Every time I ask him to put it down, he starts throwing a real tantrum: screaming, slamming doors, and lots of drama. I know these kinds of reactions are common in adolescence, but I wonder if I’m doing the right thing by limiting his screen time. Sometimes, I feel guilty, but I also know that it’s important for him to learn to manage his time and not rely so much on technology. How do I balance his need to disconnect with the desire to protect him from device addiction?
My 14 year old used to react the same way when I tried limiting his screen time. It was a real challenge! We eventually started having conversations about the why behind the rules, which helped a little. I told him that too much screen time isn’t good for his health, his sleep, his focus in school, and his mood all get affected. It wasn’t an overnight change, but after some time, he started understanding and getting less upset when I’d ask him to put his phone down. I also set times for “no phones” (like during dinner or before bed), and over time, he’s accepted it more. It’s still a work in progress, but now it’s more manageable
My 13 year old gets crazy when I ask him to take a break from his phone too. It’s like their whole world is falling apart. I just try to remind myself that I’m doing what’s best for him, even if it doesn’t feel like it in the moment. It’s a hard balance to strike, though. I feel like sometimes it’s impossible to win with them.
Girl, I’m right there with you. I’m starting to wonder if it’s just a phase or if it’s going to keep going. My kid acts like a total baby when I limit his phone, too. The drama is real! I feel guilty sometimes, but then I remind myself that I’m just trying to protect him. It’s so hard, though—especially when they act like the end of the world is near. Have you tried any alternatives for screen time, like setting up some family activities? I’m still working on this too, but maybe it’s something to try?
when I ask him to step away from his phone. He will literally throw a fit and shut himself in his room. It’s exhausting. I think the key is consistency—if you’re firm about it, they start to understand that this is just how it is. But it definitely doesn’t stop them from throwing tantrums at first. I try to make screen time something they earn with good behavior or completing tasks. Has that worked for anyone else?
One thing that worked for me is setting specific phone-free times and making those moments something to look forward to—like family movie nights or outings without distractions. I also found that giving my son more control over when he puts down his phone (like having a 30-minute warning before no phone time) helped reduce the drama. It’s about making him feel like he’s not being controlled but instead learning how to manage his own time. I know it’s not perfect, but little steps really do add up.
I’m in the same boat with my son—he throws fits and gets super angry when I ask him to put the phone down. It’s draining. What I’ve noticed, though, is that setting clear limits has helped reduce the fighting. He still doesn’t love it, but it’s getting better. I also try to encourage him to spend time with his friends outside of screen time, but yeah… it’s hard to get them to disconnect. Anyone else have tips for how to deal with the tantrums without feeling like you’re the bad guy?
I’ve been through this with my older kids, and here’s what worked for us: consistency and having a set routine. We made it clear that certain times were for family and no screens, and after a while, it became second nature to them. I also got them involved in other hobbies that didn’t involve screens, like board games or sports. They still complain sometimes, but they understand it’s about balance, not punishment. It’s not easy, but stick with it, and you’ll see less drama over time.