Although online gaming can help children, it can cause more harm than good if addiction sets in…
Talk to them
Firstly, talk to your child and try to pinpoint every problem and symptom they might be feeling. Spend some time identifying your child’s symptoms, which can include lack of interest in other activities, irritability, headaches, anger, and trouble focusing. Express your desire to create a plan of how you will help them to overcome their problems.
Encourage downtime
Do as you preach! If you are trying to encourage your child to spend less time online, ensure you do the same. This will prove to them that the time you spend offline can be just as exciting as time spent online.
Offer strategies for coping with withdrawals
Keep an eye on how your child acts when not gaming and offer support. Doing exercise or something stimulating to the brain will take their mind off gaming in no time.
Use parental controls
Complete surveillance is not advised. But by monitoring a child’s gaming, you can allow them to have some online time. Just remember to be open with your child. Let them know they still have a right to privacy, but that it will benefit them in the long run.
Look at gaming more positively
It may seem counterintuitive, but showing an interest in gaming could lead to more positive conversations. This will guide them towards healthier choices and make them sympathetic to your wishes.
● Tips from cybersecurity expert Lauren Mak at VPNOverview.com