Irish parents warned over gaming addiction as kids ask for consoles for Christmas

A gaming expert has issued a warning and advice to parents worried about their kids getting addicted to video games if they gift them a console this Christmas.

Many kids will be hoping Santa leaves the latest console under the tree on Christmas morning but parents fear it could take over their lives and impact other activities, school and family dynamics.

However, one expert has said nowadays "protecting your children from gaming addiction isn’t the mammoth task it used to be."

That's according to game developer and CEO of FreezeNova Games Marin Cristian-Ovidiu, who adds, “there are a lot more tools out there to help with setting boundaries and responsible gaming.”

Here, he offers insights into how you can deter your kids from gaming addiction:

1. Play Together 

Playing together with your kids can be a joy and a big learning tool in the fight against addiction. You can learn what kind of games get them ticking and which ones don’t. Not only is this a fun task for you to bond over with, it’s also a chance to ward off any negative experience or unwanted language they may encounter with online games. This goes a long way toward setting limits and knowing what to avoid genre-wise.

Marin’s advice: “Now I’ve seen some parents take this step a bit too far and end up becoming the ones addicted. Avoid over-reliance on this step and dedicate a bit of time studying your child’s gaming habits. It will help in the long-run.”

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2. Keep It Out Of Their Bedrooms

If your child already has a TV in their room and urges you to let them set up the console in the bedroom, you can afford to be lenient on this for the first couple of days. But once the holidays are over and it’s time to hit the books again, it’s best to get the console out of there and into the TV room or entertainment room.

Marin's advice: “Before investing in any console, make sure you know how to set it up and move it around. If it’s taking too much of a toll on you and your child’s relationship, maybe allow it in the bedroom on the weekends or on special occasions, and set a curfew.”

3. Limiting Game Time

Nowadays, you don’t just have to rely on the honour system to limit your child’s play-time, especially if you’re unsure on how much time they’re spending on it. You can now set a time limit through the console’s settings, even on the console’s app and website. This step is important to helping maintain a balanced schedule.

Marin's advice: “I’d start off with the honour system. If all else, use the in-console limiters. Console manufacturers have taken the extra steps to help parents with the in-game limit options and tools.”

4. Age-Appropriate Games

In this internet age, protecting your child from inappropriate content is becoming more and more of an uphill struggle. Age-appropriate games are key to your child enjoying their new console in a safe and healthy way. With games varying in content, themes, and complexity more so now, it's important to start checking ESRB (Entertainment Software Rating Board) or PEGI (Pan European Game Information) ratings to identify whether a title is suitable for your child’s age.

Marin's advice: “Platforms like Common Sense Media and InternetMatters.org provide detailed reviews and recommendations for parents, outlining not just age ratings but also educational value, violence levels, and overall appropriateness, making sure your child’s gaming experiences remain fun and enriching.”

5. Creating A Sense Of Understanding

Along with setting time limits and selecting age-appropriate games, making sure you talk with your kids about the trouble you may have been through to buy them their new console and setting an agreement can go a long way. Setting consequences if they break the agreement and following through on them can help instill a sense of respect for you as a parent and go towards guaranteeing any rebellious behavior is kept to a minimum.

Marin's advice: “Kids are usually more mature than you think. A calm sit down with them to explain things instead of chastising them can help them see things for what they are and promote healthy behavior. And if they can’t see things maturely, make sure you follow through on the consequences, be it no gaming for a few days, weeks or even a month.”

6. Get Them Involved with Other Activities

Involve your kids with something that will get them out of the house and help develop their real-life skills. This could be sports, a language or art class. These activities are vital for children to explore a variety of interests to maintain that ever-so-important balance. These activities reduce reliance on gaming for entertainment while also helping children develop leadership and teamwork skills, and a sense of responsibility.

Marin’s advice: “Encouraging alternative activities will see to it that gaming doesn’t become the sole focus in a child’s life, creating a more well-rounded and fulfilling childhood.”

Marin Cristian-Ovidiu, CEO of FreezeNova Games added: "Preventing gaming addiction in your kids requires a blend of consistency, communication, and adaptability. As parents, you need to help guide your children to develop healthier habits around gaming.

“One way to reinforce these strategies is by creating a collaborative environment. You can do this by asking for their input when setting time limits or choosing age-appropriate games. When kids feel involved in decision-making, they’re more likely to respect the boundaries set. Additionally, model the balance you’re teaching. If they see you actively engaging in hobbies, family activities or limiting your own screen time, they’re more likely to follow suit.

“Acknowledge when they turn off the console on time or invest energy into alternative activities like sports or creative hobbies - rewarding good habits is as important as preventing bad habits. Most importantly, stay flexible. As your child grows, their needs and interests will evolve, and your approach should too. Building a foundation of trust, fairness, and mutual respect is the most impactful way to ensure gaming stays a fun and balanced part of their life.”