Q&A for How to Get Your Child to Stop Playing Video Games

That will depend on the age of the child and the level of any addiction to games that might be present. Be careful that you don't rely on video games to entertain or structure your child's schedule. Try to encourage a balance in your children's life. Also encourage study time, outdoor time, social time, and family time.

It's good that you recognize that you are addicted. That is a good starting point to make a change. Set a timer and stop playing after 2 or so hours. Force yourself to take a walk in between games, or call a friend and talk about something else. Confide in a trusted person and share your addiction.

You are in charge, so just set a limit and back it up. If it is very out of control, you might need to remove the game from their possession.

Like anything else, too much of something can be too much. In balance, they can enhance reflexes, for example. It is only too much if you rely on them to be babysitters or you lose touch with the content of their games.

If you've tried implementing some of the different suggestions from the article but you're still having trouble, you might be having problems with your authority as a parent. In this case, the situation is bigger than just video game playing. Consider going to a parenting class, reading parenting literature, or seeing a family therapist.

Yes, there are some good career opportunities in the video game industry. However, only a small percentage of very skilled players go on to play professionally, just like in athletics. Ask yourself: How old is my child/How old are my children? How are multiple hours of video game playing effecting them developmentally? Are they keeping up with their schoolwork? Do they have any social connections in everyday life? Or only online? Consider your answers to these and determine whether video games are more beneficial or detrimental in the long run.