How Youth Esports Can Lead to Success in School

As a parent, I know that each school year comes with its own set of challenges and hopes. We all want our kids to do well in school, make friends, and develop the skills they need to succeed. Video games are probably not something you'd expect to help with that but let me share a personal story that might change your mind.

My Journey with Gaming and My Kids

Like many parents, I used to worry about the amount of time my sons spent playing video games. I thought it was a distraction from their studies. But then I decided to join them—not just to have some fun, but to bond with them in a meaningful way.

What started as a way to connect turned into a realization: video games, especially in a structured environment, can teach important life skills. As a child gamer myself, I saw firsthand how gaming could be much more than just a pastime. In the right environment, it could serve as a way for my sons to develop critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and even improve academically. That’s what ultimately led me to found Valhallan.

An Alternative to Traditional Sports

Not every child is drawn to traditional sports, and some may have limitations that prevent them from participating. But that doesn’t mean they should miss out on the valuable lessons that sports teach—like teamwork, problem solving, and resilience. Esports can fill that gap, offering kids who aren’t interested in or able to play traditional sports a chance to develop those same skills in a different context.

Developing Cognitive Skills and Problem-Solving

Around the time when our first Valhallan arena opened here in Pearland, TX, one of my sons had been struggling with math for a while, and it was something we both found frustrating. But as he got more involved in Valhallan, I noticed something interesting. Many of the games he played required quick calculations and strategy. Over time, his problem-solving skills improved, and that started to reflect in his math grades. That’s when I really started digging into the research, and it turns out, studies support this—video games can enhance cognitive functions like attention, focus, and problem-solving.

Building Teamwork and Communication

In esports, teamwork isn’t optional—it’s essential. Whether they’re competing in a game or working on a school project, kids need to communicate effectively, collaborate, and work towards a common goal. I’ve seen kids who were shy and introverted gain confidence through our program. They go from sitting on the sidelines to becoming confident team players. The leadership, communication, and collaboration skills they pick up are invaluable—not just in games but in life.

Time Management

As a parent, I get it—time management is a huge concern. How do you make sure gaming doesn’t take over everything else? In our program, we emphasize balance. My older son has become a master at juggling his gaming practice, homework, and family time. It’s all about discipline, prioritizing tasks, and ensuring kids understand that gaming is just one part of their day. These time management skills will serve them well throughout their lives.

Social Skills and Confidence

One of my favorite stories from our Valhallan in Pearland, TX, is about a young boy of about 9 who was incredibly shy when he joined. He barely spoke to anyone. But as he got more comfortable with the games, coaches, and the supportive community we’ve built, his confidence grew. He found his people at Valhallan. Now, he’s not only participating in school activities, but he’s thriving socially. It’s amazing to see how kids can find their voice through something they love, like gaming.

Academic and Career Opportunities in Esports

Something many parents don’t realize is that esports can lead to real academic and career opportunities. A lot of colleges are offering scholarships for esports athletes now, which is an incredible opportunity for kids who might not be traditional athletes but excel in gaming. Beyond that, esports can spark an interest in STEM subjects—coding, game design, and other tech fields. Several of our participants have gone on to pursue careers in these areas, which is really exciting to see.

A New Path to Success

At Valhallan, our mission is to provide more than just a place for kids to play video games. We’re building a structured, supportive environment where they can develop skills that will help them in school, at home, and in their future careers. I’ve seen firsthand how competitive gaming can transform kids’ lives—helping them become confident, disciplined, and better equipped to succeed academically.

So, if you’re on the fence about esports, I encourage you to give it a second thought. It could be the key to unlocking your child’s full potential, both in and out of the classroom.

David Graham is the founder and CEO of Valhallan. Set your child up for success this school year. Find a Valhallan near you at https://arenas.valhallan.com.

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