LOL, I just tried something out on the 7yr old. He came to me asking, yet again" for me to use my credit card to purchase something he wants, thats costs $5.00 for his online game (Wizards 101). We've only allowed that once before, and I think THAT was a mistake. But instead of answering him right away, I told him I was at the doctor today and the doctor told me that he and his brother and Dad all need a shot (vaccine). He asked why, angrily, and I just replied with "Because the Doctor said so". Then he asked What for. I told him honestly, "Hep A". And told him it was a disease that could make him very very ill if he got it, and the vaccine would make sure he didn't get it. Hmmmmm, he thought about it then told me, "Are you sure it's just one shot? Because the last time you told me it was one shot, it ended up being TWO shots!". I assured him it is just one shot, without a doubt. Then bargained with him. If he gets the vaccine, no tantrums/complaints, I will reward that with the $5.00 Wizard game purchase, and he happily agreed.
That was probably not good parenting, but I'll work with what seems to work on this one!Now we'll see if the 13yr old will buy into the "Because the Doctor Said so" bit.
Sarah is 6, we have for the last year or so allowed her one online game that costs money. I think we started with ToonTown, moved onto Club Penguin, and then just about a month ago she asked for Wizard 101. Interestingly enough the game seemed to fit her personality the best.
Although I am a programmer and spend 8 - 10 hours on a computer a day I am not a big fan of wasting time on a computer, children should be outside playing whenever possible. If they're are on the computer I try to keep the games on the educational side.
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else there?
