Video Games and Brain Development in Children What are the Benefits?

Video Games and Cognition

We know that Video Games can be harmful in large doses (See My son is too addicted to Minecraft What can I do? However what are the effects of video games on children when used in moderation?

Video Games are not good for kids surely?

It may seem far-fetched however many studies have shown that Video Games like Minecraft can actually boost cognitive development in children. Below are some sources for articles that support this assertion. (If you're interested in more research on the benefits of Video Games on Children feel free to check out our More Beneficial Games Like Minecraft Page).

How a Minecraft world has built an online playground that is safe for children with autism

This article by Kathryn Ringland provides information on how Minecraft can be used to create a safe space for children on the Autism spectrum.
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Kathryn Ringland. (2019). How a Minecraft world has created an online playground that is safe for children with autism. Retrieved from https://www.sbs.com.au/news/insight/how-a-minecraft-world-has-built-a-safe-online-playground-for-autistic-kids

Video Games Play May Provide Learning, Health, Social Benefits, Review Finds

The American Psychological Association goes into-depth on the cognitive benefits of playing video games - provides information on how social, health and learning aspects are improved!

American Psychological Association. (2013). Video Games Play May Provide Learning, Health, Social Benefits, Review Finds. Retrieved from https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/2013/11/video-games

'Minecraft' Does Good Things for Your Brain

This article by Jeremy Sutton details the improvements that playing Minecraft can bring to the development of the hippocampus (the part of the brain associated with memories).

Jeremy Sutton. (2020). 'Minecraft' Does Good Things for Your Brain. Retrieved from https://elemental.medium.com/minecraft-does-good-things-for-your-brain-6add8123153f

Want to boost creativity? Try playing Minecraft

Iowa State University explains that playing Minecraft can increase the creative abilities of players.

Iowa State University (2019). Are you looking to boost your creativity? Try playing Minecraft. Retrieved from https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2019/07/190708140051.htm

'Redstone is like electricity' Children's performance representations in and around Minecraft

This academic article outlines the potential advantages of learning in a digital world. Be cautious!

Dezuanni, M., O'Mara, J., & Beavis, C. (2015). 'Redstone is like electricity': Children's performative representations within and around Minecraft. E-Learning and Digital Media, 12(2) (147-163).