With the internet, people can now play games together even they don’t sit next to each other. Games can be played over computer networks with other players around the globe and due the advancement in technology in terms of game play, graphics, depth and also broadband access, online games are getting better and better.

Online games are very popular among children and adults, but there are side effects to it if not controlled especially for kids. If you are a parent that have a computer at home with broadband internet access and allows your children to play online games, please take note.

1. Online Games Are Time Consuming
Most online games are fun to play with and are very addictive. Ask any gamers Most gamers spend large amounts of their time in front of the computers. Online games requires gamers to think of strategies on how to accomplish their goals while discussing with other players from their alliances. The main goal is to complete the missions and when you are having fun, time flies. Even a simple game like Travian can keep you sitting at your PC for hours.

2. No Social Interaction, No Life
Although they interact with other gamers, but mostly are through chats and also forums. Some would spend the entire day interacting through chats with other gamers rather than actually meeting and talking to individuals in person. This will make them become impersonal in dealing with people in real life.

3. It Can Affect Your Kids Health
Most gamers would prefer playing games in a dark room. The only light available is from the computer screen. This type of environment will cause eye strain and headache. It will also cause prolonged headache even after they stop playing.

4. It Can Be Expensive
Some sites charge monthly fees to their subscribers. It can be very expensive over a period of time. While there are sites that offer free to play, they do have ‘items’ for sale that gamers can purchase to make their game characters more stronger than others that play for free. It will be a big problem if your children are not money savvy or misused your credit card.

As a parent, you don’t want your kids playing online games all the time. They should have a balance life. There must be time for TV, study, games, and also meeting friend (in real life) and family. It is OK to allow you children to play online games, but you have to limit their time. Talk to them, tell them your views and listen to what they say. Playing games is cool, but there must be some limits to it.

Tags: computer networks, Online Games, Parenting