Desperately trying to reduce DS screen time without battles and failing miserably. I REALLY want this sorted before sec school & a phone. He's AuDHD-medicated but suspect a dose change is required. I think he may have a PDA profile which makes his need for autonomy even stronger. DH no support at all, feels like I'm doing this alone which is very unhelpful as I'm out of the house a lot (working & have 3 other kids-I do 99% sports/hobbies/school stuff) and he's either here WFH or away with work.
When I'm not in the house he largely ignores DS ('I'm too busy working'), and has never been the type of dad who engages willingly with our kids. No walks/bike rides etc. If DS won't do what DH wants him to do-eg go to work with him-he won't try to meet him halfway. TBF, it's an uphill struggle-the pull back to screens is so strong and whilst he's not truly agoraphobic it's almost as though he is; he really only leave the house for school & times school journeys/hates detours/does not visit family with us..etc etc. It impacts me the most and I'm fed up. He sits all day in the same position, using an iPad/watching YouTube shorts or on Meta Quest with his pals. He understands why I'm concerned, when medicated he can discuss with me, agree and does try a little..
His concessions....
With MQ at least he's moving & being sociable.
He plays online chess so he's not just gaming.
He learns loads about his games-eg Minecraft & is apparently v skilled (??) so it's not mind numbing & he's actively seeking new experiences.
How do any of you manage this? I understand he uses gaming to regulate and I'm aware removing this or being didactic will be unhelpful...but ow on earth do I manage it better?