01
Set time and money limits first
Choose a session length while calm. If a game includes spending, use only an affordable fixed amount and never money needed for essentials. Reaching either limit ends the session.
Do not raise a limit to recover a result, protect a rank or chase a near miss. A streak has no authority over the boundary you chose before play.
Time
Pick an end time or a fixed number of runs.
Money
Set an affordable amount before any purchase.
Pause
Step away when attention, mood or posture slips.
Control
Use device locks or stronger account tools as needed.
02
Notice when the reason changes
Fun, skill practice and friendly competition are clear reasons to play. Continuing to escape stress, win back a loss or repair a mood is a signal to stop.
Take a longer break if play interferes with sleep, work, relationships or financial plans, or if limits repeatedly move. Seek qualified local support when stopping feels difficult.
03
Use household and device controls
The FTC recommends reviewing age ratings, chat, location sharing, time limits and purchase controls for children’s games. Apple documents how Screen Time can disable in-app purchases or require approval.
Account tools should complement conversation, not replace it. Agree on expectations, check that the game still matches them after updates, and make support easy to reach.
References