Gaming - behaviour consequences?

[coz10]

Hi

I'm new to this, but as a single mum I would really value any advice.

My 8 year old son loves video games and I try to limit his use but its really hard. I worry that the games are altering his sense of reality and that he isn't learning that actions have consequences, as I think kids can get confused between games and real life.

What advice would you have about using games and limiting them? Also what are your own experiences of games and there affects on your children?

I would definitely be careful about what games he is playing - check the age guidance on them. I'm sure you know that games have a ratings system like films, and the violent ones can be really very violent indeed.

However, the research shows that computer games can develop problem-solving abilities (especially the puzzly ones like Deus Ex) and do actually stimulate the brain. I wouldn't let him play for more than an hour a day in any case, but you could work on making them more social - perhaps have a friend around to play a racing game together or something. Is he playing on a console or a computer?

Both! I do restrict him to an hour a day, but I will also try making them more social.

Thank you for your advice.

Definately find out what the game's content is like. As a teacher I have heard so many children under 12 talk about games that are 18 rated like grand theft auto or call of duty. Their parents are seemingly clueless or careless about what they are experiencing.
If you wouldn't let him watch an 18 film then same goes for games IMO.

There are plenty of games that develop problem solving but like anything too much of it is never good for you. I'd set a reasonable limit - involve him in the discussion on it, and make sure he gets time to exercise too.

We certainly find that our 9yo behaves badly after a gaming session. Not just immediately after, but for the rest of the evening he is 'fragile'.

None of our games are in any way considered aggressive - a driving game and a Mario Galaxy game are the most competitive. He is worst after a session on the Wii, not as bad after a session on the DS, and barely different to usual after a session on the computer. The computer games are all 'educational', and not at all competitive, whereas the WII games are comptetitive, timed, and very engrossing.

The only way we have found to deal with this, is to strictly limit his gaming time. Thelongest we will allow is about 40mins, and not every day either.

Thank you for all your advice and comments its nice to know that others feel its an important issue and that I'm not over reacting.