Electronic games (e-games) are widely used by children as part of their daily life. Up to 50% of all children use e-games in their bedroom, and children are estimated to accumulate more than 10 hours of exposure to electronic media daily. With the emergent electronic use, parents and health professionals have also raised concerns regarding children’s screen time.
Previous studies have pointed to children becoming more sedentary and falling behind in academics due to high e-game usage. Researchers have also found correlations between children’s gaming time to increased BMI and sleep deprivation. However, it’s not all bad news regarding e-game usage.
A recent study, published in Ergonomics, explored the more positive impacts of e-games, particularly active (or exergames) e-games, on child development. Active e-games that combine movement and learning were shown to enhance motor skills and positively influence academic learning, self-esteem, and social skills. Implemented and used correctly, active e-games can be a tool for health, physical education, and of course, entertainment.