Computers in classes
The Games in Education report produced by the DfES highlights some important benefits of using computers to play curriculum-orientated games: children are encouraged to develop maths, spelling and reading skills through play; computer games can promote the development of strategic thinking, planning skills and problem-solving; and it is not necessarily a solitary activity as children can play in groups or pairs.– this encourages co-operative playing, as children will have to listen to each other, justify their ideas and persuade people to agree with them.

Benefits
Added benefits include making children computer literate – important in today’s computer-orientated work places – and improving language skills. Computer games like Phonomena, developed by David Moore of the University of Oxford, can help to teach children to distinguish between sounds, thereby boosting their listening and language skills. By harnessing children’s interest in playing fun computer games, you can help them learn. It’s a far cry from Lara Croft but it shows that not all computer games are bad and that they can help to teach key sensory skills.

Even normal computer games can be ‘educational’ if they improve a child’s visual skills. The complex demands put on the visual system by playing games that use sound, colour and action help to develop a child's co-ordination.

Gaming magazines
The variety of computer-related magazines can also encourage reading, especially among those who don't necessarily enjoy picking up a book. Young boys typically fall into this group, but they may be more interested in reading up on the latest cheats and game releases.

Do a language activity