We often hear that video games can have a negative impact on children, but did you know that they can also have positive effects when managed properly?

While it’s true that video games can sometimes lead to negative behaviors, some games can actually help kids learn to manage their emotions.

How to Choose Games?

Not all games are the same, so it's important for parents to monitor what their children are playing. Certain games can trigger emotional reactions, such as frustration when losing or excessive happiness when winning. These extreme emotional swings can affect a child’s emotional stability if not properly managed!

Dr. Dana Watson, a Clinical Psychologist at Families Inc, a provider of child and family psychological consultation services in Jonesboro, Arkansas, USA, emphasizes that this is an opportunity for parents to teach their children how to manage their emotions.

“Just like we teach them other life skills in dealing with frustration and managing disappointment, you can also use situations like video games as an opportunity to teach children how to handle those emotions,” says Dr. Dana Watson.

This insight highlights the importance of establishing clear rules and boundaries around video games in the household. These rules should not only include how much screen time is allowed, but also which types of games are appropriate for children. It's crucial for parents to avoid games that might trigger strong emotional reactions, such as frustration or anger, or games that involve violence or inappropriate content for their age.

Games for Emotional Understanding

On the other hand, parents can encourage their children to play games that foster empathy and emotional understanding. For instance, games like Crystals of Kaydor, where children interact with aliens stranded on a foreign planet, help them learn to recognize various emotions through body language and facial expressions. This kind of interaction not only entertains but also educates children on how to identify and respond to different emotional cues, promoting emotional intelligence.

Setting Time Limits

Furthermore, setting clear playtime limits can help children understand consequences and emotional management. When children know in advance how long they will be playing, they can prepare themselves for the end of the session.

If they become upset when their playtime ends, parents can use that moment to teach them about managing disappointment. By reinforcing the idea that it’s okay to feel upset but it’s important to express emotions in a healthy way, parents can help children build emotional resilience.

Ultimately, balancing video game time with emotional guidance can be a valuable tool in helping children navigate the complexities of their feelings, fostering both their emotional and social development in a supportive and constructive way.

Final Thoughts

So, Lykkers, next time your little one is engrossed in a game, make sure to supervise their gameplay. With the right games and support, kids can develop important emotional skills that will help them thrive. Keep encouraging them to stay balanced and learn from their experiences!