The 'golden rules' of gaming
Finally, just to reiterate some 'golden rules' that I have made before in relation to children and adolescent gaming.
· Check the content of the gaming activity. Try and give children and adolescents games that are educational rather than violent. Parents usually have control over what their child watches on television - gaming should not be any different.
· Try to encourage gaming in groups rather than as a solitary activity. This will lead to children and adolescents talking and working together. Also remember that many online games are based on social activity and working together. Our research has consistently shown that the main reason for playing online games is for the social element (Griffiths, Davies & Chappell, 2003; 2004b).
· Set time limits on playing time. Tell children and adolescents that they can play for a couple of hours after they have done their homework or their chores - not before.
· Parents and guardians should always get their children to follow the recommendations by the game manufacturers and/or the service providers (e.g., sit at least two feet from the screen, play games in a well-lit room, never have the screen at maximum brightness, and never engage in gaming when feeling tired).
· Finally, if all else fails, temporarily prohibit gaming and then allow them to play again on a part-time basis when appropriate.