Video Game Guidelines: 5 Things Parents Need to Know About Video Games Fun With Dad

Most kids have video games on their holiday wish list, putting desperate parents in panic mode. An astounding 97 percent of kids play video games, and 95 percent of parents worry about their child gaming. Naturally, I get a lot of questions from parents about what’s healthy. Here’s a cheat sheet straight from the elves: 

• Like movies, video games are rated. There are also reviews to help guide choices. Fortnite, for example, is for ages 13+.

• Games can be enriching. Look for games that focus on creating things, rather than blowing them up.

• Moderation is key. Kids under 5 should be limited to an hour of screen time. After age 6, parents should have a firm policy, and 90 minutes is a good threshold.

• Don’t forget the parental controls! Most consoles, tablets and phones have handy features that limit what your kids can see and do online.

• Sometimes, it’s what they’re not doing. Time spent playing video games is time not spent exercising, doing homework or hanging out with friends. 

Unfortunately, there are no concrete right answers when it comes to gaming, but it’s not all bad. With boundaries and controls in place, kids can be safe online.

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