Parenting expert Dr Anna Martin reveals how to get your kids off Fortnite

Publish Date
Wednesday, 15 August 2018, 1:00PM

The highly addictive video game Fortnite has become almost inescapable.

For many parents trying to figure out how to get your child to limit their time playing it – without the tantrums – can seem impossible.

Parenting expert Dr Anna Martin helped tackle this problem for a Stace and Flynny caller. 

"How can I get my son to stop playing PlayStation so much and not feel guilty as a mum," Shari asked, concerned about her 11-year-old son.

"It’s a tricky one for all parents," Dr Anna responded.

"It’s really important to acknowledge their position first. Acknowledge that fact that he really enjoys his time on PlayStation, it’s a form of connectivity with his friends and it’s something he can share in.

"It’s a big fear of missing out really."

"It comes down to communication and obviously parents need their children to have breaks for brain development," she continued.

"So it’s really important to actually engage with him prior to having another session on the PlayStation and say 'listen, I’m very aware that you’re spending a lot of time … and these are my concerns …' and it’s all about their wellbeing as opposed to you just being the parent saying 'get off the PlayStation'".

Dr Anna then suggested getting his perspective, agreeing on a time limit and having him set the consequences if the rules are broken is key.

"That way his voice is heard, you’re working as a team and it’s all transparent and out there in the open."

Good luck to all parents battling with their kid's Fortnite addiction.

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