What Do Teachers Really Think About Using Video Games for Learning?

Can Video Games Truly Be Educational?

As a parent, it’s not uncommon to feel overwhelmed by the tug-of-war between screen time and schoolwork. You might wonder, especially after another evening of homework frustration, whether there’s a middle ground where your child’s love for video games could actually support their learning. The debate over the educational value of video games is ongoing, but what do teachers — the ones working with your child day in and day out — really think?

The Shift in Perspective Among Educators

A decade ago, bringing up video games in a parent-teacher conference might have been met with side-eye or a polite pivot to another topic. Today, however, the tone is changing. Many educators are beginning to explore how games — when thoughtfully chosen — can complement classroom learning and encourage soft skills like problem-solving, perseverance, and collaboration.

Recent studies and expert commentary suggest a growing consensus: not all games are created equal, but some can indeed offer meaningful learning outcomes. Teachers are not only noticing how certain games help children grasp complex concepts, but also how they can boost engagement in students who often struggle with traditional methods.

What Teachers See in the Classroom

At the elementary and middle school levels, where emotional development is just as critical as academic growth, teachers often notice that students come alive during interactive, game-based activities. Whether it's an educational math puzzle or a language game with storytelling components, the interactivity grabs their attention. Some educators are even integrating platforms with game dynamics into their own teaching strategies to create a more engaging learning environment.

Interestingly, teachers aren’t just looking at scores or grades. They’re observing softer shifts: a child raising their hand more often, showing patience with a difficult problem, or collaborating well during group tasks. These traits can sometimes blossom through the right kind of gaming experiences. And yes, some games might actually be teaching children patience.

Addressing the Struggles You See at Home

It's tough watching your 8-year-old lose focus five minutes into homework while they can play a game for hours. The contrast is glaring, and it can feel frustrating. But what if that engagement isn’t just about entertainment, but about how their brain connects with dynamic environments?

Many educators now consciously study ways to replicate that level of engagement in academic content. For instance, games that center around story-driven quests or challenges reflect the kinds of critical thinking and narrative-building found in ELA classrooms. Quite a few teachers support the use of these tools at home as a supplement to, not a replacement for traditional homework — especially for children who learn through auditory or visual cues.

It’s also worth noting that some games might aid the very areas where your child struggles. Struggling with focus? Certain games are designed to strengthen attention span. Having a hard time regulating emotions? Collaborative or cooperative games may provide controlled environments to help learn emotional regulation — as explored in this insightful discussion.

Choosing Games That Extend Learning

Educators who support game-based learning tend to advocate for titles with a clear educational framework — games that teach math, languages, coding, or even reading through interactive storytelling. But just as important are games that feed emotional intelligence, critical thinking, and creativity. It’s no longer just about “learning” in the academic sense but about holistic development.

For parents, this doesn’t mean you need an advanced knowledge of game mechanics, but rather a curiosity about what motivates your child. Ask your child's teacher for suggestions. Many teachers are already familiar with age-appropriate educational games and may even use some in class. Look into titles that reward exploration or logical thinking, rather than fast reflexes and mindless achievement.

Another excellent way to spark learning through digital media — beyond traditional gaming — is with storytelling platforms. For younger kids or reluctant readers, listening to original audio series designed for kids can build comprehension and spark imagination. Apps such as iOS or Android's LISN Kids, which offers a broad selection of original audiobooks and immersive audio adventures for kids ages 3–12, can be a valuable companion to more visual-based platforms.

A Partnership Between Home and School

Ultimately, teachers aren’t interested in turning your living room into an arcade, nor do they expect every child to thrive through screens. What they value — and what many now vocally support — is an open-minded, judicious approach to using video games as one possible tool in your parenting and education toolkit.

Talk to your child’s teachers. Find out what they observe in class and which tools they recommend. Sometimes, the right educational game or app could serve as a bridge connecting school efforts with home support. And don't be surprised if, over time, your child begins to view learning not as a chore, but as another kind of adventure — one they can explore with the same curiosity they bring to their favorite games.

Here’s another starting point: if your child shows interest in storytelling, you might explore which games or platforms encourage reading or imaginative thinking. There’s a world of options growing every year — and educators are increasingly willing to explore them alongside you.