Many children and young people like to play games. Understandable, because computer games offer special challenges and opportunities. Fun and positive experiences such as connecting with other players or creating imaginary worlds are central. In day-to-day education, however, electronic games often lead to conflicts.
COD Guide and tips on gaming for mothers
Don’t be afraid of games
Children and young people may know more about games and play more than you. Nothing to worry about. Show interest in the game and let your child show you the world of games. Although children and young people are good at using the medium, they need your support to use the medium consciously and critically. For instance, if they play COD, asking them to read COD Guide will help them become conscious and critical when playing.
Take your role as a role model seriously
If you constantly play on your mobile phone and sit in front of the screen a lot yourself, it is difficult for the child to understand if you criticize and want to limit their consumption.
Digital games are not babysitters
Do not leave younger children alone while gaming. Instead, accompany children in consuming electronic games.
Pay attention to the age information
The age information for games gives a first impression of whether a game is suitable for your child or not. However, they are not set in stone and are not legally anchored. It also depends on the development of the child whether a game is suitable or not. Therefore, assess how much gaming you consider useful and what content you can expect of your child. The age information is well suited as a basis for discussion with children and young people.
Discuss instead of banning
Discuss and define game times, game content, and game duration together with the child. This increases acceptance and compliance with the agreements. Talk about sensible use of the medium. Keeping young people away from electronic games for as long as possible or completely forbidding them from dealing with depictions of violence often has the opposite effect. It usually only makes things more interesting for them. Furthermore, it is important to remember that a pronounced ban must also be enforced.
Children need variety
Electronic games can very well be part of everyday life, but not only. Offer alternatives to gaming. Play analog games together, go on excursions, encourage exercise in nature, and give your child enough freedom to be outside and with friends. And if your child is bored, that is not tragic. Boredom encourages creativity.