Children’s computer games are as much a part of childhood as jumping rope or teddy bears. But experts agree that spending too much time in front of a computer or game console will harm a child’s development. One of the main problems identified by experts is a sedentary lifestyle. Including limited social skills. But are children’s computer games really that bad?
The influence of computer games on children can also have a positive result. With the development of games and the advent of consoles like Nintendo that even create a certain amount of physical activity. Children’s computer games can be useful, intellectual, stimulate laughter and fun.
Some of the benefits of video games are that they are a fun way to introduce kids to something new in their lives. And some games can also help children develop by improving hand, eye coordination and attention to detail. So the influence of computer games on children can be not only negative.
How much time to devote to computer games?
You need to look at your child’s overall lifestyle and be honest with yourself. If he has a lot of friends, or your child regularly plays with other children, is sociable and enjoys the company of other people, his social skills are probably fine.
It is recommended that children spend no more than two hours sitting in front of a screen. Like a TV, set-top box or computer. If a child spends too much time (several hours a day every day) looking at a computer screen, then his social skills will deteriorate. And then you will need to take matters into your own hands. Along with alienating oneself from other children, some studies have shown that video games can affect the physical functioning of some children.
As a parent, your main concern should be to keep track of the amount of time the children spend playing. And closely monitor their content. Otherwise, the impact of computer games on your child will only be negative.
Cruel and non-educational games
There has been a lot of research done on children’s computer games. The general conclusion of all these studies is one thing. That violent play has five different impacts on child development.
It has been proven that violent games cause:
- an increase in physiological arousal;
- an increase in aggressive thoughts;
- increased aggressive feelings;
- increased aggressive behavior;
- decreased sociability.
Children whose parents limited the amount of time. Which they spent at a computer or console. And they made sure that any games their child played were appropriate for their age. In the end, they began to study better in school, to participate less in arguments and fights.
Educational computer games for children are likely to have a positive effect. The converse is also obvious. That violence in computer games or other media can have a negative effect.
If you want your child to grow up with a good knowledge of computer games and all that they have to offer. There is nothing wrong with giving them a console or a computer sometimes. However, the general rule of thumb is: Don’t let video games take up your free time entirely. Just watch what they play.
You cannot avoid this in our time. But as a parent, you need to keep a close eye on what your kids are doing and how long they spend at the computer.
How much time should I give children to play?
Preschool children should not spend too much time on any activity. Since they are at an age where they need to experience as many different activities as possible in order to grow and develop. It is advisable that you are near them during the game and limit the time to a maximum of 30 minutes.
Little schoolchildren under 8 years old can already be left alone with a computer. But only if you know what they are doing there. At this age, they need to start navigating the PC. And they probably already used computers in school. At home, you can limit their use to 30-45 minutes of play.
Children of senior school age up to 12 years old can be at the computer for about 1 hour and 15 minutes. At this age, they probably go to social networking sites and chat with friends via email. Make sure they know you are around and follow their actions. Also consider installing parental controls on any computer used by children. So, if you want the influence of computer games on your child to be only positive. Pay close attention to how much time they devote to this.
How to limit the time children spend playing?
Children love computer games. And as you know, they are addictive. And their “can I do it one more time” can turn into another hour. If you don’t follow this.
Use parental control software. And software that can keep track of how much time a child uses the computer. Some programs set a timer and turn off the computer automatically. But this is the last resort for older children. Who are very reluctant to give up the computer. This does not always make it possible to save what they are working on. So expect tantrums if they do something important.
Set a timer for when your kids are playing. Make sure it has a good loud signal that you can hear as well. This is also useful if you have multiple kids fighting over the game console.
Children’s computer games – tips and tricks
The impact of computer games on child development is a really important issue in our time. Here are some more tips and tricks to help you in this difficult task.
Keep all computers, consoles, and video games out of children’s bedrooms. This way you can keep track of the time they spend and what they are doing. Help the children plan their computer use by using a schedule. Set strict time limits. Talk to older children and decide together how much time they can spend on this activity.
Lead by example yourself. Do not sit down to play with your child, or when he is not at the console. Make sure children’s computer games are age appropriate. Children will always try to trick you a little. So be vigilant and always keep an eye on what your kids are doing.
Children’s computer games can develop children. There are also many video games that can be used to improve a child’s skills. But be sure to keep an eye on what they do. And make sure they don’t waste too much time on useless games or surfing the internet!
