OK . . . . maybe I’m a little late . . . but I finally had an opportunity to explore the Xbox 360.  I loved what I saw!  I’m not overly into electronics.  The younger generation “gets” these things far better than I do.  But I find it amusing to watch how intuitive it is for kids to play.  They just seem to know what to do.

I’ve had fun with Wii games with grandchildren (who beat me every time).  They certainly have some knack that I don’t have.  But the Xbox 360 adds another dimension that is amazing.

YOU are a character on the screen.  You can watch yourself as you leap and duck and jump or whatever skill the game requires.  Perhaps this is “old” information for you, but if you aren’t familiar with the Xbox 360, be sure to check it out.  Here’s my question.  What does it have to offer for our students who don’t interact with other people or the world very much?

Reviews that compare the Xbox 360 with the Wii and the Playstation 3 highlight how many gigs of memory and game compatibility.  That’s helpful info.  But here’s what I think is more important.

I see kids watching and really paying attention so they can imitate physical movements. Then I see them leaning and jumping and moving their bodies in ways to gain fitness.  I see them working together and learning strategy to master game sequences.  Most important, I see social interaction when more than one person is playing a game.

These electronic games offer an engaging way for students with autism, Asperger’s Syndrome, and other special learning needs to learn new skills.  The games tap that visual learning strength that is so common in this population.  The “magic” comes from how students are drawn to participate with the electronic options.

They call this “motion gaming.”  It’s a very appropriate name.  Research shows that exercise boosts brain power.  Considering that many of our targeted students spend a lot of time in more sedentary activities, the motion games offer excellent options that produce many benefits.

What is your experience with motion games?  Please let me know by commenting above.