I was once a gamer kid, back in the 80’s. And now I’m a gamer mom. My 9-year-old son’s friends think this is incredibly cool. How often when they go to a friend’s house do kids hear from the parent in charge: “Hey guys, Lego Star Wars III just came out, you wanna help me get the red bricks?” instead of: “Turn that thing off and get outside!”
Yeah, I’m that mom. Don’t worry, they still get plenty of exercise at my house…. playing Wii. (Just kidding.)
In support of healthy kids’ gaming playdates everywhere, here are a few of the games in constant rotation at my house. Because I’ve played them all, I can promise you – No bad words. No blood. Cartoon violence only (approximately the equivalent of a Disney movie). And when they’re done enjoying these, kick those kids outside (and if you’re me, that’s when you settle in to play Dragon Age. 
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1. Pokemon White or Pokemon Black
(Nintendo DS) These are the most recent in the series, but any Pokemon title will do. Those little pokemon are so gosh darn cute until they evolve! Plus, try getting a toddler to say the word “Pikachu.” I promise you, any attempt will be adorable.
2. Mario Sports Mix
(Wii) When March and April showers have the kids stuck inside and you want to wear em out, pop in the Sports Mix and let them act goofy in front of virtual hockey, basketball, and volleyball. Just have the water bottles handy for when they need a rest!
3. Viva Piñata Party Animals
(Xbox 360)It’s like a wild kids’ birthday party in a video game. Kids love making their piñata avatars eat as much candy as possible to win contests, and racing around the loony obstacle courses.
4. Curious George
(GameBoy Advance) For those of you with a GBA still sitting around your house, this game is definitely worth trying to swap for. It’s basic platform action, but something about George’s smiling face when he reunites with the Man With the Yellow Hat at the end of each level just keeps ya comin’ back for more.
Are you a gamer parent too? What kid’s games would you add to this list?
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