Nils Vermeire has been a gamer since childhood and is the father of three children. He has a message that is both confronting and hopeful: with stories from his own family, insights from the podcast Just Play Games, and numerous anecdotes from experts, Vermeire shows that gaming does not have to be a danger, but can be a way to grow together. Vermeire: 'If you are not curious about their world, you also exclude yourself.'
More than a game
Nils Vermeire (1972) is a family and youth coach, specialized in gaming and social media. According to him, gaming does not lead to isolation, but is precisely an opportunity to laugh, fail, and learn together. 'Gaming does not drive families apart – unless you keep acting like gaming is not part of life.' This attitude requires parents to not only want to control but also to participate.
In his book, Vermeire quotes several guests from his podcast, such as Robert Wils, father of top athlete Mike 'Furuy' Wils, who says: 'Show interest and ask your child: what are you working on?' That curiosity opens a world full of creativity, collaboration, and unexpected talents.
Gaming as a lesson in trust
In the book, parents can read how gaming helps children develop skills, from time management to problem-solving. Hassan Tasdemir, director of the National Video Game Museum, summarizes it aptly: 'There are all sorts of reasons to disapprove of gaming. But there are many more reasons to approve of it.'
Vermeire does not overlook the concerns of parents. He acknowledges, for example, that screen time can be a point of discussion, but shows that it is more important to have an open conversation about it. 'Ask your child if they have a moment for you. Ask if you can talk about screen use. As my son Luka says: don't talk to your child but with your child.' The book thus not only provides insight into the world of games but also into how you as a parent can grow in your relationship with your child.
From fear to connection
In Just Play Games, parents read how gaming can help kids relax, make new friendships, and even discover talents that children would not develop in other situations. Buddy, a recruiter at Defense and one of the voices in the book, explains how important gaming was and is for him: 'Gaming gave me peace. In the gaming world, I could just forget my problems for a while.' Vermeire breaks with the stubborn belief that gaming is inherently bad. He advocates for nuance and understanding. As he writes: 'It's not about your child never gaming again. It's about discovering together what the game can mean and setting boundaries that suit you.'
Practical and hopeful
Just Play Games does not offer ready-made rules or strict regulations. It is an invitation to remain curious, play together, and engage in conversation. For parents who want to understand what occupies their children. For teachers and caregivers who want to know what is happening behind the scenes. And for everyone who believes that parenting is about trust and curiosity.
Just Play Games will be available in bookstores and online from July 5. Recommended price: € 20.00.
