Video games are becoming increasingly popular among people of all ages and backgrounds. This means that more children are also playing video games. However, some parents are concerned about whether or not they should allow their children to play video games. And if they should, which ones are safe and appropriate?
The video game industry can be a confusing scene for parents, especially those who don’t play the game themselves. However, it seems that gaming is really the wave of the future and it will be difficult to avoid them entirely. Instead, you need to learn about them so you can teach your child how to use them safely.
While you always reserve the right as a parent to prohibit your child from playing, there are a few things you should know about them. Video games have gotten a bad rap in the media over the years, but gaming technology is becoming a big part of our culture.
Games are becoming learning devices in schools and universities. They are even used to train the military and astronauts. They have also been used as a therapy tool for people who are sick or injured. With games becoming such a big part of our future, it will be important that you help your child become familiar with them. You can do it in a safe and healthy way. Teaching your child positive video game habits today can stay with them for the rest of their lives.
Meet the Games
Before you can know what is suitable for your children to play, you need to know what games are out there. There are different platforms that your child can play on. These include:
PC (computer)
Wii
Xbox 360
ps3
SD
PSP
iphone
older versions of older consoles such as Playstation, Nintendo and more
Game systems are becoming more complex with their features and abilities. This means that every new system that comes out has more than it can do. The consoles can be used to play DVDs and music CDs and even connect to the Internet to enable online gaming. With technology changing so quickly, it can seem hard to keep up with video games, but if you can stay one step ahead of your child, you’ll always know what they want to play and what’s safe for them.
Video Game Tips
One of the most important things you can learn about video games as a parent is the rating system and what it means. Video games have a rating system similar to movies. When you learn to read and understand this rating system, it will give you a general idea of which games are safe for your child to play.
The next thing to learn is how to get game trailer reviews. Many games allow you to preview or try them before you buy. This gives you a chance to see the game for yourself before allowing your child to play.
Here are some additional basic tips for video games:
talk to your child about the games they play
participate with your child in games
talk as a family about the rules of video games
· set time limits on how long your child can play in sessions; then make sure you stick to them
encourage breaks during video game time
encourage your child to be physically active on a regular basis, as well
video games for young children
Many games are being created for the younger children. You will be amazed at what a great learning tool video games can be, even for a young child. Just like anything else, when used correctly and safely, video games can be great for young children. Of course, they should not be a babysitter for your child.
Here are some sample cross-platform game titles that are good for younger kids:
Zoombinis’ Logical Journey (PC, Mac)
Lego Creator (PC)
Bookworm (PC)
Wonderful Pets Save the Animals (Nintendo DS)
Dinosaur Adventure 3D (PC)
Video games for older children
Don’t mistakenly think that older kids can only be entertained by shooting games. There are plenty of great video games for older kids that come with ratings that you can pass. There are also great games to stimulate their minds and others to help them stay in shape. More games are being designed to get you off the couch and moving than ever before.
Here are some examples (these titles are rated T for Teen):
Infamous (PS3)
The Sims 3 (PC)
World of Warcraft and expansions (PC)
Super Smash Bros. Brawl (Wii)
The Conduit (Wii)
Final Fantasy VIII (PlayStation)
Tales of Vesperia (Xbox 360)
Guitar Hero 3 (Xbox 360)
Mount and sheet (pcs)
Remember that games rated for teens may contain content that is not suitable for young children or teens. You may want to preview these games before allowing your child to play them. The rating tag should also state why a particular game has the ratings it does with terms like “blood and gore,” “violence,” “adult language,” “drinking,” “suggestive themes,” etc.
Video games for the whole family
Video games can be a whole family affair. You don’t have to live with the stereotype of the kid sitting for hours in front of the TV playing just a video game. Gaming can be a family event and this gives you the chance to be a part of something you love too.
Here are some E-rated games for everyone that you can enjoy with your child:
Wii Sports Complex (Wii)
Wii Fit (Wii)
Virtua Tennis (Wii)
Little Big Planet (PS3)
Mario Car Wii (Wii)
Mario Kart (Nintendo DS)
NCAA Football (PS3)
Pokémon Platinum (Nintendo DS)
Super Mario Galaxy (Wii)
Brain Age (Nintendo DS)
Lego Indiana Jones (Wii and PC)
Video games don’t have to cause violence, obesity, or other negative influences on your child. They can be a positive experience, a learning tool, and can even help you exercise (think Wifi). However, like everything else in your child’s life, you must be the one to start teaching healthy habits. Let your healthy family gaming habits start today!