Let's be honest, what parent doesn't relish a little quiet time every now and then? But in a world where technology is everywhere, how much is too much?

And specifically, do video games decrease or amplify challenges for children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)?

The Effects of Video Games on Children with ADHD

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that can cause impairment in scholastic achievement, social interactions, and emotional health. A lack of friends and confidence can leave many ADHD children seeking other forms of "play."

Video games become a go-to for many of these children as games provide instant gratification and a community of like-minded gamers.

Parents are often stumped that a child who fails to remember the most basic of chores, rules, or directions can in turn hyperfocus on video games for hours at a time. Is this harmful or healthy for their developing minds?

Positives Effects of Video Games 

• Oddly enough, some video games can reduce symptoms of anxiety by focusing the mind.
• The skill development of games such as Minecraft or Roblox can improve a child's confidence. 
• Some video games are designed to improve a child's neuroplasticity.
• Video games can be a behavioral modification tool for parents seeking to motivate their ADHD child.

Negative Effects of Video Games

• The instant gratification of video games can make "real life" tasks and trials harder to accomplish. 
• The high control of a child's attention while playing video games can lead to a decrease in their ability to concentrate in the "real world."
• Video games are highly addicting for children with ADHD, due to dopamine’s role in the disorder.
• Video games can exacerbate ADHD symptoms like a lack of falling and staying asleep, making friends outside of online communities and a need for continued instant gratification. 
• Video games provide a fantasy world for ADHD children to escape real life, but this can lead to multiple lifelong challenges with friends, family and school.

So what's the verdict? 

Do the cons outweigh the pros? Not necessarily. 

6 Tips to Successfully Manage Video Games

Kids love playing video games; there is no arguing that fact. The challenge for parents centers on helping a child maintain balance between online and physical activities. 

1. Determine, and communicate, rules and consequences relating to video games. 
2. Gaming should take place in the family room, kitchen, or dining room, not in the child’s bedroom. 
3. Offer video games as a reward after homework and chores are completed.
4. When an older child plays online with other players, parents should monitor the interactions and language carefully.
5. Set a timer when game time begins, and give a five-minute warning before time expires.
6. Consider the rating of a video game to select games that are age-appropriate.

Searching for more help?

Through the lens of a whole-child approach, Ivy Wild Kids helps families embrace and organize the wild of ADHD! We provide fun and engaging resources so children can realize their full potential, and families can live happier and healthier lives!