9.3: Digital

Video Games

Over the past decade, elementary and middle school students have experienced a significant increase in screen time due to the proliferation of digital devices, online learning platforms, and social media. With the integration of technology into education and leisure, children are spending more time on tablets, computers, and smartphones than ever before. This shift has been accelerated by factors such as remote learning, digital games, and social networking, which offer engaging content but also contribute to prolonged sedentary behavior. As a result, students are increasingly exposed to digital environments that may limit their physical activity and face-to-face interactions, potentially impacting their social skills and overall physical health.

Pros of Video Games

When used thoughtfully and in moderation, video games can offer several developmental benefits for school-age children:

• Cognitive Development: Many video games require strategic thinking, spatial awareness, and problem-solving, which can help improve working memory, attention to detail, and mental flexibility. Puzzle-based and logic games can reinforce academic skills like math, reading, and critical thinking.
• Motivation and Persistence: Video games often use immediate feedback, levels, and rewards to encourage perseverance and goal-setting. This structure can motivate children to persist through challenges and develop a growth mindset.
• Hand-Eye Coordination and Fine Motor Skills: Fast-paced games can enhance visual-motor integration, which supports skills related to writing and sports.
• Social Connection: Multiplayer and cooperative games can promote collaboration and communication when children play with friends or family members, either in person or online.
• Interest in STEM: Certain games can spark interest in coding, robotics, game design, and science by introducing children to interactive simulations and creative digital tools.

Cons of Video Games

Despite these benefits, there are notable concerns related to excessive or unmonitored video game use:

• Physical Health: Extended play can contribute to sedentary lifestyles, poor posture, eye strain, and increased risk of obesity, especially if not balanced with physical activity.
• Sleep Disruption: Playing video games before bedtime or for long hours can interfere with sleep, particularly due to the stimulating content and blue light exposure from screens.
• Aggression and Desensitization: While research is mixed, some studies suggest that frequent exposure to violent or aggressive content may contribute to desensitization or increased irritability, especially in more impressionable or emotionally reactive children.
• Addiction and Time Displacement: Video games can be highly immersive and, in some cases, addictive. Excessive gaming can displace time that would otherwise be spent on homework, physical play, reading, or social interactions.
• Reduced Social Skills: For some children, especially those who rely solely on virtual communication, overuse of gaming may interfere with developing face-to-face social skills and emotional regulation.

Educational Implications

Educators and caregivers should strive to strike a healthy balance between embracing the educational potential of video games and setting appropriate boundaries. Games can be integrated into learning environments through game-based learning platforms (e.g., Kahoot, Prodigy, Minecraft Education Edition) that promote engagement and interactive learning. However, clear guidelines about screen time, content appropriateness, and the importance of offline play and interpersonal relationships are essential.

Supporting Healthy Gaming Habits

To promote a balanced approach to video game use:

• Set time limits aligned with American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) guidelines.
• Encourage co-play or family gaming sessions to foster conversation and connection.
• Choose age-appropriate, non-violent games that support creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving.
• Promote physical activity, outdoor play, and screen-free time.
• Use gaming as a conversation starter for topics like emotional regulation, fairness, frustration tolerance, and digital citizenship.

The consequences of increased screen time among young students are multifaceted. Physically, excessive screen exposure is linked to issues such as eye strain, poor posture, and a higher risk of obesity due to reduced physical activity. Mentally and emotionally, prolonged screen time can contribute to decreased attention spans, difficulties in concentrating, and increased risks of anxiety and depression. Additionally, the quality of sleep may suffer, as exposure to blue light from screens disrupts natural circadian rhythms. These negative outcomes underscore the importance of balanced technology use, encouraging scheduled breaks, and promoting alternative activities that foster physical movement and in-person social interactions