Video games offer a fun escape from reality. But they are often considered as a waste of time by some. Many parents worry if these games make their kids dumber?

First, let us just accept that too much of anything can be bad. Even something healthy as super foods if taken in large quantities may lead to adverse effect. So if a kid does nothing but plays video games all the time, video games will have an ill effect on a kid.

Let us look at some of the advantages of computer game -

A smarter brain - Studies have proved time and again that after playing computer games the human brain becomes more active. Also, there is an increase in grey matter in areas associated with memory, strategic planning, and motor skills in kids who play a video game for an hour every day.

Attention to detail - These games help kids pay more attention to small things. This is because some computer games demand a gamer to pay attention to specifics.

Video games can be educational too - Video game is one of the best teaching tools. There are many computer games in the market which can be used as an effective educational tool for kids. It also helps kids who suffer from mental disorder read and comprehend faster and more effectively.

Improvement in eyesight - Not only can kids see tiny detail but they can also differentiate colours in a better way. It helps kids note variance in contrasts too.

Better use of technology - In today's world, a lot of activities are technology driven. Activities like operations are being done using robotic arms and cameras. Controlling these robotic arms is very similar to computer games with a screen and a controller. When exposed to computer games, kids can get this done with fewer errors.

Having said this, all these skills are useful only when they are used in reality.

Unfortunately, the video games that are popular amongst kids are the ones that reward them for committing violence against others. Because of this, a kid may start assuming that this is how things work.

Also, the rating systems of the computer games are not effective. The ratings are given by the people who make the product. Obviously, they want to make sure that the video games are sold and profits are made. One should also remember that anything that makes the kids get off the couch is better than computer games that keep them glued to the couch.

Having said all this the right game and limited quantities of it can lead to a healthy and smarter brains in kids.