but would read more if they had less time on screens. But they also do a lot of sport and outside activities....so not like they are on all day. But they def watch screens 2 hours a day!!! Ideally, I would like it just 2 hours a day Friday and Sat. One hour Sunday and non during the other days. That is my goal for September. During the summer I will allow screens of course, but keep it limited to two hours a day. How much do your kids spend on screen? I was about to let my dd get an iphone for start of secondary, but I am going to delay it and see how she gets on w a nokia phone (just to use if needed as she will start to travel w out us).

There is a documentary on Netflix - The Social Dilemma - which is more about social media than just screen time, but it is thought provoking.

Thanks for the suggestion @Bessi Will look into that.

@SamPoodle123 Yes, mine do a lot of sports and other activities, and we used to be better at keeping certain days screen free (or should I say gaming free) during the school week but it's harder in the holidays. Mine can spend a lot more than you mentioned on their screens (phones, gaming PC)! But I'm starting to reintroducing a few more boundaries.

Still wondered if anyone knows of a documentary about this topic, as I am pretty sure I saw something mention on MN on another thread a while back.

There's a documentary called Screened Out.

Also, the book Digital Minimalism by Cal Newport is good.