Electronic games can offer good results for child development, but monitoring by parents and guardians is necessary
Children’s health and well-being is an issue with many conflicting arguments. Especially when we talk about the use of electronic devices during the learning process. After all, are games beneficial or harmful to a child’s development?
There is a balance between what is good and what is bad
Caio Silveira Schweller, Administrative Coordinator of Ctrl+Playa coding and robotics school for children and teenagers, says that, like almost everything in life, games can have both positive and negative effects. “Often the problems typically linked to games (addiction, violence, social isolation, sedentary lifestyle, etc.) are the result of excesses and social and family problems. However, there is the fact that video games, as social activities which, can an important role in the moral and character development of the children who play them”, he explains.
According to the professional, the specific context of the child will determine whether video games are useful or harmful for him. “If they are not a form of healthy leisure, which does not come at the expense of social integration, academic performance and family relationships, games can even help development”, he underlines. The mechanics and narrative of the chosen games are also decisive factors in this regard.
Is there resistance from parents?
According to Schweller, it is normal for parents and educators to worry that the use of games in education could lead to possible distractions and reinforce addictions and negative behaviors (such as violence, excessive competition, etc.). “Another common question is how to apply gamification in an often non-standardized educational context, for example when there is no access to computers and/or the Internet”, underlines the Coordinator.
Therefore, to deal with any resistance, the professional explains that the Ctrl+Play It has a methodology based on three pillars: entertainment, teaching and development. “These pillars are essential because, when dealing with young people aged 7 to 17, simple entertainment does not justify the investment, just as focusing only on the technical part of games does not guarantee complete learning of technology,” he adds.
With monitoring the results of the matches will be positive
Augusto Jimenez, CMO of Languages of the mindreinforces the importance of parental control over the time children spend playing and the appropriateness of game content for their age. “Also, setting schedules is essential to combine this activity with other healthy activities, such as school and outdoor activities,” she advises.
But he says games, when balanced with adequate time, can bring many benefits to children, such as:
- Improve a language: Since most games are in English, it is possible for the child to develop a new language, through commands, repetition of words and sounds such as game music;
- Cognitive development: Many games require strategic reasoning, which contributes to children’s cognitive development;
- Social skills: Playing online video games can help children develop social skills, teamwork and interact with other players;
- Improved motor coordination: some games require quick and precise movements, awakening this ability;
- Entertainment: Games, when involving fantasy stories, have the ability to transport the player into the plot.
Otherwise…
… In other words, if the little ones play too much, Jimenez warns of the dangers that can compromise their physical and mental health, such as:
- Social isolation: it is necessary to check if children spend a lot of time playing video games instead of interacting with other people or participating in outdoor activities, hence the importance of monitoring parents and/or guardians;
- Health problems: Sitting for too long while playing video games can lead to health problems such as obesity, poor posture and vision problems.
- Addiction: Some individuals may have a gaming addiction, which can negatively affect their mental health.
There is a scientific basis
And don’t think that these benefits are a mere theory of technology professionals. The CMO of Languages of the mind reiterates the theses based on studies that demonstrate these benefits, and cites some of them below:
Cognitive development: “Research published in the journal Nature in 2014 suggests that playing video games can improve cognitive flexibility and learning ability.”
Social: “Research from the University of Oxford in England has found that playing video games with pro-social content can increase generosity and pro-social behavior in children.”
Emotional: A study published in Journal of adolescence in 2016 they found that playing video games can be an effective way to deal with stress and improve emotional well-being in adolescents.
Can the child choose what to play?
You can, but parental guidance is needed to ensure he enjoys games that are appropriate for his age group. “Most games have an indicative rating, which provides guidance on the recommended age for the target audience. Children should have open communication with their parents so they can suggest games and, with their guidance, check whether they are appropriate “says Jimenez.
The most recommended games
Pen and paper in hand? Note which games provide the most benefits to the child’s development process, listed by Caio Silveira Schweller, Administrative Coordinator at Ctrl+Play:
Crash Bandicoot, Ratchet & Clank, Sonic and everyone in the franchise LEGO®: can help develop skills such as problem solving, imagination, persistence, strategic thinking and narration.
Overcooked AND Rayman Legends: These are games with more cooperative content. “In addition to teamwork, there is creativity, processing speed, motor coordination and healthy competitiveness,” says Schweller.
Game series Unveil: A very cute idea for children. “It has a very deep and touching narrative and deals subtly and sensitively with emotional bonds, symbols and resilience.”
Tetris: a classic, excellent for developing logical reasoning
Role playing games (Role playing): can help train social skills and develop empathy and leadership.
“Parents must evaluate children’s needs, interests and learning patterns the risks associated with use. For example, chat online with strangers. As well as the legal provisions. For example, indicative rating. And the general content of the game (whether it is more violent, or whether it has an educational and more relaxed character, etc.)”, adds the Coordinator of Ctrl+Play.
The role of games in class
Augusto Jimenez, CMO of Languages of the mindsays integrating video games into lessons offers students an interesting opportunity to expand their English vocabulary and engage in engaging experiences. “Creating game-based themed rooms allows students to explore their creativity while learning in a fun way,” she explains.
“With the support of teachers, educational games can further complement and enrich the learning process, making lessons more engaging and effective. This approach demonstrates a genuine commitment to innovation and quality teaching.”
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
