The Benefits of Video Games for Kids

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A big thanks to Nintendo for sponsoring today's post by sending us a package for the family to enjoy. #3DSKidForADay

There are many controversies about whether kids should play video games. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has recommended that kids spend no more than 2-hours getting screen time. With parental involvement, moderation, and the right types of games, video games, can, however, be beneficial to kids. Here are just a few of the benefits of video games for kids:

They Teach Problem Solving and Technical Skills

Video games teach kids even at the youngest ages to problem solve. They must figure out how to make it to the next level of the game. When one way doesn’t work, kids must problem solve. With STEM becoming the new norm for education, knowing basic technical skills will help children reap the rewards of technology down the road. For example, “Angry Birds” teaches children basic coding skills, spatial thinking, memory, perception, and problem-solving skills that will be needed for future jobs.

They Inspire Cultural and Historical Interest

As a gamer, your child can transform into any person they want and live all over the country. Games like Dora the Explorer and Go Diego Go are great for younger kids to explore different lands, experience a different culture, and learn new languages.

They Connect Generations

All of us 80s kids remember playing video games as kids. We're now able to relive our childhood and even play some of those same games with our kids.

Nintendo recently sent us a new Nintendo 3DS XL. This thing is like our old Nintendo GameBoys on steroids. Seriously, not only can you play games on it, but you can connect to Wifi to stream movies and shows via Netflix, Hulu and more!

Charlie has been playing Yoshi's New Island and it's so much like the old Mario games we played. When he is off at school, I go back and play some of the older levels that he's already beat. He gets so excited playing them and it's something we can really talk about together.

We'll definitely be adding some of the classic games like Mario and Donkey Kong to our collection!

Video Games Can Help Them Make Friends

Even when kids aren’t playing video games, they have something to talk about. This helps them find kids with like interests as well as builds communication skills. Kids are even able to talk about and teach other kids how to get to the next level which builds collaboration.

Video Games Make Competition Fun

Competition is natural and healthy part of life. Video games teach kids to work towards their goals, strive to do better, and encourage them to solve problems. All these competitive skills are skills your kids will need in adulthood. Making choices, promoting growth, taking chances, advancing in the environment, and achieving goals are all healthy forms of competition that children need to succeed in the real world, and video games make that competition fun.

They Help Struggling Kids

Studies have proven that kids who struggle academically in school tend to be more inclined to play video games. Video games allow for individualized learning, unlike traditional schools. Because you can find educational games that build on your child’s strengths, video games can help struggling kids with core concepts.

What do you think? Have you seen the benefits of video games in your child’s life? Share your thoughts in the comments below!