Are you looking for Pokémon?

So here’s the thing: it seems to me that if you are not in on this Pokémon phenomenon, then you are alarmingly passé!

Full disclosure: I was not au fait with it at all until it’s ubiquitous presence on social media prompted my own research. And as the parent of a nine and seven year old (who as far as I know are not yet smitten with the craze), I’m kind of intrigued (dare I say enchanted) by the whole thing.

For the passé posse among us

Here’s a working definition of Pokémon: it’s a collective noun which refers to creatures of varying shapes and sizes who inhabit their own wild universe. They are raised and directed by their ‘trainers’ (owners) who send them off on exotic adventures and, on occasion, into friendly battle with other Pokémon.

Simple enough; but where do they . . do their thing? Mostly on video games but, like any other craze, you can now find them on a TV series, in movies, playing card games, and . . well you get the picture.

Helpful or harmful to kids?

When I read terms like ‘sportsmanship,’ ‘respect,’ ‘teamwork,’ ‘compassion,’ and ‘friendship’ as being qualities that the Pokémon games inculcate in kids, I’m thinking, yes this phenomenon is well-intentioned and designed to help kids develop many skills and values.

Not only that, but the ‘Play! Pokémon’ network of activities (tournaments, movie viewings, art sessions, Championship Series events etc) are all designed to build community and establish friendships among players. And who can argue with that?

Final word 

Okay it’s a multi million dollar global industry, but in a world driven by electronic gadgetry and multi-media platforms (many of which are harmful and addictive), the Pokémon craze is far from the worst things my kids could be exposed to . .

So if they show up some day full of this Pokémon thing that their buddies are all into. Well go for it guys! Sounds like it could be educational, character-building, and a lot of fun! For kids and parents alike.

Cover Photo: YouTube Still

Image Insert: Pokemasters.net