Do you remember when your kids used to beg you to play video games with them, and you would rather do anything than join in? Well, I'll let you in on a secret - I've come to enjoy playing games with my teenage kids FAR more than I expected. Believe it or not, it's not just because I'm finally winning**. So, dust off those controllers and get ready for some family fun that you can all enjoy.
First off, playing video games with your children is a great way to bond and spend quality time together. Any parent of teenagers knows that it is increasingly rare that your progeny wants to spend time with you as they get older. By capitalizing on their love of gaming, you can put aside the stresses of everyday interactions and enjoy some fun for a change. If you’re lucky, you might find out more about your children's interests and hobbies, and you may even develop your own gaming skills in the process.
But the benefits don't stop there. Video games can also promote cognitive development (as referred to in this study) and problem-solving skills, which are essential for success in many aspects of life. Many games require critical thinking, strategy, and quick decision-making, which can help children (and parents!) develop their cognitive abilities.
And let's not forget about the physical benefits. Some games, like "Just Dance" or "Nintendo Sports Switch”, promote physical activity and can be a fun way to get in some exercise. Either way, it's a great alternative to sitting in front of the TV or computer screen.
Organizational Psychologist Adam Grant described the feeling of ‘languishing’ during the pandemic. In this short TED talk, he shares how playing Mario Kart with his extended family helped him stay connected and motivated, enabling him to get through a tough time.
Adam Grant: How to stop languishing and start finding flow | TED - YouTube
As a resolute non-gamer, my gateway to gaming also came during the pandemic when Nintendo Switch released a new version of Animal Crossing. It gave me a low-stress way of feeling like I was achieving something – especially when we couldn’t leave the house. My daughter and I shared excitement about catching a new species of fish or seeing a shooting star, and it felt great to be able to connect and share those moments together.
Image credit: https://imgur.com/tu8cQnb
https://www.gamemite.com/cheats/nes/
My gaming was taken to the next level recently, when ‘Santa’ brought our family some extra Switch controllers, meaning 4-person games were now possible. This led to some epic Mario Kart battles, amplified when our dinner party guests joined in the fun. The teenagers loved crushing our spirits with their superior skills, but the playing field was more level in Nintendo Switch Sports, where we all leapt around like crazy people in volleyball or tennis.
If you haven’t tried gaming with your kids, the upcoming break is the perfect time to give it a go! It might be just what you need to strengthen that bond between you and your children. At the very least, you’ll have them laughing – even if it’s AT you, rather than WITH you! Below are some suggested games you might enjoy playing together (at different age levels). See CommonSense media for game reviews and other suggestions.
For younger children:
"Super Mario Party" - a multiplayer game that encourages teamwork and cooperation.
"Just Dance" - a dancing game that promotes physical activity and family fun.
"Mario Kart 8 Deluxe" - a racing game that promotes hand-eye coordination and sportsmanship.
For older children:
"Minecraft" - a sandbox game that encourages creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration.
"LEGO games" - a series of games that allow children and parents to build and explore, while also promoting problem-solving and creativity.
"Portal 2" - a puzzle game that promotes critical thinking and problem-solving.
For teenagers:
"Fortnite" - a multiplayer game that promotes teamwork, communication, and strategic thinking.
"The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild" - an adventure game that encourages exploration, problem-solving, and creativity.
"Jackbox Games" - a collection of party games that promotes socialization, creativity, and humour.
Further Reading
Gaming & Mental Health | Parents Guide To Support | YoungMinds
9 Benefits of Video Games for Your Child (parents.com)
**Occassionally. If we’re on 50cc. And my kids are distracted.
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