What Are Educational PC Games and are they really beneficial for your kids?
Educational games are not a recent phenomenon. Traditionally games have been great ways to introduce seemingly complex concepts to kids through the process of fun and repetition. Think of Monopoly-millions of kids grew up playing Monopoly and in the process learnt about money and maths but were also introduced to fairly adult responsibilities like paying rent and buying property (and even going to jail for some!).
Much research has been done into the phenomenon of computer games. Naysayers like to use the argument that computers are merely a distraction from the real world but in the 21st century computers are the real world and the children will need skills of computer understanding and manipulation to perform even the simplest tasks in their lifetime.
Introducing your child to educational PC games is an exciting time for both child and parent but it can also lead to frustration if certain preparations are not made before-hand.
The tone you set in introducing the computer to your child is just as important as the software you choose. By taking time before your switch on the computer, you can provide a nurturing and supportive environment for your child to learn and for you to enjoy the experience of watching your child grow:
- Set up the environment to suit you both. Make sure there is room for you both to see the computer comfortably if necessary and for your child to use the keyboard and mouse easily.
- Make sure your child is well rested and not over-excited. It may seem like computers will help your child calm down, but studies show they will work better when in a relaxed environment and mood.
- Choose the correct software to avoid frustration. Make sure it is in your child's aptitude level and also in their interests. See our articles for further details.
- Be patient. When your child is using educational software don't be eager to jump in and show them how it is done. Of course they need basic instruction on how to use a computer but often the software is designed so a child can figure the problem out on their own.
- Make sessions short. Research has shown that regular short sessions (maximum of an hour a day) frequently are more effective than longer infrequent sessions. Make dedicated short computer time a regular part of your day or week.
- Allocate time so you can be around to share their successes if they would like to show you. You don't have to be hanging over their shoulder (this is actually not recommended!) but be around and available if they wish to show you have they defeated the Ugly Turb Monster by adding 5+5.
- Have fun! Learning is best if its fun, for both of you.