We instituted a new rule a few weeks ago - no technology after 10 p.m. for the kids. Meaning cell phones, iPods, iPads, and laptops had to be "turned in" by 10 p.m. to a central location in the family room. At first, this new rule went over like a lead balloon. But we told the kids it was non-negotiable, and that was that. I'd been pretty tired of the kids staying up late and/or being tired all the time because they stayed up till 2 a.m. on Tumblr (Hayley), fooled around with their iPod till midnight (Arlie), FaceTimed with their friends till 11 p.m. (Harrison), or posted Facebook statuses at 1 a.m. (Hannah). Thus, the new world order. Or something.
Anyway, after all the hysterics were over, the kids got pretty good about turning stuff in, and lo and behold, without their technology to entertain them, they actually started going to bed. Sometimes even before 10 p.m.! In fact, it's not unusual to hear at least one person express their fatigue and desire to go to bed starting around 8:30 p.m. Mornings come and the kids are more chipper, get ready faster and easier, and all is now right with the world. Relatively speaking.
Sure, the kids could go back and get their technology after we're asleep. And maybe they have! But the point is, they actually self-regulate and go to bed on time now, with no argument or delays, and manage to get homework and other things done well before the 10 p.m. cutoff. And it seems like they are less "attached" to their technology than before (although, you won't find any of them without a phone in the face most evenings). Tonight, by 9:30 most of the house was off to bed, it not IN bed. I laughed that we were like old people now. Early to bed and early to rise. Hey, it's working! Try it!
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