In this podcast episode of Discovery Diaries, I’m joined once again by my two favorite Minecraft experts — my sons Eddy and Buzzy1 — for a fun chat about Minecraft’s brand-new update: Chase the Skies. From shimmering water textures to rideable ghost-like creatures (you’re going to have to listen in to understand what that’s all about!), this update is packed with creative possibilities. We had so much fun geeking out over every detail.
But beyond the blocks and ghasts, here’s what struck me about our conversation:
There’s so much joy — and learning — in meeting our kids where they’re at.
Earlier that same day, we’d done some English grammar lessons (and yes, some of that vocabulary cheekily crept into our podcast chat). But after Eddy had been showing off all the cool new things he and Buzzy had been building in the new version of Minecraft, I felt challenged to step into their world — one full of Happy Ghasts, Bedrock builds, and excited shouts about boat-panda combos.
I’m consistently impressed with how much these kids are learning about logic, teamwork & governance, storytelling, art & design, language, and countless other things — from a video game.2
Why this episode matters (even if you don’t play Minecraft)
If you’re a parent or teacher trying to “get into” your child’s world of games, it might feel like a foreign language at first (ghast fireball-resistant cobblestone?). But stepping in with curiosity instead of skepticism opens up a whole new channel of connection.
And connection… well, it’s pretty important in raising beautiful humans, isn’t it? I’m starting to realize that taking an interest in some of their obsessions is a great way to get that connective line in.
Because I will say that Minecraft isn’t the only way I connect with my kids. In fact, it probably only just makes it into the Top 10. We connect through books & reading aloud, playing music in our band, holiday adventures, dance parties, inside jokes, and bedtime heart-to-hearts. But also… Minecraft.
So listen in to the podcast, and…
Invite your kids to listen too!
This episode is perfect for Minecraft-loving kids — or kids who just love dreaming up wild worlds and quirky creatures. They’ll hear from fellow young creators who are navigating updates, testing out features in creative mode, and sharing big laughs along the way.
Encourage your kids to listen in and tell us:
🗣️ What’s your favourite feature in Minecraft: Chase the Skies?
🎨 What have you created since the update dropped?
And I’d love to know what you think (in the comments) — about Minecraft, connecting with your kids, and anything else you’d like to ask or share.
Not their real names ;)
Yeah, I’m going to call Minecraft a video game, and risk the boys telling me that I sound old!
