Ending screen time without a fight
The 5-3-1 method
Staged warnings give the brain time to prepare for the transition. This can reduce arguments considerably.
5 minutes before
“Screen time ends in 5 minutes. You can finish this round.”
3 minutes before
“3 minutes left. Start looking for a good place to stop.”
1 minute before
“Almost done. Save your progress or finish the episode.”
End
“Time is up. The device goes back to its place now.”
Common mistakes to avoid:
- ✗Taking the device away mid-argument, with no warning
- ✗Renegotiating or getting drawn into a discussion
- ✗Raising your voice or making threats
- ✗Extending “just 5 more minutes” again and again
Our 6 media rules
To put up and remember
These six rules can help bring structure to daily screen use. Best agreed together with your child and hung up where everyone sees them.
Family
Date:
Signatures:
Is this screen use still normal?
Warning signs checklist
It is not the minutes alone that matter, but whether other areas of life are being pushed aside. Tick what applies to your child.
German helpline for children and young people
Phone: 116 111 (free, anonymous)
Parents' helpline: 0800 111 0550
Disclaimer: These cards are a general guide, not medical advice. If you have serious concerns, please contact a family counseling center or a child and adolescent psychotherapist.
Sources: AWMF Guideline 2023, WHO, AAP