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“If kids are going to play it, let’s do it together and share!”
The Benefits and Dangers for Our School Aged Children
On July 6, 2016, a global phenomenon began: Pokemon Go! a free-to-play, location-based, augmented reality game.
Downloaded by 100 million people on Android and iOS within its first thirty days of release, the game has exceeded the average daily usage of Snapchat, Tinder, Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.
Essentially, players go outdoors and use their mobile device’s GPS capability to locate, capture, battle and train virtual creatures—called Pokemon—who appear on the screen as if they are in the same real world location as the player.
“This game will forever be a point of reference for today’s kids and their parents,” Kristin Edwards, M.Ed., co-founder of Lifetime Montessori School in San Diego, says.
“Much like other fads, it has captured a sociological experience that defines our time. It’s a touchstone of today, and better, a shared family experience.”
Benefits of The Game
Pokemon Go! is “the greatest unintentional health fad ever,” says Julia Belluz of Vox. Others have called it “the best exercise application (app) in the world.”
Additionally, it has increased attendance at houses of worship, national parks, art museums, botanical gardens and zoos.
Also, it has grown local businesses that have purchased game ‘lures’ to attract additional players to their retail stores.
And, it has helped police departments catch persons in the process of committing crimes.
Dangers and Problems
Still, there have been problems created by its popularity, including:
- Traffic congestion
- Littering
- Noise complaints
- Parking violations
- Injuries from accidents
- ADA access issues, and
- Sex offender and predator activities.
“Parents should monitor how much time their children play the game,” Edwards says. “Like anything, do it in moderation. For example, hit a couple of spots at the zoo, then, turn it off or put it on ‘vibrate’ so it’s not too visual. Try not to let the game override the attraction.”
“Inasmuch as I’d rather our kids climb a tree or play in the mud, the reality is that kids will also spend some time on electronic devices,” Edwards continues. “The game can be a relaxing and comfortable experience for parents and kids. If they’re interested in it, at least we share it and learn things in the balance. And that’s a better thing than being shut out of their lives.
But—no playing at school!”