Concerned Mother: Son watches video games but doesn’t play them?
Dear Agony Aunt,
I hope this email finds you well. I’m reaching out because I’m feeling quite concerned about my son, who is in primary school. Lately, I’ve noticed that he spends a lot of his free time watching other people play video games on platforms like Twitch and YouTube. While I understand that gaming has evolved and many kids enjoy watching others play, I can’t help but feel that it’s a bit strange.
When I was younger, we would play games ourselves, and I always thought that engaging in play was beneficial for brain development and social skills. I worry that my son is being too passive and not taking the initiative to play games himself. I want him to be proactive, to explore his creativity, and to enjoy the thrill of playing rather than just watching.
I’ve tried talking to him about it, but he seems perfectly content with his current routine. I’m not against gaming, but I want to encourage him to be more active and engaged. How can I motivate him to play more and be less of a spectator?
Thank you for your advice!
Warm regards,
A Concerned Mom
Dear Concerned Mom,
Thank you for reaching out and sharing your concerns about your son. It’s clear that you care deeply about his development and well-being, which is the first step in addressing any worries you may have.
Firstly, it’s important to acknowledge that the landscape of gaming has indeed changed. Watching others play video games has become a popular form of entertainment, and many children enjoy it for various reasons, including the thrill of competition, learning strategies, and simply enjoying the commentary. However, your instinct to encourage more active participation is valid, especially at such a formative age.
Here are a few suggestions to help motivate your son to be more proactive:
1. Engage Together: Try playing games with him. This not only allows you to bond but also gives him a chance to see the fun in playing. You might discover new interests together, and he may feel encouraged to join in more actively.
2. Set Limits: Consider setting some boundaries around screen time. For instance, you could designate certain days or times for watching gaming videos and others for playing games. This can help him find a balance between the two activities.
3. Introduce New Games: Explore games that are designed for cooperative play or those that require creativity and problem-solving. Games that involve teamwork can be particularly engaging and may spark his interest in playing rather than just watching.
4. Encourage Social Play: Arrange playdates with friends who enjoy gaming. Sometimes, children are more inclined to play when they see their peers doing the same. This can also foster social skills and teamwork.
5. Discuss Interests: Have open conversations about what he enjoys about watching others play. Understanding his perspective can help you find common ground and suggest games that align with his interests.
6. Celebrate Small Wins: When he does play, celebrate his achievements, no matter how small. Positive reinforcement can boost his confidence and encourage him to continue exploring.
Remember, it’s all about balance. Watching others can be a part of his gaming experience, but encouraging him to engage actively will help him develop essential skills and creativity.
I hope these suggestions help you navigate this situation with your son. Trust your instincts, and keep the lines of communication open. You’re doing a great job!
Warm wishes,
Agony Aunt