Kids & Video Games by Jenna Sherman
The use of games in education can provide benefits to the body, mind, and soul. Once considered taboo, digital play now has a role in home-school lessons, remote-learning, and in-person school days. Often, they are a consistent part of children’s after-school routines as well. Dignity Revolution shares some ways that gaming can help your children learn.
Games Can Help Kids Learn
Educational video games can improve competence in many areas, such as visuomotor-control, coordination, and social skills. Online play offers kids an environment that motivates them to acquire abilities to achieve goals.
Physical Activity
Digital learning can benefit the body by improving manual dexterity and inspiring physical activity. Virtual reality experiences require movement, coordination, or relocation to succeed. Ring Fit Adventure for the Nintendo Switch, for example, requires the player to move to create on-screen actions.
Improved Mental State
Video games are often used in therapy to relieve stress, boost mood, and stabilize heart rhythms. Studies have discovered many positive effects on the mind resulting from digital gameplay.
Problem-solving
Many games require students to use their knowledge of characters, obstacles, and objectives to plan and organize viable solutions. The ability to fix mistakes also enhances problem-solving skills, as players can modify their plans after gathering new info. Lego video games are great for younger children to learn how to strategize.
Social Connections
Children who are anxious in social situations may feel more comfortable with online interactions. Multiplayer games offer students a way to connect with friends and provide a topic to discuss with classmates.
Creativity
Games provide opportunities for children to be creative while solving problems. Digital play can encourage imagination and increase focus as children can utilize their unique learning styles. “Roblox” is an excellent game for inspiring creative thinking and teaching programming.
Finding the Right Games
Parents should select options that are enjoyable, educational, and age-appropriate. It is crucial to evaluate the interactive capabilities as multiplayer features can be problematic if educators do not understand or control the settings. Another consideration is how much time a child will play. Games need to fit within reasonable screen time limits. Last, parents must assess the technical mastery necessary for game success. If the technology is complicated, children may become frustrated and need assistance.
Despite what you may have heard, video games can play an important part in education. In fact, with the right structure and limits, video games can complement a child’s learning, provide motivation, and enhance vital abilities. Just make sure you’re choosing the right games!
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