My BFF is nearly 4 years old
and Covid has deprived him, like his friends,
of preschool, parties, libraries. He’s holed
at home, and though he’s bright and comprehends
restrictions, he’s excited by a game
his parents won’t allow us to enjoy.
“He gets too manic” is how they complain,
and ask me to deflect him with some toy.

What is this fear of screen time? I agree
it’s not a good idea to use the app
as babysitter or to give him free
access, unlimited, alone. That trap
is not available – I watch him play
and we converse. This ban is not okay.