Hello mom22boys:

Thank you for your post - a very poignant question for this holiday season of XBoxes and Wiis, I think. I just wanted to pass along a few articles that might help...

Is Your ADHD Child Addicted to Video Games?

The Best Toys And Games for Kids

Behavior Therapy for ADHD Children: More Carrot, Less Stick

I hope this helps!

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I also only allow my son to play on the weekends...he is an addict, I'm sure of it. I have been thinking/praying heavily about getting rid of it all together. I read in a book the school counselor lent me about how easy it is for ADHD children to form addictions with video games. You have always heard how kids get "into it" and it's like reality sometimes...for ADHD kids it's even worse. They get that "sense of accomplishment" out of it & it makes up for the trouble & letdowns they have in all the other areas of their life...which makes total sense to me. It breaks my heart to hear that...and I hate to take away something he loves...but in the long run I am thinking it might be the best thing for him. Just trust your heart...you only know what's best for your child...

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My son is 8 and thru my own investigation I noticed when allowed to play on the computer or any game on the WII or his DS it must not contain what is called Fantasy Violence. For my son, I noticed he can become aggitated and his ODD will kick in. Especially with the DS I honestly think the electronic waves that come thru some of these games disrupts their brain waves. Think about it, these are hypnotic devices like a tv can be and when disrupted can produce confussion from what they were concentrating on. Either way, I make sure when he is allowed. Please note the word "allowed". In my home electronics are not a priveledge but an earned fun thing to do. That includes TV. These are my leverage tools and they work well. And yes time on these devices should absolutely be not just monitored but limited by you the parent including your ex. I'm sorry that you and he are not parenting alike. That most definitely sends a mixed message to your child and will continue to confuse and make matters worse. My husband and I do always see eye to eye on how to deal with our son and I am willing to go to bat over it if need be, but in the end he concedes to my knowledge and we work together as it's very important that everyone be on the same page when it comes to consequences and rewards. Hope this helps and remember you're doing the best you can and this is a great place to keep getting support.

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