Growing up as a millennial, I consider myself fortunate. My childhood was a unique blend of older technology and newer innovations, offering a vibrant mix of analog and digital experiences. One of the standout memories from that time is the endless hours my siblings and I spent playing video games, often joined by our parents. It’s a fond recollection that has shaped my views on family bonding.
Family Connections Through Gaming
Our parents, who introduced us to gaming in the ‘80s, indulged in their own gaming nostalgia. They often reminisce about how their first joint tax return went towards purchasing an Atari console. This early exposure laid the groundwork for cherished family memories—especially when our mom masterfully conquered challenging levels in “Zelda,” bringing us joy and excitement.
Modern Kids Desire the Same Connection
Recent findings from the Entertainment Software Association (ESA), established in 1994 to support the U.S. video game industry, highlight a renewed desire among kids for family interactions through gaming. In a recent survey, nearly 60% of children expressed the wish to receive video games as gifts this holiday season. Remarkably, 58% of these kids also indicated that they want their parents to actively participate in gameplay with them. This percentage increases significantly, with 73% of kids aged 5 to 7 wanting parent involvement, followed by 66% among children aged 8 to 9, and 62% in the 10 to 12 age group.
Creating Quality Family Time
It’s easy to overlook how much even older children value spending time with their parents. Engaging in activities that your child enjoys—like playing video games—can tremendously enhance quality family time. Reflecting upon my childhood, I cannot emphasize enough how those shared gaming sessions with my parents contributed to our bond, creating memories that we still cherish today.
Choosing the Right Games
When it comes to selecting video games for your family, the ESA recommends considering age-appropriate ratings and content descriptions. Understanding what games your children are playing—and how they engage with those games—is crucial for their safety and enjoyment. Thankfully, you can gain deeper insights into their interests by playing alongside them.
Games That Foster Family Bonding
Here are some game suggestions that resonate with numerous parents looking to engage constructively with their kids, ensuring a fun experience for everyone involved. Some games cater specifically to multiplayer formats, while others allow for taking turns—much like how we would pass the controller during intense moments in “Aladdin.” The key is to identify games that bring joy and engagement to both you and your child, facilitating shared bonding experiences.
Take Action This Holiday Season
As the holiday season approaches, make it a point to discuss gaming preferences with your children. If they express interest in video games, consider subtly inquiring about finding a game that the whole family can enjoy together. You may be pleasantly surprised by the depth of joy these video games can bring to both your children and yourself.
