It’s a common stance that parents should limit the number of hours per day, or per week, that their children are allowed to stay sedentary and “zoned out” playing electronic games.
However, after reading this very fascinating blog post written by a teenager himself, I must admit I’m reconsidering the whole issue (the response from the boy’s mother is also a good one):
http://zajosa.blogspot.com/2008/04/problem-when-parents-think-childs.html
This second take on it, also brings in another angle I had also not previously considered: Why is it okay (and even encouraged) for children to lose themselves for hours in the fantasy world of a book, but not a video game? Of course, she addresses other important aspects too:
http://hablog.beverleypaine.com/2005/11/different-perspective-on-addicted-to.html
Fortunately, we don’t have a problem with this (yet!)- whether it’s because my kids aren’t teenagers, or because they’re very active, I guess time will tell! – but still, it’s good to be aware of the different viewpoints if the problem ever does arise.
I do think it’s also important to consider the radiation load of computer and especially High Definition TV viewing (HDTV is in the Super High Frequency Range according to NASA’s website – higher even than a cell phone) though.
So make sure kids are at least 2 feet away from any computer and as far away from the TV as you can get them. Also, don’t use wireless components, like a wireless mouse, keyboard or WII device. Again, these carry a similar electromagnetic radiation load to a cell phone.
And if you want to know what’s wrong with cell phones and cordless phones, and why children should never use them, see my other post:
http://blog.listentoyourgut.com/children-should-never-use-cell-phones/
I find with my kids it also helps to tune them into what their bodies are feeling. Asking things like, “How does your head feel?” or “How are your eyes?” after a gaming session. And then sharing common experiences like ‘fuzzy head’, reduced long-range vision, etc. can help tune them in to looking out for the welfare of their physical body as well – not just their mind and emotional needs.
Jini
Jini Patel Thompson is an internationally recognized expert on natural healing for digestive diseases. She healed herself from widespread Crohn’s Disease and has remained drug and surgery-free for over 25 years. Jini has appeared on numerous podcast, TV, and radio shows throughout the U.S., U.K., Canada, and Australia, giving people hope and vision for how they can heal their Colitis, Crohn’s, Diverticulitis and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), using entirely natural methods. Her books on natural healing for digestive diseases have sold worldwide in over 80 countries.
