How to educate children who enjoy playing games

Children's addiction to games can be guided through establishing rules, transferring interests, parent-child interaction, role model demonstration, professional intervention, and other methods. Game addiction may be related to factors such as lack of self-control, social needs, avoidance of stress, family environment, psychological dependence, etc.

1. Establish rules

Negotiate with children to establish clear rules for game time, such as not exceeding 1 hour per day and extending it appropriately on weekends. Use a timer reminder to avoid rough internet disconnection or scolding. In the initial stage of rule execution, a reward mechanism can be used, such as obtaining additional game time after completing assignments, to gradually cultivate self-discipline.

2. Transfer interests

provides alternative activities such as sports, handicrafts, scientific experiments, etc., and selects suitable projects based on the child's personality. Regularly organize outdoor activities for families to allow children to experience the joy of the real world. Pay attention to observing children's potential strengths and develop their focus and sense of achievement through interest classes.

3. Parent child interaction

increases high-quality companionship time by replacing electronic screens with interactive activities such as board games, shared reading, and cooking. Understand the game content that children enjoy, try to participate in discussions as players, establish trust, and then guide reflection on the pros and cons of the game. Avoid using games as a tool to appease or reward children.

4. Role Model Demonstration

Parents should reduce the time they spend using electronic devices in front of their children, especially during meals and before bedtime. Establish a period of no electronic devices at home and jointly abide by the rules. Demonstrate a healthy lifestyle through self reading, exercise, and other behaviors, and create a good family atmosphere.

5. Professional Intervention

If serious situations such as truancy and day night reversal occur, it is necessary to seek a psychological counselor to assess whether there are psychological problems such as anxiety and depression. Cognitive behavioral therapy can effectively improve game addiction, and if necessary, cooperate with school teachers to develop behavior correction plans. Prohibit the use of violent or humiliating disciplinary measures.

Encourage children to participate in household chores in daily life to cultivate a sense of responsibility and consume excess energy through exercise. Pay attention to ensuring sufficient sleep and a balanced diet, and avoid sugary drinks that can affect emotional stability. Regularly discuss network information security knowledge with children to help understand the boundary between virtual and real. If a child is found to be addicted to games due to social difficulties, assistance can be provided in establishing real-life peer relationships, and if necessary, school psychologists can be contacted for intervention.