The children’s world of experience with regard to computers mostly consists of various games and perhaps also what “mom and dad are working on.”
It is therefore particularly important to make the children aware of possible uses so that they can deal with this medium in a multi-layered and creative way, e.g. show the children what different tasks the computer has, e.g. write letters, burn CDs, download music, Reference work on the Internet …
Girl on the Computer
You can also watch funny videos, interesting photos or films or even create them yourself. Nowadays the computer has become a constant companion in everyday life and it is impossible to imagine life without it. Children naturally grow up with the “computer” in their dealings and play or work with the device later in school and at work in order to be able to expand, test and ultimately use their knowledge.
Raising children and visual media
Nowadays, raising children also includes the correct use of media such as television, films and YouTube videos. In general, it should be said that these media should of course be used according to age. It is essential to lead a child carefully. This is best done under the care of a parent or an adult. Child-friendly explanations about a film should go without saying. Careful monitoring and control of the content is just as important for older children who can handle videos on their own.
In particular, games that have many functions and are both educationally sensible and complex have their price. It is therefore important to discuss the content with the child before buying. It can of course happen that the child’s wish does not necessarily correspond to the educational ideas of the educator. For example, the solution here is to let children express various Christmas wishes and the parents to discuss a selection with the child, but ultimately to make the decision for the child’s best interests.
You will then quickly get to know the many possibilities that computers and the Internet offer. Once the children are extensively involved with the PC, many of them will soon be able to fool their parents. Once the interest is aroused, you will soon be a little ahead of the educators in terms of speed of operation. Starting with the programming of the television, the use of cell phones, smartphones and social networks such as Facebook have now overtaken parents.
Different types of play
When choosing a computer game, it is important to judge critically according to pedagogical aspects. (which games are recommended, which are not, which should be used with great care, etc.)
There are four main categories:
Action games
Action-packed games, typical video games. Address the player’s responsiveness. The goal is usually that the player must destroy an enemy.
Brain games / Educational games
Relies on the player’s intellectual efforts. Playing solitaire is excellent for helping children develop strategic muscles and improve their general mental functions.
Adventure games
Are more complex and longer than action games. The player is involved in the action, has to solve puzzles and make decisions about which “path” to take.
Simulation games
This is not about action games, but about being able to understand the story. Historical “action games” and “mind games”
Brain games / Educational games
Relies on the player’s intellectual efforts.
Positive and Negative Aspects of Video Games
Positive aspects
Promote or require certain skills
Negative aspects
Impair or stop certain competencies
Positive Aspects |
Negative Aspects |
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How should parents deal with it ?!
It would be wrong to focus on the negative aspects and thereby show a complete lack of interest in this area. However, one should try to keep the situation under control. And have a say in the selection of video games. Afterward, it is important to talk to the child about the game so that the child can deal with the situation. Parents can of course also play along occasionally.
