As a parent, I am well aware of the impact of online gaming on children. They can make children indulge in them and neglect studying, family, and social activities. I've seen first-hand how my child is drawn to online games, and I'm determined to help him stay away from them.
First of all, I realized that I needed to establish good communication with my child. I sat down with him to find out what his love and addiction to online games was all about. By listening to his ideas, I was able to better understand his needs and find solutions to their problems.
I chose a quiet moment to make sure none of us were disturbed. I asked him open-ended questions like "How do you think online games affect you?" and "Why do you like playing this game?" to encourage him to share his opinions and feelings. I listened intently, trying to understand the problem from his point of view.
I also shared my concerns by using "I" statements to express my feelings, such as: "I'm worried that online games might affect your studies and sleep." Expressing yourself in this way can make your child less defensive.
I then seek to find a solution together with my child. I asked him questions like, "How do you think we can balance playtime and other important activities?" to encourage him to get involved in setting rules and expectations.
We discussed possible solutions and finally set clear rules. We decided to set a certain limit of time for the game every day and make sure that he could only play the game after completing his study tasks and homework. I also encourage him to participate in other wholesome activities, such as outdoor sports, art, and reading.
To monitor and follow up, I regularly check his playing habits and make sure he follows the rules we set together. If he follows the rules or participates in other activities, I give praise and rewards to reinforce his positive behavior.
Through these efforts, I have succeeded in helping my kids stay away from online gaming. Gradually, he discovered other, more meaningful activities and established a healthier lifestyle. As a parent, I feel very relieved knowing that I have created a better future for him.