What Should Children Know About the Risks of Online Gaming ?

Online gaming is packed with entertaining fun way for children / kids to play and create a connection with other gamers or people. But it’s important to be aware of potential risks that might arise in coming future. Here are some key points / tips children & parents should keep in mind to stay safe while playing games / online gaming :

• Cyberbullying: Children can be bullied for not playing a specific game or for their performance while playing games. It's important to block and report mean / aggressive players or inappropriate behavior immediately after they face it.

• Privacy and Scams: Protect personal information. Do not share details like your name, home address, or school name. Avoid suspicious external links or crazy offers of free rewards, gems, in-game contents as they could be scams.

• Stranger Danger: Avoid adding unknown players as friends or starting chats with them. Not everyone is your friend. Do not give them your social media account. 

• Screen Time Balance: Limit game playing time to prevent addiction and excessive screen use. Define specific gaming hours to maintain a healthy scenario.

• In-Game Purchases: Never buy game contents like gems or passes without parental permission. Spending should be monitored and planned. Buying game after asking with parents can be considered fine, but involving in buying in-game contents is not good. 

• Toxic Behavior: You should play and enjoy games but avoid being aggressive. Do not be involved in scolding other players or making fun of them. If you encounter similar toxic behaviour attacking you, report them . . . skip the game, do not play with them and ensure you’re not engaging in harmful behavior yourself.

• Speak Up: If something feels wrong or makes you uncomfortable, tell a trusted adult immediately (do this, always).

These are just a few important tips. 

What Should Children Know About the Risks of Online Gaming ?

Photo by EVG Kowalievska: https://www.pexels.com/photo/person-holding-game-pad-1174746/