Monday, February 16, 2009

Kids and Computer Games

My husband and I had visited my neighbor's place. As with all parents, the topics revolved around children, school and play. My hubby pointed out that most children today are protected. They do not have a playground to play in, they sit in AC classrooms. My neighbor agreed and said that most children are hooked to TVs and computer games. She mentioned that she encouraged her children to read several books. She said these days children are so hooked to the TV and computer games. My attention was caught. I replied saying I think computer games are good for children. She said yes but I don't think she believed me. I don't blame her, most parents would not agree with me.

I really, really believe that computer games help children think, strategize, and even learn. It helps them analyze situations and gives them a lot of confidence. It encourages them to achieve something and not give up till they do. I grew up playing cricket, TT, hide and seek with my sis and cousin. I also grew up playing several computer games such as Prince of Persia, Alladin, Mario Brothers, Packman, Mortal Combat, Road Rash, Need for Speed, Wolfenstein, and so on. These were most single player games then (or we had just one joystick) but we stick played as a team. And, it was absolutely fun! :)

It is important for children to find the right balance between indoor and outdoor activities. Parents can help them find this balance. I am waiting for my son to grow up so that I get an excuse to play some games. :D Let it not be only about studies. Let them play!

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

Interesting one!. I second your thought here, Archana. Yep, I have learnt a lot playing video games, especially the Strategy ones (like Age of Empires). We also used to play as a team with my friends over network during my schooling days at NY, where we used to support our friends (when they are resource starved) and give a lending hand to them to fight our enemies -> Computer. We learned how to be a team player, how to support each other even in a game like AOE. As you said, we should have a right balance of playing with the real living personalities as opposed to just the fake ones in the video games! :).