For many children, gaming is not a problem and may never be one. But for a very small number of children, gaming may become problematic. The distinction between healthy gaming and addiction lies in the negative impact it has on a person's life.

Signs to Watch For

• Needing to spend more and more time playing to satisfy the urge.
• Using gaming to relieve or cope with problems or negative feelings.
• Feeling unable to focus on other activities when they’re not gaming.
• Having problems or arguments with family or friends.
• Continuing to play even though it’s causing them problems.
• Playing even though they’re no longer enjoying it.
• Inability to reduce playing or unsuccessful attempts to quit.
• Having problems at home, school, work or with study because of gaming.
• Neglecting responsibilities and activities that are important or they enjoy.
• Lying to people they’re close to about how much time they spend playing.
• Having risked or lost friends because of gaming.
• Feeling sad, angry, moody, anxious or irritable when they can’t play.

Practical Tips

• Create a Family device agreement.
• Explain that you will turn off the Wi-Fi at a specific time or use parent controls to manage screen time.
• Decide together on the time allowed for gaming and that you will provide them with a 5-minute warning.
• Help them to understand how the games are designed to make them feel  good and to play more. Watch this short video on Your Child's Brain on Screens and Video Games to understand game design  and impact.

• Explore other healthy ways to feel similar endorphins such as active play and fun games.
• Contact Parentline (1300 1300 52) for advice if you continue to experience difficulties with your child’s gaming.

Learn More About the Impacts of Gaming and Screen Time

Watch the below video on How Too Much Screen Time Hurts our Kids by Associate Professor Wayne Warburton.