The holidays are quickly approaching.  Holiday shopping is on the brain.  This year, my 5 year old daughter wants a Nintendo DS.  While I am usually quick to spoil her, a couple of red flags come up when I think about buying her a portable gaming device.

I remember getting my first video game and game system.  It was an Intellivision.  And the game was Donkey Kong.

We’ve come a long way since then, haven’t we? I also remember MY DAD playing almost, if not more, than I did! That’s part of why I hesitate to get Leah her DS for Christmas.  I LOVE VIDEO GAMES.  What are the chances that I play the thing more than SHE does?

Yeah, I know it will come in handy and keep her entertained during long car rides.  Yeah, I know there are loads of educational games available.  But I am WAY too concerned that, 1.) She’ll love the game so much that she begins to distance herself from Sandy and I, 2.) She’ll play games when she really should be playing outside, or doing her homework or practicing piano, or 3.) I’ll punish her by taking it away from her when she acts up and use it more for MYSELF!

I’m interested to know what you think.  Buy a 5 year old her first video game, or hold off?

By the way, have you seen this game for the DS?  It looks totally sweet! (Ok, I’m officially more excited about potentially getting a DS than she is…)