Gaming as a new dad
I'm 52 years old and I've been married for 18 years together for 25. We have 4 children that are now 16f, 14f, 12m and 10m.
I have been an avid gamer since the 90's, I used to play sports in my younger years(20-30s) but multiple injuries has put a stop to that. Before babies i was a 20-30 hours a week gamer. So on to the point of the post.
I've seen multiple posts about gaming as a new dad recently so I just wanted to explain my experience and give a little advice. Take from it as you will.
Gaming as a new dad is a very touchy subject for both the mom and the dad. Here are some simple rules of thumb that might help new dads.
Just cause the baby is finally asleep does not mean you power on the xbox , ps or pc. This is without doubt the biggest cause of arguments. You need to clean, make a grocery list, meal prep or do the fricken laundry or any of the other 100 things that need to be done. If all those things are done then my advice is have a nap before your power on. Most Moms don't see gaming as a valid use of time. If there are chores that need doing get them done.
Remember being a dad and a partner comes first. Gaming will come back in time, don't forget you've signed up for a different journey now and maybe gaming doesn't fit in to that journey right now. It definitely did not fit in to mine. It's not the end of the world. Love them, make them your world you'll be happier for it. Gaming can wait, it's why we have save points .Even now I never switch on before 9pm at night, I have dad duties. It's just a change in priorities and schedules.
In general partners who don't game don't understand gaming don't expect them too. If gaming is an issue it's most likely because you didn't do rule 1 or 2 properly 😀
Sometimes wives or partners are jealous of the time you spend gaming. That's ok. Talk to them agree on when it's OK and when it's not. If you are doing number 1 and 2 already them it'll most likely not be a problem.
Above all else remember raising a family is a team effort. If your partner or baby is not involved it is technically a selfish act. Don't get upset because they see it this way, they are not wrong. Don't let it come to that. Do 1 and 2 and you'll most likley find it's gonna be fine.
When it comes to gaming and family there really is only one way to do it in my opinion. Communicate, fulfill your responsibilities, be present and then with what ever is left enjoy a little bit of time to yourself for gaming.
Hope this helps a little. Of course it doesn't cover all the scenarios but I feel its good guidance to help prevent unnecessary arguments for new dads.
Regards an old timer