You're definitely not alone in this struggle! It's a balancing act for sure. In our family, we try to set clear boundaries by having "screen-free" zones, like during meals or an hour before bedtime. This helps create a routine that the kids can expect and understand. We also encourage them to earn their screen time by completing chores or homework first. It's a bit like a mini reward system that seems to work well for us.
Another thing we've found helpful is co-viewing or playing together when possible. It turns screen time into a shared experience and gives us a chance to talk about what they're watching or playing. This way, it feels a bit more interactive and less like they're zoning out. Hope some of these ideas help you find what works best for your family! 😊