Research talks about how video games are counter productive to a child's development. I was reading this morning about cognitive training and brain development. It did not talk about video games, however, it did talk about different ways a parent can help their child develop different cognitive abilities.

In the different suggestions, they all used traditional games. Such as playing cards, like poker and memory; puzzles, and board games. These games develop mental processing speed, visual memory and memory strategy. It is interesting if you look at the generation that grew up in the 1940's to 1970's, and compare them to those who grew up with video games (even compare those of the video game generation who did not have a video game growing up) you will find a gap in cognitive abilities.

For example: When a father tosses the ball with his children, those children develop better hand/eye coordination and spatial awareness. Those children who only have a realistic 3D video game have a harder time catching a ball and other objects when compared to children whose father played toss the ball with them.

Now video games are not all bad. The Air Force found out, pilots were good at flying real planes but were bad at operating drones (remote controlled planes). However, those who were experienced in video games turned out to be the best people to operate their drones.

Despite the growing popularity in video games, as parents, we can not disregard the value in traditional games, and quality time playing with our children. God gave us charge over our children. Proverbs 22:6 tells parents they are to 'train up children'. Parents, we need to have a active role in the lives of our children.