by Amanda Coers

Created on: March 05, 2010

We are “techies.” Our family loves games on the computer and Wii. Our daughters have Nintendo DS systems and our son loves his handheld PSP. Recently I noticed a disturbing trend in our household. The more video games we played, the more we slacked off on our chores, our tempers were shorter with each other and basic courtesy and respect were on a serious decline.

I started a solid rule in our home: No more than one hour a day for computer and video games.

It was a good start in the right direction. Unfortunately, it is very easy to lose track of time when you’re playing your favorite video game. I’m so thankful the Lord blessed me with a great idea for a better way to handle our video game situation!

Introducing our “Pay to Play” method!

I grabbed a few of our old poker chips and designated colors: Blue for Rowena, Red for Daniel and White for Vivian. Each child is given four chips at the start of each day. Each chip is worth 15 minutes of game time. This counts for games on the computer, Wii or their handheld systems. I then placed a large glass jar next to a timer placed near the video games in our living room.

In order to play, the child must first place a chip in the jar and then set the appropriate amount of minutes on the timer.

One firm rule is set: No game time until chores and school work are completely done.

The chips also come with some rules of their own. If the kids are spending their chips and we find a chore or a school assignment isn’t finished, they lose a chip (or two). But there is a perk as well, if we see them doing something above and beyond their chores – like unloading the dishwasher without being asked – and they don’t try to bribe chips out of us, then we will reward them with a chip (or two).

Miss Rowena was outside, raking the yard the other day. We didn’t ask her to do it, she just started doing it. You can be sure we gave her two chips for that!

Since we’ve implemented this new “Pay to Play” system in our house, attitudes are improving and our days are a lot more productive.

It is important for children to have limits on television and video game time. Studies have shown time and again that too much time spent in front of the television results in a number of health problems. Adults and children who regularly play video games often have higher risks of depression. A sedentary lifestyle leads to weight gain and overall poor health.

Video games are fun. They can be educational and mentally stimulating. But when used in excess, the risks and problems far outweigh any positive aspects.

To encourage your children to spend less time in front of the television, consider creating a “pay to play” system of your own.

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