“One of the biggest issues today is our disconnect from nature—a trend that alarmingly extends even to younger generations.” Robin Nguyen
Part Seventeen: How to Help Our Child Overcome Gaming
Video gaming has become a common part of life for young people in today’s society.
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- In the United States, 85% of teens (ages 13–17) play video games, and 41% play daily.
- In the United Kingdom, around 91% of children aged 3–15 play video games, with daily gaming especially common among boys aged 12–15.
- Many children start gaming early — over 70% of elementary school students play regularly.
- In Brazil, more than 80% of children and teens play video games, often on mobile devices.
While gaming can be a source of entertainment and social connection, excessive play can harm children’s health, reduce their ability to concentrate on studies, and, in some cases, contribute to developmental or behavioral challenges.
I have seen this impact firsthand. Two of my relatives have faced serious consequences:
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- One relative’s son dropped out during his first year of university.
- Another’s son, who shows signs of mild autism, has struggled to find stable work.
Both young men are now unemployed, and gaming played a significant role in their difficulties.
Today’s video games have become even more dangerous with the integration of AI. These games can thoroughly analyze players’ behaviors and preferences, then use that knowledge to deliver highly addictive experiences. As a result, many young people are now struggling with gaming addiction.
We are living in an age where self-interest often dominates, and the pursuit of money can overshadow concern for others. Sadly, one of the greatest casualties of this mindset is our children.
That is why parents must devote more time to their kids—building closer relationships, guiding their habits, and engaging in meaningful conversations. We should also encourage them to spend time in nature and stay active through activities such as trekking, mountain climbing, or other outdoor exercises that nurture both body and mind.
Remember, the environment is often more powerful than willpower—and today’s virtual environment can be toxic. It is the responsibility of parents to guide their children away from these harmful influences. Our role is to nurture and educate them so they can grow into responsible, capable, and compassionate citizens of the future.