To Eric, We enjoy entertaining the whole family on vacations and our great-nieces and nephews during school breaks because we reside on a lake. Neither my spouse nor I have children. We love the families of our nieces.
For the past year or so, our 11-year-old great-nephew has been playing video games. When he comes to visit, he prefers to disappear with his video games rather than reading, playing cards, or playing board games with us as he used to.
We have a sense of liberation. How do we deal with his parents, who believe that his participation in the school’s video game squad is fantastic, even though I believe it to be a bad omen? What is a reasonable location for balance and compromise?
Start the Game
Stories by
R. Eric Thomas
-
Asking Eric: Was it rude of our friend to cancel dinner plans in favor of hosting visiting relative?
-
Asking Eric: Husband threatens suicide if his divorce conditions are not met
-
Asking Eric: My brothers forget their niece s birthday, but remember to send gift lists for their kids
Let his parents raise their child, dear Game Off. I rewatched the 1977 film Network the other night (stick with me; it’s related). The actress, who is played by a youthful Faye Dunaway, is dismissed by a character in his 60s who calls her a member of the television generation. She took life lessons from Bugs Bunny. She is solely aware of reality as it appears on her television.
Every generation is concerned about how technology is affecting social relations and influencing the thoughts of future generations. Although some of those worries are legitimate, many from Faye Dunaway’s generation, who are currently in their 70s and 80s, contend that they have remained quite well-rounded in spite of (and frequently with the help of) television.
Video games have been demonstrated to enhance children’s working memory and cognitive function when played in moderation. Even though you may not agree with your great-nephew’s gaming, you should not try to discredit the thought and effort his parents have put into it.
Discussing group activities with your niece and her hubby will help you meet your great-nephew where he is. This is what you’re really missing—a sense of family unity. Additionally, don’t hesitate to ask a controller to help you get started.
For inquiries, contact R. Eric Thomas at [email protected] or by mail at P.O. Box 22474, Philadelphia, PA 19110. Subscribe to his weekly newsletter at rericthomas.com and follow him on Instagram.
Note: Every piece of content is rigorously reviewed by our team of experienced writers and editors to ensure its accuracy. Our writers use credible sources and adhere to strict fact-checking protocols to verify all claims and data before publication. If an error is identified, we promptly correct it and strive for transparency in all updates, feel free to reach out to us via email. We appreciate your trust and support!
