When my wife asked me if we should get a Nintendo Switch for our son, I had to think about it. Was he too young for a gaming console? Would the Switch affect his motivation to go and play outside? On the flip side, I knew playing the Switch would improve his hand and eye coordination and provide a new form of entertainment. I also thought about how much fun we would have playing Mario Kart together. We did get the Switch and agreed on the usage parameters – no switch during the school week and a limit to two hours per weekend day – nonnegotiable. You guessed it, the first game we purchased was Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. Playing Mario Kart, with my son, has been a wonderful bonding experience and provides another way to teach valuable life lessons.
Mario Kart Mirrors Life’s Journey
In the wild world of Mario Kart, life’s lessons zoom around every corner like a speedy blue shell. Just like in life, you start at the beginning with excitement and high hopes, ready to race toward your goals. But as the race unfolds, you quickly realize that the track is full of unexpected twists, turns, and hazards that can send you spinning off course. Sometimes, you’re cruising in first place, feeling invincible, only to be hit by a sudden red shell that knocks you back a few places. Other times, you might find yourself at the bottom of the pack, but with a little bit of luck and grit, end up victorious.
Life Lessons
I love playing Mario Kart with my son because I have been able to point out the following lessons:
Adapting to changing circumstances: Just like in life, races can be unpredictable, with new challenges and surprises at every turn. Learning to quickly adjust strategy in the game can help kids develop a valuable skill for handling the unexpected in real life.
Perseverance: Mario Kart is not just about speed; it’s also about endurance. Kids learn that even if they fall behind or face setbacks, they can keep going and strive to improve. This resilience can translate into a valuable life lesson, encouraging kids to persevere through challenges and setbacks.
Sportsmanship: In Mario Kart, winning is fun, but it’s also important to be a good sport. I am trying to teach my son to celebrate his victories graciously and accept defeat with dignity. This teaches the importance of humility, respect, and fair play; qualities that are essential for success in life.
Strategic Thinking: Mario Kart requires strategic thinking and decision-making. Kids learn to assess situations, anticipate obstacles, and make quick decisions to stay ahead. These skills are transferable to real life, helping kids become better problem-solvers and decision-makers.
Taking risks and Risk Management: Mario Kart teaches kids that taking risks can sometimes lead to rewards, but it’s also important to weigh the risks against the potential consequences. And let’s not forget about the importance of drifting – finding the balance between holding on and letting go, navigating the curves with finesse rather than fear.
More Than Just A Game
Mario Kart can be more than just a fun game; it’s a valuable tool for teaching kids about life. Through its gameplay, kids can learn important skills such as adaptability, perseverance, sportsmanship, strategic thinking, and the value of enjoying the journey. So, next time your child fires up the console, encourage them to see Mario Kart as more than just a game but as a fun and educational experience that can help introduce them to understanding the twists and turns of life.