Children are using tablets and games consoles more and more in their free time and many parents worry about the amount of time their youngsters are spending staring at a screen. Although it is important that children do not spend hours on end on these devices, instead of restricting the time they spend could some of the time be directed to educational games so that they are practising skills that will be of benefit to them.

Games that involve problem solving are ideal for all ages of children and may incorporate solving puzzles to progress through the game, memorising locations of objects to be collected or deciphering codes. Children are highly motivated by this type of activity and learn without even realising it.

Practising mathematical skills such as rapid recall of multiplication and division facts through a game or competition is an excellent way to motivate children to learn facts that they can then use in their lessons in school.

Story-based games for younger children are enjoyable and can be educational too. As the characters progress through the game, they encourage the young players to make decisions and to explore the online environment which in turn can help to develop thinking skills such as making different decisions, asking questions, making plans, organising and creating information.