Your cart is currently empty!
Is the Value of Minecraft Lost When Kids Prefer Watching Over Playing?
Parents often feel uneasy about their children’s engagement with digital games. The big questions arise: Are video games isolating kids or connecting them with peers? How much screen time is too much? A new twist to this dilemma is that kids aren’t just playing Minecraft—they’re opting to watch YouTube videos of others playing it instead.
My kids haven’t quite gotten into Minecraft yet (we’re still navigating Old Maid), but when I mentioned this trend to other parents, their reactions were mixed. “That YouTuber’s voice is unbearable,” said a friend with a 9-year-old, referring to one of Minecraft’s most popular content creators. “That’s why kid-sized headphones were invented,” another chimed in. “Let’s just say I’m not a fan,” said yet another parent.
How Detrimental Is It?
So, how detrimental is it for kids to watch rather than play? Could this spell the end of any active and creative learning that Minecraft promotes? I reached out to some experts in games and education to weigh in on this phenomenon.
The good news is that they generally agree that watching Minecraft videos isn’t inherently harmful. In fact, it can even enhance the creative learning that Minecraft is known for. According to Alex Johnson, a game designer at the Learning Lab: “This can be viewed as an example of connected learning—where learning occurs in various aspects of a child’s life. If kids only play without watching, they may feel limited by their own imagination. However, by seeking out tutorials and how-tos on YouTube, they can expand their knowledge and bring that back into their gameplay. Who knows, they may even end up creating their own videos!”
The key factor, according to Johnson and others, is whether kids are merely watching or actively using the content for inspiration in their own gaming. If they are learning about new possibilities, similar to how chess players or musicians might learn from observing skilled practitioners, their understanding of the game could broaden. It’s the passive consumption that raises concerns.
Engagement is Key
I also spoke with Emily Carter, PhD, who penned an insightful article on Forbes last year titled “Is Everything Good About Minecraft Gone?” and has two game-loving boys. She notes that while being a passive viewer isn’t necessarily bad, it’s crucial to make that experience meaningful. “Ideally, you’d engage with your kids while watching, but let’s be real—those videos can be pretty cringe-worthy. Instead, have conversations with your kids about what they’re taking away from the videos. Ask them what they’re learning. This way, you reinforce values around creativity and action within your family, rather than just being spectators.”
Consider Connected Camp
If you’re still concerned, consider enrolling your child in the Institute of Play’s Connected Camp—an engaging four-week virtual Minecraft camp this summer where kids can delve into coding, problem-solving, and teamwork. With adult supervision, kids can learn in a safe online space.
So, there’s a silver lining for parents of Minecraft enthusiasts. But what about those annoying voices that come with some of the content? I asked Carter on behalf of all parents who can’t stand the sounds, and she shrugged it off. “Many kids’ characters have irritating voices. It’s just part of the package!”
Conclusion
In summary, while it’s understandable for parents to worry about kids watching Minecraft rather than playing, experts suggest that, when approached correctly, this can be a valuable learning experience. Engaging with kids about what they learn from these videos is key.
For further insights, you might find this resource on pregnancy and home insemination informative from the Center for Reproductive Health.