Esports & Education - Esports are now sanctioned as a high school activity in South Dakota, providing students with skills like leadership, teamwork, and communication [14][15] - 80% of students participating in school-sanctioned esports have never been involved in other extracurricular activities, indicating esports reaches a different demographic [15][16] - Esports offer an inclusive environment regardless of age, background, or ability [17] Family & Connection - The speaker connected with her children through playing Fortnite, learning about their world and strengthening their bond [4][5][6][7][8] - Playing video games together can help parents understand and navigate the online spaces their children occupy, addressing concerns about communication with strangers [18][19] - Video games can serve as a tool for connection, even in situations like introducing children to a new partner [20][21] Personal Experience & Community - The speaker co-led South Dakota's first all-ages free esports competition in Sioux Falls [32] - The journey into esports began with a desire to connect with her sons, leading to unexpected opportunities and community involvement [33][34] - Stories about esports are often about connection, not just solitary gaming [30]