Why Video Games Make Awesome Homeschool Activities for Kids

When you think of video games, the first thing that probably comes to your mind is, well, all the bad associations that video games have, right? After all, when kids have free time to play, this should be spent doing outdoor activities, or when it’s time to learn, this should be done through a hands-on approach or through books, right? Sometimes, the best way to learn is through a more unusual approach, such as video games.

Yep, you read that right! Contrary to what you might think, video games aren’t just about mindless entertainment. While yes, by all means, there are some video games out there that full-on don’t help in the slightest (and are basically mindless entertainment), every video game is like that. They can actually be a super cool addition to your homeschool routine.

Just think about some of the classic and traditional games for a moment; there are those strategic ones that really make you think, such as a classic game of chess, but of course, other games like Risk or even Ticket to Ride could be other great examples that really get the brain going (while others are still mindless entertainment). It’s literally the same for video games, too. So, with that said, here’s why you might want to consider incorporating video games into your kid’s homeschool routine.

Learning While Having Fun

Remember all those times you were told to put down the controller because games were a waste of time? Well, it turns out they’re not! Actually, there are a lot of video games these days, like stealthy teachers sneaking educational stuff into all the fun.
From exploring history in “Assassin’s Creed” to building epic structures in “Minecraft,” games can teach all kinds of cool stuff without kids even realizing they’re learning. Now, these are just two examples, but of course, you could simply go with full-on educational games, too, if you’re more comfortable with that route.

It Can Have the Potential to be Hands-On

Again, there is some potential there. Just think about it for a moment; they’re not just something you watch – you actually get to dive in and play! Instead of just sitting back and absorbing info like a sponge, kids get to jump into the action, solve puzzles, make choices, and explore virtual worlds. It’s like interactive learning on steroids! Think about games like “Legend of Zelda,” for instance; yes, it’s action-packed as you have to fight monsters, but this game is loaded with a lot of puzzles. You could even say that it’s more of a puzzle game.

There’s Something Out There for Every Subject

Now, there are so many educational video games out there, educational and fun! So, what subject does your kid like the most? Whether they love science, history, math, or even just blowing stuff up in space, there’s a game out there that’ll light up their brain and keep them engaged. Theres are plenty of simulators out there, games that are historically accurate, games about wars, and so on. Of course, the game you choose needs to be age-appropriate.

Learning Teamwork

This is something that’s a little more challenging for a kid to learn when they’re being homeschooled. They usually don’t get as much peer-related social interaction as they get when it comes to other kids who go to school. So, they still have those social skills that they need to learn, such as teamwork, proper socializing, and everything else that relates to that.

So, one thing you could do is play video games with them (unless they have a friend or sibling). So, why do this? Well, it’s about picking up those teamwork skills, and a lot of videos will push for that.

Perfect for Thinking Outside the Box

Are you a gamer? Have you ever played video games? Have you ever tried to beat a really tough level in a game? It takes serious brainpower, right? Video games are like puzzles wrapped in stories, and kids have to use their noggins to figure out how to win. It’s all about problem-solving, strategy, and thinking on your feet – skills that’ll come in handy both in and out of the game world. So, the thing is. Usually, the school doesn’t teach kids to think outside the box; it’s something they pick up over time, but you could be the one who helps them pick this up sooner rather than later through video games.

Video Games Can Encourage Creativity and Imagination

If you think about it, video games all started with someone who had a lot of creativity and imagination, and then it grew into an actual game! Well, what about your kid? Have you ever watched them (or any kid) build something incredible in “Minecraft” or create their own world in “Roblox”?

Video games aren’t just about following a set path – they can also be a canvas for creativity. It could be through something like designing levels, crafting stories, or customizing characters; games can spark imagination and unleash a whole new world of possibilities. But sometimes, crayons and paper aren’t enough. Legos might not even be enough; sometimes, it’s best to go beyond that!

It’s Nice for Adopting Different Learning Styles

Every kid learns differently, right? Well, video games are like a buffet of learning styles (all thanks to the different types of courses). For example, visual learners can soak up information from stunning graphics and vibrant worlds, while auditory learners can tune into epic soundtracks and immersive audio. And for those hands-on learners, well, they get to literally dive into the action and learn by doing!

Can Be Great for Learning About Setbacks

The beauty of video games is the fact that they can be tough! But that’s what makes them so rewarding. When kids conquer a challenging level or finally defeat that tricky boss, it’s not just about winning a game – it’s about overcoming obstacles, persevering through setbacks, and building confidence along the way. That immense rush of happiness after defeating a boss they struggled with, thanks to grit, pushing themselves, strategizing, and so on, can be used in real life. Plus, depending on the game, it could help with emotional intelligence during these setbacks.

Forest Rose

Forest Rose is a God Loving, Blessed Wife, &  Mama to 3 girls. She’s passionate about lifting moms out of the trenches that are discouraged, overwhelmed, or feeling alone or isolated. Her hope is to point them to Christ and equip them to rise up with a newfound hope and joy within, that He alone can provide. Besides blogging, she also loves to create printables!