Online gaming is constantly evolving and growing, and it’s showing no signs of slowing down. Are you wondering, “Should I play video games with my kids?” It’s a valid question, and quite a bit of evidence shows it can be a good idea.
It’s not surprising that video game popularity went up during the pandemic. However, it’s always been growing, and it will likely continue to do so after the days of quarantine are over. Kids like games, whether it’s on a Playstation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, or a PC. Nowadays, playing casually is more approachable for a new gamer, especially with the rise of mobile gaming.
And the good news is playing video games with your kids provides benefits to you both. Let’s dive in.
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Reason #1 – Quality Time With Your Child Gamer
Many kids like to game alone, but that can mean they’re holed up in their room or the basement by themselves. By partaking in their gaming sessions, you create an environment where you can interact with them.
Digital games can bring people together from all walks of life. They also encourage participation in group activities when kids play on teams.
Plus, theres’ always chatting about the game and what’s going on. When you play with your child in one way or another, you’re doing the same thing.
You can all watch the action, comment, and even try out levels for yourself and laugh at your mistakes together. It’s a bonding experience.
Reason #2 – You Can Learn About Gaming Culture By Observation
When you play video games with your child, you’ll definitely pick up some phrases and terminology. You’ll also learn how your child behaves in situations under pressure and react to a win or a loss.
When you’re playing with them, you’ll also be there to impose any time limits and step in if their behavior becomes questionable. Typically, this isn’t a problem. Most children and teens who play video games don’t end up addicted as so many parents fear.
Even if you discover you’re not a gamer, watching your child play at least gives you the chance to ask questions and learn about this thing they love so much.
Reason #3 – You’ll Learn Things That Other Parents Aren’t
Recent studies indicate that very few parents play video games with their children. By taking time to play with them, you’ll have direct access to their reactions, behaviors, and communication activities.
You’ll know exactly what they’re playing, which can be helpful for older kids when you’re more concerned about which games they’re playing.
No matter what your kids are playing, and regardless of their genders, it’s important to remember that playing with them is beneficial to you both. You’ll understand their games so much better and be able to see why your kids like them so much, and they will appreciate that you are trying to relate to them.
Reason #4 – You Might Better Understand What They Like
Does your child prefer to play Mario Kart? Animal Crossing? Fortnite? Rocket League? Do you know the difference between these styles of games?
Does your child play video games, or do they watch other people play them? Knowing answers to questions like this can help you gain insights into your child’s likes and dislikes.
It can also help you understand why kids like to watch others play. It’s a learning experience for many of them where they can see how a more skilled gamer beats a level or gets past a boss. It also provides a sense of community as they interact with other fans about what they’re watching.
Think about it like watching a movie. You can watch someone do especially well at a level or see them get so close then fall off a cliff. It’s pure entertainment.
Reason #5 – You’ll Learn the Video Game Lingo
Do you know what “fragging” means? Do you know what a “loot chest” is?
Did you overhear your pre-teen talking about “teabagging”? Is everything you do “Sus”?
If you play video games with your child, you’ll be able to learn a little of their vocabulary.
Some of the most used terms include “bug,” which means an error in the game, “camper,” which refers to someone who hides and waits for enemies and hopes to avoid being noticed by others, and “grinding,” which means playing a level or section over and over again to level up and make a character stronger.
A “mod” is short for modification and is usually an add-on to a game, and “troll” is a player who is there to ruin the fun for others.
To learn more essential video game slang, check out this helpful link.
Reason #6 – You Will Be Less Likely to Want to Limit Your Child’s Gaming Time
By playing with them, you’ll better tunderstand how they’re playing, what they’re playing, and how they spend their time. It might lead you to appreciate your child’s gaming better and be less fearful about the impacts of gaming on them.
You’ll see that it truly is just a game, and it may help you feel less worried about the time they’re spending on it. You can still limit how much your kids play, but watching them will help you see that for most kids, it’s about as harmful as watching TV or a movie.
Reason #7 – You Might Enjoy It!
Gaming offers many benefits, and being a parent gamer can be a great thing. You may find a new favorite hobby of your own and enjoy the time you spend with your child playing a game together.
Progressing through levels and building strong characters in role-playing video games can be a lot of fun and a regular pastime for you. It does take time to play and level up characters, so balance is key.
Remember to encourage other activities along with your child’s gaming. Most of all, showing interest in your kid’s favorite activities is showing you care about them. Their faces will light up when they see you’re genuinely interested in learning about their most-loved games.
Do you play video games with your kids? Add your thoughts or ideas about playing video games with your kids in the comments section.
