

Parents can set whether or not their kids see monsters, the level of violence (mostly survival related), and with whom they can interact in the game. Kids have the opportunity to learn math, physics, science, economics and history along the way - the reason so many schools are now using Minecraft as a tool for learning as well.Ĭustomization allows kids to play the way they want, but it also allows parents to control how their kids play it. It didn’t start out that way, but her kids learned they must work together to do their best in the game. Sheila Dillingham, Asheville mom of three, says her kids get along best when playing Minecraft together. As a game of survival, Minecraft requires teamwork, strategizing, planning, negotiation, and conflict resolution, which means kids are learning many real-world skills that will benefit their entire lives. Through collaboration and experimentation, players practice and develop skills such as problem-solving, flexibility, planning, organization, social skills and time management. Players can interact with others in the game, both friends and kids from all over the world. What excites the kids that play it is that they can create virtually anything they want - it’s up to them to develop what it takes to survive the unknown world they’ve chosen. This is what makes it both great for learning, and captivating. Often referred to as a “sandbox” game, Minecraft is a video game that is open, where players can roam freely as they wish, or complete objectives in the game.

Knowing where to draw the line involves learning what your kids are getting out of it, as well as where their individual limits should be. It’s also one of the most likely to provoke overuse and get kids over-involved. Minecraft is one of the best video games for learning.
