12 year old too independant?

bonnie

Sun, Jul 12 2009, 8:43 am

My 12 year old would rather spend a gorgoues summer day indoors playing gameboy all day- which I will not allow. I am taking the kids somewhere this morning.

Do you think it's fair to:

Give him up to one hour to make his own plans, or:

Give him a choice of two destinations?

His only plan will be calling his one friend he feels comfortable, but, again- I want to see him outside hiking, strolling, doing ANYTHING than sticking indoors...

How do you deal with the fact that they're semi adults and want to feel independant?

Thanks!

greenfire ↓

Sun, Jul 12 2009, 9:55 am

12 year olds should still be part of family day ... he can make plans for another time and maybe get him to limit the gameboy time (but be reasonable as they are addictive) ...

Imaonwheels

Sun, Jul 12 2009, 4:40 pm

We refused entry to electronic games for that reason - they are too addictive and passive. Like eating cotton candy all day.

Definitely make a strong limit on the amount of time on it. Also make sure he has enjoyable experience with family and friends.