Children with ASD/ADHD and Video Gaming
Written by Michele Kamerman, M.A., LPC, RPT
It’s the year 2021… we all have screens everywhere. We have our phones, iPad, TV, and computers. Many adults struggle with separating from their devices. So, imagine how difficult it would be as a child to have to turn off that type of powerful stimulation.
I have these conversations with parents all the time… how do I limit my child’s screen time? Why does it seem my child is addicted to video games? Why does my child become so angry when it’s time to get off the electronics? What is the right amount of screen time? These are all wonderful questions, and there is no one right answer to these questions. But, I want to take the time to address them in this blog.
A Study on Children with ADHD and ASD and Technology:
According to a study done by the University of Missouri in Columbia, it was found that children with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD) experience more “problematic video game use” than typically developing children. They found that on average, typically developing children played for 1.2 hours per day. But, children with ADHD played about 1.7 hours per day, and children with ASD played for about 2.1 hours per day. Why is it that children with ASD or ADHD spend more time on video games?
It was found there is a correlation between gaming and inattention. Since children with ASD and ADHD struggle with attention throughout the day with daily tasks, they enjoy doing something they do not have to work so hard to focusing on. The bright lights of electronics provide strong stimulation, the games provide instant gratification, and the games also provide a social network. In the real world, they often struggle with these things. For example, it can take a lot of work to earn gratification, and the child may struggle socially. So, you can see why it’s no wonder children see video games as a way to escape and decompress, but also have fun.
The Challenge With Limiting Your Child’s Technology Use:
Since there are so much stimulation and gratification from video games, it can be such a struggle to limit electronics. During the research study, it was found that many children had their video games in their room. When children have such easy access to video games, it can be difficult to limit the amount of screen time. So, my first suggestion is to keep the video games stay in a common area, you are able to better monitor your child’s use.
Children are not able to regulate on their own, especially during such a pleasurable activity. This is when parents need to set boundaries. You need to come to an agreement about how much screen time to give to the child and be consistent with the amount of time given. 30 minutes after school? Once homework and chores are done? There is not a magic number for what is the right amount of time. This can look different for many children. If your child seems to feel frustrated while gaming then maybe he needs less time on the games. If your child had completed everything that needs to get done, then maybe he is rewarded with gaming. Sometimes, it can be helpful to set a visual timer. This helps your child be child aware of how much time is left.
Set Boundaries Regarding Your Child’s Technology Usage
Whatever rules are set around video games, be sure to have a conversation with your child before enforcing the rules. Children that have ASD and ADHD thrive on structure and predictability. If the child struggles with transitioning from the game, remind the child of the rules again, and a consequence could be deducting time from the next day. Video games can also be useful as a reinforcement tool for positive behavior.
Come Up With Alternatives to Technology Use
It may be helpful to come up with a list of ideas for the child to follow for when he/she is not gaming. Participating in an activity or team sport is a great way to release energy, build on social skills, and promote confidence.
Here are some more helpful tips to help your child spend less time on screens:
Set an example. Make sure to put phones away at dinner and other times the family is together.
Create a family game night. Board games, interactive games such as Throw, Throw the Burrito.
If you use screens, try for something the family does together like a family movie night.
Spend time outside riding bikes, sidewalk chalk, or just going on nature hikes.
Have a theme of the week- work on an instrument one night, audiobook the next, Legos, crafts, etc. Children thrive on routines and expectations.
Consider Play Therapy
If you are finding that your young child is struggling with screen time addiction, play therapy may be recommended. Traditional talk therapy might be a great fit for tweens and teens as they learn to navigate this technology-filled fast-paced world in a way that protects their mental, physical, emotional, and developmental health.
Begin Child Counseling and Play Therapy in Houston, TX:
If you’re looking for support to help your child with ASD or ADHD be successful, then play therapy may be a great fit. Follow these steps to begin counseling in Houston, TX:
Contact our counseling clinic to set up a free phone consultation,
Meet with one of our child therapists,
Begin ADHD counseling and give your child the tools they need to thrive!
About the Author:
Michele offers a variety of mental health services for kids, teens, and adults at our Houston Heights Therapy Clinic. Her mental health services include child counseling, play therapy, depression treatment, and anxiety treatment. She also offers online therapy in Texas to meet your mental health needs when you can’t make it to our therapy clinic. To learn more, please contact our counseling office.