How to Use Video Games to Teach Children About War

Do you have a child that is interested in war and you aren't sure how to teach them about it? Sure the library is the first choice, but in today's world video games can teach kids just enough about war that will peak their interest to read more about it in books and magazines--plus your children will have fun playing while they learn.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• A movie/video game rental account
• Video game console/controllers

1. Go to your local movie/video game rental store. Hit up the video game section for whichever system you have and look for war games. Whether it's WWI, WWII, Vietnam, Korean, Iraq, Somalia or the Civil War, they have a game for almost any conflict. Pick one, rent it and take it home.
2. Let the game run at the start. Most of the video games out there have movie clips at the beginning. Sometimes if you haven't seen them yet, wait a few minutes at the start screen and one will start. It will usually be a real video reel of the actual war or it will be animation style. Either way the kids will learn something right away.
3. Get ready for the questions. As the game moves along and you are experiencing actual destinations in the particular war you chose, don't be surprised when the children start asking questions. Although you may not know yourself, it lets you know they are interested.
4. Go to the library. You don't even have to tell your kids you're going to the library. Just go and get some books covering the war video game you chose and put it on the kitchen table when you get home. It's a great way to continue their learning without it feeling like school.

Tips & Warnings

• Playing games for extended amounts of time may contribute to carpal tunnel and or epileptic seizures.
• Video gaming can become an addiction.