Appropriate Supervision for a Child While a Parent or Caregiver Plays Video Games

Every week, millions of Americans turn on their electronic devices to play video games as a way to unwind, relax and have fun. In fact, the 2023 Essential Facts About the U.S. Video Game Industry Report by the Entertainment Software Association, states that nearly two-thirds of U.S. adults play video games regularly.

For many, video games are a source of joy, connection and skill-building. Among those gamers are parents – 76% of whom say they use video games as a way to bond and have fun times with their kids – based on the Entertainment Software Association.

But what kind of pitfalls can a passionate video gamer fall into if they become too consumed by a game and they are also the primary caregiver for a young child?

While playing video games offers many benefits, it also raises significant concerns about the need for proper supervision when parents and caregivers engage in this activity. The Colorado Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline 844-CO-4-Kids (844-264-5437) has received multiple reports of children -especially those in early years- who have experienced physical abuse or neglect because their parents and caregivers are overly absorbed in video games.

“Parents and caregivers deserve time to enjoy life and do activities they love,” said April Jenkins, Child Protection and Prevention Manager at the Office of Children, Youth and Families. “But if they choose to play a video game or do any other activity that distracts them from their child, they need to make a plan or ask someone they trust to help provide proper supervision.”

Making a Plan to Keep Children Safe While Gaming

Video games can be immersive and extensive, which may reduce a parent’s or caregiver’s responsiveness to a child’s needs. Here are some tips for making sure young children are safe and supervised:

Time it right: Play while your baby is napping or during times when they’re least likely to need attention.
Learn and practice the ABCs of safe sleep: If you choose to play video games while your baby sleeps, always place them in a crib with a firm mattress, wearing appropriate sleeper or sleep sack-type pajamas and free of blankets and toys. This practice will reduce the risk of your baby asphyxiating.
Choose the right game: Choose a video game that allows you to pause the game so you can do frequent checks on the child.
Use a monitor or camera: Keep a monitor or camera next to you and ensure that it gives loud alerts in case the child wakes up or an emergency occurs.
Ask someone to check in: Have a trusted friend, relative, neighbor to check in regularly.
Plan ahead for longer sessions: If a game requires extended time or you plan to use substances while playing, arrange proper care for your child.

Ask for Help From Your Support System

If you know you will be unavailable or distracted, ask a trusted person to care for your child. It is important to understand what you need to consider before leaving your child with someone else:

Minimum age to babysit in Colorado: The Colorado Department of Labor and Employment considers 12 years old the minimum age for babysitting.
Maturity of the temporary child caregiver: Consider how mature is the person who will take care of your child, what their abilities are to respond to your child’s needs and how they manage challenging situations or emergencies. In our previous blog, ‘How to Choose a Safe Caregiver or Babysitter for Your Child,’ there is a guide to help you choose a mature and capable caregiver.
Provide instructions: Share your child’s schedule, food preferences, health needs and emergency contacts.

Another option if you are part of a parenting couple is to take turns in caring for your child so each of you can enjoy some personal time while knowing your child is safe.

Take a Conscious Pause Before Attending Your Child’s Needs

Video games can stir up strong emotions, making it hard to shift gears when a child needs care or discipline. Before you stand up, take a moment to pause and reset.

Breathe deeply to calm yourself,
Remember that crying is a baby’s way of communicating,
Reflect that your frustration or heightened emotion is due to the game and not your child.

This moment of mindfulness can make a big difference in helping your child feel safe and supported.

How Others Can Help

Parenting, while rewarding, can also be challenging. Instead of judgment, families need understanding and support. If you know any parent or caregiver that has young children, check in regularly and offer help. You can:

Offer to watch and take care of the child,
Help with errands,
Invite them to a meal,
Share ideas for affordable family activities,
Help them find support or share the 2025 CO4Kids Resource Fair Partnership Catalog, or
Share this blog as a resource.

Families thrive when they have support and kids are safe when caring adults pay attention and offer help.

Be Their Voice

Every child deserves to grow up in a safe and stable home. If you suspect child abuse or neglect, be their voice, call the Colorado Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline 844-CO-4-Kids (844-264-5437). Available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year and able to assist you in more than 300 languages.