Video games have grown in popularity since I was a child. I remember when my sister and I were given a Nintendo. The original Nintendo. Yeah, we rocked it old school like that. We thought we were the luckiest kids in the world. We played it for hours.
The changes in the games and the consoles are amazing. There are all kinds of games out there now. You can find games that let you take care of a baby, perform surgery on a pet, and there are also many educational games available.
My daughter loves her Nintendo DS. She has quite a few games and plays them daily. Of course as a parent I don’t want her to spend all of her free time playing video games. But by providing her with some educational ones I don’t feel as bad when she does seem to play forever.
We were given 4 Nintendo DS games from Maximum Family Games to try out. We received Junior Brain Trainer 2, Junior Brain Trainer Math Edition, Junior Classic Games, and Junior Mystery Quest. The age range for these games are 4 yrs to 11 yrs old. So when you purchase one of these it’s going to be something that can last, and while entertaining it’s also helping your child learn.
I liked the Junior Mystery Quest. In this game you help a little girl explore a mansion and you find lost items. It was pretty easy and fun. Now Gracie liked them all. However, I think she enjoyed the Junior Classic Games best. You have over 30 games to play – puzzles, arcade, and logic. Hangman and iSpy were two of her favorites. I also noticed that she played the Junior Brain Trainer Math Edition quite a bit. She is in 2nd grade now and the math is becoming a little harder so I think this will help her with that.
Overall, we were very pleased with all the games. Video games have become more common and our kids love them. So why don’t we help them out by providing them with educational games as well as the others. This is a great way to allow then to have their fun and learn at the same time.
Giveaway Time!
One lucky reader will win their very own Junior Nintendo DS Game Pack. To enter the contest, simply leave a comment letting us know–Do you monitor how much time your child plays certain games?
This giveaway is a part of the 5 Minutes for Mom Christmas Giveaway 2011. Please follow the link for more information, as well as for a complete list of all giveaways as they post throughout the month of November. Entries for all giveaways will close Saturday, December 3rd at 7pm CST. Winners will be drawn randomly and we will announce the winners Monday, December 5th. We will email winners at the address accompanying the winning comments.
We were provided with Nintendo DS games for review. The opinions stated above were in no way influenced.
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{ 375 comments… read them below or add one }
Yes definitely! I don’t let them play on their DS or on computer games for more than an hour a day and we usually limit it to days when it’s rainy or too cold to go outside to play.
Yes I do. My son is 4 and gets 30 minutes a day with learning games.
My daughter would love this for Christmas. Our budget is small this year for Christmas, so if we win this would make her so happy to get one awesome gift!! Thank you!!
Yep, I sure do. My boys love to play on their DS and would be engrossed in it all day if I’d let them. They get 30 minutes a day, tops. As they get older, I’ll increase the time. Thanks!
I do monitor how much time my son plays video games. I want to make sure he’s getting enough exercise and not playing video games all day.
Our son is pretty young and needs us to help him play our Wii, so it’s a family event when we play. We do limit our time, but not really with a set time limit.
I do monitor the amount of time my tween/teen sons play video games. During exam weeks, they are not allowed to play on weekdays. Otherwise they have a choice of TV or video games. This makes them feel they have some say, making them a happy camper and me a happy parent.
I actually don’t need to. My son is very good at self regulating – maybe 20 minutes and then he’s done and puts it away on his own. Kind of nice to not fight with him over it!
My little sister can sit for about 30 minutes playing her DS before she gets antsy and stops playing!
The only games my kids play right now are board games and card games, but I know they’d enjoy playing video games now that they are getting older…and I would limit the time they played them
Our kids just recently got DS’s from their grandma for their birthdays, up until that point we were video game free (my kids are 7 &9) … I find that they are pretty good at regulating their own time, usually they will play for abour 30 minutes, move on to something else.
Of course I monitor how much time they play. They do play more than I’d like, but I keep trying!
I don’t always monitor her games right now, because she usually gets tired of playing on the computer/ds before the time limits I set are up. Of course, this may change as she gets older and her attention span gets longer. (I try to limit her electronic games to 1 hour increments, but she usually gets off by herself after 30-45 min)
Fabulous giveaway! I do monitor my kids’ video game time. They’re only allowed to play on the weekends; and it’s only a couple of hours of play time…unless it’s raining and they cannot play outdoors. I allow longer play time then.
They’d love this set! Thanks and Happy Sunday! 
Yes, we monitor all time spent playing video games! I like to make sure my kids spend time with “non electronic” toys in our house!
My son is still young and not too into games so I rarely have to monitor, I’m sure in the coming years I will have to though.
Yes, they get 30 min. a day.
My 4 year old would love a gaming system! And I love that the learning is part of the fun!
Yes! We monitor the kids play time.
I probably should, but my kids do so well with their games. My middle son Carter REALLY wants a DS. Would love to win, thank you!
Steph
My son is lucky if he gets 30 minutes a day with learning games. It’s usually 30 minutes a day on weekends and during the week, he’s limited to 30 minutes (or one show) per day on TV.
Yes I monitor how much my daughter plays her video games. Most times she will quit playing before her time is up and start playing with something different
My girls don’t play too much on the ds so I don’t monitor too much. But I buy them more learning games anyway.
Yes, I do monitor the amount of time my child spends on her games (DSi). I encourage her to play with her other toys.
nancyecdavis AT bellsouth DOT net
Yes we do! Ihave 13, 11, 6 & 4 year old. Depends on day, on average 30 minyes to an hour.
Luckily my older son isn’t much of a “gamer” but I have a feeling a couple of my little ones will have to be monitored for sure!
yes, i monitor
I always keep an eye on the time they are spending on just about everything they do, better to be safe then sorry, I think!
I think my ten year old grandson would love a DS. I see other kids playing with them and they look like they are having a great time. I am sure he will be monitored on amount of play time plus I like the educational ones.
i do not monitor my child but i will. She is 6 and we will try to get her a DS off of layaway in time for christmas! it won’t be a sort of monitoring but a rule. Not until the weekends.
yes I limit the kids time to 30 minutes a day and it has earned me the label “meanest mom on the earth” because ALL their friends can play as long as they want when ever they want. Not sure I believe that…
I definately limit the amount of time my kids use their DS, the computer or TV. Nothing until homework is done, and then no more than an hour in the evening.
Not really. We do take it away as a punishment. And they can’t play until homework is done. And outside time always wins, but otherwise I don’t time their video game time.
Yes I monitor my grandkids when they play computer games. Important to get outside and play too. I didn’t see my comment so if this comes up twice please delete one. Thanks for giveaway.
Yes, we monitor and no games until all homework is done.
Yes, we allow our son 1 hour a day on his electronic games.
Yes we monitor how much time our daughter plays video games. She isn’t allow to play any games during the week unless all homework and chores are completed. On the weekend we limit it to an hour or two a day.
abfantom at yahoo dot com
There are limits on all screen time in our house. They have a set amount of time to play games and watch tv. My son doesn’t really play any games that I need to monitor.
I definitely monitor both the types of games played and the amount of time played.
I monitor it all. My kids are only allowed so much screen time – no matter the form.
Yes, it’s necessary to give them timeouts from electronics.
my soon to be 6 year old would love these games.
I don’t monitor the amount they play games since they have learning games and a DS. They usually only end up with about and extra 30 minutes a night before bed time so it’s up to them how they want to spend it.
my daughter savanah is all about learning:) she is 7 yrs. old and in 2nd grade…i do monitor her time with the computer and her dsi, but i encourage her 2 keep on learning! spelling, vocabulary, math and begining science 2, so if she is playing something educational, she definately gets longer periods of time:) she would ABSOLUTELY <3 these games!!!
I do monitor how much time my kids play video games. Most of the games our 4 year old has are educational.
my children are only allowed a few hours a week on video games/computer games etc
I do monitor tv and video game time, and I think it’s very important although educational games are a bit different. It depends on the game.
When I am babysitting grandchildren, I monitor how long they play ANY electronic games. The games are a great resource IN limited doses. Too long – they can get too cranky, which can make grandma slightly cranky
Definitely wise to monitor and supervise!
I don’t set a hard and fast time limit for how long they can play video games. My 4 yr old does educational games on the computer and given his attention span and that it is beneficial for him I let him do it as long as he is interested.
My son doesn’t play video games excessively, so I don’t really monitor the time he plays them. When he does play, it’s for about 30 – 60 minutes at a time.
Thanks for the giveaway! : )
Yes I do. Otherwise, they would be playing gams 24/7!
Our boys play about 30 mins a day. They would love these educational games!
We keep track of all electronics. No timers, but just watching the day and not letting the kids “entertain” themselves too long. Playing outside, helping with chores, reading etc all help keep things in balance.
Yes, I monitor the games my daughter plays on her DS by only buying certain games. She has 8 or 10 games, max. Thanks for offering this giveaway!
We keep the DS, PSP, and other games put up in a drawer that the kids can not reach in our closet and when they want it they have to ask. It helps to know who is on what and when and for how long.
I try to monitor how much time they are playing. If it is a game that I deem educational, I will let them play a little longer than if it is just a game. Also, I am more forgiving on a rainy day.
During the week I allow the kids to have 30 minutes of video game time after homework is done. They are allowed more time on the weekend, but still limited.
my kids play about 3 hours a week, as we monitor it and run a tight ship with their schooling and homework….Thanks for this splendid giveaway
Yes, we do monitor how much our children play games, especially non educational games. Since it is getting colder out and we are going to be spending less time outside we will need to be monitoring it even more.
Yes! Our daughter is only 2 1/2 so we monitor all the time she spends in front of a screen. This is true for Ipad/computer and TV, although we don’t really monitor certain games since we limit her overall media time to about an hour a day average.
I try to monitor the amount of time my kids play games in genera. They are not allowed to play them at all during the school week.
not really
We pay attention to how much time they spend in front of electronics, but don’t have set time limits. When it seems like they have been in front of something for too long we suggest they move on to something else more physically active.
Yes, we closely monitor all the games and movie and media that our children use. We have rules in place as to how long they get, ratings allowed and what times they are allowed to play. Our oldest will stay up all night playing her DS if we don’t watch her. If she is caught playing it a bedtime, she loses it for a week. We have explained the reasons for the rules and expect them to be responsible and obey them. On day, Ruby, 12, came to me and confessed that she had broken the no DS at bedtime rule and asked me to forgive her, She brought me her game to be impounded. I was so proud of her!
My daughter has a Leapster and she plays with it about 20 minutes a day. I haven’t had to monitor her yet!
My boys are only allowed game time as a reward for good behavior and it is usually only about an hour a day when allowed.
I absolutely monitor how much time my kids play certain games. We have a fun cow-shaped timer, and when that goes off, that’s it. No ifs, ands, or buts.
As long as the homework is completed, rooms are picked up they are allowed to play their video games for about an hour a day and on the weekend about three hours per day.
I don’t let her play for more than 1 hour
My daughter has to “earn” computer/video game minutes by doing math assignments. She loves math now as a result!
I have always monitored the time my son play their video games. They are now all grown up and I still tell them if I think they are playing to much. That’s what a mom does. Now I have grand-daughters and I monitor them. Games now have age categories which make things a little easier, but I still check out the game or ask someone what they think about a game. Time spent playing is alway important. I put a timer on and only let them play for an hour after homework is done.
I don’t monitor most of their game play because I know they are playing kid friendly games. But if they want to play games I’m unsure of – then I monitor their use.
I limit the time unless it is the weekend and they are playing games that keep them active on the Wii.
No!!!!
We keep track of the time the kids watch tv, play games, read, and play outside.
Yes, my daughter can play video games as much as she reads. So if she reads for an hour, she can play for an hour.
Thanks for the chance.
mogrill12@gmail.com
I will tell my son from the get-go how long he can play that certain day depending on what is all going on. Its usually 30 mins. and I keep track of it, give him warnings- 15 mins. left, 5 mins. left.
Yes I would, but they don’t have any sort of electronic games yet! Can’t wait to have one for them soon
well, my son doesnt have any age appropriate games yet, but he does like to play mario kart with daddy. we dont monitor that much because it only happens about once a month. if we win this, we’ll implement some more guidelines!
Although we haven’t had an issue with needing to really monitor the children’s time (they are still more interested in “pretend play” than video games, I know that the time is coming very soon.
We do monitor how much time they play video games.
OMG!…I LOVE WATCHING MY TWO YEAR OLD PLAYS HIS BIG SISTER’S DS .HE ALSO LOVES PLAYING HIS BROTHERS XBOX AS WELL.TO BE ONLY TWO HE DOES A GREAT JOB.
Our son has a limit of 30 min.
Yes, we monitor our son during the game.
We do monitor how much our kids use the ds. It’s usually around 30 minutes a day. We use it as a reward or when they are in the car..
we give her time with electronics for good behavior
My kids love these kinds of games
I do try for the most part I think.
We try to monitor total screen time but no obsessively so.
We definitely try to monitor time. We make sure homework is done, he has played outside for a bit, eaten dinner, and then we allow him to play games.
yes we monitor how much time they spend on games no more than a hour a day during the week an 4 hours on weekends
vlbelk(at)hotmail.com
I have to monitor my son’s time or he’d play all day! I try to keep it to 30 minutes.
I don’t monitor their use exactly- I teach them to monitor their own, and encourage them when they do.
Twitter: longwait4bella
November 15, 2011 at 12:46 pm
Our daughter is almost 4 and she has a leapster. She doesn’t play it for longer than 15 min at a time right now. But yes, I believe it is important to moniter how much children play video games.
We monitor our son’s time or they would play all day.
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My son is just getting into playing games, so I havent had to monitor his time yet since he normally only can pay attention to the game for a short time lol
yes….we sure do! …. Maybe one hour – hr and a half. But that sure most def depends on if her homework is done…and all of her chores are finished and she helps mum out with some house chores
weekends are usually better when there is no school and we stay home and clean house and relaxe. Couch potatoes do not make it far in our house lol The ultimate gift she would ever have gotten right after her brother was born would be a handheld game 
especially one that teaches…those are the best.
Do you monitor how much time your child plays certain games?
We do monitor what games they play but usually not how much time they play for. However, I will not let my kids sit there ALL DAY and play.
We monitor all screen time (though we’re more permissive Saturday mornings so Mom and Dad can sleep in), though we are more lenient with educational games. I’m more likely to let my son play Chess on the DS than Mario Kart, but I also don’t let him play even Chess all day long.
When we have my niece and nephew we monitor how much they can play, we’d rather them play outsie if possible.
I do try to keep my daughter from playing games all day, but the games she plays are educational. So I don’t feel too guilty when she asks to play a little more.
i monitor all computer/wii/ds games. depending on the day and game played there are limits
nannypanpan at gmail.com
I do monitor how long my son plays games and make him aware that playing is a treat not routine
I definitely monitor how long my niece and cousins watch movies, play my iPod, or are on the computer. Of course, if they’re doing something educational, I give them a little extra time to play.
We don’t need to monitor it too much since our kids don’t play that much.
My kids get a total of an hour a day of whatever kid-friendly game they want to play. I also take away 15 minute increments if they misbehave. It works well.
I monitor my daughter’s screen time- tv and video games.
I monitor the games my son plays. No inappropriate games.
Mel4Him777{at}gmail{dot}com
The boy’s time is scheduled after homework and before dinner.
I absolutely monitor the time my son spends in front of the tv or computer. Most days, he doesn’t do either one. I try to get him to do as much outside time as possible, which is getting harder now that snow is making an appearance. I also want him interacting with friends and I don’t allow TV or computer with friends.
I don’t put a specific time limit on the kids, but keep an eye on how long and how much they play games. I don’t care that they do; I just don’t want it to consume them. Thanks.
my girls are very active, they love to play outside, most of the time i only give them about a half hour games time at night after we have done, everything we need to do for the day. great way to unwind before bed
I let my son play for 1 to 2 hours at tops and he plays fun little games like jumpstart 3D it’s a online computer game it’s fun an educational.
sometimes
My kids love to play and learn doing it
I monitor everything my daughter does. She is six and is deaf. We have struggled over the last six years, with multiple appts, surgery and so on. She had cochlear impant surgery last dec and its changed her life. She’s now able to hear noises from video games, birds so many things she couldn’t before.
Our children are allowed 30 minutes of game/computer time/day.
I would have to say no we don’t, but that’s because we don’t own any. The girls’ have wanted a DS for years but they are pretty pricey so we haven’t been able to get them one. If we did get it I’m sure I would set a limit on usage so it could be shared and not consume their days.
Hope I win!
I dont really have to monitor my son’s playing time, he’s pretty good about only spending an hour or so. He does love the learning games too, which is why he gets to play for about an hour at a time. I feel like he’s learning a little something while he’s playing.
Yes, I try to make sure they do a variety of things not just sit and play games a long time
My dd isn’t old enough yet but we will monitor for sure! Keep games like these for rainy days, down time, etc.
My son is 10 and has been wanting a Nintendo DS for Christmas but we haven’t been able to afford one. He would be so happy to be able to have one for Christmas.
My son isn’t quite old enough, but when the time comes I will definitely monitor how much he will play and which games he will play.
a ds would be a very nice gift for my oldest daughter and she is 9. I could never afford her one so i dont want to by pass this giveway. Awesome gift item
My girls have to finish all their homework for the week before they can play, and then they are free to play however long they wish. They never play long enough for me to worry about it though.. If that were to happen, I would probably set limits!
My son’s video game playtime is monitored. A couple of hours with the DS after homework is done. And he has to ask to play the XBOX during the weekend. that too is limited to a couple of hours. I would love this Junior pack for my 5 yr old daughter so she could borrow her brother’s DS once in a while.
Yes we monitor all four of our children’s time they have to get homework done first then their chores before they play my two youngest can stay on their games all day if u let them
Yes. We have to or he would play all day long! He has to finish homework before playing and only gets to play certain days of the week.
Yes! They are allowed 45 minutes per day only…only if homework is done.
mmjohnson555@gmail.com
I have to monitor my 12 yo when it comes to an online game that she likes to play. If I were to win this game package, it will be for my 7 yo, whom I do not have to monitor because her attention span doesn’t allow her to play a game for too long.
on weekdays I monitor more
tbarrettno1 at gmail dot com
Yes, I definitely monitor my daughter’s time spent on the computer and DS. Thankfully it hasn’t been a problem yet, but she’s only 9. The DS is great for long car trips to visit family and she likes to doodle and make flip note movies. ;0)
I allow my preschoolers 30 minutes on the computer a day. We work 15 minutes on games they love and 15 minutes on learning
Unless it is blatantly obvious that they are spending too much time, I am ashamed to admit that I don’t – between working FT, My husband working nights, school, dance, scouts, housework, bills, etc. I tend to let some things slide. I think generally the kids get bored after a while though and will find something else to do. I also like that certain games do have an educational component.
I have to monitor or they would play games, educational or for fun, all afternoon and night. Besides, how else would I get to play, ha ha.
My 3 boys know they have a set time limit that they are allowed to play their video games everyday. We also only allow certain games.
I do not tell them I am monitoring instead when I think they have played long enough I give them another option like reading with them or taking a walk.
vmkids3 at msn dot com
They get an hour max each day with their leapster, my DS or the computer. My girls are only 5 so I think that’s plenty. I don’t tell them I monitor but usually make sure that they start playing about an hour before dinner or something that will naturally end their playing time.
I definitely monitor how much my kids play at all. I’ve never been much a fan of video or computer games. I see how they are fun, but I don’t like the kids spending a ton of time doing that. That said, we do play some, and new games are always a plus! Thanks!
These would be so perfect for my oldest who is finally getting her wish of a ds
Yes, I monitor – and they have to earn the time too!
Yes, because if I don’t, he won’t do anything but play video games all day!
Twitter: makeetis
November 18, 2011 at 3:50 am
I don’t monitor my childrens time on games. Most of the time they are having fun and have their chores and homework done. If that is what they want to do in their time then I let them. At least they play together when doing it.
my nephews would love these games!!!
Yes. Monitoring the time spent is a must, otherwise I think you’d find them playing for hours and hours on end.
we do monitor how much time our children play video games. not specific games, just games in general.
Well I try to monitor the time & what they are doing at all time, but some times it’s hard to do.
Yes! The time they get on electronics depend on their behavior and if their rooms are clean
SInce they love techie stuff they actually seem to keep their rooms surprisingly clean!
I monitor what my kids play and for how long. They don’t get to play as often as most kids, it’s more or less a treat for good behavior, but when they do play, it’s usually educational games.
My daughter hasn’t started playing games yet but I will monitor her time once she starts!
So nice to see games for the littler kids. My 4 year old always wants to play with her big brother’s ds and some games are just too hard for her
I do monitor time. especially on non learning games, sorry, i hit enter before i was odne on my last post. and i cant figure out how to delete it
I definitely monitor how much time the kids are on electronics!!!
I control my son not to play more than 2 hours
My 9 year old son loves games. He trys to play his big sisters DS but says mommy she has to many girly games. I monitor them all the time. There are certain times that they are alotted game time during the day. They get more time during the weekend. I have to due this so they get all of there homework done and house work.
I try to keep my kids’ time on the computer to 30 minutes.
I don’t have any young children at home but I do know my son and daughter in law monitor my 3 year old granddaughter’s time spent on playing her little computer games…they start so early, don’t they!! Thank you so much for the opportunity to enter this giveaway:-) xo
I definitely do. And if he is playing something educational I always am more generous with the time than if I think it is purely for entertainment value.
Definitely monitor! If the games are educational, we are a little more flexible, though.
I do monitor but not to a certain time — my kids rarely spend that much time on the computer or watching tv — they spend a lot of time playing outside or with their toys as well.
30 minutes of game plying is the limit on school nights a little more on weekends if chores are done.
Hi I will really like to win this for my daughter she always ask me for one but I cant afford it I am a singl mother working a part time job can u please help me with this thank you
I do and I don’t monitor her time on games I say this because my 4 year old doesn’t have anything except a V reader as a game system yet that is till Christmas She is getting a DS and the family is getting a Wii so game time will be restricted but she is so active i don’t think it will be too much of a problem.
Definitely monitor his time!
I do not monitor the number of hours playing on electronics, but make sure that they get there homework done, and have fun with the family. lnb1191(at)aol(dot)com
Well I don’t have my own young enough to montor except my niece and nephew and I do limit them to 1 hour while they are here!
I moniter my kids computer time to one half hour a day…
We monitor how much our son plays any games and which games he plays. He usually plays his games on the pc, wii, or ds for about an hour a day.
Yes, we do limit video game time, no more than 30-45 min depending on what game they are playing.
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I do monitor the time my children spend on all games.
I definitely monitor the time they spend playing! growingmykidsreviews at hotmail dot com
Yes.always have since she was little.She is now 12 but a straight A student in advanced classes.the computer and the the computer games have actually.made her faster and brighter on other work..
I do…although the positive thing is that alot of games now keep your children active physcially as well as mentally, so they arent as bad
My kids are only allowed to play video games after they do their assigned chores/homework.
I definitely monitor the time my son spends playing video games. I try to limit it to no more than an hour.
I monitor, yet it seems to be the best incentive to get their homework done and studying!
My kids are pretty good at self-regulating video game time. But I have been known to step in when I see the eyes glaze over lol.
I monitor what my children do on any electronic platform, including TV!
We do monitor how much video game time my son gets. I don’t think it’s good for his brain to play too much!
Yes we monitor. We also have the computer set up to monitor.
We do monitor the kids’ video game time. These would be great~
Times our hard for my family these type of games I would love them to have!
I always monitor my kids time spent on games. And sometimes I even have to monitor my how much time my hubby spends playing games too lol
I love that there are games for younger kids.My grand son would just love these and learn at the same time.
I deffently monitor everything… I don’t believe in video games at all and don’t buy them. I believe in playing outside like I did growing up or educational games to keep ur mind busy. But my son is begging for a game and maybe this would b a good way for me to introduce them to him and he can learn at the same time
I do for my boys…ifn I didn’t, they’d play their lives away…my girls aren’t all that interested in them…heavensent1@yahoo dotcom
I definitely monitor my 4 year old’s time! She has one Dora wii game that she plays with every so often, and I have an itouch that she has games on – she plays it about once a week.
For me it depends on the game. If it’s educational I let them play a little longer than if it’s just a plain character based game they are playing just for fun.
My daughter has a DS, but I havent had any issues with her spending too long playing. She is six, and is so active she rarely sits still long enough to make me worry!
We definitely monitor how much our kids watch/use electronics. Usually they only get time to on the weekends and even then it’s not very much.
Yes, we try to keep it at a minimum! My son who is 9 has to have all his homework and chores complete before he is allowed a little play time!
Thank you so much!
I do monitor the amount of time my kids 6 and 8 spend on the DS but would love for them to have some more educational games to play.
Yes I monitor my childs video game time
Not only do I monitor how much time my children play games, but I try to make time to play the games with them, as quality family time!
My son would love this thanks!!!!
I don’t know, but once my son is a bit older I will.
No not yet.
I do moniter the time spent on the computer to 1 hr per day. I think the brain games are the best, and keep you mind active. Would love to get this as a gift for Christmas
I monitor my son’s time and I monitor what he does on the internet. I’m usually sitting right there so I know everything he’s doing. He’s only 5 but he’s pretty good with a computer so I make sure I know what he’s doing on it.
yes no more than two hours a day on stuff like taht
We don’t set a timer or anything, but make sure chores, homework are done first.
I ABSOLUTELY moniter what games are played and the amount of time on any game!
Yes,I try to monitor how much screen time my son gets..,whether it be on a video game,ipod,tv or laptop!
ksceviour at hotmail dot com
yes yes yes! We absolutely monitor screen time. Actually, they don’t get screen time unless I’m in the room with them. We don’t do it every day, either.
Yes I definitely monitor screen time, usually two shows per day and the amount of time on a game device varies depending on what they are doing! These look like great games, thanks for the giveaway!
kconklin1028@gmail.com
Yes I definitely monitor screen time no more the 2 hours a day
Yes, we keep track of how much time they spend on video games. We like the educational games for the DS system as we homeschool and find traveling in the car even for 10 minutes gets some good speed review in on their spelling and math games. This is a great giveaway for the holidays! Thanks!
We have a rule that they have to do a study game first and then they can do a fun play game…would be great to have them both in one!!
We set the timer and when it goes off the game playing is done!
we only have an i pod and I do try to monitor how long my son is on it
My grandson has to earn his time on his DS, he just started Kindergarten, loves learning & these would be so helpful for him. He usually plays on the weekend & really doesn’t have to be restricted because he just normally doesn’t stay on it very long.
Enjoyed looking at this, very good stuff, regards . “We swallow greedily any lie that flatters us, but we sip little by little at a truth we find bitter.” by Denis Diderot.
If my children had video game systems, I would probably have a time limit of an hour and that would be contengent that they had their homework and chores completed. If all video games were designed for learning who can put a time limit on that , we always should stimulate their minds with useful information. I remember as a child I always enjoyed watching the discovery channel and till this day I still do. What we instill in our children now ,will go a long way in the future.
We don’t have a set time limit, but they do have to have their chores and school work done before playing. And since we only have one DS between 4 children that cuts down on the amount of time that they can spend on it.
I definately limit the time that my girls play video games!!!! We have our routine …homework, supper, bathtime, and then they are allowed to play for an hour or so (if time permits them to do so) cuts down on stalling and kinda makes them realize the more the put off doing the required tasks…the less game play time they have!!!
Yes we monitor their time on any video game.
I monitor the types of games we buy,…and the time they play in general. Mainly, as long as they are not turning into zombies, i figure we’re all good.
I monitor how much she plays games all together , unless they have educational value then she can have a little longer , belensmama at gmail dot com
I have always set a one hour limit-any longer than that seems unhealthy.
smchester at gmail dot com
My oldest, Cutie Pie, is a 4 year old boy who loves to sit at the computer and play games, but has a hard time, so I’m usually with him when he plays them and we aren’t at it for very long. I’d love to give him something more challenging that he can manage on his own!
My 5 yr old Owen is a smart little red head and would love Santa to peices if he found one of these under the tree!
I don’t mind my kids playing video games but not for more than 2 hours a day
Yes I do monitor how much my girl spends playing on games granted the games she plays are educational but i still feel she needs to bwe well rounded therefore she needs time for other enrichments to be explored as well an it helps develop her socially as well
Absolutely! On the actual computer, we set up time limits under each of the kids’ user ids. On their game systems, we have to just keep a close watch. Sometimes I make them earn screen time by reading.
Yes I do. I’m trying to teach my children about priorities such as homework and chores and play time.
Super giveaways for sure, we limit the times the youngsters can play video games in our home.
Yes, I am more lenient if it’s an educational game, but game time is limited.
I don’t really monitor my kids’ game playing. They play educational games and usually their attention spans run out before I would cut them off.
my son plays games no more than 2 hours a day on the weekdays, and 7 hours on the weekenends after homework.
I monitor how much time my daughter spends on games and/or TV in general. She prefers to be active, read or do puzzles though so she’s not too bad.
Since my son is not huge into gaming, but instead more into hands on toys I don’t have to be super strict on his gaming experience. He never plays with any gaming system for more than 10 mins so for now my job is easy. As he gets old I would definitely limit his gaming to around an hour a day if he ever becomes that interested in using the games, especially if it’s not a learning game.
I havent allowed my son to play video games yet but if he gets the nintendo ds will monitor his time and let him enjoy!
We really don’t have to monitor. They go in spurts. They won’t play any video games for weeks and then they’ll want to play all day one day. If they ever wanted to play every day, then I would be monitoring their time.
Yes, I monitor the length of time and limit it to about a 30 – 45 minute spurt depending upon the game.
monitoring is tough – but sometimes a great way to get dads/kids involved – after all, we are now a gaming generation…
definite time limit for video games!!!
I find that sometimes the kids are on the game systems for to long and i will say lets do something else but somedays we all need to have a lazy day. So i would say yes and no to this question.
Thanks
silverneon2000 at yahoo dot com
yes, I monitor my boy playing games. Fortunately he’s really good at doing that himself.
about 2 hours or less
Yes, we limit all screen time for my kids.
My girls are older – over 18 now, so no monitoring there, but we did when they were younger, and of course we do with Ian.
no
Yes I monitor. Chores and outside time first!
These would be great for the kids. My 2 oldest already have a ds and the 3rd is asking for one from Santa. She’s a 1st grader and this would be perfect for her!
My boys will be 4 in January and we haven’t introduced them to video games yet…some computer time but not enough to be detrimental, I would love this because it would ease them into playing games and teach them too.
When my granddaughter comes over with her DS I try to have other things for her to do also so that she only plays with it for about an hour at a time.
It all depends on the games if its educational then 3 hours a day if not then only an hour
my grand daughter is not allowed to play video games on school nights only the weekends and holidays
Yes I monitor the time no more than and hour at a time. Being outside and active is more important to us!
Yes, I monitor what my daughter plays and how long she plays it for. Thanks for the opportunity =]
I don’t really monitor the time as long as they are doing well in school and getting in some outdoor playtime as well.
Yes, I monitor and limit — even though my kids can’t stand it when I do it LOL.
If we let our son play early he’s a zombie all day. Lately we’ve been limiting non-educational games to after dinner.
limit the amount of time but no set rules
Yes I monitor the time they spend on games.. I like them to play board games with family or read a book.
We use a timer. They can play games while I’m on the computer (or vice versa!) and when the timer is through, so are we. This also helps keep me on track while on the computer because I’m less likely to wander off onto time-sucking sites.
I don’t monitor their time playing as long as they stay up on their homework.
Yes, Some games become frustrating when my kids feel they are not advancing. At that time it is time to go outside and play off some energy.
My son is only 2, but I do monitor his time with things. He LOVES Yo Gabba Gabba, and know how to turn on his little personal tv and push play. I have to make sure he doesn’t just watch it all day long! ha I’m sure he’d love this when he got a bit older… he already loves to play games on my husbands phone.
Set a timer
My daughter is 2 and she doesn’t play any video games right now. But I will definitely be monitoring once she starts.
Balance in all things is key to a healthy life
My daughter is allowed to play video games for no more than 1 hour per day…and only games that we approve of.
My son is almost 6 and we do not have video games. It would be very closely monitored, but you would make him the happiest boy ever.
Of course we monitor game time! With five kids, there’s no way there’s enough after school time for everyone, so we give time limits when they do ask to play. Otherwise, the screens would be on non-stop around here
Yes, they need to exercise more.
I don’t monitor by a certain amount of time – I monitor based on attitude/mood/restlessness, etc.
My kids would just be so thrilled if we won this one. And I try to exercise when I have the time to.
Yes, even though it is hard to say no, it is necessary. The only thing is I also have to be willing to set a good example and move away form the computer or TV and find something constructive we can do together. These games look fun and seem to be similar to some that we play on computer together.
Yes, monitor and limit….30 minutes/day during the school year. I know…mean mom!
I do try to make sure they have a balance of things in there lifes….video games, tv, books. I want them to have a well rounded exposer to things.
Do you monitor how much time your child plays certain games?
YES! We keep it to about 15 mins at a time and if he starts asking every few minutes or right when he gets up then we say no for awhile. Also, starts saying that he “needs” to play, then we put the games away for a day or two.
My niece is only allowed to play her games when we are in the car.
Yes, I monitor my daughter’s time, but tend to be more lenient when it comes to educational games.
I been trying to find way to help my son learn he is doing poorly in school even thou I work with him as much as I can I would love to find fun ways for him to learn he has ADD and I just trying to find ways to help him.
My kids each get 45 minutes of either Wii, DS, or computer. At 45 minutes, they have a choice to quit, or to switch to something educational and they can have another 15 minutes!
coriwestphal at msn dot com
no – my son is beyond monitoring age
I know a little one that would love this!
Three of my nephews have DS’s and would love these games
My daughter does not have any of these types of games but I know that my sister monitors her sons and how much they play the non educational games.
I monitor how much time over all she is playing games, but I don’t worry about which games she is playing because they get my approval before they are purchased.
we had enough to buy our 6 year old daughter a 3ds, now we just need games for her to play
I allow my daughter to make her own choices, and help her to see the good or bad consequences that result from her decisions. I always make sure she gets outside, and works on school work as well, but I don’t give her a time limit to what she chooses to do for fun. So far, so good, she has become very wise and independent as a result of the self exploration.
most definitely but i am very lucky because my kids love to play outside more than anything else so most of the time, i do not need to monitor them – (emscout9 at Hotmail dot com)
I don’t strictly monitor how long they play games, but if I notice them playing for extended periods of time…I make them get up and do something.
Yes on limits, 30 minutes for games on school days
Enjoyed looking at this, very good stuff, regards . “I will do my best. That is all I can do. I ask for your help-and God’s.” by Lyndon B. Johnson.
No, I do not monitor their playing time.
Yes, we do set limits by keeping busy doing other things. We find they tend to play more games when at home and bored.
Yes, I try to limit it, but that’s sometimes easier said than done!
nah, I dont care much, but we have alot of other activities so its nice to let my kid have down time.
spottedjagiwar at yahoo dot com
No, as long as homework & chores are done.
I monitor the usage as long as I know what games they are playing and if they share any with their friends. I make sure everything is shut off at bed time.
not really
Yes, time is limited on playing video games
I definitely believe in time limits or else they will play the video games all day. Homework should always come first.
Yes, we try to be careful to be balanced about everything, whether it’s electronic games or tv/movie time….we love to encourage a wide range of activities, like crafts, reading books, playing outside, riding bikes, building with legos, movie time, etc. It’s great to have choices.
creedamy[at] yahoo[dot] com
I do limit the amount of time my daughter can play to 1/2 hr on weekdays and then it varies on the weekend depending on if she is playing with friends.
PaintedPony17@yahoo.com
My kids are only allowed to play games for 1/2 an hour per day.
I don’t have kids myself, but I do think it is important to limit time on games
not really unless he’s at it for hours
Yes, I monitor have much time my children spend on video games and television both. I am a lot more lenient on educational games though.
During the week i prefer that we do more things together like reading.
jweezie43[at]gmail[dot]com
Wow, did I ever stumble across an awesome site here.
We do monitor the time spent playing video games
smatos04@hotmail.com
no, but his homework and chores have to be finished first.
I do monitor game time but as they get older I become more lenient…
no but i do monitor how much time he plays total
I’m sponsoring a family for Xmas and this would be great for the little boy. Thanks
I do monitor my kids TV use and video game use. We like to allow no more than an hour a day and my son has to earn video game time with “exercise time”.
i don’t monitor but i really dont need to my kid only play games if they cant go outside
Yes I do monitor how much game time they have. I don’t let them play them all day for hours on end. They can play only a couple hours a day. I do let them play a little longer on weekends or if its too cold or icky to go outside. SweepsGirl@aol.com
Yes, the kids are only allowed so much time per day on electronic games.
Yes, I monitor how much time my children play all games. Thanks for the awesome giveaway! My kids would love this!
I do monitor, but there are times we do let our son play more than we should. Thanks for the giveaway! These look like great games!
yes, we set time limits on games and on tv.
thanks and merry christmas
Yes, we monitor time and content.
We try to keep the game playing to 30 minutes every few days.
I really don’t monitor how much time my kids spend playing their games. They don’t spend very much time with electronic games (maybe twice a week) so I let them decide when they’ve had enough. they have never spent hours at a time with it.
wonderful i hope i win
I monitor how much my children play any games. We have a limit of game time. I think even though educational games are great, planted on the couch with a game needs to be done in moderation.
odessal74@yahoo.com
Yes we monitor the use of video games
I do monitor all of their game play. It can get out of control quickly if let unchecked
jason(at)allworldautomotive(dot)com
Yes and no, we do not give them a limit but we don’t let them spend to much time on them either.
We have definite limits on screen time for our kids….including video games.
I dont monitor because My daughter does have a ds, but she plays it maybe 2 or 3 hours a week..
xxbeccaannxx@gmail.com
Yes I monitor how much time is spent playing video games and watching tv, thanks for the chance
Yes, we monitor if we didn’t she would play games all the time. sweepmorey at gmail dot com
Yes, I monitor how much time my children spend on video games, the computer and TV
Yes I do somewhat monitor it. I have four kids so I have to make sure everyone gets equal time.
Thanks for the great contest!
bahjeep@aol.com
This is just too good to be true, please enter me. Thanks
I wouldn’t monitor her, but I would make sure she gets outside time every day as well.
Yes, we monitor my son’s game playing.
I dont have to monitor, because my children play the games in the car or a few minutes before bed.. They are very active and always on the go. Its actually kind of nice to have them sit still and quietly with their DS’s!!
My boys are still young and need help with games so I monitor since I am usually sitting next to them while they play!
Yes, but he’s still just 4 so monitoring is easy for now.
They are not allowed to play games until homework is done. They usually play about 30 minutes each and then I tell them to turn it off. .
I monitor how much screen time they get. Not specifically games but also tv and computer
I moniter what games they play and for how long. They are allowed to play for 30 mins every other day if their chores and homework is done.If we are on a trip they can play longer.
I monitor how much time my daughter plays games period.
I definately monitor the amount of time my kids spend on the computer and with games. If I didn’t, I think they would grow mold and never move!
I do still have to monitor how much time my son plays games because he is only 4 and isn’t able to make that distinction on his own yet.
pkbw28(at)gmail(dot)com
I read reviews before buying games, play a level or so myself, and then monitor their time on them closely!
We do monitor them.
chestnutyouth(at)hotmail(dot)com
Yes, I don’t let my kids play video games for long periods. I want them up and moving and not glued to the tv.
LuckyTJG at cs dot com
my nephew never really play game for long he get bored really quick
Yes they get an hour of game time then an hour of reading or drawing
Kas
I do, it’s highly important to learn from a young age that everything should be in moderation.
baniamcafee@gmail.com
Tristan doesn’t play games so much that I need to limit the time. He’s not obsessed with any one game.
I monitor how much time m child plays all video games to make sure it’s not too much
Yes I monitor the time my son spend on games. If I let him he would be on them all day.
We try to keep our son limited to only playing video games for only about a hour a day
yes i make sure all homework is done before any games are played by my son
We do monitor them. They have an overall time limit. I like them to play a variety of games, and because they have to take turns, sharing the games with each other, that is pretty easy to accomplish.
Well, for the most part! Weekdays they get to play only after homework and chores are done. They get maybe 30 mins. Weekends are more relaxing. We play games as a family so it depends. Sometimes we play 30 mins, sometimes we go for 2 hours!! Depends on the game, how much time we have, and how much fun we are having. As for just my children, weekends I usually let them play for at least a couple hours.
I try to limit grandkids time on games, It would be great if they were actually liked to learn something while playing.
Most of the time, yes. Our whole house is a gamer house so a lot of times we spend time together playing video games.
My kids only get to play if chores and homework are done and as long as they did not have any issues at school during the week. On the weekend we play together so the time can be longer spent on games but I try to limit their time playing alone.
Honestly, no I do not. I probably should but since I have girls, in my experience they don’t get hooked as much as it seems boys do. (in all honesty, I think my husband is more hooked on games than my kids!)
i don’t because my daughter takes playing her ds by spells. she might play a lot for a week and then not touch it the next week. the only games she has are rated e so i don’t worry about what she is playing. if she began to spend more time playing ds than other things i would absolutely monitor her time. thanks for the giveaway!
marygardner49 at aol dot com
We definitely monitor how much time our son plays videogames. Educational games can be played longer usually. Entertainment games can be educational as well in that they help with quick thinking, problem solving and eye hand coordination. However, we only let him play a couple of times a week, otherwise he won’t want to do anything else.
Super Giveaway!
Definetely everything in moderation! Awesome giveaway! Wow!
They are limited to the time they get to play video games. Thanks for the chance.
I do monitor the time they play games.They need time for physical exercise as well as well as
chores and doing homework
Limiting game time is a must.
for the most part unless learning games!
Yes we do certain things have to be done before and the evenings are spent with thw whole family
mightynaynay(at)cs.com
I do monitor their game time to make sure they are spending time on other important activities.
i let my children play 1hr everyday on their dsi. Im loving the giveaway i hope to win
We play together as a family the family games.
I allow my children to play video games for an hour a day after all school work and chores are finished.
We sure do! With at least two hours of homework each school night, we’ve pretty much banned the DS during the school week.
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Yes, once home work is done, our kids get half an hour each, once or twice a week.