7 Tips on Choosing Video Games for Kids ...

By Mercy

7 Tips on Choosing Video Games for Kids ...

Playing video games are a popular entertainment activity for most young children. A number of parents fear that allowing their child to indulge in this activity will take them away from better, more fulfilling ones like playing outdoors or with friends. However it should be clarified that video games can help your child develop some useful skills like judgment, teamwork, playing with others and how every decision has a consequence. For this reason it is wise to permit gaming however choose the games well. Here are 7 tips on choosing video games for kids.

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1

Check the Rating

Check the Rating Image source: electronichouse.com

Every game has a rating provided by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB). This rating is intended to give buyers an indication of what kind of content exists in a game but by no means should it be the sole factor for decision-making. The rating is a general guideline, useful to get a quick idea on what the game is about.

2

Read up on the Game

Apart from checking on the rating, it is a good idea to read up on the games your child is asking for. Some general features can be found on the box but the Internet is a fabulous resource for information so don’t hesitate to use it. You may get parent specific guidelines on whether or not it is appropriate.

3

Check Features of the Game

While you are reading up on the game and whether it contains bad language and disturbing scenes, also find out about its features. Some games have online chat options, which will allow your child to talk to other strangers playing the game. This is probably something you would prefer to restrict.

4

Learn about Video Games

Learn about Video Games Image source: graphics8.nytimes.com

It is a good idea to learn about video games before you get them home. Understand the different types of consoles and controllers. Review the games that are most popular and talk with other parents who are in the same position. This way you have as much if not more knowledge about this activity as your child.

5

Play the Game Yourself

When you get the game home, it is wise to first play the game yourself and see exactly what it contains. You might find that there were features, which you didn’t know existed, and scenes, which you would not like your child to see.

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6

Learn How to Use Parental Controls

During your efforts to learn about gaming and playing the game itself, ensure you figure out how to use the parental controls. Impose the settings and verify that they are consistently adopted throughout the game.

7

Observe Your Child

Finally always observe your child after you get him a new video game. Has he become moody, or aggressive? Is he depressed most of time and only elevated when he is front of the game? These are signs that the game is not working out so perhaps you need to reconsider your decision.

Allowing video games into your home is fine as long as you do so with your eyes wide open. There are a number of harmful games out there so with the help of the steps provided below, make educated decisions, which will serve you well.

Top image source: bigshinyrobot.com

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