Concerned Mother: Son’s online video gaming involved betting?
Dear Agony Aunt,
I hope this message finds you well. I’m reaching out because I’m feeling quite worried about my son, who is in primary school. Recently, he’s been spending a lot of time playing online games with his schoolmates. At first, I thought it was just harmless fun, but I’ve recently discovered that some of these games involve betting elements.
I understand that many kids today enjoy gaming, and I don’t want to be overly strict or judgmental. However, the idea of my son being exposed to betting at such a young age really concerns me. I worry about the potential impact on his values and whether it could lead to unhealthy habits in the future.
I’ve tried talking to him about it, but he seems to brush off my concerns. I don’t want to completely ban him from gaming, as I know it’s a social activity for him, but I also want to guide him towards healthier choices.
What would you suggest I do? How can I approach this topic without making him feel like I’m attacking something he enjoys?
Thank you for your help!
Sincerely,
A Concerned Mother
Dear Concerned Mother,
Thank you for reaching out and sharing your worries about your son. It’s completely understandable to feel concerned, especially when it comes to something as influential as gaming.
First, it’s important to acknowledge that many children today are engaged in online gaming, and it often serves as a way for them to connect with friends. However, as you rightly pointed out, the presence of betting in these games can be a red flag, particularly for young minds.
Here are some steps you can take to address your concerns while still allowing your son to enjoy gaming:
1. Open Communication: Keep the lines of communication open with your son. Instead of framing the conversation around rules and restrictions, ask him about the games he plays. Show genuine interest and listen to his experiences. This will help him feel understood and more likely to share.
2. Educate About Risks: Discuss the concept of betting and gambling in a way he can understand. Talk about why it can be harmful and the risks associated with it. Make it a conversation about making informed choices rather than a lecture.
3. Set Boundaries Together: Collaboratively establish some guidelines around gaming. This could include time limits or agreeing on which types of games are acceptable. Involving him in this process can help him feel more empowered and less like he’s being penalized.
4. Offer Alternatives: Encourage other activities that can provide social interaction and fun. Whether it’s sports, arts and crafts, or board games, having alternative options can help reduce the focus on online gaming.
5. Monitor and Engage: Keep an eye on the games he plays, and don’t hesitate to explore them yourself. This will not only give you a better understanding of the content but also allow you to engage with him in a meaningful way.
6. Seek Professional Advice if Needed: If you notice that your son is becoming overly fixated on gaming or if his behavior changes significantly, it may be worth consulting a professional who specializes in child psychology.
Remember, your concern comes from a place of love and care, and creating a supportive environment will go a long way in guiding your son toward healthier habits. Trust your instincts as a mother, and take it one step at a time.
Wishing you the best of luck,
Agony Aunt