Unlocking your child's Entrepreneurial Spirit

AND HOW COMPUTER GAMES CAN ACTUALLY TEACH CHILDREN ABOUT BUSINESS, MONEY, AND ECONOMICS

By Mads Hansen, Publisher at Families South West

In today's digital age, computer games have become an integral part of children's lives. While we as parents are concerned about excessive screen time and the impact on social skills, there are certain games that can actually foster valuable knowledge and skills. In this article, Families South West explore how playing certain computer games can be a fun and engaging way for children to learn about business, money, and economics. We have handpicked four classical games that your child will be able to play from around six years of age:

Transport Tycoon is a classic simulation game that challenges players to build and manage their own transportation empire. By constructing and optimising transportation networks, players learn the importance of logistics, supply chains, and resource management. The game has a wonderful constructive nature that encourages strategic thinking, problem-solving, and decisionmaking, as players navigate through economic challenges, such as fluctuating fuel prices and changing demands.

Capitalism 2 is a business simulation game that immerses players in the world of entrepreneurship and corporate management. It might not be the most aesthetically pleasing game, but on the journey from starting a small business to expanding into multinational corporations, players experience the challenges and rewards of running a successful enterprise. The game covers various aspects of business, including production, marketing, finance, and competition. Capitalism 2 fosters skills such as financial literacy, strategic thinking, market analysis, and resource allocation. Do not be surprised if soon your little one dresses up as Richie Rich and asks you to take a seat outside his/hers office!

Farming Simulator is a highly realistic game that introduces players to the agricultural industry (you know: the people that produce our food!) By taking on the role of a modern farmer, players learn about crop cultivation, animal husbandry, machinery management, and market economics. Through hands-on experiences, players understand the complexities of supply and demand, price fluctuations, and the importance of efficient resource utilisation. Farming Simulator promotes a strong work ethic and an appreciation for the agricultural sector, so soon you will be going to the Cotswolds to observe combines-in-action and chat to local farmers!

Cities: Skylines - Is your child a Boris Johnson or a Sadiq Khan? Maybe not! But in this city-building simulation game, children are offered a captivating and immersive experience, where they get to design, manage and make crucial decisions about zoning, taxation, infrastructure development, and public services in their own metropolis. The game provides a unique understanding of urban planning, public policy, and the delicate balance between economic growth and sustainability. Taxing is necessary for the city to be able to afford services, but excessive taxation makes residents leave.

Computer games can be more than just entertainment and endorphins boosting violence! They can actually serve as effective educational tools for children to explore various aspects of business, as well as help foster skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, financial literacy, and strategic decision-making. Instead of seeing computer games solely as time wasters, we can, by integrating these games into our children's usual screen time, help develop a solid foundation in understanding the dynamics of the business world, preparing them for future entrepreneurial endeavours and financial independence. Most of the games are available for both Mac and PC (and consoles) and can be found online.