For many parents, finding a balance between screen time and other activities in the life of a child with ADHD can be a constant challenge.
Video games, with their fast-paced stimuli and immediate rewards, are especially appealing to these children. However, excessive use of any electronic game can exacerbate ADHD symptoms, such as impulsivity and difficulty concentrating.
In this article, we’ll explore 5 practical strategies to help establish healthy limits, ensuring that video games are a balanced part of the routine. ⚖️🎮
Children with ADHD are often drawn to video games due to their stimulating structure. Therefore, establishing specific times for playing is essential.
⏰ It's recommended that children under the age of 2 avoid screen use entirely, and for older children, screen time should be limited to 1-2 hours per day, according to World Health Organization guidelines.
Imagine setting aside a specific time each day, after school and homework, for playing. This helps the child see gaming as a clear reward for completing responsibilities.
In other words, setting a schedule for gaming after finishing duties not only regulates screen time but reinforces the importance of prioritizing other tasks (and a sense of responsibility).
📌 Excessive gaming can also make it harder to transition from holidays back to school — see our article on stress-free back-to-school tips for more.
Not all games in the gaming world are created equal, and choosing those that promote useful skills can make a difference.
For children with ADHD, it’s beneficial to select games that require more than quick reflexes—like those involving strategy, problem-solving, or even creative activities.
Examples of video games for children with ADHD:
⚠️ Important Note: When choosing any of these games, it’s crucial to check the recommended age rating. Ensure the games are appropriate for the child’s age to provide a safe and suitable gaming experience.
An interesting note is that in the United States, the FDA has approved a digital game as therapy for children with ADHD (EndeavorRx). Although something similar is not yet available in Portugal, it demonstrates how video games can be used therapeutically, showing that when well-chosen and used in balance, games can have benefits.
Remember: Each child is unique, so it’s essential for parents to choose and monitor games personally and even consult professionals for suitable recommendations.
Children with ADHD often have a lot of pent-up energy that can be channeled into physical activities, for example.
Encouraging involvement in sports, arts, or other manual activities can be an effective way to release this pent-up energy and balance screen time. 🏃✏️🎨
Additionally, participating in activities that require attention and focus, such as playing a musical instrument or reading, can complement gaming time positively.
Involving the child in creating screen time rules can increase their adherence to these guidelines.
Openly discuss why setting limits is necessary and allow the child to participate in defining those limits; this can help them feel more responsible and understand the importance of balance.
Asking the child how much time they think is fair for playing and then negotiating to reach a consensus can be an effective approach. 💬
This promotes self-regulation and reinforces the importance of balancing fun with other responsibilities.
Observing how the child responds to gaming time is essential.
If you notice the child becoming more agitated, irritable, or having difficulty transitioning to other activities after playing, it may be a sign that limits need adjustment. 👀
Constant monitoring allows parents to quickly see when balance is being lost.
For example, if a child shows resistance to stopping gaming or signs of dependence, it may be necessary to review the allowed time or introduce more frequent breaks during gaming sessions.
👉 According to a study published in Frontiers in Pediatrics (2021), children with ADHD tend to spend more time playing video games and develop more addictive behaviors compared to other children.
The study showed that the more severe the ADHD symptoms, the greater the likelihood of children spending long hours gaming, which can exacerbate issues like impulsivity.
👉 On the other hand, a study published in JAMA Network Open (2022) found that playing video games can have a positive effect on children’s cognitive functions, including improvements in working memory, attention, and reaction time.
However, the study’s authors emphasize the importance of managing gaming time in a balanced way to avoid potential negative impacts, especially in children with ADHD, so as not to worsen symptoms like difficulty maintaining attention.
While video games can offer cognitive benefits, such as improvements in intelligence and problem-solving, it’s crucial that their use is carefully monitored.
Children with ADHD are more susceptible to developing addictive behaviors and spending excessive time gaming, which can worsen symptoms like impulsivity and difficulty concentrating.
If you need support managing your child’s screen time or setting up healthier routines, the NeuroImprove Clinic is here to help. 🧠🌟
Book an appointment with our specialists and discover how we can support your child’s healthy development!
COUNCIL ON COMMUNICATIONS AND MEDIA. Media Use in School-Aged Children and Adolescents. Pediatrics. 2016;138(5):e20162592. doi: 10.1542/peds.2016-2592
Masi L, Abadie P, Herba C, Emond M, Gingras M-P, Ben Amor L. Video Games in ADHD and Non-ADHD Children: Modalities of Use and Association With ADHD Symptoms. Front Pediatr. 2021;9:632272. doi: 10.3389/fped.2021.632272
OMS Diretrizes da atividade física, comportamento sedentário e sono para crianças com menos de 5 anos de idade [WHO guidelines on physical activity, sedentary behaviour and sleep for children under 5 years of age]. ISBN 978650020876-4
Rodrigo-Yanguas M, González-Tardón C, Bella-Fernández M, Blasco-Fontecilla H. Serious Video Games: Angels or Demons in Patients With Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder? A Quasi-Systematic Review. Front Psychiatry. 2022 Apr 27;13:798480. doi: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.798480.
