In our desire to protect our children, we often focus on the harmful effects of video games rather than maximizing their inherent benefits. But we live in the digital era, and playing video games has become a big part of today’s generation’s childhood. Discovering that these interactive wonders can cultivate vital life skills is reassuring.
Let's explore the extraordinary potential that lies within the realm of gaming.
5 Benefits of Age-Appropriate Video Games
There are myriad benefits of age-appropriate video games for children, especially boys. From cognitive development to problem-solving prowess, and social interaction to creativity and resilience, here are a few benefits of video games for young minds.
1. Improves reading skills
Studies have shown that playing video games can significantly boost kids' reading skills. This applies to both struggling readers and when playing action games. Researchers believe it's because kids need to read instructions to play.
They can also practice reading through the subtitles of cut scenes. Video games also make reading more fun for reluctant readers who may prefer online sources. However, it's still important for kids to read traditional books too.
2. Teaches problem-solving skills
Video games, encompassing various challenges such as puzzles, mysteries, and virtual city management, empower kids to confront problems head-on and seek solutions. Playing these games has been associated with improvements in planning, organization, and flexible thinking.
For instance, in Zelda, players must strategize, adapt, and navigate intricate quests, fostering valuable problem-solving skills.
3. Develops socialization skills
For some kids who struggle with fitting in and making friends, video games can provide a haven to connect with others positively. In our hectic lives, games offer virtual playdates with real-life friends. Video games give kids a common talking point at school. Having an interest in gaming can help those who find it challenging to come up with discussion topics.
4. Increases creativity and imagination
Video games can spark a child's creativity and imagination in various ways. From designing virtual worlds to crafting unique characters, players are encouraged to think outside the box.
Creativity Research Journal found those who played Minecraft without instruction exhibited the highest levels of creativity when completing subsequent tasks. This may be attributed to the players' greater freedom to think independently during gameplay, fostering their creative thinking processes.
5. Brings parents and children closer
Playing video games can be a bonding experience, bringing parents and children closer together. Collaborative gameplay allows shared moments of excitement, teamwork, and friendly competition. Through gaming, parents can actively engage in their child's interests, fostering communication, understanding, and a stronger connection between generations.
Establishing Healthy Limits on Video Games for Kids
While video games provide entertainment, creativity, and skill-nurturing benefits, it’s equally important for parents to establish limits on their kids when it comes to video game playtime. Here are some practical strategies for healthy limits on video games to ensure kids’ well-being while nurturing responsible and mindful gaming habits:
Prioritize active time
Encourage kids to engage in physical activities or pursue other hobbies before playing video games. They develop a well-rounded lifestyle by setting a rule to balance active pursuits with gaming.
Create a schedule
Establish specific time slots for video game sessions, ensuring they fit into the child's daily routine. It allows for predictability and helps prevent excessive gaming, promoting a healthy balance of activities.
Use Parental Controls
Utilize the available tools and features on video game consoles or devices to manage and monitor screen time. Implement restrictions that align with your child's age and maturity, safeguarding their well-being and promoting responsible usage.
Encourage social interactions
Emphasize the importance of socializing and spending time with friends and family. Encourage kids to engage in face-to-face interactions, group activities, or playdates alongside their gaming sessions.
Monitor and discuss the content
Stay involved in your child's gaming experience by monitoring the games they play and having open discussions about the content. Ensure the games are age-appropriate, align with family values, and promote positive themes.
Letting children play age-appropriate video games provides them not only entertainment but also problem-solving ability, creativity, social connections, and cognitive growth. Understanding and utilizing these benefits allows parents to direct their children to age-appropriate games, educators to explore new teaching routes, and game creators to continue creating meaningful experiences.
Game On: Toy Kingdom's Top Video Game Selection
June is Boys Month for Toy Kingdom, so we give you our top video game picks that kids will enjoy playing! With proper guidance and rules in place, your children can maximize the benefits of these video games:
1. Nintendo Switch Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom (MSE)
Embark on a thrilling adventure with the latest Nintendo Switch Zelda game in the Philippines. Recommended for ages 10 years old and above, this adventure-packed single-player game guarantees excitement for adventure, action, and role-playing enthusiasts. Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Hyrule, as you explore captivating landscapes, engage in epic battles, and unravel a rich role-playing experience.
2. Nintendo Switch The Legend of Zelda Breath of the Wild Game MDE
Experience the awe-inspiring adventure of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild game on Nintendo Switch. This epic journey awaits thrilling challenges and captivating quests for players ages 10 years old and up.
Unlock the full potential of the game with compatible Amiibo, including the Wolf Link Amiibo figure, Legend of Zelda 30th Anniversary Amiibo series, and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild Amiibo series, granting Link valuable in-game items.
Basic reading ability is required to immerse yourself fully in this expansive world. The game is compatible with the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller for enhanced gameplay.
3. Playstation 5 Final Fantasy XVI
Immerse yourself in the extraordinary world of Final Fantasy XVI for PlayStation 5. This game takes you on an epic journey through a dark fantasy realm where the destiny of the land is shaped by powerful beings called Eikons and their wielders, known as Dominants.
Follow Clive Rosfield, the "First Shield of Rosaria," as he strives to protect his brother Joshua, the dominant of the Phoenix. With revenge as his motivation, Clive vows to confront the enigmatic Dark Eikon Ifrit, a malevolent force that brings devastation wherever it goes.
4. Nintendo Switch Neon Blue/Yellow Joy-Con Controllers
Enjoy versatile gaming with the Nintendo Switch Controller. Each Joy-Con includes a set of buttons, an accelerometer, and a gyro sensor, allowing for independent left and right motion control.
The set includes one left and one right Joy-Con that can be used separately or combined as a single game controller using the Joy-Con grip. They can attach to the main console for handheld mode or be shared with friends for multiplayer action in compatible games.
Get these top video games for boys and more at Toykingdom.com.ph or visit the nearest Toy Kingdom store. Discover also a selection of gaming consoles and accessories to complete your kid’s video game setup.
