Why We’re Finally Getting an Inchargebox
For years, I’ve recommended the Inchargebox to friends. Many of them—with older kids—swear by it. I, however, have proudly held off. Our family had clear boundaries around devices, and the kids seemed to understand the rules. We don’t even own phones yet.
But things are shifting. The pull of screens is becoming too strong to ignore—and it’s affecting every single one of us. It’s time to level up.
The Subtle Slide Into Screen Struggles
Me:
Even as an adult, I find myself laughing at reels on Instagram when I should be doing something else. I rarely scroll, but when I do, it’s easy to lose track of time. I know the impact screen time has—yet even with that awareness, I’m not immune. That says a lot.
11-Year-Old:
Trying to complete a school project while sitting at the kitchen bench turns into a juggling act: Google searches, switching tabs, asking for birthday ideas—repeat. It’s hard to focus, especially in a shared space. I wonder how they’re supposed to learn proper research skills when ChatGPT and YouTube are just a click away. Are they even using books anymore?
9-Year-Old:
She used to be mostly uninterested in tech, aside from the occasional TV show. Lately, though, it’s all about the iPad—checking the time, the weather, changing screen savers. She’s hyper-aware of it, constantly making sure it’s charged for school. And even though she knows our answer is no, she still asks for Messenger Kids every couple of weeks: “But Mum, all my friends have it.” (Spoiler: they don’t, only some do)
7-Year-Old:
More upset about not having the “cool” new iPad than about the device itself. It’s not just about screens—it’s the social pressure and comparison that’s creeping in. When we couldn’t find his iPad one morning, the tears flowed. The idea of writing instead of using the iPad? Devastating.
He also has a Nintendo Switch. We’ve kept it minimal—just four harmless games—but it’s quickly become the only thing he wants to do at home. It’s hard to watch, especially when we’ve created a home filled with opportunities for active, creative play.
5-Year-Old:
Our youngest is still blissfully screen-free. She doesn’t even ask for TV, likely because life in this house is already wildly entertaining. But she’s absorbing more than we realise—she’s been catching glimpses of her siblings’ shows, and I know it won’t be long before she starts asking.
So Now What?
We’re implementing something new:
A centralised, locked Inchargebox where all devices go—at a set time, every day.
This isn’t about punishment. It’s about reclaiming focus, connection, and time. We’re setting clearer routines for homework, creating tech-free pockets during the day, and showing our kids (and reminding ourselves) that screens don’t run the show.
We’ve resisted long enough. Now, it’s time to take charge—literally.
Want to take the next step toward screen sanity in your home?
If you’re feeling the digital creep in your own family, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to figure it out alone, either. The Screen Sanity Handbook offers bite-sized videos and practical tools that help families build healthier screen habits—without the overwhelm.
It’s honest. It’s empowering. And it’s created by parents who get it.
Grab your copy of the Screen Sanity Handbook or the Inchargebox and start creating more connection and less chaos today.
