Jigsaw puzzles or computer games/television?

I have jigsaw puzzles here for my granadsons (eight,seven and three)and they keep them occupied while I get on with preparing their meals and so on.They enjoy putting them together and can all three join in (even the little one).I find this far more healthy (helping visual co-ordination and so forth)for children than computer games and such and if they don’t finish them I keep them on a board for them to complete for when they next come (resisting the temptation to put in some pieces myself!).
I would buy them jigsaws to take home but there are too many unhealthy distractions (like television) allowed there.
What do others think and what other “old-fashioned” pastimes do they have for their children/grandchildren?
Best wishes,
Joan.
Just to add I was thinking of indoor games and pastimes – I would agree that fresh air,sunshine and exercise are best for children but we have had a lot of rain here lately!

I regularly do jisgsaws with my 4-year-old. However, there is plenty of evidence to suggest that video games are actually a great way to develop a young person’s ability to problem solve.

The answer for me, I feel, is to mix all three mediums: jigsaws, chess, draughts, Monopoly, etc with appropriate TV channels (CBBC/CBEEBIES in UK) and video games (My little one uses a Nintendo DS with games like Super Mario Brothers).

If you are not happy about them using consoles and watching TV when they are with you, then you should go with you conscience and stick to traditional activities.

I might add that contruction kits like LEGO are fantastic because you can also set tasks.

Remembrances of Games Past, Part #14: 3-D Dinosaur Adventure (1994) (PC) (Knowledge Adventure)