They’re Not Just for Entertainment VIDEO GAMES FOR GROWING MINDS
Video games often get a bad rap. Many view them as time-wasters with nothing beneficial to offer, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Many benefits can be gained from playing video games, especially for children. Although positives exist, pay attention to what you buy or rent for kids, as benefits vary depending on the type and age appropriateness of the games. Also, limit the time your kids spend playing video games, as too much screen time can be detrimental to their behavior and attention span. The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests allotting 30–60 minutes daily on school days and two hours or less on non-school days. If they stay within this range, you’ll quickly notice your children gaining some of the following benefits from playing video games. They learn how to problem-solve. Most video games feature puzzles and situations that require critical thinking to overcome. Players
must often try different approaches to solve a puzzle before moving on to the next part of their game. They’re learning how to make their own decisions to accomplish goals. “The Legend of Zelda” games excel in this area. Video games spark creativity. It’s essential that children have a creative outlet to focus on as they grow up. While some kids get this from writing stories or drawing, others can showcase their creativity and grow their skills by playing video games. Take “Minecraft” for example. “Minecraft” gives kids an opportunity to create their own world. They can build castles, create roller coasters, and do just about anything they put their mind to, thus enhancing their creative skills. Kids can improve relationship-building and leadership skills. Some games require kids to play on teams. Consequently, they can make new friends and bond over similar interests. Additionally, when
kids play together, they have a chance to practice their leadership skills and lead their team to victory. Sports games and massively multiplayer online role-playing games (MMORPG) like “World of Warcraft” are great for teaching these skills. Be cautious if your kid is playing online with others, though. There’s no telling whom they’re playing with, so make sure they’re an appropriate age before introducing online multiplayer games.
TAKE A BREAK
SLOW COOKER CHICKEN AND WHITE BEAN STEW
Ingredients
Directions
• 4 15-oz cans cannellini beans, drained and rinsed • 6 cups chicken broth • 1 cup chopped yellow onion
1. In a 6-qt slow cooker, combine beans, broth, onion, carrots, rosemary, and Parmesan rind. Top with chicken. Cover and cook on low until the beans and vegetables are tender, about 7–8 hours. 2. Remove chicken from slow cooker. On a clean cutting board, let the chicken rest until cool enough to handle, about 10 minutes. Shred the chicken and discard bones. 3. Return chicken to slow cooker and stir in kale. Cover and cook on high until kale is tender, 20–30 minutes. 4. Stir in lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Discard the Parmesan rind. Serve the stew drizzled with oil and sprinkled with Parmesan cheese and parsley.
• 1 cup sliced carrots • 1 tsp finely chopped fresh rosemary
• 1 4-oz Parmesan cheese rind • 2 1-lb bone-in chicken breasts • 4 cups chopped kale • 1 tbsp lemon juice • 1/2 tsp kosher salt • 1/2 tsp ground pepper • 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil • 2/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese • 1/4 cup parsley leaves
Inspired by EatingWell.com
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