Caleb Harris, a writer for Pflugerville Pflag, recently took his older boys to an indoor amusement center. As they entered the building, the arcade area immediately caught their attention with its flashing lights, loud sounds, and colorful consoles. While the kids were excited by the stimulating environment, Harris found it overwhelming and headache-inducing. He reflected on the nature of entertainment in today’s culture compared to eras past.
In the past, entertainment required effort and was more interactive. Listening to music meant someone had to play it live, and there was no option to simply press a button to access a wide range of genres. Harris pondered the impact of modern entertainment on children and whether all forms of entertainment are equal. He questioned whether playing video games like Grand Theft Auto has a different effect on kids compared to playing classics like Pac-Man.
Harris acknowledged the appeal of video games, which are designed to keep players engaged with minimal physical effort. However, he raised concerns about the educational value of entertainment and emphasized that all forms of entertainment teach something. Whether it’s hand-eye coordination, problem-solving skills, or social interaction, entertainment influences children’s development.
As a parent, Harris emphasized the importance of considering the educational value of entertainment choices for children. While not all entertainment needs to be strictly educational, he highlighted the significance of ensuring that children’s experiences align with positive values and goals. Harris shared his experience of reading a book in the chaotic arcade environment, noting that the ability to focus in such a setting is a learned skill.
Drawing a parallel between entertainment and fast food, Harris likened junk entertainment to unhealthy food choices. Just as consuming too much junk food can have negative effects on physical health, excessive exposure to low-quality entertainment can impact children’s mental and emotional well-being. Harris concluded that moderation is key, especially when it comes to video games and other forms of entertainment.
In conclusion, Harris’s reflections on entertainment and its impact on children offer valuable insights for parents navigating the digital age. By considering the educational value and quality of entertainment choices, parents can help guide their children towards healthy and enriching experiences. As Harris continues to explore these topics, he invites readers to share their thoughts and suggestions for future columns.