Minecraft for Moms – What You Need to Know is Part of the Technology 101 for Parents Series.
As a Mom, believe me I know that it seems like everywhere you look these days, a hot technology topic when it comes to kids is MINECRAFT. Considering all the gaming apps that are out there, it can be hard for us parents to navigate the good from the bad and even harder to understand how best to monitor and manage our kids usage of them.
I know that Minecraft may seem a little odd with it’s sort of retro graphics and somewhat addictive appeal. However, I have give both my kids (6 and 11) quite a bit of freedom with this app, because I think it has more of an upside that people realize. Okay, so here are the main points moms (and Dads) want to know about Minecraft:
What is it:
Minecraft is a gaming app, available for all types of mobile phones and tablets as well as gaming systems like the Xbox and playstation and even for your PC. The most common version of the game for younger children to play is the Pocket Edition, which is available for android and iPhone as well as the iPad. The majority of this post will be specific to this version of Minecraft.
The easiest way to describe the game is virtual legos, but that is definitely an oversimplification. The graphics and even some of the basic functions of the game will at first appear poorly made or terribly outdated, like some kind of strange old school video game. However, once you watch your kids in action on the game and see all the ways they use their creativity to construct buildings and interact with their environment, you’re likely to recognize the genius of this game’s simplicity. In many ways, it’s almost a blank canvas without the typical rules and boundaries of a highly designed game. This sense of freedom seems to be a big part of the game’s appeal to kids.
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How is it Played:
There are two modes of the game available: Creative and Survival
Creative: This is where all children should start to get a feel for the game and is probably the better option for younger children, end of story. In this mode, players all become the generic character “Steve”(they can add their own name if they prefer, but everyone looks the same) and they are deposited into a minecraft world that basically looks like a typical landscape, with grass, hills, trees,sky, and some lakes or ponds. There is also the occasional farm animal such as a sheep. Players are able to select from a large variety of materials to build any structure they can dream up. They can make houses of stone or glass that can be on the ground or in the air with gardens and trap doors. Again, it sounds pretty straightforward, but I was amazed when I saw how elaborate and unique my kids projects were.
Survival: Alright, so for those who have at least a little familiarity with Minecraft, you’re probably wondering about the zombies and the creepers you’ve heard about. Those appear in this version of the game. Again, due to the rudimentary graphics, these are not super scary and there is no real blood or gore. Survivor mode is just like it sounds. In this version of the game you don’t have unlimited access to all the building materials and other resources that are available like you do in the creative version. You actually have to go out and find them. You start the game during “daytime” and have a limited amount of time to find what you need to stay alive and build some kind of dwelling to keep you safe. Once night falls, all the more sinister elements of the game come out and you have to fight to survive. Again, I know this sounds a little bit scary, but we’ve allowed our five year old to play this version of the game and she loves it. No nightmares, no fear, nothing! Why, because it’s too much fun, and its challenging. Players in survivor mode have to be clever and strategize to survive. Also, while you can “die” you basically are just recycled right back into the game again.
In either mode, there is no “winning” and no end goal. It is open ended and just an endless invitation to think bigger and better and create more.
Multi-Player:
The aspect of the game that most kids really enjoy is the fact that they can “connect” with others and play together. Now, by “connect” I don’t mean to the internet where any crazy can hop in their Minecraft world with them. The primary way to “connect” is on a shared network, most commonly your home network. If you have your network set up properly, it will be password protected, so no outsiders can access it (if you don’t ….that post is coming). For older and more advanced players, there are ways to connect to other outside Minecraft servers, but this is not something built into the game. Unlike many other gaming apps, Minecraft does not automatically connect to the internet or require the internet to run.
We encourage parents to take advantage of the multi-player part of the game and actually play WITH their children so they understand how the basics of the game work. This will also enable you to try out the “survivor” mode and decide if or when your child might be ready for this next step. My husband and I have both played with our kids. My husband is Minecraft rockstar and he enjoys it so much I often have more trouble getting him off the game than the kids. I confess, I’ve struggled with it a bit, but even I’ve managed to pull together a fairly impressive glass house in the sky decorated with artwork and boasting it’s very own sunflower garden. I even have had various pet sheep. My kids LOVE when I play with them, even if its only for ten minutes and they also really enjoy playing together. (yes, my kids enjoy playing together, this is a shocking side effect of this game).
Minecraft Pros:
Minecraft is not just some mindless activity, nor is it like any other gaming app. Whether in creative or survivor mode, players are required to think and create and strategize. There is a need for spatial understanding (geometry) and design. Plus, as mentioned, many children find the fun of the game enhanced by playing with multiple people. Doing this requires collaboration and communication.
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Minecraft can also be expanded with “secret” elements or the introduction of “mods” (modifications) that enable new features. Kids can find much of this on YouTube, but again you want to make sure you have the parental controls enabled (you can watch a video about it HERE) The other major source of this type of Minecraft info is the Official Minecraft Wiki. Researching and discovering the game enhancements, presents another new and engaging level of the game for kids and presents another opportunity for teamwork as they will often share and teach each other what they’ve learned.
Minecraft has been so successful in teaching kids some fundamental learning concepts that it is even being used in schools as an educational tool. It has also spawned a number of options that introduce kids to the basics of computer programming. These include online courses as well as something called “LearntoMod”. Mods are add-ons to the game, which allow players to use code to design their own customization for the game (new tools, animals, or even creepers).
If you want to know even more about the benefits of Minecraft, check out this great article, “Hey, Parents. What Minecraft is Doing to Your Kids is Kind of Surprising.”
Minecraft Cons:
Minecraft is a teensy weensy bit additctive, especially since there is no “official” end. However, as long as you set time limits and clearly communicate those limits to your children, then you shouldn’t have problems when it comes time to leave “Steve” behind until next time. However, like most activities that kids get absorbed it, a smooth transition is best facilitated with a five minute warning before it’s time to wrap things up.
If you truly find that it becomes a struggle to get your kids off the game (or any technology for that matter), it may be time for a technology break. You can simply tell them, “It seems that you are having a hard time using technology in a healthy way right now. Technology is fun, but it can’t be something we do all the time. Let’s take a break and in a week (or whatever time frame you set), we can try again.”
How Much Does it Cost:
Pocket Edition for IOS – $6.99
(This is the only cost, there are NO in-app purchases)
Pocket Edition for Android – $6.99
(This is the only cost, there are NO in-app purchases)
Minecraft for Xbox One
– $19.99
Minecraft – PlayStation 
– $19.99
You can even play it on your desktop PC – $26.95
More Questions? Feel free to leave them in the comments. You can also sign up for our weekly email newsletter so you don’t miss any of our other great posts.
Want More on Parenting and Technology? Then this is a post you MUST read.
The Apps You Don’t Want on Your Kids Phone!
You might also like this one:
Taking Control of Technology Before Technology Takes Over Your Family (Tech Rules Printable)
Anything that you think needs to be added to MINECRAFT for Moms?
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Y5 Games says
Having read this I believed it was rather enlightening.
I appreciate you spending some time and effort
to put this article together. I once again find myself personally spending way too much time both reading and posting comments.
But so what, it was still worth it!
Kerri says
I agree with everything here but you might want to update this post and let parents know that is now available on the wii u as if December so they don’t purchase another platform to get it if they already have wii u!
JuneBug says
Shouldn’t it be… Minecraft for parents?
Insinuating moms are computer illiterate or just out of touch with tech is kind of insulting.
Kira Lewis says
I think you’re taking it a little too seriously. Overall, almost all our readers are moms, so we tend to speak to moms directly. I wrote this post specifically because many of my mom friends asked me to. There’s really no deeper gender bias involved. Sorry you took it the wrong way.
Suz-mom says
I’m sure that if it were called Pinecraft instead of Minecraft the author would have thoughfully used the word “Parents” instead of “Moms.” Or Dinecraft, Dads, if that were the case. As it is, alliteration is a literary technique. Minecraft for Moms is, I’m sure, the author’s way of relaying the concept that moms are literary masters. That comment made me laugh. Seriously. A year later.
Maggie says
😀 good to know there ARE still sensible people in the world, thanks for taking the time to explain that not everything is sexism or racism or any – ism.
Some things are just what they are.
I appreciate it.
Lo says
Addictive is the correct term. I have never seen my kids addicted to anything like they are to the Minecraft on PC version where they can now play against each other and with others on the servers. We have 2 computers, one Mac and one laptop and they sit beside each other at the table to play. They are 7 (boy) and 10 (girl) yrs old and the collaboration between the two of them is what fascinates me!! This also allows me to let them play longer than I should. They work as a team and encourage each other and it is so nice to see well, … hear actually. I do feel like it is engineering basics, strategy and basic computer coding skills being used without them even knowing. I do still put limits on their time but I know there are way worse things that they could be spending time on like those silly and expensive Shopkins!! Love the post and definitely going to check out Minecraft Wiki and Learn to Mod with them. Thanks for the article and the links! Just found your page through a Scary Mommy post that brought me here. I just signed up for your blog.
momthatlovesminecraft says
I came to the link thinking it was tips for moms who play minecraft,lol. My kids showed me how to play and I love it.
Ashley Williams says
I wanted to add, recently I’ve realized that the PS4 version works a little differently. When you are setting up a world there are trial texture packs there. If you set up with one of those the only way you can save it is if you buy the full version. The other console’s versions of this don’t do that do they?
Keli says
The ps4 and Xbox are probably similar in this regard. Texture packs aren’t even an option in the mobile versions. The only version I can say with certainty that you don’t have to pay for things like texture packs is the pc version. Mods and skins for your characters are also free for the pc.
KelI says
I’d also like to add that the future of minecraft right now is uncertain. Microsoft recently purchased minecraft from the company that made it, which has kept the updates free and not forced players into micro-transactions that are so common with mobile apps and Xbox games. The minecraft community is afraid that this will become the case with the pc version once Microsoft gains full ownership of minecraft.
Tammy says
We also discovered some addictive features of the game and became tired of our seven year old constantly asking to play. We initiated “minecraft bucks” and clearly outlined activities required to earn this money. Reading a chapter book, reading to a younger sibling, helping with dishes, even picking up after the dog. For every dollar earned we granted ten minutes of play. We printed fake money and allowed her to set her time, The begging for a few more minutes stopped and she has learned not only the gaming skills but also time management, earnings for hard work and the value of money.
Keli says
There is a WONDERFUL very family-friendly youtuber who does play-throughs of minecraft. His channel is called ethoslab. I’ve been watching him for a few years now and I’ve never heard him cuss or say inappropriate things. If he’s playing with other people in his videos, he even does his best to edit out any words or conversations that the other people might have that are inappropriate. He only plays the pc version of minecraft though, and likes to get into the technical side of the game sometimes, stuff that I don’t even understand and I’ve been an avid player of the game for 3 years now. But if you’re looking for someone safe and funny for your children to watch, or even to get a better idea of the game yourself, ethoslab is your guy.
Kira Lewis says
Thanks for the Tip!!!
Stewart says
Thank you Kira for this post. I think many parents struggle with Minecraft. There are so many options and things to keep up with to make sure your kids keep safe online and have a great experience with the game.
I have a son that was crazy about minecraft and found myself doing a lot of research on the game. So I created a website to help other parents find info (and kid friendly videos). If you think its appropriate please share my site (which is new) with your readers) http://minecraft-crazy.com with them.
Elizabeth Ann says
Thank you so much for this post! After my 5 yo saw his older cousin play this last Christmas he hasn’t been able to quit talking about it. I feel so much more educated! I often take the “if I don’t no, then the answer is no” approach. I’m so happy I can say yes now 🙂
Jeanne Marie Guadagnoli says
I play the XBox 360 version and live it! I only wish mods were available as they are for the pc version.
Skye says
This is so helpful, thank you so much! It’s in my Twitter queue to share and I stumbled it, because I know I’m not the only mom who could use a 101 on this.
Erin says
Thanks so much for this informative article. As a 2nd grade teacher I think it is so important that adults really understand what kids are playing these days. Playing WITH your child is such easy and important advice. I wish there was an article on “Clash of Clans” as good as this one. Do you know much about that game?
Thanks!
Kira Lewis says
Funny you should ask, My son is WILD about that game too and I was thinking about doing a post about it soon as it poses a few more complications than Minecraft. Keep an eye on our blog or sign up for our emails and you’ll see it soon. Great minds think alike. So glad you stopped by!
Claire @ A Little Claireification says
Great post Kira!! I have been meaning to get back and read this one since my 10 yr old LOVES MineCraft! My Hubs assured me it was fine but reading this helped a lot. Thanks and pinned!!
Kira Lewis says
Thank you so much Claire!
Philips mom says
this is not how kids play the game my kids and their friends wage epic wars on a massive scale and it is quite violent
Kat says
I’m a preschool teacher and have heard a lot about minecraft but only through the limited ability of 4 year olds. Thank you for your great description of the game!
Michelle says
The key to Minecraft is issuing boundaries and time limits… I only allow my 7yr old on it, after he has done his homework, some writing and reading…. I have also discovered, that I simply can not go in and tell him to switch I off, as there is always something that needs to be completed or put away, so I tell him a time he needs to finish, and then he gets a 15 min warning then a 5 min warning and then he is asked to switch it off. The positives that has come out of it, he realised he had to learn to read and write fluently, (He has been playing for a couple of years now) and his multiplication is excellent, he multiplies in 64’s now. As a cake decorator, I hate MINECRAFT!! A million squares… I say no more! Great Blog x
Aaron says
Like to add to this article. My son 4 years old plays this game and he has this hunger for learning to spell because of it. They have signs in the game and he likes to leave them all over. He even try’s to spell it himself then asks me if it’s correct. He is also learning from this game “dimension” X:Y:Z: axis. Common logic, when you work you burn energy and need food to replace it, to replace it you need to GROW it, to grow it you need to make FARM lands. Also only being 4 he is already asking about PARTICLES!! It helps that I know a thing or two about particle physics, he hangs of my every word. He knows about the elements now, and I’m not talking about water, fire. I’m talking about Gold, Iron, and the property’s of particles Eg: when glass breaks, it stays broken. Like this article says the addictive property’s of this game is a big Con, but as a parent I have learned to use this game as a reward for good behavior, and punishment for bad behavior.
Kira Lewis says
I LOVE this, thank you so much for sharing! I have a five year old girl who plays and I’m astonished by what she has learned from playing. She’s picking up many spatial skills and a general understanding of strategy. Just like you, I’m a fan, despite it’s few cons, that’s why I wrote the article. I appreciate you taking the time to tell your story too. I think it will help other parents.
Chris says
I’m not here to moan but when i read this being a master race PC gamer i was like did you do you research. “Minecraft is a gaming app, available for all types of mobile phones and tablets as well as gaming systems like the Xbox and playstation and even for your PC.” It came out on PC first before it was an App before xbox and ps as a matter of fact if you buy into the PC version they will release the newest update for PC first where as the other consoles and devices are leaved way way behind in updates. Reason being is that the coding to create the game on xbox ps and phones are completely different to the PC code it was originally made for. This is how you should of wrote this. “Minecraft is a game, available for PC and all types of mobile phones and tablets as well as gaming systems like the Xbox and playstation”
Kira Lewis says
Noted and totally appreciate the feedback. Keep in mind the audience for this though, we’re moms, totally NOT Master Gamers. LOL! However, I’m always open to learning more and getting new knowledge from others. That’s the awesome thing about blogging. Feel free to send any ideas for posts you might have to our gmail sunandhurricanes@gmail.com. Would love your input!
A nita says
NOT a fan of Minecraft. I feel it’s very addictive for kids and despite putting ‘limits’ on it’s use in our household, it is ALWAYS a bone of contention. I really wish my kids were never introduced to it. Kids in general have too much screen time and not enough time outdoors in the fresh air.
Kira Lewis says
You know what, I have my moments with Minecraft and I do understand your concerns. As I did my research for this post, the addictive quality of the game definitely came up as the largest con. However, I do believe if we set up reasonable expectations for them that are established ahead of time and we give them five minutes warning before they have to shut it down, it makes it easier. Also, I do say in the article, definitely if they really have a hard time pulling away and it becomes a struggle, it’s a good idea to “take a break”. I’ll be doing a post soon on creating a family media usage contract. Maybe that will help, keep an eye out for it!
Marci says
I agree with this. It is highly addictive. There have been times that I have taken minecraft away from the kiddos for a week because it’s all they ever talk about! However, I do enjoy that they must use their imagination to play it. It’s great for rainy days or when it’s too cold to be outside. You better believe they are outside when it’s nice though!
N baker says
I have two children addicted to mindcraft … One 7 & the other 10 … The 10 yo constantly creates Mods etc … It becomes a battle to get them off it … While it is promoted as an educational game I worry that it is mind numbing & worry about long term effects on fine motor skills & social interaction … The tantrums I have trying to get them of media at times is devastating … If I had the opportunity to not have iPads, computers at home I would (unfortunately my husband is just as addicted to that type of media entertainment himself) … So if I had a choice I would not introduce my children to mine craft 🙁
Kira Lewis says
There are days like that in my household too. Overall, my position on tech usage is pretty clear in the article. I don’t think its all a waste when used in moderation, but limits need to be set and understood by all. If you’re really struggling, consider a one week break from minecraft. Before starting up again, be sure to talk with your kids about what your expectations are for their time using the game and for their behavior when it is time to stop using the game. If they don’t abide by the rules, then it goes away again. I’ll be doing a post on setting up a family tech contract soon. That may also be a good tool. Good luck and I’m sorry you’re so frustrated.
Jeni Heneghan says
Many platforms have some form of parental controls, and they can be the most effective. My children often play on PC, and I use Family Safety to set limits on how long they can play. It’s a lot easier to say, “No, I won’t put in my password to give you more time” than it is to try to get them off the computer if they have unlimited time.
Nina says
so…if we have it on our ipad can I get it on my android phone and play my son? I hate adding more stuff in and I’m annoyed I have to pay for both since different operating systems but connecting with him (he’s 6 almost 7) would be good. he loves watching the you tube videos by those guys. a word of warning though he had on a youtube video they did for mario and the language was not acceptable for our house – stupid, dumb, idiot, and other words we just don’t say. I love there are no in app purchases. I downloaded and spent way too much on skylanders initially. now the rule is nothing we have to pay more for.
Kate says
Just a friendly tip as a teen gamer. Don’t let your kids watch gaming videos on Youtube that have voice overs by the player unless you’ve watched it first, or have them turn sound off. Usually there are cuss words sprinkled in everywhere, a lot worse than “stupid,” etc.
Jeni Heneghan says
There are “kid friendly” youtubers. Stampy Cat (https://www.youtube.com/user/stampylonghead) is probably the biggest example, but I’m sure there are others.
Maggie says
OhMIgosh!!! thank you so much for this. This is what I was here to see if anyone had any insight on …. My son would watch these guys on YouTube for days, maybe even weeks if I’d let him…
And I’m going to be honest, I don’t get the game… and I understand even less why you would want to watch someone else play a game that you could be playing… seems boring to me.
I caught a couple of lines from a set of those guys that I was not very fond of, one of them involved drug paraphernalia– words I don’t need to explain the meaning to, or have him pick up.
So, I banned them, or tried to. It has proven difficult because there’s good things for him on YouTube as well, I don’t want to block the whole thing and he is so addicted to these videos, it’s the only time I’ve ever seen him out right defy me to my face…
So, thanks for letting me know there are kid-approved ones.
Heather says
This is sooo my life. My kids are obsessed. We have xbox 360 version, and I’m so glad. I have personal resentment for our Xbox (haha!) and I’m delighted to take it away for weeks to months at a time cause my kids refuse to follow the rules.
YouTube is my current nemesis. My ten yr old thinks he’s 20 and watches it for everything. Which is great and awful all at the same time :/
Kira Lewis says
Did you see we have a YouTube post as well as one about setting tech boundaries in your family? You might appreciate those posts as well. I know it is a HUGE challenge to parent in today’s world of technology – if nothing else just b/c it changes so rapidly. I can barely keep up with laundry let alone technology. 🙂
Michelle says
Someone above mentioned Stampy videos being kid friendly. My kids used to watch them all the time, until one time I decided to watch with them and the guy drops the F-bomb! I don’t think he regularly cusses in his videos, but the F-bomb is NOT family friendly to me.
They also recently were watching some other minecraft videos… and again, more cussing. All minecraft videos are now banned in our house. 🙁
Tiffany says
My kids have watched all of his episodes, and I’ve never heard him cuss. In one episode he actually tells you about him growing up, and how he is a Christian. My kids also love Think Noodles. He’s energetic, and is very kid friendly. The kids even drew pictures and mailed it to him. He does episodes where he shares the mail he receives. Both of these my husband and I have sat down and watched.
Tiffany says
Sorry I was just informed it’s Parker Games that is a Christian, and stamps does cuss. My kids stopped watching stamps. My oldest just clued me in. Obviously I don’t remember who is who. Luckily, our boys know what they can watch and will tell us when people cuss and stop watching.
Jeni H. says
He did cuss in his early ones, but he stopped after he realized kids were watching. I just asked my kids which othere youtubers I had cleared and they gave me this list: DanTDM, ihascupquake (female), Venturian Tale (they also play other games), Smosh Games play several games-including minecraft (they cuss, but bleep it, it’s more appropriate for older kids), Amylee33 (female), iballisticsquid, Captain Sparkles, stacyplays and stacyquack (female with two channels), and Thinknoodles. There’s another one that’s either Berghostgaming or Breghostgaming- they don’t agree on the spelling. The last one is a dad who plays with his kids and occasionally with his wife.
pat hart says
We gave our son (8) the Minecraft Handbook Collection (amazon euro 45). A set of 4 Books explaining all about Minecraft. He LOVED it. And we like to as an alternative for playing the actual game.
Alyssa says
All 3 of my kids play this and LOVE IT! THey have for almost a year now. They use their Kindle Fires. I would love to read other posts you write on this topic.
Jenna K. says
I have a question…in order to connect and play it multi-player, do you have to buy each person an account with Mojang? Because that is like $60 per person. When I got Minecraft for my oldest several years ago, I had to buy a Mojang account and every time he gets on (on our PC) we have to load it to our computer every time. Is this wrong? I tend to not let him play on the computer very much because it’s such a pain to get on. He did purchase the app for his ipod (which he also purchased after saving up the money) but nobody else in our house has a device from which to play. Also, can you play it together between the PC and the ipod, or because they aren’t the same version, it doesn’t work like that?
Kira Lewis says
What great questions. Okay, so being straight up, I wrote this post to help the newbie parents just trying to understand the basics. I’m learning more and more each day as my kids play, so I will answer this with the knowledge I’ve got as well as what I could find online. First, when you ask about playing multi-player in what format are you talking about – via a mobile device or tablet with the app version or on a desktop or gaming device? Based on pricing at the minecraft store, none of these versions should be $60. The desktop version, which it sounds like you are using for your oldest is $26.95 per person and NO you should not have to load it every time. Once installed it should be permanently available. Overall, we prefer the app as it is less expensive and just overall more convenient since we have both a tablet and an older model iPhone that no longer has phone service, which our kids can use at home on our own server to play each other. We only had to pay for the app once and BOTH kids can play multi-player using it, as one purchase covers downloading to multiple devices associated with the same account. If you want to play multi-player by joining an outside server then it can depend what multi-player server you are wanting to connect to and their particular rules as it varies dramatically. However, if you are going to allow your kids to play on an outside server, please see the links given in the post so you ensure your kids are only connecting with kid safe and highly reputable multi-player servers.
Jennifer says
We have 3 boys that play, The easy answer to your account question is, if u r playing through PC, yes, everyone needs their own account, if you r playing the pocket version through a kindle, no, all games u buy or download get saved to ur cloud, simply just update the other device and the game will show under the cloud and then rap to install on new device. My boys enjoy playing on the pc much better, they find it easier
Debi @ Adorned From Above says
Thanks for sharing with Adorned From Above’s Link Party. Have a great week.
Debi @ Adorned From Above
Krista says
My oldest son has been playing Minecraft for about 5 years now and my middle son is quickly learning the ropes. I love that the game really encourages their creativity and that they can play together over LAN. They just LOVE teaching their old mom how to play.
My oldest even learned how to set up a server for his friends and now he’s got a group of about 5 guys from his school that all play together. Sometimes they even let me play.
Karen says
Thanks for this great article. My children love this game (are playing right now too), and I was surprised by it at first because of the so-simple looking graphics. It reminded me of the very basic video games I played in the early 80’s. But, they really love it and I love the creativity it encourages. But, my very favorite aspect of the game is the soothing music! I love to just hear it play myself. If only other games would catch on to this. 🙂
Thanks for sharing with us at Wake Up Wednesday.
Samantha @ Stir the Wonder says
My son is still a preschooler but I suspect we will be getting into this game one day. Thanks for linking up at the Thoughtful Spot Weekly Blog Hop. We hope you stop by again next week!
April says
Thank you so much! Because of the rudimentary graphics and quieting music (and having to deal with a two year old and a 10 month old), I haven’t checked the game out farther than making sure it wasn’t inappropriate. I’ve pinned for future reference and for other mommies. Thank you for linking up with Turn it Up Tuesday.
Nichole {youclevermonkey} says
My girls were introduced to Minecraft by some friend that stayed and haven’t stopped playing it. And they all played hide and seek together in one land they’d all created together. I need a bit more practice before I’d play too 😉
messhi says
I love this game my son and I play it together all the time! But I agree very addictive!!!! I have him on a good time limit but I know I can play that game all night and he would too if I let him! Lol but I think its very good for learning at least I make it learning I tell him when we build stuff how many blocks we need so hes forced to count and learn and I like it cause you really have to use your imagination to build things and weve even used tutorials to build step by step took him a little bit to clue in to how to do that but he figured it out idk its got ups n downs but I love it! My son loves it but shhh ive been playing minecraft way before my son was even born! Lol
Patti says
Thanks for the easy to understand description. My 5 year old LOVES playing Minecraft, to the point that I now have to limit how much time he can spend in the computer with it (we have the computer version, which I now kind of regret — the app may have been a better choice. And cheaper). He’s been building a mini golf course in his world, and it amazes me what he’s figured out to do. And yes, he watches those YouTube videos too! He’s gotten a lot of info from them!
One thing I will mention — I tried to play with him, but I couldn’t. The motion of the screen made me sick. Maybe it’s because we were playing on a computer screen, which is bigger than a table. I don’t know. But I couldn’t watch it. And I don’t normally get any kind of motion sickness.
Patti says
That should say “a computer monitor that is bigger than a TABLET”, not “table”. 🙂
Zakkiya says
Thank you for actually writing on topic, something that’s hard to find these days. Too much blah blah and too little actual info. I really loved how you lay it out plain and simple and for the first time I actually know what the heck is Minecraft! Much appreciated!
Timothy says
You forgot a few things, there’s three realms in the game: the world realm where you start out, the nether realm which has dangerous monsters (fun realm though), and the ender realm which has a dangerous but fun to defeat dragon. You also failed to mention the difficulty levels. On easy no monsters will spawn on any game mode, on medium they’ll spawn, hard spawns more than medium, and realistic is the hardest: more monsters and no respawning after death. The part about there being no end goal.. There actually is an end goal and that’s to get to the ender realm and defeat the dragon. Just saying..
Kira Lewis says
Hey Timothy – Thanks for replying and I appreciate the feedback. I may be mistaken, but I think the realms are another element of the game that you have to opt into and typically for older kids. I was planning to cover that in another post. However, you are right about the difficulty levels, but I was honestly trying to keep this post as simple as possible for parents just trying to get the basics.
Meredith says
Actually younger kids could build an Ender portal to get to the enderdragon, and kill him, “ending” the game……..
Lisa says
Great information! Wish I had something like this to reference when my kids first became interested in the game, since I like to check everything out in advance. The huge pro for me is the teamwork you mentioned. My three kids love to play Minecraft together. It’s become one of the best ways that my oldest and youngest (boy/girl, 5 years apart) have found to bond together on something, so I’m a big fan of that aspect!
Antionette Blake says
Thanks for sharing at the #WWDParty.
Kimberlee says
Good info for those who are new to it. My two 13 yrs olds have been playing it on and off for a couple of years. The thing that is crazy to me is these older guys who play it and do these youtube videos that my kids watch to learn stuff. Apparently these guys are making tons of money on this business – so therefore it is now my two sons’ goal to be a youtube sensation like them and do minecraft videos as a future career – I am hoping they are over this by the time they get to be 15.
Hailey says
What a great article! We are deep into the minecraft obsession in our house, my 3 & 5 year old sons, 11 year old daughter and *almost* 50 year old man have all played together at times. Our 5 year old is the main Minecrafter and I am constantly AMAZED by the things he creates. No joke, Minecraft has helped him to read. He gets so excited watching youtube how to videos and then copies words and phrases into the name generator, mod search, etc and onto signs in the minecraft world itself.
Lisa says
Thanks for the blog – very helpful and well written! Just wondering if you have had any issues with viruses from the MODS? I read somewhere a while ago not to download them as they are full of viruses b/c they come from a third party.
Kira Lewis says
We are just beginning to look at MODS now. So far so good, but I could see how that might be an issue. I would try google searching a specific mod before using it and see if there is a feedback about it. The Minecraft community is pretty great about policing itself and posting when there are issues whether it’s with a multi-player server or other items. Also the wiki that I linked to can also be a great source of information.