My boys and WoW

As a mom, I am always concerned about the things my two teenage boys are doing online. When I saw the new game they had gotten interested in, World of Warcraft, it caught my eye, first due to the beautiful artwork and creativity of the settings and characters, but then because of the unique interaction I witnessed with this game. At first, they were sharing a computer, and one copy of the game. They would take turns, and they were helping each other indirectly within the game. They would share items, help set groups up, and give each other advice from over each other's shoulders! It was great how they worked together! Eventually, we saw the need to purchase not only another copy of the game, but also another computer for my younger son (these ended up being their last year's Christmas gifts!) so that they could play together at the same time. Aside from the cooperative aspects between the boys, this game has also been an educational experience for both of them. My older son is learning French, and would often join French guilds and speak to friends in French. On that subject, both of the boys have gained extensive knowledge regarding cultures in different areas of the US, and from different countries, as they have joined guilds with people from different areas of the world and have been able to speak with them. It also helped to create social interaction and cooperative skills without even leaving home! In addition, it helped them to acquire create goal-oriented and decision-making skills, as they strove to complete quests and tasks to move up to new levels. It also helped them learn how to allocate money as they tried to save up for different animals to ride in the game. My older son is dealing with anxiety issues, and World of Warcraft became an invaluable "coping skill" for him!