Main Benefits of Video Games for Your Child

It’s natural to be concerned about the effects of video games on your children. But it can actually be good for them... Keep reading!

When people talk about video games, they usually do so in a negative context. When it comes to children playing video games, there are numerous concerns which come up for families. Some children can get addicted to gaming, unable to put the controller down or switch to different games, others can undergo mood shifts during gaming sessions. Similarly, kids can get so focused that they are entirely engrossed in their video games. However, there are certain benefits as well. Children can learn interactively through a variety of games, not only games labelled as educational too. They assist in improving and educating kids about a range of skills. One should find a balance in everything, of course, children should not spend uncontrolled amounts of time playing video games, but on the other hand, society should not exclude them and we shouldn't ban games entirely. If you know how to assess and choose suitable video games, they can be a powerful ally in your child's development.

Today, all schools have modern computer rooms that teach the basics of programming and even create some simpler games. So although it may look like they are obsessed with staying online, they are ensuring they will acquire crucial skills as efficiently as possible. What do we mean by that? First, let's explore why kids love video games and the skills and benefits they can acquire from gaming.

Here is the list of positive effects of online gaming on children:

1. Creativity And Problem-Solving

In today's world, video games have children cultivating abilities such as planning, negotiating, and experimenting with different approaches. Children understand that they must think ahead to anticipate potential situations, rely solely on their own/their teams' capabilities to resolve specific issues that arise. Each new level of the video game poses a fresh obstacle that the child must figure out how to overcome independently. Gamers are challenged to think creatively as games like "Legend of Zelda” feature more complex puzzles for gamers. Other video games, including "Bakugan: Defenders of the Core" also offer planning and problem-solving mechanics. The extremely popular game "Minecraft" invites users to use moulding features to alter the appearance of their characters. Players can create new levels and even planets and prompts children to express themselves creatively.

2. Reading

Some studies have shown that children who play video games may develop improved reading skills. This is also true for children who face difficulty with reading itself. The reason for this correlation is that children feel encouraged to read text-based instructions more carefully when invested and enjoying their favourite video games. Similarly, in deciding which video game to play next, children are likely to research games on blogs, review websites or online forums.

3. Leadership and Teamwork

Online gaming has almost become default nowadays. It brings players from various parts of the world together and motivates children to play with others. Research has shown that children learn to take turns when playing games in groups by each playing the part for which they have the best skills required. This teaches them the importance of each team member, the proper delegation of tasks, and collaboration to help solve challenges as a team for a shared goal. This aids in developing beneficial decision-making abilities in practical sectors like athletics or medicine, where making important decisions in the heat of the moment is frequently required.

4. Enhance Your Hand Dexterity

Game controllers are great for your hands. For example, in a study of 33 surgeons at Beth Israel Medical Centre in New York, researchers discovered that those who played video games were faster at completing complex surgical procedures. Moreover, this group also made 37 percent fewer errors than those who didn't play. Other than providing physical rehabilitation, certain video games have also helped stroke patients to regain control of their arms and hands according to a study by the University of Missouri-Columbia.

5. Social Quality Time

Online gaming among friends is a popular activity for kids in school. Findings suggest that kids who play video games regularly may be more socially cohesive with their peers and incorporated into the school environment. We advise against over-interpretation, though, as "setting restrictions on screen usage remains a crucial component of parental responsibility as an overall strategy for student achievement”. What's more, there are many games the whole family can be involved in. Of course, we can spend time together in plenty of other ways, however, as a gaming parent, you will enjoy trying something new and, in the end, keeping up with what your child is interested in regarding video games. One of my core memories is playing old Super Mario with my dad. 

In Conclusion

If used appropriately, video games can be valuable tools for children's development, despite being often viewed negatively. Some games encourage exploration and teach about history and culture, while others promote leadership and teamwork. Parents must find a balance and not exclude children from society or ban games altogether. With the right approach, video games can be a powerful ally in your child's development. By selecting appropriate games and setting suitable time limits, parents can help their children cultivate problem-solving, creativity, business skills, and foster a sense of belonging and importance. Therefore, if your child is playing video games, you shouldn't be concerned because it has some real benefits.