Should you be for or against video games for your kids?

Electronic games are now part of a child’s universe from a very young age. With proper supervision, this type of play can have many benefits.
With the for-or-against question concerning kids and video games, the answer can definitely be "for,” but with a caveat: you need to teach your children how to distinguish between reality and fiction, and they should not neglect other forms of play. Here’s an overview of the main types of electronic games on the market.

There are educational electronic games—also known as “edutainment”—for all ages. Some work on a specific aspect of learning (language, for example) while others take a more playful look at history, geography or any other subject that may seem daunting.

This category includes more serious games for older children, such as video games that increase awareness about an issue or familiarize players with an educational concept. According to scientists, in addition to facilitating learning and memorizing, these games cultivate the ability to handle spatial representations. They also promote the ability to multitask and observe a problem from different angles.

Strategy games include conventional console-based games and adventure stories that require complex problem-solving. These video games sharpen certain intellectual abilities, as they involve faster thinking and problem solving and constantly increase the level of difficulty as the player masters the required skills.

There are virtual replicas of almost all sports and recreational activities (hockey, golf, tennis, yoga, bowling, etc.), as well as realistic simulations of less accessible environments, such as space flight. They make it possible to experience rare realities or simply allow us to move around a little indoors, when cold temperatures prevent us from playing outside. They can be a good substitute for keeping fit or for bringing a little life to a party. Some games are very effective at sharpening strategic thinking and concentration.

This category of electronic games includes fighting games and games with events that require players to go through stages or levels to reach new screens and new worlds. Their advancement in the game may also make the characters evolve. These games involve all kinds of skills (thinking, concentration, etc.) and can build self-confidence with each successful puzzle solution or surmounted obstacle.

In role-playing games, children create avatars that represent them in the game world. Oftentimes, these video games take place in collaboration or in competition with other players, encouraging children to develop communication and cooperation skills.

Of course, the more challenging a game is, the more it may seem addictive to a child. Parents need to be careful and not be afraid to limit play. As with any activity, it’s best to practice moderation if you want to reap all the benefits without the problems.