How to Help Children Limit Game Addiction

 How to Help Children Limit Game Addiction 🎮

Game addiction in children can affect their health, learning and psychology. Here are ways to help children control 

their gaming habits, based on recommendations from experts.

1. Determine the level of game addiction

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), children may have gaming disorder if:

Playing games out of control, spending more than 3-4 hours/day playing.

Neglecting studies, declining health, lack of sleep.

Irritable, upset when forbidden to play games.

➡️ Check the level: If your child shows the above signs, early intervention is needed.

2. Set a time limit for playing games ⏳

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP):

Children under 6 years old: Should not play games for more than 30 minutes/day.

Children 6-12 years old: Maximum 1 hour/day.

Teenagers (over 12 years old): No more than 2 hours/day.

📌 How to control time:

✅ Use time management apps: Google Family Link, Microsoft Family Safety.

✅ Set a rule "play games when homework is done".

✅ Do not leave game consoles or phones in the bedroom.

3. Encourage alternative activities 🏃‍♂️

Sports: Sign your child up for soccer, swimming, badminton...

Extracurricular activities: Learn music, draw, read.

Play games with your child: Choose educational games that train thinking.

➡️ Source: The American Psychological Association (APA) recommends balancing gaming with other activities 

to avoid dependence.

4. Communicate and set an example 🗣

📌 Research from Harvard University shows that:

Parents who regularly play on phones and computers will make children more likely to imitate.

Instead of forbidding, talk to your child and understand why they like games.

Encourage your child to use technology in a controlled manner.

5. Serious cases - When to see a specialist?

If your child shows signs of severe game addiction such as:

🚨 Playing games for more than 6 hours/day, skipping school, depression, sleep disorders, see a psychologist or

 doctor for advice.

🔹 References:

World Health Organization (WHO) - Gaming Disorder

American Psychological Association (APA) - The impact of games on children

American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) - Guidelines for children's screen time