Setting Video Game Time Limits for Kids

Do you ever feel like your kids are spending too much time in front of a screen?  I do!  The beginning of our summer was kind of crazy with sick kids, lots of work for Mama and a busy schedule.  Soon I noticed they were vegging out in front of video games way too often.  I needed to find a way to limit their time so I implemented some video game regulations. 

During the school year the kids are only allowed to play video games on the weekends (and even then we limit their time), but since we are so busy with fun activities during the warmer months, even on the weekends, I decided that we needed a different rule during the summer.  I decided to tell the kids that they are only allowed to play video games on rainy days.  And even on rainy days I don't allow them to play their games all day long, we have time limits.  They even set their own timers and stop when the timers buzz.  This has been a perfect solution! 

I've noticed since we've implemented this rule that I have not been hearing the phrase "I'm bored" as often, surprisingly and the kids don't seem to be squabbling as much.  And they are not constantly whining to me that they want to play video games, because the guidelines are so clear.  They are using their time more creatively....playing board games, exploring the backyard, creating things together with LEGOS, and so on.  I really think the clear guidelines for video games has made things more peaceful. 

I should note that I have made video game exceptions for long drives, and I have used video game time as a reward on occasion as well.  For instance, I've struggled to get the boys to read this summer, so one day I told Max that for every book he read aloud to Sam they could have a set time for video games.  This worked beautifully...they sweetly read books together for most of the day and then set timers for themselves for video games in between. 

How do you regulate video game or screen time for your kids?