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First we shall have the Positive Factors:
Video games introduce children to computer technology: As the child plays games he's naturally attracted towards the computer and gets to know how a computer works gradually.
Games provide practice in problem solving and logical thinking: As most of the games have mysteries and a surprise in the story line, the child is kept guessing and thinking. The child learns to think logically to overcome an obstacle or reach the next level in the game.
Games facilitate use o fine motor and spatial skills: As the child plays the games intensely his reflex skills are improved as he is totally involved with the character he is playing in the game.
Games provide chances for parent and child to play together: Most of the parents do not have the time or patience to play with their children. Video games tend to break that - parents do sit down to play video games with the child in order to know what he is playing or plainly out of curiosity.
Some games have therapeutic effect on patients: Researches have indicated that some games have a therapeutic effect on the patient. This depends on how addictive a patient is to the game.
Let's now see some of the Negative Factors
Social Isolation: As most of the games are played alone, the child, without getting to play with his age group tends to grow to be a loner.
Aggressive Behavior: Playing violent games makes the child aggressive in attitude.
Games disguise the distinction between reality and fantasy: As the child plays the games for hours together, he tends to believe the virtual world as the real world.
Academic achievements neglected: AS the child becomes addictive to video games, his achievements in school tends to slip.
Parental Care Guidelines:
Limit playing time - It's good to limit the playing time for about one hour per day.
Help choose a game: Parents should choose a game that has the suitable rating for the child's age group.
Get the homework and other stuff done before playing: This should be strictly enforced as the child will get tired and listless after playing a session of video games.
Enjoy a game with the child: This let's the child knows that you are watching him playing
Always accompany the child when buying or renting games: The retailer or rental store may be following the rules but it's good if the parents take a personal care in choosing the child's playthings.
Encourage the child to engage in other activities: The child should not be left glued to the video game. He should be asked to play with his friends and neighbors and engage in activities that are healthy and safe.
Everything said here as parental guidance is common knowledge but nevertheless important to put into practice. It never pays to be careless.