Video Games

They come home from school, kick off their tennis shoes, throw their backpack on the kitchen table and run up the stairs as fast as they can to plug into the X-Box. Habits like this may seem harmless, but day after day, kids who spend their afternoons glued to the TV are slowly letting their childhood slip by. Aren’t some of the fondest childhood memories made while playing in the front yard with the neighborhood kids? It is crucial that children are able to have time to develop social connections, and when the video games get in the way, it could place a damper on social skills. If their only interaction is with a controller and TV screen, they will become withdrawn from the world. Sadly, patterns like this make it seem as though video games have become a major part of the daily lives of children today.

So, are videogames actually addicting?

The answer is yes. According to an addiction counselor, when a video game is being played it causes the brain to release endorphins that produce a high similar to that experienced by a drug addict. Addiction is quickly associated with substances, but addiction can also be found within certain behaviors. Kids that suffer from Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder are found to be at a higher risk for forming an addiction to the games.

A few of the warning signs of an addiction are:

·      Using the video games as an escape from reality

·      Using the video games to change their mood

·      Lying about the amount of time spent gaming

·      Felling symptoms of withdrawal when not playing the games

·      Spending an increased amount of time playing

·      Grades and homework are no longer a priority

The video gaming industry has kids hooked. They can control every aspect of their own virtual world. I guess when Mom said that, “video games will turn your brain to mush,” she wasn’t kidding. Of course, these games are ok in moderation, but when gaming becomes priority, the children are missing out on crucial developmental opportunities.

~Sara Luckham

Social Media Specialist

Seaside Staffing Company

Sources:

http://www.webmd.com/mental-health/addiction/features/video-game-addiction-no-fun

http://www.psychguides.com/guides/video-game-addiction-treatment-program-options/

http://www.video-game-addiction.org/video-game-addiction-treatment.html

Child Development and Pets

Benefits of Having a Pet!

Those of us that have had the incredible pleasure and responsibility of owing a dog, know how much children gravitate towards them when they see them around. If you are thinking about getting a pup for your little boy or girl know that the pros outweigh the cons. According to the she knows website they said that “Walking a dog or running in the yard and throwing a ball are great ways to exercise the dog as well as for children to get away from sedentary indoor activities and move around.” They also mentioned that “Children are more prone to approach and interact with another child who is playing with a pet. In this way, a pet can be the bridge between a less socially outgoing child and other potential playmates.” Children also receive great cognitive benefits by encouraging them to read about their favorite animals (she knows). Although children receive an immense amount of benefits, we all know that at the end of the day the overall responsibility falls on the parents and it should be a decision made by both. But don’t forget that at the end of the day they are going to be a new member of the family and a lovely companion for your little one. 

For more information visit their awesome website at:

 http://www.sheknows.com/pets-and-animals/articles/2212/kids-and-pets