I have three kids, and even though I try to give them equal turns, there’s always drama. The oldest says he has the right because he’s the oldest, the middle one cries because it’s never “his turn,” and the youngest sneaks in to turn it off if they don’t listen to him. I don’t know if I should hide the console or set a military schedule for it. The problem is that they don’t just argue, they yell! And that leaves me with a terrible headache. Plus, I feel like I’m failing as a mom because I can’t get them to share or be patient
Kimberly, I feel you so hard right now. I have three kids too, and the fights over screen time are next-level chaotic. My middle child is also super sensitive and feels left out a lot. I don’t have a magic fix, but just know that you’re not alone. Some days I want to throw the controller out the window. Hang in there, mama. You’re doing your best, and that’s what counts
Lol, I’ve legit hidden our console in the trunk of my car for a week. My oldest was convinced it had disappeared into “the void.” Honestly, though, it bought me some peace. Maybe give it a vacation and see how they handle a few PlayStation, free days? The yelling might stop… or they’ll just find something else to argue about. Either way, you win a break!
this is my life too. I hate how screen time always turns into scream time. You’re not failing, I promise
Hey Kimberly, first of all, you are absolutely NOT failing as a mom. Sibling fights are so normal, especially at these ages, and it’s a sign they’re comfortable expressing themselves (even if it’s loud!). Maybe this could be a chance to teach them some life skills like taking turns or resolving conflicts. You could try a simple system, like using a timer, everyone gets 20 minutes, no exceptions. When the timer dings, the next person’s turn starts. It might take a few days to enforce, but it’s amazing how consistent rules can calm things down. And hey, on the bright side, they’re learning to advocate for themselves. That’ll come in handy one day, right? 
I’ve been there! What worked for us was creating a “gaming schedule” that everyone helped make. We wrote down their names and time slots for when they could play. Everyone had input, so they felt it was fair. The rule was if anyone complained or fought, we’d shut it down for the day. It was rough for the first week (lots of whining), but eventually, they got used to it. Bonus: it taught them to plan ahead and respect each other’s time. If you’re open to it, maybe try setting aside one “family game night” too where you all play something together? It helps cut down the competitive vibe
Hi Kimberly, I’ve got teens now, but when mine were younger, we had similar fights. What helped us was taking the console out of the equation for a while and focusing on non-screen activities together, like board games or outdoor play. It gave them a break and let us reset the rules for screen time. Now, they’re way better at negotiating with each other… most of the time, lol. You’ll get through this stage, I promise!
Wow, this sounds like my house. Do you ever feel like the youngest one stirs the pot on purpose? Mine loves to “accidentally” reset the game, and it’s like starting WWIII in my living room. How do you handle the youngest when they’re being sneaky like that? I’d love to hear if you’ve tried anything that works because I’m stumped
One mom suggested creating a “chore currency” system for gaming time. Each kid earns minutes for chores, good behavior, or even being kind to siblings. They “spend” their minutes to play. It’s worked wonders in our house because it ties screen time to something productive. Also, we implemented “quiet hours” where there’s no yelling or console gets a timeout too. It might take some trial and error, but the consistency helps a ton. You’re doing great, just hang in there!