what are the effects of video games

which video game system is right for your children...

If your child has older siblings he or she most likely sits and watches the other children play their video games only to wonder why they can't participate. With a video system based towards learning and creative play, your child can feel like a big kid and learn a thing or two while doing so.

The VTech V-Smile is geared towards children between the ages of 3 to 8 years of age. This educational video game system can easily connect to any television in your home. It has fairly good graphics that seem to look better on a small television set rather than a larger screen. This system would work great set up in your child's room and would not take up a lot of room.The less clutter the better. V-Smile approaches learning with a unique ability that is sure to attract even the most reluctant children.You could go as far as saying it tricks them into learning. This is the first of it's kind that allows early school age learners to play several imaginative and exciting games.

It uses popular characters to guide the children through age appropriate skill levels and master their developmental skills. They will learn essential skills to help them with their teachings in school, such as:

Math

Spelling

Problem Solving

Memorizing the Alphabet

Color Recognition

The creative jumbo sized joystick is designed for right or left handed children. This will ensure no child will feel left out. The joystick also has four flashing buttons with a huge enter button in the center of the pad that is created especially for preschoolers' little hands and fingers. The four buttons are a great way to teach your child their colors while learning to play their games. A second joystick can be added for two-player games, although the second joystick would have to be purchased separately.

If your preschooler is able to recognize letters, then the starter system should be enough to keep them interested for a while. If your child is just beginning to learn their ABC's, then you may want to purchase some other games that will teach them their alphabet rather than simply reinforcing it. There are several other games you may want to consider to reinforce their other skills and developments.

If your child is on the younger end of the age group you may have to help them insert and eject the cartridges until they are familiar with the system. This may also be the case with the games they play. Some of the games will need your initial instructions, but after one or two times your preschooler should get the hang of it.

The basic system comes complete with the game console and one jumbo joystick.The joystick is a wonderful way to have your child learn their basic hand-eye coordination. The control is easily adjusted for left or right handed children.

With a younger age group of children using the Nintendo GameCube you can be sure there are a number of child friendly games available. Good games without violent or questionable content are out there, but they are sometimes hard to find. These games are labeled E for Everyone. Here is a list of child safe games along with a brief explanation of them.

Pikmin- This game puts you in control of a tiny alien trying to rebuild his crashed spaceship with the help of little creatures. Pikmin is simple enough for the younger children to enjoy and deep enough for an older child or an adult to play.

Pikmin 2- This game is similar to the first but adds a couple of extra features. Pikmin 2 adds a multiplayer mode that does not exist in the first. This is excellent for parent and child to play the game together.

Animal Crossing- This game will appeal to any age group. Animal Crossing makes a member of the town where you can send letters, fish; decorate your house, and plant trees. The seasons change is this real life game, which keeps your child interested in the different settings.

Super Monkey Ball- You guide a monkey in a ball through several obstacles. The concept is easy and is available in multiplayer.

Super Monkey Ball 2- This version of the game comes with different levels. This offers a different level of play and they will have fun challenging themselves through the new obstacles.

Mario Kart Double Dash- This is a racing game that is very easy to control and learn. You can use turtle shells to knock your opponent off the course. This game also can be played in multiplayer mode to include parent and child interaction.

Super Mario sunshine- Mario is one of the most popular figures in the video game industry. In this particular game Mario is forced to use water cannon to clean up mud at a beach resort. This game is one of the more challenging, due to the fact of Mario having to jump from one platform to another while performing his tasks.

Legend of Zelda- The Wind Walker- Your child's character will battle monsters with his sword. This game has a certain level of violence, but there is no blood. This may be geared toward an older child who wants a little more depth in his gaming.