Screens are designed to keep us scrolling. Children are not weak—they are human. A family Device Parking Rule creates a boundary so the brain can rest, and mornings don’t start with firefighting.
The rule (plain and simple)
All devices park in one spot by 8:30–9:00 p.m. (choose your time). Bedrooms stay screen‑free overnight.
Set up in three steps
- Pick the parking lot: A shelf near the sitting room, a basket by the TV stand, or a charging station by the router.
- Name the why: “Sleep grows your brain. We protect sleep as a family.”
- Lead first: Parents park their phones, too. Even if work requires exceptions, create visible buy‑in.
What about homework on phones?
- Print when you can. If data/cost is a factor, set a homework window: phones return to the parking lot immediately after.
- Use Do Not Disturb modes and app limits so assignments don’t end with TikTok.
Pushback scripts
- “But my friends are online!” → “Friends are important. Sleep is how your brain keeps up with them tomorrow.”
- “I can’t sleep without it.” → “Let’s try music from a speaker or an offline storybook.”
Nigerian reality checks
- Power outages: Keep a basic power bank at the parking station.
- Shared rooms: Even more reason to remove glowing screens that keep siblings awake.
Track the wins
After two weeks, note: fewer morning tears? Faster prep? Better moods before school? Celebrate small improvements.
For caregivers: Screenshot the rule, print it, tape it near the charging spot. Consistency beats perfection.