Video games offer a fun escape from reality. But often some consider them a waste of time. Many parents worry if these games make their children dumber?
First, let’s accept that too much of anything can be bad. Even something healthy like superfoods if taken in large amounts can cause adverse effects. So if a child does nothing but play video games all the time, video games will have a negative effect on a child.
Let’s look at some of the advantages of computer games:
A smarter brain: Studies have shown time and time again that after playing computer games, the human brain becomes more active. Additionally, there is an increase in gray matter in areas associated with memory, strategic planning, and motor skills in children who play video games for an hour every day.
Attention to details: These games help children pay more attention to small things. This is because some computer games require the player to pay attention to detail.
Video Games Can Be Educational Too – Video games are one of the best teaching tools. There are many computer games on the market that can be used as an effective educational tool for children. It also helps children suffering from mental disorders to read and understand faster and more effectively.
Improved eyesight: Children can not only see small details, but can also differentiate colors in a better way. It also helps children to notice variation in contrasts.
Better use of technology: In today’s world, many activities are driven by technology. Activities such as operations are performed with robotic arms and cameras. Control of these robotic arms is very similar to computer games with a screen and controller. When exposed to computer games, children can do so with fewer errors.
With that being said, all of these abilities are useful only when used in reality.
Unfortunately, the video games that are popular with children are the ones that reward them for committing violence against others. Because of this, a child may start to assume that this is how things work.
Also, computer game rating systems are ineffective. Ratings are given by the people who make the product. Obviously, they want to make sure that the video games are sold and a profit is made. It should also be remembered that anything that gets kids off the couch is better than computer games that keep them glued to the couch.
With all this being said, the right game and limited amounts can lead to healthier and smarter brains in children.