The Tewksbury Patch Moms Council is made of of moms throughout the community from all different walks of life. Each week, the moms tackle a different question posed by readers of Tewksbury Patch on issues of life, family and motherhood. This week, the Moms address whether or not there is such a thing as a video game that is good for kids.

Dear Moms,

It seems like there are more and more video game/activity systems and games out there. I know a lot of them are useless or harmful but can you recommend any video games that are actually helpful to kids physical or mental development?

The Answers:

Maureen Castiglione -- There are definitely educational video games out there, but honestly, I would use them limitedly.  If you do use them, buy ones that are designed specifically for your needs (math, spelling, hand/eye coordination issues).  Video games themselves are not bad.  Where I think you run into a problem is that video games, like anything else, should be played with moderation.

Lisa Broderick -- Hmm, my answer is based on up to 6 years old...we have a Wii and a Leapster. I found the Leapster to be a good choice for my son around age 4. The games are all educational - reading, math, etc. When he turned 5 we got a Wii, the first time he played he was literally sweating from jumping around to play some of the sports games on it, so it's def. A physical type of game system if you buy the right games for it.  Hope that helps.

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