This is how Wii do it.

In our family, we're no strangers to turning to electronics and technology for entertainment. Chris has always liked to relax by playing a video game or two, I personally prefer the computer and Internet, and we introduced Noah at an early age to computer learning games. So it's no surprise that each of the kids would follow that example and enjoy playing them, also. I just never would have imagined quite how much - we have a kitchen timer that gets used quite frequently to set limits on how much the kids get to play. With all the new gadgets and games that come out every year, and all the promoting and advertising that goes along with them, it's also no surprise that there's always something more to add to the collection of consoles, games and other paraphernalia. Nicolas is now going through a severe Mario infatuation, in particular, Mario Kart. He LOVES this game! He first learned to play it on the Nintendo Game Cube, then he started playing Mario Kart on one of his brother's Gameboys. Then for Christmas the kids' grandparents gave the kids a Nintendo DS, along with some games, including Mario Kart and he quickly became proficient at that version, as well. Our family Christmas present was a Nintendo Wii (awesome, by the way - Chris and I like bowling, it's so fun), and of course now Mario Kart for the Wii is Nick's new obsession. He's even gotten to the point where he comes close to beating his older brothers sometimes! As I've mentioned before, this is a 3 year old child that doesn't even speak, but he sure knows his Mario Kart.
I've always tried to keep perspective on the whole video game thing. I'm acutely aware of the fine line between enjoying what the technologically advanced 21st century has to offer, and maintaining balance in life. I've always felt that if the kids don't get too obsessive and I set time limits, so they will become well rounded individuals, then it's probably harmless. With the 3 older kids, there have been times throughout the years that I've had to put all things video away for a month or two, but for the most part they all like to do other things enough, like reading, playing outside, playing with their other toys, that it hasn't been much of an issue. I may be coming to a point with Nick, though, that I'm starting to wonder a little...Here he is branching out, playing a little Wii Boxing!