How do you deal with kids that are bored? Nowadays, most kids sit in front of the TV or play video games. In our home, you find the kids reading books or watching family or Christian videos. It was only lately that they learned to play video games. Their favorite is a game called bookworm which is a sophisticated word forming game. Another one they play is Zoo Empire, it teaches them to care for animals and manage customer satisfaction.
To choose the right games for your kids, ask yourself this questions:
1.) Is it appropriate for their age? Should your 9 year old be playing half life or counterstrike? Are they ready for blood, gore or sexual suggestion? (Street Fighter and Tekken are quite sexually suggestive)
2.) What values does the game promote? Is it in line with your spiritual beliefs? Do you really want your child to acquire the game’s worldview?
3.) Is there some educational value? A game like Civilization teaches the player how civilizations evolve.
4.) Does it develop analytical or improvisational capabilities? A game of chess, Command and Conquer or Harpoon are great examples. Have this questions handy the next time your child bugs you for a game.
Tags: FAMILY & FAITH, gaming, Parenting, PERSONAL
