Let’s face it, no matter how much we want to deny it, video games are a big part of our teens and pre-teens daily activities. They look forward to playing with their friends, neighbors, and sometimes online. And if they are really lucky, they get to play with their parents as well. Some of you are probably thinking: I would never play those games with my children, they are a big time waster as it is! Well, let me share with you why you should put down the laundry, and pick up a game controller.
1. Playing video games with your kids is the best way to monitor what they are exposing themselves to. A lot of the video games in the world are really violent, but they are disguised as something normal with clever names and cute packaging. By playing the game alongside them, you can open up a discussion with your kids about why the game is good, or why you think it is something that needs to be monitored closely or taken away all together. By doing it this way, your child can see that you are taking the time to listen and understand them before you make a final decision.
2. You may find that you can have an open, relaxed conversation with your kids. Believe it or not, it’s a great way to get your kids to open up to you. Most often, playing video games is the way that your children wind down from a busy week.(In our household, my boys aren’t allowed to play video games during the week when school is in session). My oldest will sit and play, and I can ask him questions. He can answer without feeling pressured because he is focused on the screen, not on my eyes. It is less confrontational that way, and when you have a teenager, less is definitely more!
3. It’s a great way to bond with your kids. One of my favorite memories during the weekend is watching my husband and sons play video games together. My husband and my oldest share a mutual love for sports, so they look forward to playing games like Wii Sports or Madden ’13. And I have to say, it is entertainment for me when my son beats the pants off hubby. I see them interacting, connecting, and even learning together, and it is a heartwarming experience.
4. It is fun!! When it comes down to it, playing with your kids is just a LOT of fun. Often the boys and I will play Mario Kart or Smash Bros, and we end laughing so hard that it hurts. My kids think it is absolutely fantastic that I can throw away my “parent hat” for an hour, and spend time having fun with them. And I admit, there are times that I get a lot of pleasure out of beating them at their own games. They let down their guards, and they really let me in. And that, in itself, is priceless.
I really enjoyed writing this post and sharing with everyone about some of the benefits of playing video games with your kids. I still believe that games should be monitored closely, and that kids should not have free rein to play them for hours at a time. But when it’s done in moderation, video games can be a great way for a family to spend time together, just enjoying themselves.
Twitter: ThisBusyLife
says:
I totally agree! When our kids were home we played video games with them often. Each Christmas we would get a game or two and then rush down into the basement and play till our eyes hurt!
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Twitter: MOLM2011
says:
Okay, from one Mom to another: What is your favorite game? Mine is Mario Kart
Twitter: ashleytaylor76
says:
We have not gotten the full blown gaming system yet, mostly because I know that the one who will play them all the time…but we do play on the iPad together!
Stopping by from SITS.
thedoseofreality recently posted..Friday Feast: OMG Please Tell Me There Is No Mayo In That
Twitter: MOLM2011
says:
Thanks for stopping in! We don’t have Ipads, so I guess that is why we play more of the gaming systems. Have a great Friday!
I totally agree with this post. Our son loves playing the Wii and enjoys it even more when he can beat his mom at Mario Kart. I also love the Wii as our 2 year old and I use it everyday to workout with Zumba.
Twitter: MOLM2011
says:
Thanks Tanya! Trying to figure out if Zumba is worth getting!
Making Our Life Matter recently posted..Crockpot White Chili
Twitter: NewEnglishMum
says:
Great post!
We don’t have a gaming system either, but when Cole gets older, I am pretty sure we will! I agree that it’s a bonding experience and it’s definitely important to monitor what they are exposed to!
And YES! I LOVE Mario Kart!
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Twitter: MOLM2011
says:
Thanks Tasha!
Love every single reason you list!
Have to say it would have been easier for me to talk to my parents if we didn’t have to stare at each other to talk. A lot of people suggest having conversations with teens when driving — I think playing video games goes along that theory… It’s more relaxed for both parent and teen.
And any time you show an interest in what your kids enjoy, the better!
OneMommy recently posted..Berenstains’ B Book
Twitter: theredheadriter
says:
Excellent post! Yes, parents should play video games with their kids and stay connected with them every way possible.
The Redhead Riter recently posted..Chuckle Of The Day – Seminar And Words
AWESOME POST! It’s also good exercise for your brain, your eyes, and your hands!
God Bless,
PJ
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Twitter: MOLM2011
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I never thought of that aspect PJ, but now that you said it. Maybe that why my kids can get straight A’s without opening their books?
Twitter: prettysweetly
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Although I’m not too much into video games, I do think it’s a great way for parents to spend time with their kids! My mom never really spent any time with me, nor did she care to. It’s really quite refreshing to see you so up for spending time with your kids!
Liza recently posted..So, apparently it can get worse.
Twitter: MOLM2011
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Thanks for stopping in Liza, and the kind words of encouragement. I am so glad you liked my post
Twitter: prettysweetly
says:
It’s no problem.
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