Wednesday, May 20, 2009

Add Crafts Instead of Replacing Video Games For Your Child

By Rick Amorey

These days, kids are a lot into the video game phenomenon. And while you may think it's a harmless pastime that helps your kid during their idle moments, it also has certain risks for them. Normally, kids play outside, using their imaginations to take them to fantastical lands as they play with friends. But these days, nobody does this anymore, as you can just sit down and look at a monitor or TV screen. This is the problem that is computer gaming.

Don't get me wrong, though. I'm an avid fan of gaming myself and I do see the benefits that playing video games can bring. But at the same time, I must tell my fellow parents that your kids should not be exposed to solely video games, for it will slowly take away their imagination and creativity. Impose a limit to how long they can play. And at the same time, make sure they have other interests that will pique their imaginations.

One such activity that you can try inspiring them to pick up is the art of making crafts. By having a separate hobby that does not rely on technology, you can help imbue a down-to-earth attitude in them. And why not take up the hobby yourself? You will find that having a hobby that you can share is a good way to spend time together.

If your kid has been exposed to unlimited game time, they may naturally be adverse to the idea of limited play time. Don't be alarmed, as this is just natural. Stand firm, but be reasonable, and adjust their hours as you see fit.

You may also want to try to get your child into arts and crafts by using the characters that he or she sees in the video games. How about sculpting that dragon from the fantasy game they play? Or using paper sculpture to bring a favorite character from a video game to life? You'll be surprised at how they'll take the idea once you present it this way.

About the Author:

No comments: