While the Internet expands, more and more people are getting online for different purposes, including enjoyment. Online games are simply one of the many different ways of enjoying the World Wide Web. And the world of online gaming isn't only for grown-ups; children can have fun playing them too. But, is it safe to allow kids to play online games? And, even if it is, is it advisable to let children have access to online gaming at all? Is it a better alternative to having them sit in front of the television?
A lot of parents simply don't have the time to keep tabs on the activities of their children online. Parents should realize that the online world is teeming with predators who are waiting to victimize youngsters. However, there are ways to keep them from stalking kids. For instance, in online gaming rooms, it's easy to disable chatting and interaction. Instant messages can be disabled also. Further, an even more effective way to protect children while they are online is to just keep the computer right in the living room or, for that matter, any area that's easy to monitor. By doing so, you can always see what's going on and intervene if you notice something suspicious. If parents are aware of what their children are doing online, they can better protect their kids. And, it's always better to speak to your children about avoiding strangers - even if they happen to be online.
Okay, but what about online gaming? Should children be allowed to have fun with online games? The answer is yes. Why not?
It's important to discuss different age groups here. For young children, it's essential to let them spend time to learn about computers. And there are many online games that would actually be beneficial for them to play. There are lots of games that teach reading skills, math skills, and many other areas of learning. And since these games provide entertainment, children simply love to play them. They enjoy the sounds, the colors and the challenge inherent in these games.
Older children usually like to watch cartoons on television and will, therefore, love to play the games that revolve around them. And there are many games available on the Internet that have to do with cartoons. Online games such as these help kids improve their motor skills as well as computer usage skills. But, why not get them to learn something more challenging by getting them to play a different type of game. For example, there are word puzzle games that can provide mental stimulation in many ways. Or, you can teach them a bit of history with games such as Oregon (or Amazon) Trail in which they have to survive a dangerous trek across the wilderness. Even older children will stand to benefit from "Sim" games also. The ones involving less violence are better since they help your kids develop entrepreneurial skills when they build companies, buildings, cities etc.
Author Resource:
Aaron Saurie works as a marketing consultant for Andkon Arcade. Andkon Arcade is the home of fun flash games for kids.