It is certainly true. Video games can be good and benefical for kids. A study from the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, researchers discovered that playing active video games can work as well as doing moderate exercises.

Though parents may not have control over applying good learning and design principles into video games. However they can read on these helpful tips why video games are advantageous for kids.

First is to go for "E" rated games: Choose video games that the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) rates as E for everyone or EC for early childhood.

Get physical: Games nowadays keep coming out that require players to actively move around to interact with the game.

Get some recommendations from teachers and other parents: Schools may sometimes have games available for the kids to play during recess and free time. The games may be checked out by other parents, try to get their opinion before purchasing a video game.

Try the video game before you buy: Many web sites offer free downloads of games that you can play for 30 to 60 minutes before the trial runs out. This gives parents a chance to assess the game before purchasing.

Go with known or popular brands: Educational software publishers tend to put out reliable games that teach and educational. Such companies include Broderbund (The Learning Company), Riverdeep Interactive Learning Limited, Scholastic and Vivendi Universal Games' Knowledge Adventures.

Better read reviews: Try to visit Amazon, game and parenting web sites to read game reviews. Always rely on more than one source and plenty of reviews.

Indeed we cannot really deny the fact that books and classroom learning still remain of great essence. But, video games can challenge the brain because kids have to brainstorm the rules of a game and navigate around the virtual world.