Gaming has the ability to bond kids due to shared interests, but it also tends to leave parents feeling left out. Here are some tips on how to get involved in video games with your kids.

It seems like that no matter what generation it is, it's always a bit scary to try and share in your kids' hobbies, as if you're feeling like they want to be interested in something without you. This can be especially true with video game fans. Unless you grew up with gaming, trying to get into it when you're an adult can be intimidating for a lot of people. Don't give up, though, because kids will always love when their parents can share interests.

Here are a few tips to help you ease into competitive gaming with your kids.

Know the whole gaming world

The gaming world is more than just whatever the popular game is at the time. When you understand the rating system, you can make more informed decisions about what your kids play. Not only that, but when you understand the wide variety of games that are on the market, you can get hyped with your kids about the newest games coming out. Sharing excitement is something that will show your kid that you're not just their parent, but a gamer right alongside them. 

So do your research and make sure you having an understanding of the different gaming platforms, as well – Xbox, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, and more. Also, there are different types of games out there, including driving games, role-playing games, survival games, shooter games, etc.

Check out the eSports scene

This is probably the easiest step you can do to get started in it. While some people might still think of video games as a hobby kept in the basement, the video game industry now has a multi-million dollar competitive scene behind it. If your kid's a competitive gamer, then you can learn all about what they are into. It's like getting excited about a football game, everyone wants to see their team do well, right? Watching these high-level players with your kids will show them that you don't look down upon what makes them happy. Remember, this isn't just some niche thing from a random streaming website anymore, these professional gamers can make about as much as an NFL star does these days.

Also, in Colorado, playing video games could become an official high school sport!

Talk about the game's story

With a variety of video games out there, your kids will be exposed to different characters and worlds. Talk to them about the stories they see in these games. Engaging your kid's imaginations will help their creativity and help build their confidence in sharing more abstract ideas. Not every game's story is simple or childish, some games can have thought-provoking themes or characters that I'm sure your kid would love help figuring out.

These tips are not all-encompassing and there is so much more to the video game world. I hope you and your kids have a great time playing together – and don't be afraid of getting schooled by them either! The biggest thing to take away from these tips is that no matter how young or old you are, video games are not going anywhere anytime soon. They have crossed plenty of interesting lines just like film had to, so it could be considered an art form. Always give these things a chance, especially if they are a big part of your kids' lives.

Any tips to add? Comment below.