10 signs your kid has an addiction to gaming & how you can help them as a parent as the summer holidays get underway
While gaming every now and then is not necessarily harmful, parents are being urged to watch out for early warning signs of a gaming addiction.
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Experts in the industry have emphasised the importance of spotting the symptoms as early as possible to reduce the harmful effects on a child's mental and physical wellbeing.
Gaming addiction can result in a plethora of problems, including poor academic performance, social withdrawal, and health issues.
Marin Cristian-Ovidiu, CEO of gaming website FreezeNova, told Mirror: "Gaming addiction, like any addiction, requires a holistic approach to treatment and support.
"It's important to address not just the symptoms but also the underlying causes and contributing factors."
Marin added: "Early intervention and consistent support are key in helping children develop a healthy relationship with gaming.''
By recognising the signs and taking proactive steps, the expert said, parents can ensure their kid's well-being and foster a balanced lifestyle.
Chatting to the publication, Marin also listed ten common signs your child has developed a gaming addiction.
Preoccupation with gaming - constantly thinking about gaming, even when not playing.
Withdrawal symptoms - feeling irritable or anxious when not playing.
Increasing time spent gaming - gradually needing to spend more time playing to feel satisfied.
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Unsuccessful attempts to cut down - repeatedly trying and failing to reduce gaming time.
Loss of interest in other activities - neglecting hobbies and activities that were once enjoyed.
Continuing to game despite problems - ignoring physical or emotional issues caused by gaming.
Deceiving others about gaming - lying to family or friends about the amount of time spent gaming.
Using gaming to escape negative moods - playing games to avoid feelings of depression or anxiety.
Risking relationships and opportunities - sacrificing social and educational opportunities to game.
Neglecting personal hygiene and health - skipping meals, sleep, or hygiene to continue gaming.
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BATTLING BOREDOM: Despite hours of activities and playdates, if your kids are already complaining there's nothing to do, parenting expert Liat Hughes Joshi says: 'Don't feel you have to organise every second of the holidays. Kids benefit from boredom and learn to make their own fun.
'Boredom can trigger creative and imaginative play but you need to encourage kids to get used to not being told how to spend their time.
'Ride out the pleas of boredom. Counter it with comments such as, 'What do you think you could do?' and maybe have a list of 'I'm bored' activity ideas on the fridge.'
SCREEN OVERLOAD: It's tempting during the holidays to rely on a digital babysitter but don't let them gawp their whole summer away in front of a screen.
Liat says: 'It's unfair to expect older kids to power down but it's important to set some ground rules.
'Set family tech rules together. If you're often distracted by your phone, follow the rules too. Maybe tell the kids they aren't allowed any screen time until they've done set chores, some exercise, or a board game.
'Are there times when you'd like to ban screens completely? Perhaps during dinner or when they have friends over to visit.
'Tech is a battleground for parents, but you have to set boundaries. Stand firm and be prepared to be unpopular.'
TOO MUCH TOGETHERNESS: You love your kids, but being with them 24/7 can be exhausting. Do not feel guilty if you need a bit of downtime.
Liat says: 'If you're juggling work and household tasks as well as occupying the kids, it's normal to start feeling overwhelmed or jaded and in need of some peace.
'If you can't afford or don't want to send your kids to all-day camps, look for free kids' workshops so you can get on with jobs or have a break for a couple of hours.
'Seeking a spell of quiet every now and then doesn't make you a bad parent — in fact it will probably make you more positive and enthusiastic when you are with the kids.'
SCHEDULING CONFLICT: Schedules can go out the window during holidays, but late nights and early mornings can mean tired and unhappy children.
Dr Tamara Bugembe, paediatrician and founder of Helperbees.co.uk says: 'Children get grumpy, test boundaries and become challenging when routines are broken.
'Sticking to some kind of routine during the holidays is a good idea.
'We release hormones at different times of the day and when regular meal times and bed times are broken, it causes dips and peaks in mood.
'Holidays are about having fun but an early night once or twice a week will make everyone happier.'
EXCESS ENERGY: Make sure kids get out in the fresh air to tire them out — and make them healthier and happier.
Dr Bugembe says: 'Sunshine also tops up vital vitamin D levels which helps improve bone strength and energy levels in children. Our levels run low in winter so let the kids stock up in warmer weather.
'Letting them run around in shorts and a T-shirt is the best way to top up. Make sure they're wearing sun cream, get outside and have fun.
'Encourage them to try healthy habits such as cycling and walking. They'll hopefully get hooked and want to carry them on when the weather gets colder.'
How you can help as a parent
Tackling gaming addiction involves a comprehensive approach, emphasised the expert.
Parents can begin by establishing clear limits regarding the amount of time your child is permitted to game each day, ensuring it doesn't clash with other responsibilities and activities.
The child should also be encouraged to get involved in sports, hobbies, and other activities away from screens.
It is also vital for children to have a balanced daily schedule that has dedicated time for homework, household chores, physical exercise, and gaming.
Plus, it's always essential key to keep an eye on the content they play to ensure they're suitable for their age and not likely to lead to addiction.
Parents should set a good example by demonstrating a balanced approach to screen time and making healthy life choices.
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