There are many fun and engaging video games out there that actually help children move around, develop social skills and learn. However, not all video games are helpful. Some video games might scare a young child or make an older child unnecessarily combative or aggressive. Knowing when to let your child play and when to stay away will help you harness the power of video games for good in your child’s life.

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A family vacation is right around the corner, and Mom and Dad are excited about what they have planned: staying in a lakeside cabin, fishing, spending time on a boat and experiencing nature first-hand. When they arrive at their destination, their 15-year-old son has plans of his own – he’s brought his video game player with him on the trip.

The teen refuses to go fishing and spends most of his vacation inside playing video games. His parents are disappointed but don't know how to handle the situation.

Playing video games is a popular pastime for children and teens. The latest video game systems and video games are always hot topics for these kids and their parents. And, many parents struggle with the question of whether these games are good or bad for their kids.  

The short answer is that it all depends on the games and how they’re played. When it comes to your child and this popular form of entertainment, consider these basic suggestions.