A Lot or a Little?
What you will—and won't—find in this TV show.
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Educational Value
a lot
The series explores how the brain processes information, allowing us to learn from it and commit it to memory. Experts introduce basic brain anatomy and put complicated scientific concepts into layman's terms that even kids can understand.
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Positive Messages
some
The show offers a unique glimpse into the human brain to discover how it works and what loopholes in its wiring challenge our comprehension of what we see and hear. Partaking in the brainteasers and other tests helps exercise audience members' brains and increase their own cognitive awareness.
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Positive Role Models
very little
In some cases, the hosts put volunteers in situations that range from mildly irritating to truly frightening. They never push the subjects into anything they don't want to do, but the result still can be disturbing to watch. The purpose always is to learn, though, and they follow up each experiment with a thorough explanation of how the brain responds to such stimuli.
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Violence & Scariness
a little
Some topics incorporate more violent content than others. A segment about how the brain processes fear shows experiments designed to play on volunteers' anxiety by simulating bugs and snakes crawling on their skin, for instance. In another, a demon face suddenly appears on the screen to scare the audience. Predators stalk and kill their prey, which gets bloody, and through the magic of make-up, people are made to look like zombies, monsters, and amputation victims. Guns and other weapons are visible, there's mention of suicide, and some experiments would be dangerous if done at home.
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Language
some
"F--k" is bleeped, and is spoken as a response to intense fear.
Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Language in your kid's entertainment guide.
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Parents need to know that Brain Games is a fascinating exploration of the science behind how we process information, perceive our surroundings, and respond to stimuli, as demonstrated by experiments, optical illusions, and brainteasers that encourage audience participation. Even kids can get in on the fun, and once they're engaged, they'll learn about how the brain is hardwired to keep us safe, happy, and focused. That said, some episodes explore concepts like fear and anxiety, and it can be uncomfortable to watch the subjects endure those experiments, so it's best to preview them before you watch with your kids. Be prepared for some strong, but bleeped language in response to stress and unpredictably violent and frightening content, as when animals kill and eat prey or volunteers scream their way through a haunted house. While most of the experiments are fine to replicate at home, a few have a danger factor that should be brought to your kids' attention.
What's the Story?
When it comes to solving puzzles or identifying danger, our brains are wired for specific tasks that help us process a barrage of information each second of the day. BRAIN GAMES is an investigative series that delves into the unique characteristics of the human brain, illustrating how they work with a series of experiments and brainteasers that test the subjects' perception skills. How does sound change our interpretation of visual images? How sharp is peripheral vision? Why are some things easier to remember than others? These and other curious questions are answered by baffling stunts and unbelievable tricks that expose the stumbling blocks in the miraculous machine that is the human brain.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about what they learn from this show. How does the brain decide what information to process and what to disregard? How does this help us maneuver in a world surrounded by multiple stimuli?
What activities are good exercises for your brain? Do you know how or why they help improve memory or perception? Why are these skills important?
Use this series to try new family activities that are good for mind power. Do puzzles, solve riddles, or play games designed to enhance your brain's abilities. As time goes on, do you notice these tasks getting easier? Why do you think that is?
FAQs
"While some studies show that brain training games are not effective, the recollection and work that the brain does during these games keeps your mind fresh and alert," Avena said, adding that while anybody can benefit from them, they're most beneficial for older adults due to their declining cognitive function.
Does Brain Games really work? ›
There is no evidence for that at this point, it is purely speculative, but we don't have clear evidence that these training programs won't do any harm yet.” However, most researchers believe that the risk of harm is low, even if the clinical benefit of brain training products is unproved.
Is brain game kid appropriate? ›
Most of the subject matter covered in this mesmerizing series is fine for all ages, but some episodes explore topics that aren't so lighthearted.
Do memory games help dementia? ›
Can brain exercises help delay memory loss or dementia? When people keep their minds active, their thinking skills are less likely to decline, medical research shows. So games, puzzles, and other types of brain training may help slow memory loss and other mental problems.
Are there any free brain games for seniors? ›
As with crosswords, Sudoku can be a free activity. Many newspapers feature a daily Sudoku puzzle. You can also buy Sudoku puzzle books. Sudoku puzzles come in several levels of difficulty, so you can challenge yourself as much or as little as you like.
What is the best free brain game? ›
Lumosity. Lumosity is one of the most established brain training and mental fitness programs. You can sign up for a free account to play three games per day, or choose the subscription service for more offerings. Either way, you can keep track of your results and improvement.
Which game make your brain sharper? ›
Puzzles. While it's easy to think that puzzles are just something one does to alleviate boredom or pass the time, one study found that people who regularly did number and crossword puzzles had sharper brains when they were older. Any type of puzzle can help your brain because they: Improve short-term memory.
Does playing memory improve memory? ›
Memory games can improve your memory, attention, focus, processing speed, and problem-solving skills. They can also reduce your stress, enhance your mood, and increase your confidence. By playing memory games, you are stimulating your brain cells and strengthening the connections between them.
What is the most effective brain training app? ›
The best brain training apps in 2023
- Luminosity. Luminosity offers to improve problem solving, memory, attention, flexibility, speed, math and language with its scientifically designed training. ...
- Peak. ...
- Elevate.
In December 2019, it was announced that a new format of this series, hosted by Keegan-Michael Key, would premiere on January 20, 2020; neuroscientist Daniel Levitin was brought in as a script consultant for the season to ensure accuracy.
While brain games are a good way to keep your mind sharp, focusing on your overall health and staying physically active is just as beneficial to your brain as memory games designed for adults. Research has shown that aerobic exercise is one of the best things you can do to help your brain.
Do kids get smarter by playing video games? ›
This Story's Health Experts
Research sponsored by the National Institutes of Health and National Institute on Drug Abuse, revealed that kids playing video games for three or more hours a day experience increased cognitive brain functions and better test scores.
Is vitamin B12 good for memory loss? ›
Takeaway. Some research suggests that certain vitamins, such as vitamins B12, D, E, and omega-3, might support good brain function, particularly in people living with dementia. However, research has yet to definitively conclude that these or other supplements can directly boost your memory.
What is the best exercise to prevent dementia? ›
Physical exercise does not just mean playing a sport or running. It can also mean a daily activity such as brisk walking, cleaning or gardening. One study found that daily physical tasks such as cooking and washing up can reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease.
What slows dementia? ›
Doing regular physical activity is one of the best ways to reduce your risk of dementia. It's good for your heart, circulation, weight and mental wellbeing. There are two main types of physical activity – aerobic activity and strength-building activity.
Are there legitimate games that pay real money? ›
Are there any games that actually pay real money? Yes, many online games are modeled after real-world games and pay real money. In fact, some of the highest-paying gaming apps are similar to bingo, solitaire or pool.
Are brain training apps legit? ›
Some research suggests it can improve cognitive skills they're designed for, but the evidence suggests that the skills learned in the app do not translate into real life.
Does Brain Gym really work? ›
There is no evidence using strict scientific method that brain gym exercises have any benefit. While Brain Gym International claims that this program claims to improve learning, studies have not found any clear evidence for this.
