We currently have a Nintendo 2DS and Leapfrog tablet for our son and are working on getting a Switch. Our son is vocal, but when he's playing a game it is much easier for him to connect with us. He wants us to play with him or watch him. And it is his go to thing when he gets overwhelmed out in public. Setting boundaries is pretty much a must. We have a different way of setting limits than most. We don't set time limits, YET. He is really active, running around, playing outside, etc, so he usually isn't playing the games for very long. And I like that he has control on when he plays, it makes him feel in control which helps with meltdowns. We do however take the game away if he is becoming agitated, or upset. Sometimes he gets mad that he lost a race or can't beat a level. So we take it away. He knows he can only play if he is calm.

I get the hesitation on getting one, but I think if you have clear boundaries set up that your son understands, it might be something fun for you and him to do together. Lately we haven't found much things we can do WITH our son and that's hard. He's almost 5 and us playing with him usually causes a meltdown. I stay at home with him, so I expect my day to be filled with playing, and not so much. Which is also okay, cause it is what he needs/wants, but when he plays a game it is very much a two person thing, even if I'm not playing with him.

It can help with eye and hand coordination. I would suggest the Wii or Wii u because the games are for kids. The other consoles don't have too many games without violence.

Just asking why are you having seconds thoughts about getting one? You do what you feel is best weigh up the pros and cons of having one. That's what I do when making decisions I find it helps sometimes writing as list of pros and cons helps me reflect and helps me make decisions sometimes that helps. And go with your gut instincts

I think it's okay as long as it's balanced out with healthy outdoor play and not too much video game time. If used to much to the point that it over takes time spent having a healthy active lifestyle as the same as screen time. Set routines and limits as video games Just like screen time impacts on healthy lifestyle as videos game can be additive. My oldest son 7 has a Xbox one I don't mind him playing sims mindccraft etc I don't let him play aggressive fighting games etc and I have to set routines and limits with him because some kids who play it want to play it all the time people can get hooked on it that's why set limits

Nintendo switch is fun it can be used as portable or as a console with mario kart etc