As you consider kids ages, you'll naturally want to find different hobbies for them to enjoy. Some kids find video games fun while others like to play sports.
If your child enjoys video games, you may want to look into a handheld console. A handheld system lets them enjoy their gaming hobby while leaving the television free for anyone wanting to hop on and watch some shows instead of fighting over the Xbox.
While a home console can be great for kids, you should look into the smaller screen options to see what they offer. You'll need to find games that are appropriate for all ages. After all, M-rated games due exist, so knowing what your child plays can make all the difference.
The Variety of Handheld Gaming Console Choices for Kids
As you consider your options for a system, you should look across generations. You can purchase older consoles used and enjoy a variety of games on these portable options, or go with a new console, like the Nintendo Switch.
Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch Lite
You can always go with the Nintendo Switch, which provides a variety of games. Nintendo is known for its kid-friendly image and online features, making the Nintendo Switch an excellent system for those wanting variety.
Alongside the memory and educational games you'll find, Mario games are abundant on the console. The Nintendo Switch Lite is a handheld only version, so go with it to save some money. You also have the Nintendo Switch OLED model, which came out later with some improvements.
However, if you prefer the appeal of switching between the TV and handheld, a Nintendo Switch could be a good choice over the Nintendo Switch Lite. You can also spend extra on the OLED model if you want a longer battery life and a better screen.
Nintendo DS and Nintendo 3DS
Continuing with Nintendo, you also have the Nintendo DS and Nintendo 3DS. These came out before the Nintendo Switch Lite, so they aren't as powerful, but have a great collection. From handheld versions of Super Mario Bros. to Mario Kart, your child will have plenty of fun with this system.
Many people consider these consoles classics, thanks to their large library and long battery life. If you want a great video game your child can play, you can't go wrong with this one. If you can, pick a Nintendo 3DS, since it can play Nintendo DS games.
This is also one of the smallest and most lightweight options on the list, making it perfect for gamers at a young age.
PlayStation Portable and Vita
If you don't want to go with the Nintendo Switch, or you love the PlayStation home console, why not take a look at the PlayStation Portable and the PlayStation Vita? Both were impressive pieces of hardware that work for many ages.
The PlayStation Portable is known for its excellent games and offers a joystick for easy control. The Vita introduced a touchscreen, and both have a solid battery life, making them excellent options among other general consoles.
Also Read: Best Playstation RPGs
Gameboy Handhelds
During the 90s and 2000s, Nintendo released multiple handhelds that made up the Gameboy line up. You had the original Gameboy, the Gameboy Color, the Gameboy Advance, and the Gameboy Advance SP.
If you want to pick the best option, you should go with the Gameboy Advance SP. Not only does it play Gameboy Advance games, but it also plays Gameboy and Gameboy Color games. It's also the only one with a built-in rechargeable battery, so you'll cut down on the cost of AA batteries.
Neo Geo Pocket and Sega Game Gear
If you're not worried about online features, you have other consoles, such as the Neo Geo Pocket and the Sega Game Gear. Both early portable consoles offer unique and fun games to play.
Even though your children may not have access to Mario Kart or Super Mario Bros. on these systems, they can enjoy other games. The handheld can also be a great way for them to meet other kids, since they can show off unique games and a portable console other children haven't seen.
Benefits of Video Games for Kids
Some adults have this mindset that they shouldn't bother purchasing a video game for kids. However, they offer tons of benefits, making them great gifts for family and friends.
Improves Motor Skills
A kid of any age can improve their motor skills by playing video games. Games are a fun way to learn and improve memory since kids need to remember the controls as they play while applying what they learn.
Since kids see that their actions impact what happens on the screen, they learn how to react and control the character. This means they'll improve their hand-eye coordination, which can also help with sports and other activities in the future.
Cognitive Development
On top of memory and developing motor skills, games can help with cognitive development. They require kids to think about the scenario and find an answer that will lead to a solution. These problem solving skills are related to everyday life.
For instance, if your child learns how to analyze a situation and develop an idea that can work, they have a life skill that will benefit them in school and life. While it may seem like they spend time in front of a TV, they end up developing more and coming up with ideas by interacting with video games.
Entertainment
Let's be honest: everyone gets bored and needs a form of entertainment. That's where gaming consoles come in, since they can offer hours of fun. Whether you purchase games for girls ages five and older or any other demographic, you have plenty of options.
Having fun remains a crucial part of growing up, so buy your kid a system that will offer plenty of fun moments. If it's handheld, they won't need a TV to enjoy their favorite games, and can enjoy the portable nature, playing it on family trips.
Creativity
As parents take care of their kids, you'll want to check on them and see what they can learn. Video games are a great way for kids to get creative, making them an excellent gift.
For instance, games like Minecraft encourage children to build and create their own ideas, bringing them to life. Games are great for introducing different challenges to children, helping them learn and choose as they make their way to their teens.
Deciding Which Games to Buy for Kids
Now that you know the benefits offered to people who play games, you'll want to find options that work for your kids. Keep in mind that not all games are kid friendly, making it crucial to find something that's appropriate, fun, and that your children can learn from.
Super Mario Land and Super Mario Land 2
If you decide to go with Gameboy games, you should consider the Super Mario Land games. These are great additions to the Super Mario Bros. series, offering unique levels. Children will appreciate the creative levels, keeping them glued to the screen while enjoying some platforming on a portable system.
Tetris DX
It doesn't hurt to pick a Gameboy Color game that focuses on puzzles, so try out Tetris DX. This game remains a great choice on the system, since it can help your child with problem solving while offering infinite replayability. If you need a good time killer for family trips, you can't go wrong with Tetris.
The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past
![Zelda Link to the Past [Player's Choice] - Loose - GameBoy Advance](https://fairgameretro.com/cdn/shop/files/e2385fa3102ac76bb19066dc2dd5a42d02fd2310_60x.jpg?v=1721283198)
Even though the game wasn't originally a Gameboy Advance game, The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past is excellent for kids. It's a solid port of an SNES classic, and your kid can play with friends through Four Swords Adventures. Go with this one if you want some versatility and a memorable Nintendo game.
Brain Age
Nintendo DS games are an excellent choice if you want your child to use the touchscreen. This makes the controls easy for kids of any age to play, and Brain Age encourages improvement. Not only is this one great for learning, but your children can possibly learn new skills and use it to help their education.
Sonic The Hedgehog
If you want a safe Game Gear game, you should look into Sonic the Hedgehog. This remains true to the original game on the Sega Genesis. It's a solid family game that lets the player jump around and run through levels at top speed. For this reason, Sonic remains a great choice for kids and even a teen.
Patapon
PlayStation Portable games are great choices, so if you want something unique on the console, try Patapon. It's a puzzle game that can be fun for kids, adults, and any age, while remaining an affordable option. This can be a fun one to show to friends and add to the collection, offering some unique fun.
Little Big Planet
As an upgrade to the PlayStation Portable, you can go with PlayStation Vita games, such as Little Big Planet. This one remains a excellent choice, since your kid can play various levels while designing their own. Such a setup encourages creativity with level and character design.
Mario Kart 8: Deluxe
As for children that may prefer playing online, check out Nintendo Switch games like Mario Kart 8: Deluxe. If you hope for a Mario Kart game that boys and girls ages five and up will enjoy, try this one. It has plenty of play time and will be a great game to have whenever friends visit.
Why You Should Consider Handheld Gaming Consoles for Kids
As you consider your options and find something appropriate for your child, you can always get a gaming console by visiting Fair Game. Look through the selection of games and find a handheld console. Fair Game sells a variety of retro options, giving you plenty of games for your kids.
Alongside the excellent games mentioned here, you can visit the store and find another great choice to make your kid happy. That way, you can learn a thing or two about games and find the perfect gift.
It may seem difficult at first, but you can avoid expensive games and find the ideal gift that will work for your kid. As parents consider their options and find something affordable, they can choose an ideal option for their children.