As I talk with people around town, it becomes clear to me that avoiding a conversation with me about video games (like the Wii or Wii Fit) is considered a no brainer.  Not unlike the old adage – “never talk politics or religion with friends, especially the parent of the kids I train will avoid talking about video gaming like the plague.

I must admit, it’s probably for good reason.  I’m the guy who always preaches about being outside and playing as opposed to sitting and playing Wii, Xbox or any video game.

But why?  In an effort to explain my apparent dislike for, and especially, Wii and Wii Fit I have come up with my top 5 reasons why Wii and Wii Fit are not at all what we want our kids engaged in.

As you read through my top 5 keep in mind ONE very important factor.  The goal for our kids is for them to develop as complete human beings. 

1. The visual “world on the TV is two dimensional and we live in a 3D environment.  Neurologically our kids young brains are still processing how to deal with reaction to visual stimulus.  There is a big difference between what is on a flat screen and out on the soccer field, basketball court or even in a game of tag.
2. Social interaction while gaming is limited at best.  Sure some gaming systems have the ability to communicate with others via the internet.  Much of social interaction is communication in order to cooperate, build relationships, learn from one another, mirroring, skill developement etc.  A child cannot get this from a game on TV.  Part of social interaction and communication is touching.  Did you know that ONLY 7% of communication is verbal?
3. Learning physical skills.  I have seen first hand, a child who has engaged in playing a sport on the Wii try to assimilate the same skills in a real life game.  It simply does not seem to transfer well at all. 
4. Coordination is a learned set of skills.  Balance, reactivity, rhythm, kinesthetic differentiation, and spacial awareness are all aspects of coordination.  In young children these skills are and should be learned through play.
5. Creativity.  Need I say more?

This list is neither a condemnation of Wii and Wii Fit, nor is it a complete list of why I believe it is not beneficial for our kids to engage in these activities.

I often hear “well I just thought it was a better alternative compared to other video games”.  In my opininion there is not a better alternative than giving my kids the BEST chance of success to develop during the most crucial times of their lives.

I welcome and encourage you to leave your comments or thoughts.

This is not the first post I have written on this subject, and it won’t be the last.

Dave

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