Free resource
Screen-off script cards
Pick two or three and say them the same way each time. Predictable words help children know what comes next — and help you stay calm.
Giving a heads-up
Before the last episode
“One more episode, then the TV sleeps.”
Ending at a stopping point
When the episode ends
“That’s the end of the story. Screens away, so we can play!”
“One more video!”
When they ask for more
“I know you want one more. Not today. You can watch again after your nap.”
Naming the feeling
When they protest
“You’re upset because it stopped. It’s hard to stop something fun.”
Offering two next steps
Straight after screen-off
“Blocks or the ball?”
Staying steady
During a protest
“I hear you. The answer is still no. I’m staying right here.”
Reconnecting
Once they’re calm
“That was hard. You did it. Hug?”
Repair after shouting
When you’ve lost your cool
“I shouted. I’m sorry — that wasn’t okay. I love you. The tablet is still resting.”
A few things that often help
- Set screen time at a predictable time, and turn off autoplay.
- Stop at the end of an episode, not in the middle.
- Have the next activity ready before you switch off.
- If your child gets upset, stay close and calm, and keep the screen off. Handing it back during a protest can make the next time harder.
Strategies informed by the American Academy of Pediatrics Center of Excellence on Social Media and Youth Mental Health. The exact wording above is BPC’s. Every child is different; if big feelings are very frequent, intense or unsafe, please talk to your paediatrician.