As a parent, it can be tough to connect with your kids about their interests, especially when it comes to something you may not be particularly familiar with, like video games. However, videogames can be a great way to bond and spend time with your kids, and there are a few simple ways you can connect with them about this hobby.

Ask for their recommendations

One way to connect with your kids about video games is to simply ask them for recommendations. Kids are often passionate about the games they play, and they may have some great suggestions for what you should try. Ask them which games they enjoy and why, and consider giving some of their recommendations a try. This can be a great opportunity to bond over something you both enjoy, and it’s a good way to get a feel for the types of games your kids like to play.

Play video games together

One of the best ways to connect with a kid about video games is to play games together. This can be a great opportunity to spend quality time together and have some fun. Even if you’re not particularly skilled at the game, just playing together can be a bonding experience. You might be surprised at how much fun you can have playing a videogame with your kids, even if you’re not particularly good at it.

Talk about the video games you enjoy

Share with kids about the games you enjoyed when you were their age or the games you still enjoy playing today. This can be a great way to spark a conversation and connect over a shared love of video games.

Show an interest in their gaming experiences

Ask kids about their favorite games, what they like about them, and what they’re currently playing. Ask them about the funniest thing that’s happened in a video game. Many games are multiplayer, so kids can play with their friends. They may have some fun and wild stories to share with you. Showing an interest in their gaming experiences can help to build a stronger connection and encourage them to open up about their hobbies.

Don’t be afraid to ask your kids to teach you a thing or two about video games. If you’re not particularly familiar with this hobby, your kids may be more than happy to show you the ropes. Not only will this help you to better understand what your kids are doing when they play video games, but it can also be a great way to bond and learn something new together.

Set boundaries

While it’s important to connect with kids about video games, it’s also important to set appropriate boundaries. Establish rules for how much time can be spent playing games and ensure that other responsibilities, such as homework and chores, are taken care of first. You might consider setting limits on the amount of time your kids can spend playing video games, or establishing rules about when and where they can play.

Wondering where you should start with boundaries? Check out our 3 Tips!

Part of setting healthy boundaries includes discussing ways to be safe while gaming. It’s vital that kids understand why the rules exist. Check out our list of 8 easy steps to practice video game safety this year!

By following these tips, you can connect with a kid about video games in a positive and meaningful way. Whether you’re playing games together or simply talking about the games you both enjoy, videogames can be a great way to bond and spend time together. So don’t be afraid to give it a try!