Yes, gaming can actually boost your child’s IQ

Last updated on 5th January, 2024 at 12:40 pm

While the amount of time kids spend in front of the PC or TV screen – with a console or mouse in hand – can teeter on unhealthy, there is evidence to support the positive aspects of gaming on a child or teen’s development.

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In this article you’ll learn:

• About a new study showing evidence of the positive cognitive effects of video gaming in children.
• How to encourage and regulate healthy gaming habits in your home.
• How adults can benefit from gaming, too.
• About the Sanlam Reality Online Education by Boston platform benefit.

A recent study published in Scientific Reports investigated the impact of digital media on children’s intelligence. It found that video games have a positive influence on young children’s IQ. What makes this study unique is that it took into account genetic and socioe-conomic backgrounds, which were seldom considered in other studies with a similar focus. It’s good news for children, but as the adage goes, there is such a thing as too much of a good thing. So what are the risks of too much screen time?

“Inactivity for extended periods could lead to obesity and other health concerns. Similarly, it could have a negative effect on a child’s emotional wellbeing,” says clinical psychologist Cristine Scolari. With the goal to protect young children, the updated handbook for South Africa’s government censors states that no child under the age of 10 should be permitted to play a PG-rated video game without adult supervision, as these games may contain elements that are disturbing to young children.

The learning benefits of gaming

“Gaming could improve hand-eye coordination, encourage teamwork and help with strategic thinking,” says Scolari, “while more complex games allow [your child] to adopt skills [within a protected space], improve their ability to multitask, help them learn to be resourceful, and to think on their feet and problem-solve.” Video games could also help youngsters deal with frustration and failure [within a controlled environment], Scolari adds.

Is your child prepped for success? Find out how South Africa’s critical skills list can guide your child on their career path, here.

How can adults benefit?

Who doesn’t want to benefit from improved concentration, enhanced memory function and better cognitive skills? Maybe it’s worth considering connecting the console and reaping the benefits of gaming. It’s believed to lower stress, and can be relaxing, which ultimately can lower blood pressure. According to European Gaming, video games can also help increase dexterity, boost mental health and promote the sharpening of essential problem-solving skills.

How to encourage and regulate gaming in your home

It’s a balancing act

“From a young age, teach your child the concept of balance,” says Scolari. “It’s important that they understand that we can’t always do what we want, and that having fun 24/7 is not always possible. But we can do things in moderation. Explain to them that they can play video games, but they also need physical simulation, like engaging with others, eating healthily, and doing schoolwork and chores.”

Be an example to your kids

“Parents and guardians need to be mindful of over-compensating for something by allowing their children too much screen time,” Scolari says. “Parents shouldn’t be overwhelmed and terrified by children’s pleas to have more screen time. Once they know that their parents or guardians are serious about the time limits, they won’t fuss and demand as much.”

Introduce age-appropriate limits

Scolari suggests you allocate about an hour each day for screen time. “Gaming should only be allowed within the allotted time, and should usually come after some routine is followed,” she says.

For example: on the weekend, children need to know that they first need to get dressed, brush their teeth, make their bed and eat breakfast before they are allowed to play video games (or watch television).

Don’t despair when children say ‘I’m bored!’

“Use this as an opportunity to suggest using their other skills to entertain themselves,” says Scolari. “Acknowledge your child’s feelings of boredom or not knowing what to do, but don’t necessarily give them solutions or directions. The aim is for them to think about how to get ‘un-bored’.”

Let your child play and learn digitally! The Online Education by Boston platform can help with that. As a Sanlam Reality member, your child or dependant gets to enjoy access to the free supplementary online education (based on the CAPS curriculum) for high schoolers. Click here for more information.