The Olympic Games can inspire your Kids through Video Games

The London 2012 Summer Olympics are here and there are so many ways to use the games to your parental advantage to get your kids' blood pumping with some physical activity and their minds strong with some education.

Olympic Video Games

Not all kids get the experience to see the Olympic Games in person, but how awesome would it be for your kids to be their favorite athlete?

Video games such as Michael Phelps: Push the Limits and Shawn Johnson Gymnastics give kids that chance to become their own athletic hero while encouraging exercise and healthy competition. Parent-approved video games can help improve in educational, social, and physical ways in young children.

In past thinktank¹² blog posts we have discussed how game-based learning is linked to educational learning that involves deeper understanding and more active thinking. So, if they are going to play video games, why not play a game that will enhance their development?

Games such as London 2012 for XBOX 360 give kids a chance to learn the basics of Olympic sports, while promoting physical exercise. However, like any activity, video games should be balanced with other interests and be monitored by parents.

Video games that your kids will enjoy

• London 2012
• Shawn Johnson Gymnastics
• Michael Phelps: Push the Limits
• Mario & Sonic at the London 2012 Olympics
• Imagine: Figure Skater

Related Links:

• thinktanK¹² blog: Transforming the Way We Learn: Why Kids Should Play Video Games
• thinktanK¹² blog: Wii Need to Relate to Students
• Best Health: Why Video Games Are Good For Kids
• Education.com: Can Video Games Make Kids Smarter?
• The Devine Miss Mommy: Keeping Your Kids Safe When They Play Video Games
• GamerDad: Gaming with Children