Have you ever suggested a game of "stick ball" or "go fish" to your child? Did he/she look at you like you had two heads? Don't worry—you are not alone. Today's children live in a computerized world that includes most of their play and entertainment preferences. They were born into it and have a much better understanding of it at an earlier age than you do as an adult. Interactive entertainment-video and computer games—is very popular with children of both sexes. Interactive entertainment includes handheld electronic games, coin games at arcades and entertainment centers, and games on the Internet. Many of these games are very entertaining and sometimes an educational way for your child to spend time with friends, but there are some that you may not want your child to play.

Research suggests that the addictive nature, aggression, violence, and brutality of some games can be harmful to children.¹ If you know what kinds of entertainment your child is involved with in her spare time, you can help her make wise choices, enjoy positive play, and prevent problems. The following tips can help you stay on top of the electronic game world.

Ask yourself some questions:

• Is my child spending more time playing video or computer games than on other pursuits?
• Is he playing alone, or with family and friends?

If the answers trouble you, then it's time to act:

• Get to know the games your child plays frequently. Ask questions and talk about these games with other parents, friends, teachers, and anyone who might be familiar with the products.
• Try the game for yourself. Are you happy with its content? Is there too much violence and/or bad language? Is drug use presented in a positive way? Does the game speak badly about a certain ethnic group or persons of the opposite sex?
• Limit the amount of time your child spends on interactive games.

Reliable research reports that too many children are not getting enough exercise.² A major factor in their inactivity is the many hours of free time spent playing with computer and electronic games. To counteract this problem:

• Suggest different activities, especially ones that include some physical exercise. Get the entire family involved in outdoor activities.
• Dust off your bikes and go riding around the neighborhood.
• You don't know how to in-line skate? Ask your child to teach you. You may gain a few bruises, but your child will gain a new respect for you and have a lot of fun doing it.
• Invite another family to join yours in a softball game.

Is it too wet or too cold to be outside? Hold a "family game night" and play board games. There are games for every age level and taste, from educational ones like spelling bees and science and math quizzes, to trivia games about sports and music. If you prefer something simpler, try the "oldies but goodies" you played as a child—cards, charades, a game of jacks/marbles or step-ball. Children of every age can play these old favorites.

You CAN Make a Difference

A child's playtime can add value to his healthy development. Experience is still the best teacher, and it gives you a unique advantage in guiding your child through life's ups and downs. Despite your child's growing independence, your parental guidance and support are crucial to his healthy development. Be specific when talking to your child about your values regarding violence, drug use, and sexuality. Use every opportunity to encourage dialog about these issues, allowing your child to express his doubts and concerns while you remain firm. Always work together with your child on these issues. Help him learn to make positive choices that will benefit him for a lifetime.

¹American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. July 26, 2000. Joint Statement on the Impact of Entertainment Violence on Children-Congressional Public Health Summit, last referenced 12/17/2002. Children Now. December 2001. Fair Play? Violence, Gender and Race in Video Games, last referenced 12/17/2002.

² Promoting Better Health for Young People Through Physical Activity and Sports. A Report to the President From the Secretary of Health and Human Services and the Secretary of Education, -- 172, last referenced 12/17/2002.

• American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry: Kids and Popular Culture
• Federal Trade Commission: Pocket Guide: Entertainmnet Ratings
  Rating descriptions for video games, games on the Internet, coin-operated video games, and more
• Federal Trade Commission: Marketing Violent Entertainment to Children: Self-Regulation and Industry Practices in the Motion Picture, Music Recording, and Electronic Game Industries
• Seattle Post-Intelligencer Special Report: Violence and Video Games
• Violence Policy Center: From Gun Games to Gun Stores—Why the Firearms Industry Wants Their Video Games on Your Child's Wish List