Over the past few months I have been a bit concerned over my son’s obsession with this game.
He literally walks in at home, drops his bag on the floor and is like a zombie, “minecraft, micecraft”. He gets stuck in the game and wont move from the computer.
Everything else that needs to be done gets rushed cause he wants to get back to the game and I often catch him playing in the early hours of the morning while everyone is sleeping.
He becomes so absorbed and engrossed into the game that the world around him ceases to exist.
Now I know this is somewhat normal for him to become obsessed with something he really enjoys. My only concern is that it would have a negative effect as most obsessive behavior does.
So I’ve decided to investigate this game and observe him for a while. Here are my findings.
Various therapist have reviewed this game and there are great reviews on the positive effects it has on kids on the spectrum.
Minecraft provides a vibrant world in which creativity, exploration, and productivity occurs on the player’s terms. Particularly in the creative mode, Minecraft allows the player to have a great deal of control over their environment. Minecraft also rewards discovery in a way that does not prompt anxiety and fear. While many children with Autism crave routine and familiarity, Minecraft becomes a safe place to develop flexibility. They are able to explore an unknown world and face fears without giving up safety.
On all these aspects as a parent with a kid on spectrum, I have to acknowledge that it has helped him grow as a little individual. Many aspects of growth have definitely improved. His imagination has definitely become more verbal.
However, I still have to remind him to be social in the actual reality.
Look after the iron, and the diamonds will look after themselves.
Muze365's Blog 