Give it time
Did you or a relative give your child new computer and console games for Christmas? Have you surprised your child with a new cell phone and now all he does is play with it? Don't forget: you wanted to make your child happy. It's normal for new games and devices to initially attract a lot of attention . Support and accompany your child when using it. Don't worry: That doesn't mean you have to let your child get away with everything.
What is so fascinating about digital games?
Games are more than just a pastime! Children and young people can immerse themselves in their own digital world and, for example, live out daydreams and fantasies. Games also make it possible to withdraw from everyday life create space and boundaries within the family We all know that: the family hustle and bustle at Christmas can be quite a lot. Christmas also means school holidays for your child, so they can switch off for a while.
It is fascinating for children to portray themselves in play and also other roles and personalities . In addition, they experience themselves as active and influential, because failures and setbacks can be worked on - without losing face - until everything is under control again. A clear training advantage compared to everyday life!
What should I pay particular attention to?
- Many children no longer play on classic consoles or PCs, but rather directly on their smartphones . Make sure that the games are only downloaded from official app stores (e.g. App Store or Google Play Store) to avoid installing malware.
- Remember that free apps are not always the best - they are usually financed through annoying advertisements (which are often not appropriate for your child's age!) or in-app purchases. Block in-app purchases on your cell phone with password protection or, ideally, deactivate them completely, this is the only way to avoid cost traps .
- Pay attention to recommended age ratings for the respective games! Not every game is suitable for every age. The PEGI and USK labels provide good orientation for computers, consoles and online games. When it comes to mobile games/apps, it is advisable to follow the app store recommendations.
- a recommendation for good computer games , which also covers the content of the games, at BuPP .
- Some games allow conversations or chats with other players - even strangers. A feeling of friendship or cohesion quickly arises among players. That's nice and it's not uncommon for real friendships to emerge from it. Please note, however, that not every contact has to be pleasant and there is a risk of cyber grooming . Prepare your child so that he or she knows how to react if the situation arises and who to turn to . Also, practice with your child how to question online identities. An online contact is not always the person they claim to be.
Show interest & offer alternatives
It is important to show interest in what computer games your child plays , what they like about them and how much time they spend on them. Especially with older young people, sensible rules be drawn up together. At the same time, your child will feel more valued.
But you should also offer your child alternative leisure activities , especially if you notice that playing on the screen is getting out of hand . Games promote creativity and interaction and play an extremely important role in the social and intellectual development of children and young people. However, if this means that activities typical of the corresponding age are neglected over a longer period of time or are eliminated completely, this should also be addressed.
Young children in particular usually notice when it's too much for them - but they often lack the inspiration for alternative activities.
Source:
SaferInternet
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