Many parents notice in their children an excessive craving for computer games and, trying to fence them off such entertainment, cause only tears and misunderstanding. The child feels slighted, because friends are constantly discussing some new game at school. You have to think about how to protect your child from the influence of the computer games industry, without hurting his feelings.
Why are children so attracted to the computer
First, it’s important to understand that it’s not the computer itself that is addictive, but the games your child plays.
A computer is a common thing for modern children. In it you can watch cartoons, be creative, read, etc. If children spend too much time in front of the monitor, they may simply lack your attention or have no other entertainment. What child wants to sit at the computer when called to an amusement park or play ball?
Second, not all video games are addictive. There are a large number of educational and exciting computer games that children like, but at the same time leave them indifferent to the computer so as not to beg their parents to "pass only one level" ten times a day.
What games are not highly addictive in children
First of all, these are games that have a storyline and its logical conclusion. When the game is over, interest in it disappears.
The most entertaining games are arenas, sandboxes and simulations. Children should not play such games. For example, "Dota 2", "Minecraft" and "The Sims" chained to the screen millions of people around the world. Sometimes it’s hard to pull off such toys and adults, what can we say about the still fragile psyche of the child. It is unlikely that in this situation you can do without hysterics.
Children should not be allowed to play computer games with an open world (free movement around the map) and a lot of freedom of action. They are time-consuming and mostly designed for replay. Such play can also be addictive to the child.
The best option for children between the ages of 7 and 15 is quest games for all ages. These games can be played with the whole family and have a short duration.
What to do if a child has a computer addiction
First of all, you need to make the child understand that in the world, besides entertainment, there is also work. And the kids' job is to study well and do their homework.
Spend more time with him. Do what he likes most besides games.
Introduce an incentive system if necessary. For the lessons done - so many minutes of playing the computer. For excellent marks in the quarter - a new game on the computer. The main thing is that the child strictly adheres to the time limits set by you, otherwise all efforts will be in vain.
If all else fails, you should contact a specialist.
Remember, spending a long time playing computer games for people with an unformed psyche leads to very serious disorders, especially in preschool age.
