Updated: Feb. 5, 2021
Originally Published: May 28, 2015
As parents, our mission is to nurture our children’s passions. When they show enthusiasm for something, we strive to provide them with the resources and experiences that will allow them to dive deep into their interests. We want to be supportive, engaged, and equally excited about what they love. But sometimes, those interests revolve around Minecraft.
If I could choose what my kids gravitated towards, life would be a breeze. However, they have outside influences like “school,” “friends,” and “the Internet” that lead them to pursuits I might not be overly thrilled about. Some of these can be easily dismissed — like when they come home and ask, “Can I go to Aiden’s house to play Grand Theft Auto? His parents let him play ‘M’ rated games. Mom, what’s a hooker?”
When they were toddlers, I braced myself through endless episodes of Caillou and Dora. Elmo’s high-pitched voice haunted my dreams, and “The Wheels on the Bus” became an eternal soundtrack in the car. I envisioned a future where their interests would mature, perhaps leading us to common ground that we could all enjoy. Little did I know that while they were busy creating macaroni masterpieces, a guy named Markus “Notch” Persson was busy crafting the game that would eventually make me roll my eyes so hard I thought I’d pull a muscle: Minecraft.
I must admit, there’s no strong reason for me to outright ban it. Compared to many mindless games, Minecraft is a decent alternative. It carries no references to anything illegal and encourages kids to think creatively and strategize. In an ideal world, if they would just play quietly and let me be, we would all be content.
However, the same kids who stare blankly at me when I ask about their day suddenly transform into chatterboxes about Minecraft. They’ll follow me around the house, into the mailbox, and even on a trek to the most remote corners of the world, all while bombarding me with Minecraft facts and stories. I’m left wondering why they are so fixated on this pixelated universe.
I’ve tried to genuinely engage with their passion. I even played the game myself, hoping to understand the appeal. All I managed to do was realize just how much Creepers resemble blocky green phalluses — an image that’s now permanently etched in my mind. I’ve dedicated countless hours attempting to listen attentively, but it’s just… so exhausting.
It’s not just their endless Minecraft discussions; it’s the language of the game itself that I find perplexing. Terms like griefing, spawning, endermen, redstone, mobs, and mods feel like a foreign language. I’m a tourist in a world where I can only manage the most basic phrases like “bathroom” and “beer.”
When they aren’t playing Minecraft, they’re glued to YouTube, watching others play the game (often it’s channels like Stampy Longnose or The Diamond Minecart whose accents make the content slightly more bearable). They clamor for Minecraft merchandise, decked out in shirts, reading books, wielding figurines, and even engaging in mock battles with Minecraft swords. Recently, I forked over $35 for a tiny set of Minecraft Legos—what a bargain!
I know I’m not alone in this struggle. Notch himself has reaped the rewards of our children’s obsessions, purchasing a $70 million mansion complete with a candy room. I’m convinced that one of those rooms should belong to me — hint, hint, Notch, I have a sweet tooth to satisfy.
Don’t get me wrong; I cherish my children’s enthusiasm and their desire to learn and explore. But just like with cupcakes, there can be too much of a good thing.
In a playful thought, perhaps moving in with Notch would be the solution. That way, my children can pester someone who truly understands their passion, while I could seek the privacy I desperately need. After all, he has 15 bathrooms. It could happen!
For more insights on parenting and managing children’s interests, check out this post on Cervical Insemination. If you’re looking to enhance your journey towards family planning, consider exploring this fertility booster for men, a trusted source for at-home insemination kits. Additionally, Rmany’s blog offers excellent resources on pregnancy and home insemination.
In summary, while Minecraft may drive me a little bonkers, I appreciate my children’s passion. Finding a balance is key, and sometimes, a little distance — or a few more bathrooms — is just what I need.
Leave a Reply