Video Game Decision Tree

FREE DOWNLOAD

Premium | This one-page download is a tool for parents to use as a guide for placing boundaries (and avoiding meltdowns) related to video games.

Tips for using this tool:

The magic number of minutes is going to vary from family to family, and it can also be affected by the size of the screen, the intensity of the game, the socialization of the game, the age of your child, and any special needs your child might have. (We’ve penciled in some examples in case it is helpful.)
The best way to determine a healthy amount of minutes for your child is to notice their behavior at the finish line — and adjust accordingly next time they play.
Hint: Print the full download out to help them understand this concept, and hang it near the gaming station as a reminder of what you are striving for!

How much gaming is too much?

One of the #1 questions we get asked is how to manage video games…and the hangovers that come with them. In Episode 3 of #thescreensanitypodcast, we asked neurotherapist Susan Dunaway for help. Her answer? BEHAVIOR CHANGE. If your child is able to transition off his game calmly, you found an appropriate time limit. But, anytime he responds with a behavior change — irritability, decreased concentration, arguments, meltdowns — that's a sign his brain is overloaded, and you need to reduce the time limit.

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What They're Saying

Screen Sanity’s program was a wonderful way to get information about kids and technology in a supportive environment.
Whitney, Missouri

Any amount of time spent in this material will, with certainty, make a difference if you are processing how to be intentional with your kids in the world of technology.
Emily T.

We had been struggling with ending gaming and lots of fights. I was able to print [the Video Game Decision Tree] off and go over it with my kids as our “new protocol”. This took all the emotion out of it.
Parent

As we came into the new year and saw our daughters, son in laws and granddaughters consumed by their phone screens we knew we had to start making changes and we found this group to be a great place to find ideas!
Michelle W., Tennessee

A really good, practical way to think strategically about this topic. I wish I had this resource a year ago – would have saved some heartburn!
Scott A., Maryland

This was one of the best webinars I have seen. Simple, understandable, reachable, realistic. Really, really wonderful.
Parent

As a dad of four kids, screens are an increasingly big topic in our home. I’m so grateful a friend invited us to join a Screen Sanity group. The material was deeply relevant and applicable for our family’s values.
Jesse M.

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