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Overcome Video Game Addiction of Kids

By Asha Das

Games can be indoor or outdoors. In this modern time where most people live in apartments or flats, it is natural that kids are forced to get satisfied with indoor games. Video games are all time favourites of such kids. It is okay to spend some time on playing video games, but getting addicted to this may make your kid's time unproductive and fatuous.

It is another form of procrastination where all the important tasks and duties will be kept aside for engaging in games. If you are one among those parents who want to get rid of the game addiction of your kid, you may try these simple and easy tips.

Overcome Video Game Addiction of Kids

Acknowledge the addiction
Persuade the kid about the ill effects of video game addiction effectively. Your kid has to co-operate, understand and acknowledge the addiction in order to successfully overcome it. Convey the concept in a simple and easily understandble way to your kid. Ask them to involve in doing something productive.

Prepare a plan
Without proper planning and determination, it is very difficult to overcome game addiction in your kids. Formulate a plan with a reasonable amount of time allocated to games and stick to it. Give importance to outdoor games and at the same time allocate some time to play video games as well.

Play together
In most cases, kids start to get addicted to video games when they are not getting chances to play together with others. Involve in their games even if you feel it is silly. Understand that it means a lot to them. Tell their close friends and loved ones about the addiction and seek their support to get involved in the group.

Implement the plan
Try to stick on to the plan. Initially it may need to have some relaxation in the schedule, but follow it gradually. Do not let your kid feel that you are forcing him/her to stop spending time with video games. Instead, make them realise that there are a lot more outdoor games which will give more fun and entertainment.

Other entertainment
Introduce other entertainment to the schedule like outdoor games, reading or gardening. Entertainment of all kinds are important in the proper development of your kid's physical, mental and social abilities.

Prevent the return of addiction
Once your kid finds interest in spending time playing video games, it is difficult to get them out of it. So, if the schedule is implemented successfully always take care not bring them back to the addiction.

The process will be comparatively easy if the kid is cooperating. If the plan is not at all working or if the kid seems to be depressed, seek expert advice.

Story first published: Friday, June 14, 2013, 19:44 [IST]
Read more about: kids parenting tips