This is such an important lesson for children and young people. These can help them learn how to be respectful of others and the importance of being a ‘good loser’. This might either encourage teamwork (such as Minecraft) or they may be more competitive, where the aim is to be the last one standing (Unreal Tournament). They’ll appreciate you giving them the time to really enjoy their gaming and it helps them maintain a healthy balance. They’ll appreciate being able to really focus on a particular challenge unrestricted but then take that extra time back the following week, by taking an evening off in the week in return.

You can do this while keeping a structure that works for you and them. Consider giving them longer at the weekend This will differ from child to child – if they’re maintaining a reasonable balance, with school work, for example, and it isn’t impacting their sleep, then things are OK. Give them a clock to help them keep track of the amount of time they are spending. You can’t stand over their shoulder all the time, but you can monitor the amount of time they spend online. How to manage expectations (yours and theirs) Set time limits So, help them to enjoy it but also help them to know how to stop.

It can be a part of a healthy, balanced lifestyle, although no activity is good if that’s all you do.

It helps them become digitally literate – they learn how to use, share and create technology.

It helps them learn how to be a good loser(!).

It also helps build the ability to work as a team.

Play is a vital part of our development (even as adults) and can help with hand-eye coordination.

It keeps them socially connected, giving them access to their friends here and others across the world.

Play red flags game online