I've got a friend with a new blog and if you've got a kid with an ipod...heck, even if you don't...you really ought to read this:
http://madstepmother.blogspot.com/2009/02/ipods-are-not-essential-for-life-unless.html
For you it may be a Nintendo DS or a another electronic device of some sort, but I'm sure every parent knows how this feels!