Welcome to the Tuesday Toots!

Ever looked at your child gaming and thought, "What a waste of time!"

But what if they’re not zoning out? What if they’re building skills like teamwork, strategy, and communication unconsciously?

Before you blow your fuse and rush to confiscate the console, hit pause and take a closer look. Look beyond the game; at what’s really happening when they’re deep into that round of Minecraft or League of Legends.

"Play is our brain's favourite way of learning." - Diane Ackerman

The Unexpected Power of Play

We’ve all played games growing up. Remember Hangman or Nuts & Crosses? Simple rules. Maximum engagement. Endless variations. That’s the power of games. They’re flexible, fun, and if you’re clever, full of learning.

Modern video games look different; technical, isolating and way cooler. But if used wisely, they have the same potential for teaching real-life skills.

Like everything else, the game isn’t the problem; it’s how we use it. With the right guidance, video games can become a powerful learning tool to develop:

- Communication

- Strategic thinking

- Teamwork

- Conflict resolution

- Decision making

The screen time has the potential to become a masterclass for learning life skills for your child.

The Bright Side of Gaming (Yes, There Is One)

The common image of gaming is a child, locked in a dark room, zombie-eyed and locked into a controller. And sure, that’s one version.

But there’s a better one:

One where your child is collaborating, strategizing, and learning to work with others in fast-paced, high-stakes scenarios. And that version deserves your attention.

Games like Overwatch, Minecraft, Among Us, and League of Legends can help children:

- Build social connections

- Learn to respect diverse roles

- Think on their feet

- Make decisions as a team

- Handle setbacks with resilience

Sounds too good to be true, right?

What Skills Are Being Built While They Play?

Here are four major teamwork skills that kids sharpen while gaming:

1. Strategic Planning

Every game has goals and rules. Players have to think ahead, make collective decisions, and work with limited resources, like in real-world decision making!

2. Communication

Success in multiplayer games depends on clarity. Whether it's calling out imposters in ‘Among Us’ or planning attacks in ‘League of Legends’, kids learn how to express themselves and listen effectively.

3. Role Distribution

Each team member brings something different. Through games, kids learn to value every role, understand strengths, and work with mutual respect (you can’t ghost the healer!).

4. Problem Solving & Conflict Resolution

Every level has challenges. Players must troubleshoot, think creatively, and resolve conflicts, all simultaneously and under pressure. That’s some serious emotional muscle-building.

So, What Can You Do as a Parent or Educator?

Video games can be a positive hobby, but only with structure and awareness. Here’s how you can support your child’s gaming journey:

1. Pick the Right Games

Choose age-appropriate games that promote cooperation over competition. Set rules, like time limits, and homework first, and a cool-down routine post-game.

2. Reflect Together

Ask thoughtful questions post-game:

- What worked?

- What could your team have done better?

- How did you feel during a tough round?

These help kids become aware of the decisions they make, both online and off. They learn to review and reassess their decisions.

3. Create Balance

Gaming is fun. Try offline games also which are quite fun. Board games like Scotland Yard (that’s a classic!), team sports, theatre, or debate. Keep a healthy mix of online and offline play.

Rethink Your Role: Ally or Opponent?

Next time you see your child gaming, don’t instinctively reach for the power switch.

Observe and ask:

- Which game are they playing?

- With whom?

- What are they learning, without even realising it?

Better yet, see if you can join them! Be a teammate—or even a cheeky opponent. You might just discover how strategic, clever, and resilient your child really is.

Plus, it’s a great bonding opportunity (and you’ll finally understand all those weird game references!).

Let’s Press Play on Growth

Gaming isn’t the enemy—it’s a tool. And with your involvement, it can be a joyful, skill-building experience that deepens your relationship with your child.

So don’t shut the door on the game room. Open it. Sit down. Pick up a controller.

And play.

Your Next Move:

Join the game. Talk to your child about what they’re playing. Try a session together—team up or battle it out.

Then, reply to this email or leave a comment:

What did you learn about your child through gaming?

Let’s build more than just virtual worlds—let’s build real connections.

Books by My Bedside

The Lion Women of Teheran by Marjan Kamali

A simple guidebook to help you build your child's social skills and get them ready for tomorrow! Buy your copy now!!

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P.S. Want more tips on building strong life skills in your child? Stay tuned for more newsletters and resources, or feel free to join the conversation with any questions!

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Take care till next time,