Parents Guide to Video Games
Video games are becoming increasingly popular among people of all ages and backgrounds. This means that more children also play 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 games themselves. However, it seems that games are really the wave of the future and it will be difficult to avoid them completely. 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 ban 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 huge 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 sick or injured people. With games becoming such a big part of our future, it will be important for you to help your child become familiar with them. You can do it in a safe and healthy way. Teaching your child positive gaming 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 exist. 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 allow online gaming. With technology changing so fast, 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 similar rating system 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 you need to learn is how to get game trailer reviews. Many games allow you to preview or try them before you buy them. 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
play games with your child
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 follow them
encourage breaks during video game time
encourage your child to be physically active on a regular basis, too
Video games for young children
Many games are being created for younger children. You’ll 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 game titles for various platforms that are good for younger kids:
Zoombinis Logical Journey (PC, Mac)
Lego Creator (PC)
Bookworm (PC)
Wonder Pets Save Animals (Nintendo DS)
Dinosaur Adventure 3D (PC)
Video games for older children
Do not mistakenly believe that older children can only be entertained by shooting games. There are many 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 fit. 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 Blade (PC)
Remember that games rated for teens may contain content that is not suitable for young children or teenagers. You may want to preview these games before allowing your child to play them. The rating label should also indicate why a particular game is rated as it is 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 a video game alone. Games 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 setting (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 anything else in your child’s life, you should be the one to begin teaching healthy habits. Let your healthy family play habits start today!