It’s not unusual for kids of all ages to adore video games. And there are many educational video games parents can play with their kids. There are also a number of parents who are gamers themselves who make a solid argument that kids should game.
But, having your kids “glued” to the screen, when they need to be getting ready for bed is a regular parenting nightmare. We’ve all been there with our kids glued to their video games and generally find it a headache to pull them off. So many parents make the argument video games create much friction in their home.
So what’s the answer? Do video games offer kids any real practical benefits?
Yes! Surprisingly, there are significant benefits to playing video games and in this short article, we will reveal some of the most compelling and share why kids should game.
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WHY KIDS SHOULD GAME! 6 PRACTICAL BENEFITS OF VIDEO GAMES
PROMOTES READING
Research shows that children who play video games could get a small boost to their reading skills. This is true even for kids who have a hard time reading and those who just play action games.
Studies show that this link could be due to the need to read manual instructions while playing and navigating through the game.
Correctly reading instructions is essential to moving to the next stages of any game, so to advance through the game your kid will be forced to read.
Additionally, playing online games could be a smart way to transition those kids that struggle to read books but will happily open a laptop or tablet to read through a website on their favorite gaming character.
Of course, reading is essential for kids, and nothing will replace a hardback book.
SPATIAL ABILITIES
Many games are set in 3D virtual environments that kids have to operate and steer. Usually, with these games, there are no maps to help guide the way.
This means that kids who play these games have the opportunity to practice visual-spatial abilities. This can lead to a greater perception of distance and space.
This is a very acute skill that all children can strengthen by playing common video games.
GENERAL PROBLEM-SOLVING
Every video game includes a simple or complex challenge. Some games can be senseless, like Pac Man, but many others are complicated with detailed maps, mazes and mysteries to uncover.
These problems are usually very intricate and will help to increase your child’s general problem-solving skills.
Moreover, some researches support the idea that playing video games develop planning, organization, and resilient thinking, which are all crucial for effective mental development.
However, it’s important not to go overboard here as there is little to no evidence to support the idea that “train the brain” games actually have a positive impact in the real world.
SOCIAL BONDS
Some kids have difficulty fitting in and socializing in the real. Video games are a manageable and real way to make friends and connect with people who share your interest and have time to interact with you.
This virtual getaway gives kids the opportunity to have virtual playdates with real-life friends.
Furthermore, Video games, are a hot topic and it’s not uncommon for the release of new games to be a trending topic in school.
This gives all types of kids the opportunity to socialize in a mutually friendly way and can ease social tension.
However, it’s important to remember that if your child struggles to make friends in real life they may still find it hard to find their “tribe” online. There are no guarantees, but video games do give them an additional platform to socialize that was not always there.
BOOST IMAGINATION AND STRENGTHENS CREATIVITY
Young kids love to play and find interesting and exciting ways to constantly use their imagination. But for older kids and teenagers, it can be more of a struggle to break free and be spontaneous, especially if other kids won’t accept you.
Video games give kids an opportunity to keep the imagination around play alive and gives your kids the opportunity to express themselves in a safe and meaningful way.
VIDEO GAMING JOBS
Gaming pays a lot more then it used to. In fact, a 16-year-old who won the first Fortnite Global World Cup competition won an eye-watering $3 million!
Gaming is transforming the economy as more kids seek out lucrative careers in coding, gaming technology and unique mobile phone gaming apps.
In general, the video gaming industry is moving much faster than regular sports and entertainment as more kids learn, interact and socialize with other kids, all from the comfort of home.
While video games will never replaced the one on one attention all children need, it’s an important part of expression, learning and can prove to be a generous stepping stone into a variety of online opportunities.
DO YOU HAVE A CHILD WHO LOVES GAMING? SHARE YOUR FAVORITE REASONS WHY KIDS SHOULD GAME WITH US!
Source: leahnieman
