Theres so much parenting guilt and anxiety around the subject of screen time.
If you set limits, you get to listen to endless negotiations for more screen time.
So how can you let your kids experience those benefits without fear of breaking their delicately wired little brains?
He shared some warning signs of unhealthy gaming and tips for parents to promote a good gaming relationship.
If its causing a problem, then it is a problem, Kanojia says.
Keep communication about video games open.
Set clear expectations about when and where gaming is allowed, and what games are acceptable.
Listen actively, reflecting and affirming what you hear, asking questions for clarity.
make a run at understand what they enjoy about gaming rather than judging or dismissing.
Prioritize balance and other activities.
Encourage diverse interests in other media, hobbies, books, physical activities, socializing, or community engagement.
Set realistic screen time limits.
Set aside family time without screens.
Lead by example with your own healthy tech habits.
Build trust and collaboration with your gaming kid.
Involve your child in creating gaming rules.
Offer your ideas and ask for their suggestions.
Offer alternatives to fulfill their needs.
Seek professional help if needed.
A third party like a therapist may be able to guide both of you toward a healthy solution.
Age-by-age tips for healthy gaming
Kids brains and abilities change so much throughout childhood.
Your approach to gaming will change too.
Kanojia shared some tips for handling video games for children at different ages.
Heres how to get them started on the right foot:
double-check the games they explore are age-appropriate.
Stick to short, supervised gaming sessions.
Talk to kids openly about online safety.
Heres how to help them explore:
Supervise while they venture into different games and genres.
Negotiate and agree on appropriate screen time.
Encourage social gaming while emphasizing safety.
Monitor their online behavior.
Heres how to help them be healthy independent gamers:
Respect their autonomy.
Youve been openly communicating about what they want from gaming and what your expectations are.
This is where they test the waters and apply your guidance in their decisions.
Gaming all night before a final or gaming to let off steam after the final?
Help them see the difference between a choice that is in their best interest and one that is not.
Promote responsible communication and positive online interactions.
Offer support and guidance.
Remember, these are general guidelines, Kanojia says.
Adapt them to your child’s individual needs and maturity level.
