Smartphones are the ultimate toy. They're by definition the gift that keeps on giving. Whether it's games, videos, or pictures, our phones provide endless entertainment.

It's very tempting to let your phone babysit, especially when you absolutely need to finish a project or put actual food on the table. But as many parents have found, once you've "given in" once, your toddler will be asking repeatedly, and before you know it, you are the parents out in the restaurant with a phone propped up in front of the kid.

Totally not judging, and if that works for you great, but there are other ways if you don't want to get to that point. If you're not yet past what seems like the point of no return, you can try the following:

• Putting Away The Phone - This one probably sounds the least appealing, but is usually the most effective. If your kid doesn't see you with your phone out all the time, there will be less of an opportunity to harass you about it. Reserve your phone for occasions when you reeeeally need it.
• Setting A Routine For Electronics Usage - But without that phone, you get so bored! Watching your toddler running around scratching pictures into dirt isn't as stimulating for an adult. And it's a bit tough to explain to a toddler the ins and outs of why extra screentime might be unhealthy.

Keep in mind, toddlers work well with consistency and predictability. So if some days phone usage is allowed all day, but then suddenly the next day that becomes a no-no, you can imagine the ensuing drama.

If there's some consistency, like allowing video watching after breakfast for an hour every day, or even every other day, your child will adapt to the predictability. If they know that's the hour they get during the day, it is less likely they will keep asking for the rest of the day. If they do ask be firm, and they will adjust to those limits. The key to this is being consistent.

So how do you End smartphone time:

• Borrow a third party "authority" - We like to use a kitchen timer to denote the end to electronics hour, because it's a visible sign (less arbitrary), and it removes some of the tension of the parents exercising dictatorial authority (although totally warranted).
• Stay Consistent - The last video means the last video. If you end up giving in, your child will realize there's room for negotiation.

If your toddler already demands nonstop electronics usage, and you've "broken" these rules already, don't sweat! If you're really intent on limiting it, just start over, be firm, and it can be done. Your child will adjust to the new world order with tears, but that's the way it is. Coming up with novel activities to distract them during the transition will help.

Good luck, you can do it!