Not to be indelicate, but a spurt of overemotional drama from a DD12 may be related to not just to screen time, but possibly also to gender-specific monthly hormonal fluctuations, which in turn can be impacted by the daily dietary intake and exercise. Unfortunately, moms may suffer the brunt of DD12s' hormonal-induced tension. My thought would be to tuck this idea away in the back of your mind and see if a calendar pattern emerges... then consider being prepared to offer a bit of pampering for 2 or 3 days if needed... taking a walk together, reading to her, bringing her a pillow, having on hand a few of her favorite comfort foods. Eventually help DD12 to see that you have prepared in advance to support her through these fluctuations, and help her to see how she can play a role in this (for example, helping to grocery shop for favorite comfort foods). With this support and understanding she may quickly learn to anticipate the monthly fluctuations and manage them with grace and aplomb.
