Parents: Why you should game with your kids

In a world filled with constant distractions and busy schedules, it’s hard to find meaningful ways to connect with our kids. But for many children, there’s one place they are already deeply engaged and invested—video games.

And yet, so many parents shy away from grabbing a controller and jumping in. The reason?
“I’m terrible at it.”
“I don’t understand these games.”
“I’ll just hold them back.”

Here’s the truth: you don’t need to be good at the game to make a huge impact. You just need to show up and press start.

Why It Matters

1. Shared Play = Shared Bond

Playing video games together is more than just “screen time.” It’s quality time. Whether you’re solving puzzles in Portal 2, building in Minecraft, or trying not to fall off a platform in Super Mario Bros., these shared experiences foster laughter, communication, and genuine bonding.

Games aren’t passive entertainment—they’re interactive. They spark teamwork, problem-solving, and real-time decision-making, often giving kids a sense of pride when they get to teach you something for a change.

2. You’ll Gain Insight Into Their World

Gaming isn’t just a hobby—it’s a culture. When you sit beside your child and explore the virtual worlds they love, you learn more about what excites them, frustrates them, and drives them. You’ll discover what kind of gamer they are: do they lead? Help others? Compete? Explore?

This insight can open up conversations you might not otherwise have. “Why do you like this game?” might lead to a deeper chat about creativity, teamwork, or even values.

3. You Model Growth Mindset

When you’re bad at a game (and let’s face it—you might be), your reaction teaches a lesson. Do you quit? Get frustrated? Laugh it off and keep trying?

By showing your kids that it’s okay to struggle, and that trying something new can still be fun even when it’s hard, you’re modeling resilience. You’re saying, “It’s okay to not be perfect—and we can still enjoy the process.”

4. You’ll Probably Have More Fun Than You Think

Yes, the buttons are confusing. Yes, you might lose a lot. But don’t be surprised if your kid cheers for you, helps you along, and genuinely enjoys your company in their favorite space.

Even five minutes of sitting beside them as they explain the game to you creates memories that outlast the win/loss screen.

How to Get Started (Even If You Feel Lost)

• Ask what they love to play and let them choose something simple to start with.

• Be honest: say you might not be great at it, but you want to try.

• Choose games with co-op modes like Mario Kart, Overcooked, LEGO Games, or Minecraft Creative Mode.

• Laugh often and don’t take it seriously. The moment is more important than the leaderboard.

• Set time limits so it doesn’t turn into a marathon (unless you’re both having too much fun to stop).

Final Thought

You don’t need to be a gamer. You just need to care.

By playing with your child—even badly—you’re entering their world, showing them their interests matter, and creating memories you’ll both cherish. So grab a second controller, sit down, and don’t worry about the high score.

You’ve already won just by showing up.