How to Raise a Healthy Gamer

by Dr Alok Kanojia

[annieb123]

Originally posted on my blog Nonstop Reader.

How to Raise a Healthy Gamer is an interesting and well written monograph by Dr. Alok Kanojia on the challenges of balancing screen engagement, especially in a family dynamic (which often comes down to parents nagging kids to log off and interact with the real world). Released 12th March 2024 by Penguin Random House on their Rodale Books imprint, it's 304 pages and is available in hardcover, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout. 

The author does a good job of arranging the information (and there's a *lot* of info here) in logical progressive chapters where the info is easy to find. He explains the background psychology (understanding) in layman accessible terms, followed by chapters on communication (talk), and making and implementing plans for healthy online time (act). He also discusses troubleshooting, what to expect, timelines, as well as some ways neurodivergence (ADHD, autism spectrum, depression/anxiety, and possible substance abuse issues) can impact progress. 

The author/publisher have also included appendices: timelines and working prompts to help the process, a solid bibliography with chapter note references.

The book is aimed at parents who are not medical professionals, and as such is quite easy to understand and utilize. It's a different method of interaction which places a great deal of emphasis on empathy, communication, and understanding (and openness), rather than forcing, nagging, punishing, and negative communication patterns.

Four and a half stars. 

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.