How do i get my husband to watch less TV?

Question

He comes home from work and within minutes the TV is on and he doesnt get up to do anything except come get his dinner plate-and thats only cause I stopped bringing it to him. He watches anywhere from 3 to 6 hours every night. and then ALL day on the weekends. I just want him to spend at least a little time with kids. We have 3, including a baby. Ive tried asking him to go out with us, walks, walmart, etc. I know hes tired but so am I. Its just unhealthy and I also dont want my kids forming the habit. Ive hinted around and even talked to him about watching so much but he doesnt stop. Even when we lost the remote he got a new one within a day or two. What should I do?

Answer 1

*sigh* I know your question is written to make your husband appear to be a scumbag and you are a great wife with three kids that just want to go on a picnic, but I'm sure there is more to it than that.

If he is spending that much time in front of the TV, he is trying to escape from his life (you and the kids) but would feel guilty about not being home (going to a bar) every night. In his mind at least he is home and minimally involved with what is going on. Bottom line - I'd say he's depressed with his life and just wants to tune it out. Picnics and shopping aren't the answer.

Try finding out what he feels he didn't achieve in his life or what is really wrong with your relationship first. Perhaps the realization that he doesn't have a trophy wife, he has no meaningful career path, and he has three kids driving him nuts all day is enough to make him a bit depressed.

Answer 2

wow, that's pretty lame of him.  Also, bad for the kids to have the tv on constantly. You're just as tired as he is so talk to him again. Tell him you are hurt that he doesn't take more part in the family. He can read to the kids, do puzzles together, throw a ball or just listen to them. Maybe he can get the kids involved in something he likes, putting things together, putting balls, something....

Answer 3

Ist thing is i would talk to him

Answer 4

Sell the TV and talk to him.

Answer 5

It sounds like a bad habit, how about getting someone to babysit once in a while & prepare a romantic meal, candlelight have a talk about his work boss etc without judging him........ then have some adult fun.....you could do this say at the end of every month so he knows he has a special treat in store

Answer 6

Well its nice that you make suggestions for things to do together but keep in mind, what man wants to go shopping to relax? Maybe think of something else? Going out to catch a ball or riding bikes maybe?

I don't feel its unreasonable for him to get an hour or two to relax in front of the TV. But not all evening all the time day after day.

Maybe you could suggest something like No TV on the weekends. That can be you all inclusive family time. Or when he is in front of the TV he is responsible for the baby while you take charge of the other two. God knows hanging out with a baby will take away from the TV experience. Maybe HE will want to go do something else with you all lol.

If that fails, don't pay the cable bill!!!!

Good luck!  

Answer 7

If your TV has a child lock on it, then turn it on, and keep the password a secret. Alternatively, throw your TV out.