When we think of computer games, we might think of getting square eyes!
At the moment, the media tends to focus on the negatives when it comes to children playing technology and computer games, and we’re all guilty of it. But what if these games that children love playing had some positive benefits? Well, they do! In this piece we will discuss the benefits that children receive from engaging with computer games, and they may just surprise you!
Playing Computer Games Improves Coordination
When both adults and children play computer games, it may just seem like they are mindlessly staring at a screen for hours on end, not engaging their brains, but what is actually happening is the polar opposite. The actions and activities that computer games provide on-screen promote mental stimulation. Playing a computer game requires co-ordination skills for audial, visual and physical movement, which requires a lot of brain power!
Playing Computer Games Improves Attention and Concentration
It may not be a surprise that computer games improve concentration and attention if you’ve ever tried to evoke either of these skills out of someone in the middle of a computer game. The entranced state we enter when we are playing a computer game is similar to that of watching a movie or reading a book. Computer games capture player’s attention for long periods of time by offering incentives, such as achieving certain objectives or getting through a storyline.
Find out How Mindfulness Can Help Children!
Playing Computer Games Improves the Brains Speed
Playing computer games offers the brain multiple sources of stimulation, such as audial and visual. This is especially true of ‘brain training games.’ Research suggests that playing brain training computer games can actually help players process stimulators faster than those who don’t play computer games frequently.
Playing Computer Games Improves Problem-solving Skills
The majority of computer games have a definitive objective, and with computer games, certain rules and restrictions are involved. These rules and restrictions frequently force players to problem solve and think about alternative routes or moves. Acquiring these skills isn’t only relative to a computer game, but is translated into real life, helping those who play be able to problem solve effectively in real life.
Playing Computer Games Improves Social Skills
Playing computer games may seem like an isolated activity, but with technology and gadgets now, we have entered a whole new level of interaction. You can play online computer games all over the world, which means you also interact with people all over the world. Games often include microphones while playing now, which means there is constant communication between gaming peers. This is a great ground for forming not only new friendships, but for also strengthening current friendships as games also often act as common ground for particular age groups.
Playing Computer Games Enhances Multitasking Skills
Computer games come in a variety of different categories. Much like music and film, certain computer games will enhance multitasking skills. For example, an action game requires you to be observant in the game, and check for different obstacles at any different point. There is so much information that needs to be checked frequently, such as time left on the game, energy levels or an oncoming attack. Players tend to manage all of these and, in turn, improve their multi-tasking skills. As with most other skills learnt while gaming, these are transferable skills that can be utilised in real life.
As with all media, games should be age appropriate, and it’s important to remember that children develop cognitive skills at their own pace.
At St Peters, boarding schools Devon, we know it’s important for children to have fun and socialise and that technology can be a big part of that.
For more information, please visit our website here or contact us on 01395 272148
