No matter how much parents and teachers rail against video games, they are everywhere and here to stay. While you could resist allowing any video games systems in your house, as long as you have a computer, tablet, or smartphone, video games will always be available. Instead of banning video games altogether, you should do your best to identify the ones that aren’t a waste of time. In fact, there are many video games that are both fun and extremely educational. Steering your child towards these types of games will keep them happy, entertained, and always learning.
Scribblenauts
Scribblenauts is an extremely fun problem solving and word-based game. In the game, the main character must get past different obstacles. For example, on one level he may have to cross a street and on another he may need to swim across an ocean. At each level, your child will be asked to spell out tools or other things that can help him complete the level such as a boat, rope, or a stop sign. The game recognizes over 22,000 words and phrases and is a great way to teach your child problem solving and spelling at the same time.
Big Brain Academy
Big Brain Academy is a video game that contains hundreds of different mini-games and puzzles. The five main categories of games are Memory, Math, Identify, Think, and Analyze. Not only are these games a lot of fun, but they are extremely educational. Your child will be having so much fun that he won’t even realize how much he’s learning.
LittleBigPlanet
One of the most popular and well regarded educational games is LittleBigPlanet. In this game, your child controls a character called Sackboy who can create different worlds and solve puzzles. It is a super fun way to practice creativity and problem solving. The game is even fun for adults to play, and it can be a great way for the whole family to learn and spend time together.
My Word Coach
My Word Coach contains hundreds of different word games that can teach your child spelling and vocabulary. The game contains almost 20,000 different words, so it can be adjusted to your child’s reading comprehension level. As your child grows and learns new words, the game will recognize this and slowly become more difficult. The range of vocabulary contained is incredible from simple words like cat and dog to advanced vocabulary for ACT and SAT practicing.
Sources:
Time: 6 Unexpectedly Entertaining Educational Video Games for Kids