DOES your child lack interest in anything other than gaming, or have withdrawal symptoms when they're not playing their consoles?
If so, they might be showing the early signs of having a gaming addiction.
Cybersecurity expert Lauren Mak at VPNOverview.com has put together six things to keep an eye on, to help parents allow their children to enjoy online gaming without suffering harmful repercussions.
The first sign is developing a lack of interest in things they were once interested in, or having no desire to take part in any activities other than gaming.
"This can limit a child from being able to pursue other hobbies that they could be exceptional at and even go on to have a career in," Laura explained.
Chespin is the target of 2023’s first community day in Pokémon Go
Your child may also start exhibiting withdrawal symptoms when they're not at a screen.
This could include irritability, hostility, mood swings, impatience, depression, anxiety and anger.
They might also have little concern about their personal care and hygiene, and a gaming addiction could also disrupt their eating patterns.
If your child is struggling to concentrate at school, it could be down to their gaming habits.
While a child who shows decreased amounts of compassion may also be developing an addiction.
"This will make it harder for the child to create healthy social connections with people and can lead to serious mental health problems," Laura added.
But if your child is showing any of these signs, there are five things you can do to help stop it in its tracks.
"Firstly, talk to your child and try to pinpoint every problem and symptom they might be feeling," Laura explained.
" Spend some time identifying your child’s symptoms and express your desire to create a plan of how you will help them overcome."
It's important to also encourage a healthy use of screens and downtime - and you should do this to.
Genshin Impact Dori: Best weapons, artifacts, and teams
"If you are trying to encourage your child to spend less time online, ensure you do the same; this will prove to them that the time you spend offline can be just as exciting as they feel online," Laura said.
You can also suggest coping strategies if your child develops withdrawal symptoms.
These could include exercise or something to stimulate their brain - which will keep their mind off gaming.
While Laura doesn't advise "complete surveillance" of your child's device, she does suggest thinking about using the parental controls.
"By monitoring a child’s gaming, you can allow them to have online time, but only for certain periods," she explained.
"Just remember to be open with the child and let them know they still have a right to privacy, but it will benefit them in the long run."
Lastly, Laura suggested looking at gaming more positively.
"It may seem counterintuitive, but showing an interest in gaming could lead to more positive conversations towards making healthier choices and make them sympathetic towards your wishes," she concluded.
