Nintendo DS Observation  

My twins each got a DS for christmas, and the oldest got a PSP. They aren't allowed to take them out of the house, and they rarely get to play them indoors either. They must behave and have their chores done before they're allowed to play them, so they probably only use them a few hours a week.

I agree about all the crap they have that "babysits" kids though. Although I can't afford a brand new car.. even if I could I'd get one without the DVD player in the back seat. TV is another thing I don't let my kids watch much of, and I'd rather they look out the windows at the scenery while we're driving then get glued to some mindless television!

My 9 year old got a DSi last year for his birthday. He and the 3 year old kept fighting over the old DS, that I finally relented and bought him the 'i' version. I must admit that it sometimes a relief if they get their face buried in front of the screen. At least they don't have to bug me for whatever non-important things they see when we're in a store. But like everything else, I try to limit their time on the DS or DSi. And I would push them out the door if their friends come knocking for a game of football or roller hockey.

Those Nintendo DSes are pretty durable, much like any recent Nintendo product really. Sure, you hear stories of Nintendo Wii controllers breaking TVs and stuff but the controllers themselves don't break at all.

If you are going to buy one, I do suggest buying some sort of screen protector. Beyond that, not much maintenance or care is required... as long as they don't throw it around the house.