And while he purchased many of his games and accessories with birthday money and allowances, I have to admit that part of the reason I wanted him to have them is because video games keep him busy, he's having fun, and I can get a welcome break.
But here's the tricky part. Not every game your kid wants to play is suitable. Believe it or not, the average video game player is between 30 and 35-years-old. So, some games just aren't intended for youngsters.
And while I make sure to check the rating on a certain game he wants to buy, inevitably I will hear something like, "But all of my friends are playing it! It's just a game!" Experts say it's natural for kids to want what older kids have, especially if they have older siblings in the house.
Patricia Vance, is an interactive media expert who helps to assign age and content ratings for video and computer games. She's also a mother of two and recently she writes, "It's a parents responsibility to say no when a game isn't appropriate for your child. We don't take youngsters to see movies that aren't suitable... video games should be treated the same way."
Certainly many kids will argue that the "cool" games are the ones you don't permit, but if a parent does a little research, they'll find that's just not true. Studies have shown that mature-rated games (17-years or older) made up less than 10 percent of 1600 ratings issued last year and the year before. The "E for Everyone" is not only the largest rating category out; it's also its fastest growing one.
So talk to your children about the games they play - or want to play. On occasions I've even tried playing with my son and he really enjoys beating me. But in the end, it can provide some quality time with your child... even if we don't know what we're doing when we sit down and play!
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