In this blog, Joel continues to explain many helpful things about gaming which he began in last week's blog. For a refresh or review, see the blog post associated with March 7, 2019.
Which leads me to my next topic Fortnite. One of the
reasons that Fortnite (a first person shooter) is so popular is because of the
social aspect it has incorporated. Both kids and adults are getting online and
playing with their friends in groups with the sole purpose of beating everyone
else in the world. One other reason that Fortnite is so popular is because you
can play it on just about any device that has an app or can download a game.
Kids and adults are playing Fortnite on everything from their phone to their
PlayStation or X-box. Fortnite has built on the success of other franchises
such as Call of Duty and Halo which incorporated a social aspect into their
online play modes. They give players the ability to customize their characters
and even do silly dances after defeating an enemy. The developers are
constantly changing the game so that it keeps the interest of their customers
and their work is paying off. Last year Fortnite grossed 3 billion (yes that’s
right BILLION) in profits. You can buy Fortnite shirts and backpacks both in
the store and online. It is quite literally a billion-dollar brand which is
staggering considering that the game has not been out for more than a couple of
years.
For my last topic (Spring Break) I am going to leave
you with what I hope are a few helpful tips and or reminders. The first is this,
when it comes to kids and gaming the two are drawn to each other. Most kids do
not have the developmental capacity to set healthy limits for themselves when
it comes to forms of entertainment such as video games. They need you to
lovingly help them to know and understand what is both healthy and helpful. If
you are not sure, do a little research or ask your child’s School Counselor. I
can personally guarantee you that they have answered that question before and
should be able to suggest some good articles or books on the topic.
Second, as spring break approaches start setting
expectations now for what healthy limits look like for both video game and
media consumption in general. Research some activities that you would be
comfortable with them doing over spring break and give them some options ahead
of time.
Third, for
your sake and the sake of their teachers force them to get some physical
exercise somewhere (gym, park, backyard, etc.). Unstructured time doing some
sort of physical activity is important for both their mental and physical
health. Ask any teacher who has taught for more than a week and they will
gladly share with you the benefits they have seen when kids can get out and
play.
Lastly, whether it is playing video games with your
kids, taking them on a walk, a hike or even a trip to the mall. Spend some
quality time with your kids. There is absolutely nothing that can serve as an
adequate substitute for the love of and time with a parent. If you want your
kids to be successful in life there is a mountain of research I can show you
that says a loving, secure relationship with their parent or guardian is the
most important factor. It doesn’t matter whether or not you understand the game
they want you to play with them or activity they want you to do. The time and
connection you build during those games and activities is what will make the
most difference.
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