Parents who are uncomfortable with the amount of technology their children use often wonder whether it’s a good idea to give their kids video games for Christmas. Frequently, I tell parents that video game play in itself can be cognitively challenging and positive for their children — if there is anything problematic about digital play, it is the amount of screen time some children partake in.

If you want a happy kid this holiday season, make certain that some of her presents are electronic. Besides the high ticket items like smartphones, tablets, laptops, and video game consoles, there are thousands of other lower-priced tech items — like the ones in this roundup — that can spark their creativity and get them involved in STEAM (science, tech, engineering, arts and math). Electronic gifts are an increasingly popular choice for toddlers and preschoolers, with more and more toys and games being designed to stimulate and grow their young minds.

For older kids, be certain to find games and apps that are primarily fun, with a bit of learning opportunity. Our LearningWorks for Kids Playbooks help with that challenge by giving you the rundown in popular games and apps as well as talking points to help your children translate in-game skills to the real world. Our entire review process revolves around the “Fun Score” and the “Brain Score,” insuring that your children have entertainment as well as learning value.

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There’s no denying that tablets and smartphones are the new Christmas stockings, and over the next month we will be posting guides to help parents find the best games and apps to stuff them with. Rather than simply choose a “top 10 best video games for Christmas,” we’re grouping the best apps and video games for engaging kids with different needs and issues. You’ll see lists of games and apps to improve academic, executive functioning, problem solving, and communication skills. We’re also putting together lists of the best video games for kids with ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, and Depression. Keep a lookout for these blog posts over the Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and Christmas 2015 season!

 

Featured image: Flickr user stopsign