It’s no secret that video games can be addictive. Unfortunately, children aren’t immune to this. Video games provide instant gratification, entertainment and are relatively easy to master. Time seems to go by quickly when a child is absorbed in a video game. Often, before the gamer becomes aware of it, several hours can slip by.
It’s important for parents to be aware of how much time their children spend gaming. Sometimes parents have to take measures to limit video game time and encourage other activities.
Limit Video Game Time
For children that are easily engrossed in video games, it’s crucial for parents to limit the amount of time spent playing. Parents need to encourage activities, like exercise, playing with friends and reading.
If a child is unable to self-regulate gaming, parents should set rules around the use of video games. Homework, chores and other daily responsibilities should be done before gaming starts.
Some families limit gaming time to late afternoon or evening. Others allow only handheld gaming systems and playing only on long car rides. Some parents limit video game time to an hour or two per day.
Compromise with Video Games
Games have natural break times built in. When a level is completed, it’s logical to end game time or to take a break. Parents can avoid confrontation by compromising with a child and encourage breaks or ending game time at the end of a level. If the end of the level is still a long way off, set a time limit and give a five or ten-minute warning before the time ends.
Teach Responsibility with Video Games
Handheld gaming systems, like the Nintendo DS, are convenient for kids. But, they are easily lost. Teach responsibility by encouraging your child to take care of his own gaming system. A case designed to hold the gaming system, the games and stylus will keep everything together and be easier to keep track of. Help him find a place to charge the gaming system each night, but let him be responsible for charging it.
Find Connection Time with Video Games
Video games are a great way to connect with children. If they enjoy gaming, find games that you can play with them. Take gaming tips from your kids and play together. Newer gaming systems, like the Nintendo Wii, are fun, family activities.
Screen-Free Time
If video games become too much of an obsession for a child, parents may be interested in participating in National Turn Off Week. Turn Off week encourages families to turn off all screens in the home, including television, computers and video games. Kids participate in other activities, both inside and outside the home, to remember that life away from a screen can be fun, too.
Children that play video games to the exclusion of other, healthy activities need parents to step in and limit screen time. Parents can compromise with their child and use video games to teach responsibility. Gaming can be a fun, connection-time activity for parents and children, as can the challenge of participating in National Turn Off Week.
