One of my favorite Christmas gifts as a child was a Nintendo Entertainment System. Like many parents at the time, my mom and dad worried about how long I spent playing “Super Mario Bros.,” “The Legend of Zelda” and “Mega Man.” (Finishing “Zelda” may have been one of my crowning childhood achievements.)
Little research was available then on gaming’s benefits, so parents naturally worried about physical inactivity and social isolation. Today, we better understand the potential cognitive, physical, and emotional benefits of gaming.
Unlike NES games, today’s titles connect with other players in real time. While this can be more enriching, it also risks exposure to inappropriate content, cyberbullying, and online predators. Here are some best practices to ensure safety as a child enjoys online games.
UNDERSTAND THE GAME
Understand the content and features of a game before a child plays it. All console games and most app-based games include a rating by the nonprofit Entertainment Software Ratings Board (ESRB) (esrb.org/ratings-guide).
ESRB ratings, however, don’t tell you if a game is designed for users of a specific age. Common Sense Media maintains a database of reviews with recommended ages, positive and negative game features, and parent reviews. (commonsensemedia.org/game-reviews.)
Finally, pay special attention to privacy settings, chat functionality, and in-game purchase options. Sticking to well-known games and reputable websites can also reduce risks.
USE PARENTAL CONTROLS
Most platforms and devices have built-in parental controls to restrict interactions with strangers, limit screen time, and block inappropriate content. The ESRB has a parental-controls guide for popular consoles. (esrb.org/tools-for-parents/parental-controls.)
Also: Remind older children to sign out when they’re done playing so younger siblings don’t accidentally see age-inappropriate content.
ESCAPE PASSWORD PITFALLS
Another game I spent too much time with: Atari’s “Pitfall.” Just as you avoided traps in that game, you should avoid them with password safety. Secure your child’s gaming account by:
- Using strong passwords
- Enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) when available
- Not saving payment information on devices
- Using separate email addresses for gaming accounts
- Regularly updating software and operating systems
COMMUNICATE WITH YOUR CHILD
This is perhaps the most important step. Ultimately, your child should feel safe discussing online experiences without fear of judgment or punishment. Discuss the importance of protecting their personal information and explain why they should never share real names, addresses, or school details with other players. (Get additional help at connectsafely.org.)
REPORT SUSPICIOUS BEHAVIOR
Most gaming platforms have tools to report harassment, hate speech, or other inappropriate behavior. Teach your child how to report and block such players and that reporting is not “tattling.” In a serious situation, notify local authorities.
If you implement these practices and maintain open communication, you’ll create a safe, healthy, enjoyable gaming experience for your children … and maybe even you. I still struggle with the fact that I am no longer my home’s Mario Kart champ. I guess I just need more practice!
