How to Control Video Game Addicted Toddlers: A Parent’s Guide

Video games are no longer the exclusive domain of adults. As the Internet and mobile devices have become more prevalent, so too has the popularity of video games among kids and teens. Today, video games are played by people of all ages and interests. Even kids who don’t normally enjoy gaming can be tempted to spend hours on end sitting in front of a screen. As a result, video game addiction has become increasingly common among kids and teens. If you’re the parent of a child who seems to have a problem with video games, read on to learn how to control video game addicted toddlers.

What Is Video Game Addiction?

Video games are a proven, fun way to engage young minds. They can improve problem-solving abilities, teach perseverance, and challenge teens to think critically. But for some kids, video games can also become an obsession that interferes with their daily lives and families.

How to Control Video Game Addicted Toddlers: A Parent’s Guide

Keep games at a reasonable hour. Set up a regular schedule for playing games. Don’t let your child’s entertainment center become the center of the house. Make sure electronics are turned off or put away when not in use. Let your child play on their own. Let them make mistakes. Be aware of your child’s friends and how they spend their time. Allow your child to take a break from the screen.

Set boundaries and limits

Kids, teens, and even some adults like to push their boundaries. They may feel restless or bored, and want to find new challenges. This can make a child who is normally well-behaved seem like an unstoppable video game machine. To keep your child from becoming obsessed, set boundaries on how long your child can play video games and set limits on how much they can play.

Limit how much your child plays

It’s crucial to set limits on how much your child plays video games. It doesn’t matter how much you love Candy Crush or how much you enjoy Scrabble with your friends; kids need time to play with their friends, explore their world, and do activities that are age-appropriate.

Limit how much your child plays video games by taking a look at their overall play time. If they spend hours alone in front of the screen, it’s time to do something else. Be strict about rules during gaming time. For example, have rules about hygiene, such as putting away the toys, not talking to strangers, etc.

Set up a regular play session

Find a regular time to play games with your child. Having a set time where the games are played helps to keep your child focused and helps to set a regular schedule for screen time. If you and your child are always on the go, you may find it difficult to set up regular gaming sessions. In that case, try to find a quiet spot where your child can relax for a few minutes, such as a park bench or nearby coffee shop.

Be flexible with your child

As with all things parenting, be flexible with your rules and limits, especially when it comes to socializing and extracurricular activities. Gaming should be no different. If one friend wants to play a board game while another wants to watch a YouTube video, be open to the idea. Letting your child choose what they play and when they play it can lead to resentment. It can also allow your child to develop a better sense of when they’re overextended and need a break.

Offer them physical games like building blocks

Physical activities can be a great alternative to digital games. Games like Operation can keep kids active while they’re waiting for their turn to play a video game. Scrabble, checkers, and other word games can be a good alternative to electronic games that aren’t age-appropriate.

There are many online stores like GIGI Bloks that offer different kind of blocks for toddlers! You can buy and offer to your child a variety of toys to choose from, so they can discover what interests them most. If your child gets bored with their hobbies, they will have room to try something new.

Conclusion

In the end, video game addiction isn’t something you can “fix” with willpower. Instead, it requires a combination of parenting, structured rules, and healthy competition. By keeping these tips in mind, you can control video game addicted toddlers and help them lead healthy, balanced lives.

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