What are you passionate about?

If there is absolutely one thing I am passionate about, it’s gaming.

Not just one category of gaming either. I love video games, card games, tabletop games, all of them.

I know at least a couple people who don’t see the value or appeal in gaming, so I’m sure there are millions more out there. That just means they aren’t wired for that kind of entertainment, and I don’t let what they say deter me.

Gaming has evolved so much since the inception of the first dice and card games. There are even studies about the benefits of gaming!

Intricate story telling and artistic expression. Mechanics to challenge the mind and keep it sharp. Hand eye coordination. Group/team/social dynamics and strategy. There are many layers and facets to gaming that most people don’t see either because they just stick to one game or they never bothered to look.

Now, granted, the majority of games are on screens (just like social media) so nowadays it can greatly disrupt development of children’s mental and social skills if that’s how they spend all their time, but that is more a parenting issue than anything. Don’t let them have games or social media, or heavily restrict their exposure and interaction. Simple as that.

That being said, if you’re a parent who doesn’t mind your children playing games and you DO monitor and restrict their access, good on you! Depending on your values and priorities, you could let them play games that help them develop their math and reading comprehension. (Trust me, they’re out there. I grew up playing games like Math Blaster.)

Gaming can be amazing, and there’s usually something for everyone.