I agree with Bookworm! There is no way you can keep boys busy and you shouldn’t try.
I see escalated behavior with my boys – out of control, goofy, attention problems – when we watch more TV and videos. Right now we allow one video per week on Friday nights (family movie night) and 20 minutes of video games on Saturday. They also get some time when I’m sick : ). That’s it.
When they have been away from media, their play is amazing. Today they played at the park with friends for 2 1/2 hours and were sad to leave. Then they played in our sandbox with water for another 2 hours making up all kinds of stories as they went. There were also cars/trucks, art, etc.
And, no, my boys aren’t calm children. A couple are but many are “all boy” and need that outdoor time. My 16 year old was even out a bunch today building a shelter on the mountain in our back area. They are SO much calmer and more content when they get out.
Since your boys are used to videos, they will probably have a weaning time where you see a lot of asking for media and distracted behavior and, maybe, even some acting out. Stick with it and it will improve! This is the easiest season to wean from media since it’s so nice to go outside!
-Rebecca