Video Games, Tire Swings and Learning

My almost six-year old son LOVES video and computer games:  Wii, Nintendo 64, computer, my iPod Touch. 

I struggle with this.   Trying to strike a balance between how much is ok for a five year old to play (if he should play at all) and going with the Everything Bad is Good for You mentality.  Trying to embrace the notion that he is of the next generation.

Son was struggling with a certain game for quite a while.  The big boss was really hard to beat and after countless attempts, even my husband gave up.

Change scene to an indoor playground a few weeks ago.  My son engrossed in conversation with a 7 year old as they sit on a tire swing.  The topic?  Video games.  And how to beat this particular boss.

This week, my son beat the boss in one try.  All by himself.  Turns out Playground Kid made a suggestion about which characters he should choose to play on his team.  He didn't know exactly which ones to pick, but it got Son thinking.  Son carefully selects the right team and wins. 

Elation.  Triumph.  Joy.

Photo credit:  tire swing by without you