Children addicted to TV and video games? – Break the habit with Chess
Is your child playing video games instead of doing schoolwork? Is he avoiding social situations—and is his behavior worsening as a result of constant gaming? If you’re worried about the amount of time your child spends gaming or watching TV, you’re not alone— we listen about this on a regular basis. We have heard the desperation and concern in the voices of many, many parents whose kids seem to spend all their time playing video games or sitting in front of the idiot box, as if possessed by some mysterious outside force. Kids have been immersed in a digital universe. There are lot of disadvantages of playing video games such as damaged eyesight, headaches and the inability to sleep.(Reference: Wikipedia)
The video game designers are constantly building upon the game, adding new features to try out and territories to explore on a regular basis. PlayStation, Xbox, PSP, Ipad, Nintendo and the list goes on and on. There is no set end to the game, and the competitive nature of the cooperative online play encourages people to play as often they can. All the TV shows are scripted in such a way that the audience always remains curious about the next episode and most of the programmes focus to attract the young generation with more and more reality shows with their favorite celebrities on the show. With time it becomes their habit for the children to remain in front of the TV or keep playing video games, sparing no time for the activities needed for their body or for their brain.
Overcoming the TV and video games addiction with Chess
Chess is the best medicine for the kids who are addicted to video games and TV. Parents should encourage their children to learn and eventually learn the game which proves to be a learning tool to help children and young adults improve their decision-making ability, concentration, personal responsibility, and sportsmanship. Chess is something that helps your child to divert his mind from TV and use it for something that would sharpen his brain and help him excel in life. Chess is one of the most popular sports in Russia and Armenia is also a chess passionate country. In the US also the game is immensely popular and the New York City Charity promotes the game across the country and that too mainly in the schools for the benefit of the young learners. Many countries organize chess nights and chess tournaments for refugees, mentally retarded people and at urban recreation centers, so as to keep their engaged in something positive.
Related: Benefits of Chess!
The best example that how chess can drag you away from the addictions is this – According to a BBC report, Marottichal, a village in India was rife with alcoholism and illicit gambling, but everything changed after one man taught the town to play an ancient game of strategy – Chess. Unnikrishnan developed a zeal for chess while he was living in a nearby village. He decided to move to his afflicted hometown and opened tea shop, where he started teaching chess to his customers as a healthier way to pass the time.
Miraculously, the game’s popularity flourished while drinking and gambling declined. If you visit this village, one can easily catch sights of people playing chess. A native of this village says, “Chess improves concentration, builds character and creates community”. “We don’t watch television here; we play chess and talk to each other, even the kids.” So true!!
Related: Chess Board and Pieces Dimensions
For long, chess has been considered as a game played only by intellectuals and individuals with critical thinking abilities. However, the interesting fact is that chess can be played by people of all age groups and mind sets. Chess is extremely helpful in brain development, particularly when it is played regularly from a very early age. Learning to play chess at a young age helps the children to gain valuable experience and wisdom which can be applied to almost any situation they will encounter in life. I believe that the parents should feel fortunate for having this brain-training tool to overcome the TV addiction. Encourage your Child to play chess and imagine how it could benefit your children. Children playing chess perform academically much better than others. Globally, the ages of the latest crops of chess grand masters are getting younger and younger. Who knows, if your child wins the next GM title.
Related: Perfect medicine for Alzheimer’s disease – Chess!
Getting into a new hobby like playing chess with wooden chess set is an expensive endeavor. Sometimes the cheapest point of entry is a starter kit that perfectly combines a group of items you need to learn about your new hobby.
What to consider When Buying Chess for Kids
When buying chess for kids there is a need to consider some important factors to ensure that is appropriate for age, gaming level, and interests. Here are some things to keep in mind. Let’s explore all such important factors:-
- Age-Specific Pieces– Chess pieces that are easy to handle and colorful in nature are ideal for younger kids. On the other hand, older children may prefer standard chess pieces. Make sure to consider your child’s preferences, especially if they are younger, before purchasing chess pieces.
- Portability – When buying chess set for kids always focus on the portability so that they can easily take their chess set with them to school, trip etc. Travel Chess Set can be your best companion ever.
- Must Hold Educational Value – As previously discussed that chess is the best medicine for kids who addicted to video games, so you need to look for a chess set that comes up with instructional material or guides how to set up a chess board and everything about chess pieces names and moves. Please take a look at the attached image below:
By considering above mentioned factors, you can select a chess set that is not only age specific but also portable, educational and enjoyable for your kids.
