Cedar Rapids library is a great place to learn and play

I was thinking about my most recent trip to the Cedar Rapids Public Library with my 6-year-old grandson who has ADHD. He loves pop-up books and Angry Birds.

I had reservations about Daniel playing a game that slingshots birds into things to destroy them, but we've been playing for a while now. Level after level he keeps at it (pretty nifty for a child who can't seem to focus for more than five minutes), he gets mad and frustrated while I gently correct and encourage.

We often hear from many quarters that video games create violent tendencies in children - I think that's an easy excuse. The game Angry Birds is basely violent, but by being there paying attention to his moods and reactions, Daniel is becoming more likely to try again instead of blow up mad. With practice and mentoring he has learned to gauge his shots, discussed how to treat people while playing, and a lot of other things.

Left with no supervision, Daniel would learn what he experienced of the game instead of what I've taught him. When he might blow up from frustration, he instead stays still long enough to learn valuable lessons. Learned activities such as dressing, bathing, cooking, cleaning and video games need guidance.

Daniel wants an Angry Birds game for home, but left to himself he would soon conquer all the levels and get bored. We'll keep playing, and learning, at the library.

Dawn Koffron

Cedar Rapids