SHARON: There's something I'd like to talk about with you.
KELLY: Yes?
SHARON: You know my two boys always love to visit your son Nick.
KELLY: Yes, they're great kids. I enjoy having them here.
SHARON: They enjoy visiting. But it must be annoying for you.
They say all they do is play video games.
KELLY: Annoying? No, it's no trouble at all.
When Nick is playing video games, he can't get in trouble. That's what I think.
SHARON: My sons have video games at home too.
But they can only play them for thirty minutes a day. That's my rule.
I think it isn't good to let them play for hours.
KELLY: But I think it's better if they play games than if they watch TV.
SHARON: Whenever I tell my boys to stop playing, they always complain.
They always say, "Nick's mother lets him play. Why don't you let us?"
KELLY: Boys are like that. They always complain like that.
SHARON: But it made me wonder.
Is it really true you let Nick play video games for hours if he wants?
KELLY: Well... I'm concerned about his homework too.
But if he does his homework, then I don't mind. I let him play if he wants.
SHARON: I will be honest with you. I don't think that's good.
KELLY: Why not?
SHARON: I don't think it's good for his mental development.
Children need to do more creative things.
Just playing the same games over and over on a computer--it's not good.
KELLY: But computers are important in the world.
They learn better computer skills by playing video games.
SHARON: I don't think they learn much. And I think the games separate them from reality.
They become too attached to the computer screen. It isn't healthy.
KELLY: What can I do about it?
SHARON: I suggest you make a rule.
No more than thirty minutes or an hour of video games per day.
And then, I think it's good to buy some drawing or painting materials.
You should get them to start creating things. It develops the mind.
Or you can buy them model planes and ships to build.
That is better for children than video games.
KELLY: Well. You know I always respect your opinion, Sharon.
I will try to follow your advice.