We are having fits with SS14 and his video game addiction. I know high functioning autistics such as him use video games as a way to escape the world, but it is becoming problematic and counter productive. We used to use the video games as a reward for him. Now...they are used more and more as a method of punishment...taking them away from him; rather than giving him extra time.

What we have noticed is that in this year his grades have begun to fall even more. We always had a problem with Math. It's his worst subject. But Literature, Language arts, social studies and Science are his best subjects. His grades are dropping in all of them. He reads at a college level and has been coming home with C- grades in Literature.

DH and I already have limits in place. He is only allowed one hour of video game time on school days. And on weekends on holidays or non-school days he is only allowed 3 hours a day. But we feel we are going to have to change the limits yet again. I think we are going to have to make it NO video games on school days at all.

We have noticed he is rushing through everything just to get to his video game time. His grades are dropping. This can't continue.
Another thing we have noticed is that when he is grounded and has no access to his games; he is a pleasant kiddo. But when has them; whether waiting to play OR has already played them for the day; he can be a real ASS.

We have told all family (including BM who, of course, disagreed with our decision) and friends that he was to receive NO video game related gifts this year.

My problem: when I am trying to study, myself (#50incollege #accounting #OMG) I know I will have quiet if he is playing his games in his room. If not he is constantly chattering; interrupting me; following me to my office; asking questions; and driving me to distraction. Goddess help me! I threatened to duct tape his mouth closed last night. I was kidding, but he is autistic and took it literally. Sigh.