Age Appropriate Video Games for Your Children

The modern Irish child is addicted to gadgets and although we may wish otherwise, sometimes we just have to give in. Games can be a great source of entertainment for your children and indeed the whole family but so many parents purchase inappropriate games without realising it. At the corner of the video game’s box there is a small triangle that depicts the age group that the product is aimed at. It is very important to stick to these guidelines because so many games include sexual content/references, violence and bad language. By allowing a child to play a video game that is inappropriate for their age group, you could be exposing them to more than they should know during childhood. Violent TV programmes and games also contribute to nightmares and aggressive behaviour both of which we can all do without. We have picked out some of the better video games for children on the market to help you choose the right products for your kids.

• LEGO Batman 2

We love LEGO’s range of games all of which are available on X Box, Playstation, Wii and Nintendo 3DS. When the joker declares his wish to destroy Gotham City, Batman enlists his friends to help put a stop to his villainous ways. We loved the other installments of the LEGO collection, especially LEGO Harry Potter and Indiana Jones. This game is aimed at children from eleven and upward. Gamestop are currently giving away LEGO figurines with every LEGO game while stocks last.

• Angry Birds in Space

Our favourite birds are now in space and we’re sure your child will love flinging the red creatures around on your PC. This game is appropriate for children over the age of three.

• The Ratchet and Clank Trilogy

Playstation have revamped the first three of Ratchet and Clank’s adventures into high definition and any child over the age of seven will get on well with this one.

• Mario and Sonic at the London Olympic Games

Although this video game is only available on Wii and the Nintendo 3DS it is greatly amusing. We have spent hours canoeing, show jumping and swimming and the game is great fun altogether. This game is great for any children over the age of three.

• Dora the Explorer: Dora saves The Snow Princess

This is a great game for your toddler especially if she is a fan of the lovely Dora the Explorer. When an evil King takes all the crystals that make Crystal Kingdom colourful Dora, Boots and Allie are there to help. Children who are three and up will love this one.