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35% Of Parents Game
Next Generation is reporting on an ESA study indicating that something like 35% of parents play games. Most of them play with their kids, and a large percentage say that gaming together knits their family closer together. From the article: "'The data provides further evidence dispelling the myth that game playing is dominated by teens and single twenty-somethings,' said Doug Lowenstein, ESA president. 'It tells us that parents see games both as an enjoyable activity on their own, and one that allows them to engage with their children as well.'"
Here's more info, via the ESA's press release. There still seem to be a lot of questions to be answered regarding their methods, however, such as how those 501 families were chosen.
This guy's the limit!
Many parents today grew up with video games and it's a great way for the busy mom or dad to bond with their kids, at least in a superficial way given the probability that it will be the extent of their bonding. Also, it makes good sense that they are voters because to be able to easily afford a new game system and spend $50-$60/game, you'd have to have disposable income and IIRC, studies have shown that disposable income correlates to higher voter participation.
True, but with everything there are limits.
I know a family where the dad (50) and 2 sons (10 and 16) play to the extreme. Dad and the boys play ALL the time (dad is out of work, and too friggin lazy to get a real job.) The 10 year old usually stays up until midnight playing with dad and older bro.
Both kids do not do well in school and are anti-social.
I know another family where the 8 year old games all the time, alone, with seriously violent MA games. He has serious social issues too.
So anyway, sure, game with your kids, but set reasonable time limits. Do other things too - don't let gaming be one ot the only activities you do together. And make sure the games are appropriate for the age of the child.