Tolerating A Child’s Choice To Play Video Games Does It Make You A Good Parent Or Bad Parent?
How can we say that we are being a good or bad parent? We can never learn in school how to be a good parent. All of us have different parenting styles. All of us have a different ways on how to discipline our child. But one thing is for sure; even if our parenting styles differ from each other we all want what is best for our child.
I am not an expert, I am just a parent and I want to share my personal tips on how to be a “cool” parent. This meaning being an authoritative parent without losing your cool at all times. As a parent we support our children on their talents, passion and even skillful hobbies. But what if they just want to play video games instead of engaging themselves on sports or reading books? Are you still going to support them on their gaming? Or are you going to be strict and discourage them to play?
These are the things you can do to balance yourself on becoming the perfect balance between a lenient and a strict parent when it comes to setting the requirements for playing video games for our child;
1.Reward system — Allow them to play video games as a reward. In order to earn a gaming reward of playtime they need to do good or extraordinary things. This can be simple as the need to complete tasks that were assigned to them by the parent before they can earn the gaming reward. Its a win-win deal to both parent and child! In this kind of system children will get used to finishing first their assignment before they can do what they want. In a way, we are also simultaneously teaching the child delayed gratification and prioritization.
2. Create your quality time around gaming — Join them while they are playing video games. In other words, make playing video games as your bonding moment. When they grow old they may not cherish the memories of you buying them video games or other material things. But they will likely have a higher chance to just cherish the memories of you having the time to play alongside them.
3.Use video games as educational tool — There are many video games that can be use as an educational tools. According to Oedb.org here are some:
I. My Word Coach: It involves stretching the child’s vocabulary and is intended to develop the ability to express oneself with confidence.
II. uDraw Studio: Instant Artist: Instant Artist — The child can express their own creativity and paint their own masterpiece using wide variety of paints, brushes and drawing tools.
III. Reader Rabbit: The Reader Rabbit series possesses plenty of interactive educational mini games that teach on a variety of grade levels. The fun interactive format get kids involved and engaged while actively achieving the objectives told within the interesting games.
Being a parent is not easy. For me there is no “bad parent”. Yes, we may make mistakes sometimes on our decisions but we are just doing the things we think are right for the sake of our children. If they want to play video games then support them, allow them to play. But make sure that we teach them the limitations and how to prioritize other things in their lives.