Children's Gaming: The Benefits and Responsible Practices

Even as adults, playing games is a valuable source and means of sharing knowledge, socializing, and personal growth and development. Games provide numerous benefits, especially for children, but it's essential to regulate certain types of games, particularly video games. This regulatory measure is primarily due to the way at least some of them are designed – especially those with gambling-like mechanics like FIFA Ultimate Team and other games that have addiction-developing mechanics tied to them, introduced with the intent to maximize corporate profits.

Early Play and Early Learning

Games are a main way children learn from birth onwards. Early play can be anything that involves a baby's senses, such as good 'tummy time' activities and time to play with their toes and fingers/hands. Pulling their little socks off their feet can be a major game for about a year and helps to strengthen the tiny finger muscles that will later control a pencil or pen.

Toddler Play and Development

Toddlers expand their play area to include pouring, measuring, drawing, finger-painting, and playing with edible playdough. Water play is also great for this age group, but it must be supervised by an adult to ensure safety. Playing together with toddlers encourages cooperation and the ability to share, which is important if your child will go to a playgroup/nursery at age 3. Card games such as Snap and Pairs can help with number and letter recognition and can further prepare a child for reading and writing.

Play and Bonding at Home

When your child is at a nursery or playgroup, play remains important at home as a means of bonding with parents and siblings. Card games like Snap and Pairs promote number and letter recognition, which are the next educational steps. Activities like making things from recycled materials are excellent for keeping a child occupied and teach them patience and sequence/ order. Encouraging such activities at home can complement and reinforce learning in a fun and engaging manner.

Gaming as a Learning Tool

Games are a great learning tool. Word games, strategy games, and quiet games all build brain activity in a positive way. Children engage in fantasy, imagination, and entertainment while playing games. Some games require reading, math, and focus. They may or may not require equipment, and the availability of games that suit a child's developmental stage can significantly enhance their engagement and learning. Engaging in games also helps in developing problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and strategic planning.

Responsible Gaming Practices

While games provide many benefits, it is crucial to maintain a balance and implement responsible gaming practices, especially when it comes to video games. Parents and caregivers should be aware of the games their children are playing and monitor the time spent on gaming. Setting a limit on the amount of time a child spends gaming is essential to prevent addiction and ensure that gaming remains a healthy and enjoyable activity.

The moderation of certain gambling-like mechanics in video games is also important. Games with addiction-developing mechanics should be limited to ensure that children do not become overly engrossed and at risk of developing dependency issues. Encouraging a variety of activities, including outdoor play, social interaction, and other hobbies, can help diversify a child's interests and prevent unhealthy gaming habits.

By fostering a positive gaming culture and implementing responsible practices, parents can ensure that their children's gaming experiences are both beneficial and enjoyable.