If your kids have been home all summer, they've probably complained about being bored at least a few times (and probably more). Like most children, they're probably spending a lot of time watching TV and playing video games. Those activities can be encouraged to a point. Why it's OK for tour kids to play video games Before you tell your kids to shut down that video game, consider the fact that there are a lot of benefits from gaming which are finally being supported by research. Video games can improve social skills, decision making, and motor skills, and build confidence in players of all ages. Gaming can also improve moods and increase happiness while decreasing depression. Video games of all kinds have their benefits and can offer a lot more than just a way to kill some time. While there are benefits to playing all kinds of games, some games are more beneficial for younger players. Plenty of online educational games for various ages cover a broad range of skills and interests. Word games are great for kids who are working to expand their vocabulary and strengthen their spelling skills; puzzle games can help with problem solving and decision-making skills. Here are five puzzle games that kids can play online for free that are a great introduction to online games in general.

If you're in the market for a great smartphone, especially one for gaming, but you're not sure which one to get, you're not alone. There's an overabundance of hardware brands, models within those brands, and operating systems on the market. A great smartphone has many features, but some of them may be more important for you than others. If you're an avid gamer and you're looking for a mobile phone that you'll be using for recreational purposes, then you're going to want a phone with a fast processor. Fast processing is better for handling the three-dimensional graphical requirements associated with high-quality games. You're also going to want something with a large enough screen so you can enjoy those games, but of course the device should be small enough that it qualifies as a phone and not a tablet. You may have heard that Android phones are not as "gameworthy" as iOS phones. Although iOS was first to market, and enjoys some first and exclusive releases, Android boasts of a growing user base and that trend is expected to continue.

This week's PS3 and PSN releases run the gamut from FPS games with a twist to new quest games from established franchises to games that utilize choice to affect gameplay. Consider adding some of these top picks to your must-have list, then spending a hot summer weekend in the air conditioning with your system, checking out the gameplay. The Last of Us: This survival game uses gamer's choice to both develop the relationship between the two main characters, Joel and Ellie, and to advance gameplay. The setting is Earth after the apocalypse, the only world that Ellie has ever known (Joel was alive before the ...

Modern society has turned into a disposable culture over the last two decades. Before the 80s, people were more conscious about the gadgets and appliances they have in their homes. They take very good care of them and if they do malfunction, the first thing adults did was to bring it to a repair shop or troubleshoot it themselves. Very rarely do you see them shrug their shoulders, throw away the broken gadget, and then buy a new one.

We are living in an age where science fiction meets tech reality, and the prevalence of all-in-one tablet-and-PC devices is making this even more true. On April 12 Asus released the Transformer AiO, its take on the all-in-one phenomenon. With this tablet, you can simply pick up your PC monitor and take it with you. Here's everything you want to know to decide if the Transformer is right for you. Functionality of the Asus Transformer AiO The Asus Transformer AiO is more than just a tablet. What makes this tablet unique is the fact that it can function as a typical, inclusive PC. In fact, when it's connected to the PC Station, you will hardly know that it's a not a traditional PC. However, if you wish to use it as an Android device, simply detach the screen and go. While much larger, and much heavier, than the iPad, the Transformer offers full Android functionality. When you detach the screen, it switches automatically from Windows 8 to the Android OS. What if you want to use both? That's fairly simple, just use the base's HDMI-port to attach a monitor and you can use both Android and Windows 8 simultaneously on the split screens. This is what sets it apart from similar all-in-one units.

Picking out the perfect birthday gift requires considering not only the child's interests, but the parents preferences. When you're shopping, stick to toys with proven track records that will encourage kids in developing their interests. Of course, you want them to have some fun with these gifts, too! 1. Nintendo DSi: By the time they reach elementary school, many kids start requesting their first video game console. This system is the perfect one for handheld gaming, and it also doubles as a camera, which is an added perk. They can play all sorts of games on the console, including those in the LEGO series, Let's Draw, and classics like Super Mario Brothers. If you would rather the child not have a personal game console, another option is the family-friendly Nintendo Wii.

I hate driving, but mainly because city traffic and drivers can give you a heart attack at the best of times. Driving out in the open country roads with the beautiful scenery to entertain you is something that is altogether different. And it can be even more fun if you're in the passenger seat. Taking a road trip to wherever you feel like on a weekend, spontaneously or not, can do wonders. If you have not done this recently, maybe it's time that you did. Before you do that, though, make sure you get these essential gadgets for a fun road trip packed and ready.

Image via lidovky Criminals are a cowardly and superstitious lot. Oh wait – that’s Batman’s bit. What I meant to say was that criminals, as much as they might think themselves clever, are a rather simple bunch. Oftentimes they merely want to be able to steal something – anything – and get away quick.   Speed is often the name of the game when it comes to burglars. Get in, get out with the booty – hopefully without being caught. But there are simple ways to defend against burglars. You can actually use bits of stuff you may have lying around the house to improve your home security.   Broken Laptop Leave a ...

Satellite television is the preferred choice of many people primarily because of its quality programming and reception. While it is now strongly competing with cable TV and internet TV, it remains to have a significant number of subscribers. In the U.S., the number of households with satellite TV subscription reached 66.8 million as of 2012. In Europe, DBS satellite services had an overall market share of 21.4 percent and Australia, this type of TV service is also a more popular option among homeowners because of the distances in population centers. In far flung areas, this is the most feasible option for receiving channels from news and soaps to movies and sports. Satellite TV, similar to cable, utilizes digital technology to bring numerous channels to homes. The main difference is the use of satellite, a box and dish that needs to be installed outside the house or building. Quality of video and sound is also what attracts subscribers. But this aspect is also dependent on the position of the dish outside the home or apartment building.

Christmas is just a few days away. The malls are crowded, the stores are out of stock, and you still haven’t bought a gift for your special someone.  If he or she happens to be an avid Apple user, then you’re in luck. There are lots of gadgets and gizmos that you can get within hours of ordering. These are the perfect last-minute gifts!