If you’re a mom, you already know the battle. Screens are everywhere. Phones, tablets, gaming systems, streaming apps—it feels like the world is designed to keep kids plugged in all the time. And when the colder months roll in, it’s even harder. I know so many moms are searching “limit screen time kids fall/winter” because once the weather turns, kids naturally gravitate toward screens.
With five boys at home—ages 5, 7, 8, 10, and 13—I get it. The temptation to just hand them each a device would probably make life a whole lot quieter. But that’s not the culture we’re trying to build in our home. Our system isn’t perfect, but here’s what’s been working for us as we try to balance screen time with real life.
Our Family’s Screen Rules
In our house, screen time works like an allowance. Each weekday, the boys are allotted 2 hours—but they have to earn it by completing their chores. If they drag their feet, a stopwatch is started, and they begin losing minutes. It keeps everyone motivated to stay focused.
Nobody ever gets more than 2 hours at a time, and no one gets extra just because they’re older. It’s not about age—it’s about effort.
We don’t keep the TV on as background noise. In fact, the TV is off most of the day. Nobody has their own personal tablet either. Instead, we use one old phone that’s loaded with learning apps, and the boys can take turns. When they play on the PS5 or Xbox, it’s not endless gaming—it’s capped and intentional.
“Screens aren’t the most valuable asset in the world, and my boys know it.”
Why We Don’t Rely on Screens
There are a few reasons we’ve stayed away from having a screen for each child. First, boys are boys, and things get broken quickly around here. Second, the cost of keeping up with multiple devices just isn’t worth it. But most importantly, I believe learning should be hands-on and face-to-face—not something handed off to a tablet.
I love that they use educational apps and watch learning-based YouTube channels together (we have playlists ranging from kindergarten to senior level). But I never want screens to be the centerpiece of their childhood.
What’s Working Right Now
Timers are our best friend. Each boy sets his own on the Amazon Dot, and when it goes off, they’re done. Because we homeschool, our days are naturally screen-free until schoolwork and chores are done. If they were in public school, they wouldn’t be watching TV during the day, so the same rule applies at home.
And here’s a funny twist—two of my boys have tried sneaking my old phone into their rooms. Normally, I’d be frustrated about sneaky behavior, but the truth is… I love that they’re sneaking it to use the learning apps. That’s the kind of “sneaky” I can live with.
“Screens can enhance creativity and imagination—but they don’t replace it.”
What We Do Instead of Screens
Because there are only two screens available, there are always at least three kids doing something else. That “something else” usually looks like Legos, card games, crafts, or playing outside.
They each have five chores, some of which are super simple—like refilling the cats’ gravity waterer once a week. But those responsibilities keep them moving and learning responsibility without staring at a screen.
When the weather is nice, they’re outside until dark. When it’s cold, we build forts in the living room, watch a movie together, or try something new indoors. I’m actually looking forward to our first winter homeschooling—we’ll be able to go sledding in the middle of a “school day.”
Encouragement for Other Moms
I know every family’s relationship with screens looks different. For some, screens have been a crutch—and I don’t say that with judgment. Breaking habits is hard, and tantrums are real. But small, consistent changes are worth it.
If you’re trying to limit screen time this fall and winter, start by teaching a simple in-person game, or commit to a short family activity each day. It will feel uncomfortable at first, but it gets easier. And it’s always worth it in the long run.
Consistency has been key for us. We don’t change the rules season to season because that just creates battles. The boundaries are clear, and the boys know what to expect.
Final Thoughts
Screens aren’t evil—but they also don’t have to run the show. By keeping them in their place, we’ve been able to enjoy more face-to-face connection, creative play, and real family time.
We’re still figuring things out, but this rhythm is working for us. And if I’ve learned anything as a boy mom, it’s that balance matters. Screens can be a tool, not a takeover.
What about you? I’d love to hear—what’s working in your house right now when it comes to screen time?
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