Community Corner

Play Time: Moms are the New Gamers

Moms with game prove kids shouldn't have all the fun.

Written by Nadine Cheung

It's okay to admit it—you love mobile games. Whether you're playing solo at the checkout counter or indulging in animated adventures with your child, you've been known to pass the time by flinging birds or crushing some candy. Now there's no reason to feel guilty about it—not that you ever did.

According to a new study by the Entertainment Software Association, the organization that represents U.S. computer and video game publishers, 74 percent of moms play video games on at least one device. Meanwhile, 75 percent of those moms play on a weekly basis, while more than one-third (38 percent) play daily. Smartphones and other mobile devices are the most popular means, as 65 percent of moms use them for game play.

"Video games create new bonding experiences for families," Michael D. Gallagher, president and CEO of the ESA, said in a press release. "From puzzle games to role-playing games, and across all game platforms, moms enjoy the full range of innovative entertainment our industry offers. As more moms play games, they also recognize the benefits of game play, including how video games help bring families together and exercise our minds in a fun and engaging way."

While games are fun and can help kill time, they also challenge the brain and encourage critical thinking. "Games provide a wonderful platform for intergenerational play and learning," said Katie Salen, executive director of the Institute of Play, a nonprofit design studio that develops new models of learning. "Kids often take the lead in showing their moms what they know how to do in the game—they are the experts! This gives both moms and their children a chance to interact and learn together, which we know from a developmental perspective has great benefits."


TELL US: What games have you hooked? 

This article is part of Mix It Up, an editorial series created in collaboration with AOL's Kitchen Daily and Huffington Post. It is dedicated to making the lives of mothers easier through articles, videos and slideshows focused on simple and creative solutions to everyday challenges. From healthy recipes to exciting ideas for a more balanced lifestyle, this section aims to become a resource for moms everywhere. 


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