The Christmas holidays are just around the corner, and that usually brings a mix of excitement and a small sense of panic.
The kids are about to be home for days on end, the energy levels will be high, the weather will be cold, and screens will suddenly look very tempting.
There is nothing wrong with screen time. Screens help children relax, stay entertained, and give parents a much needed breather.
But without a plan, it can quickly turn into an endless loop of requests, arguments, and tired eyes.
The good news is this. With a little preparation, you can set up healthy screen habits before the holidays begin, which makes the whole break calmer for everyone.
Here is how dads can get ahead of the screen time battles before they even start.
1. Set a simple routine before the holidays begin
Children adjust better when they know what to expect.
Talk as a family about what screen use will look like during the holidays. Keep it clear and easy to remember:
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Screens in the morning after breakfast
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Outdoor or creative play midday
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Games or family films in the evening
A simple routine feels fair and predictable, which reduces the constant questions.
2. Explain the limits early
Before the first day off arrives, set the boundaries.
Calmly explain what the rules will be, why they exist, and when screens are allowed.
Examples include:
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Screens after chores
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Screens once you have had fresh air
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Screens only in shared rooms
When children hear the expectations ahead of time, they are less likely to push against them when the holidays begin.
3. Give choices, not battles
You can avoid arguments by offering choices rather than saying no repeatedly.
For example:
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“Would you like screen time now or after lunch?”
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“Do you want ten minutes on your tablet or a family film later?”
When children feel involved, they are far more cooperative.
4. Prepare a few easy alternatives
If you want to keep screen time balanced, you need quick, low effort activities ready to go.
Nothing fancy, just things that break up the day.
Ideas include:
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A winter walk to spot Christmas lights
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Hot chocolate with toppings
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A short board game
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Baking something simple
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A blanket fort
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A ten minute Lego challenge
These small moments help fill the day without a lot of work.
5. Plan some shared screen time too
Screens do not have to be a solo activity.
Family films, video games you can play together, or even watching funny videos as a group make screens feel positive rather than isolating.
Shared screen time builds connection rather than replacing it.
6. Avoid guilt
You are not a bad parent for allowing screen time.
The holidays are long, routines disappear, and everyone gets tired. Screens can help you reset, finish jobs, or simply catch your breath.
Balance is what matters, not perfection.
7. Model the behaviour you want to see
Children pay far more attention to what you do than what you say.
If you want them to put screens down sometimes, try doing the same.
Simple habits help:
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Phone free meals
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No scrolling while playing with the kids
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Charging devices outside bedrooms
Your behaviour sets the tone for the whole house.
8. Keep evenings screen free where possible
If you can, end the day without screens.
It helps children settle and makes mornings smoother. Try reading, drawing, or talking about the day instead.
Even a short screen free wind down works wonders.
Final thought
The Christmas holidays can be full of fun and full of chaos. Screens can either add to the stress or help manage it, depending on how you prepare.
By setting expectations early, offering choices, and mixing screen time with connection, you can create a calm and balanced break for the whole family.
Screens are not the enemy. They are simply one tool among many.
With a little planning, you can enjoy the holidays without constant battles and make space for moments that matter.
