Gaming for Parents: Understanding Gaming and Building Connections

An accessible introduction to understanding children's and teens' relationships with video games. Parents will explore why gaming can be meaningful, how to distinguish high engagement from concerning patterns, and practical strategies for setting boundaries, reducing conflict, supporting online safety, and using gaming as an opportunity for connection.

Target Audience: Parents

Learning Objectives

Participants will:

• Identify common social, emotional, and developmental functions of gaming.
• Differentiate high gaming engagement from signs of problematic gaming and identify when additional professional support may be appropriate.
• Develop practical strategies for boundaries, transitions, communication, and online safety.
• Practice approaching a child's gaming with curiosity to strengthen connection and communication.

Facilitator Bio

Anthony Magnia, AMFT, APCC (he/they), is a certified Geek Therapist who provides identity-affirming, neurodiversity-affirming, and trauma-informed therapy to teens, adults, couples, and families. His work integrates Geek Therapy with evidence-based and culturally responsive approaches to help clients explore identity, relationships, emotional well-being, and the ways their interests and communities can support growth.

Supervised by Julian Heart, LMFT

Questions?

Contact us at (510) 981-5350 or phmailbox@berkeleyca.gov.