8 Comments
User's avatar
Lotta Lange's avatar

I loved this post!

What the transition time was like? Did they fight it harder than you expected or was it easier? How long did it take for your kids to accept the new way of doing things?

Expand full comment
Mollie Donghia's avatar

Thank you Lotta! Great question, it was not an overnight switch for them and they did ask for the sweets, tv time, and wanting to spend their money before the time came. But we were consistent and kept reminding them of why we’re doing this and how it’s going to help with our gratitude/patience/appreciation or whatever it was we were trying to teach them. It’s been over 6 months since our tv watching plan was implemented and they really don’t even ask anymore! It takes time for new habits to sink in, but staying consistent is the key.

Expand full comment
Lotta Lange's avatar

Thank you for taking the time to reply!

I am feeling like we have let some things (like screen time and sweets) get a little out of control and I really want to dial it back. Like a lot. I am definitely expecting pushback but glad to know someone has made it through :) Thanks for sharing your story!

Expand full comment
Chrysti Hedding's avatar

Love this. We recently cut back on our kids’ screen time too. Except we limit it to days when it’s not nice out (plenty of those in the autumn/winter though… so we may need to modify again in a few months!). You’re right, though. Everyone is much more creative and happy.

Expand full comment
Mollie Donghia's avatar

Thanks! Yes I agree!

Expand full comment
Kate Saffle's avatar

Yes! I experience this with my kiddos too. We’ll often put our TV in the garage just so that it has to be a more intentional choice to put it back in the living room. I love the tip about designating spending days! So smart.

Expand full comment
Mollie Donghia's avatar

Yes such a great idea to actually move the tv! Our our designated spending days have already seen benefits…however it’s a work in progress for our less minimalist kids ; )

Expand full comment
Kate Saffle's avatar

I totally get that! One of my kiddos’ love languages is gift giving, including gifting himself. Ha!

Expand full comment