Many years ago, our kids earned enough money to purchase a Wii, back when that was the hottest new gaming system. They played it every second they could. When their friends came over, they only interacted in front of screens.
They fought.
They ignored us when we asked them to do things.
They were showing signs of addiction.
Greg and I got rid of the Wii, and we will never purchase a new gaming system. It was one of the best decisions we have ever made.
Without video games, the kids played outside more often. They became voracious readers. Their imaginations came to life.
I know that we are in a tiny minority of anti-video-gamers. In this episode, we dive into all the reasons we made such a controversial move, as well as the research that supports our decision.
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RESOURCES WE MENTION:
- Boys Adrift: The Five Factors Driving the Growing Epidemic of Unmotivated Boys and Underachieving Young Men, by Dr. Leonard Sax
QUOTES:
If your son is one of the millions of boys or young men who have allowed video games to displace real life, you must intervene. Remove the distraction, if necessary. Limit screen time. If you don’t who will?
Dr. Leonard Sax: Boys Adrift
CHALLENGE OF THE WEEK:
Take an honest look at the video game habits in your home. Are they supporting or detracting from the development of real-life skills? Have the courage to make necessary adjustments.
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