Although online games are a form of entertainment, with the support and guidance of parents, they can help children develop their creativity, nurture relationships with friends, and improve their strategic thinking.
It can also help them develop their persistence to achieve their goals, build resilience, and improve their communication skills so that they know how to respect the views of others.
A great source for developing early learning skills for younger children
Studies have shown that certain games can help young children improve their early reading skills with the support of parents and teachers. Games like ' Times Table Rock Stars'which is used in elementary schools and preschool applications like ' Endless Alphabet“Can be great tools to help children learn in more engaging ways. Additionally, with the growth of connected toys, children can experience physical play while playing on devices. Educational toys like Osmo Combines tactile play pieces with a device's camera to bring in-game action to life.
Improves memory, brain speed and concentration
Games that are immersive and require strategy and problem-solving skills to win, require players to remember and absorb a lot of information. Playing these types of games regularly can help improve children's short- and long-term memory and help the brain process information faster.
Additionally, games capture the imagination of gamers, helping them stay focused on certain tasks and boosting their persistence in achieving a goal.
Improved multitasking skills
Games in which players have to find items while battling other opponents call for attention to detail and quick reactions. Studies have shown that playing these type of games can help children develop multitasking skills.
Develop skills for future careers
More complex multiplayer games help players learn to behave strategically and analytically to assess risks and rewards, and to react quickly to game changes. All of these skills they use can be transferable to real jobs that are based on problem solving, analytical skills and strategic thinking.
Providing a New Way of Understanding Culture and Perspectives
Since games allow children to immerse themselves in virtual worlds and sometimes connect with people from all over the world, they can be a great way to learn about different perspectives and cultures.
Group play provides social benefits
Whether kids are playing multiplayer games with friends or using apps like “heads up” with family in the living room, these types of games can help nurture relationships through shared moments and improve their social skills. For some children who may have a disability, this can be a way for them to socialize and make friends if they are limited.
Best connected toys, games and apps to share with the whole family
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Promotes teamwork and builds confidence
Multiplayer games allow children to take on a number of roles that allow them to learn how to manage a team if they are the leaders or negotiate ways to win as a group. Shared experience can be a great way to collaborate and learn from each other to build children's confidence.
Provides a fun way to stay active
The success of games like Pokemon GO and Zumba are an example of how games can help motivate kids to stay active while playing . Additionally, the rise of mobile gaming apps means kids don't need to be glued to a TV to play games, they can now play on the GO. Check out our list of active apps that can help your child stay active while playing.
Provide a way to develop compassion
A number of games and apps have been developed to help children manage their emotions and encourage good behavior, compassion and empathy. Check out our list of wellness apps to learn more.
Provide a safe context to talk about your fears
Sometimes it can be easier to talk about concerns in a virtual context, and games can provide a safe place for children to express themselves.
Are a new way of living stories
Immersive games can help children experience stories in a more engaged way and shape the way the story is told to spark creative skills.
Create time and space for further thinking on topics
Schools are increasingly using game-based learning to help students understand and think through complex subjects in order to develop their math (STEM) skills or to become familiar with science concepts. Gamification of learning and allowing children to see things differently can make them grasp topics faster and more deeply.
BBC own it video showing a young teenager explaining his love for games
It's immersive
It is open
It's in progress
It's social
It offers rewards
It's competitive
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Use our 6: Best Online Game Safety Tips to help kids use games to boost their skills, have fun, all in a safer environment.
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Use this animated music video from Common Sense Media to talk with your child about the dangers of over-sharing online.
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Learn new skills
To entertain
Interact with others
What to watch out for
What makes a good video game?
My child would like to have a career in video games, how can I support him?
Where should the gameplay take place
How old is the appropriate video game?