Education training experts share tips on online gaming safety
In recent years, the online gaming industry has grown in popularity with approximately 3.32 billion active video gamers worldwide (1) – with 80% of 6-16 year olds in the UK playing video games (2).
Within an evolving industry, concerns have grown around the safety risks involved in gaming online. Here, the team at safeguarding training experts High Speed Training share some top tips for parents to help young people stay safe whilst gaming.
Dr. Richard Anderson, Director of Learning at High Speed Training says: “The majority of children in the UK grow up as ‘digital natives’ who instinctively use the internet daily for social, educational and entertainment purposes. Despite having an understanding of how to access and use the internet, children may not fully comprehend the dangers associated with this.”
1. Find out who they play with online
Dr. Anderson explains: “As a parent, you wouldn’t let your child meet up and socialise in-person with people without knowing who they are, and the same should apply with online socialisation. Ask your child who they play games with online and talk about what kind of topics are discussed and what language is used during play.”
Some consoles and specific games have settings that only allow chat between friends, and profiles can also be set to be private so they can only interact with friends that the child, or parent, has accepted..”
2. Set a good example
Dr. Anderson says: “It’s worth acknowledging that gaming is as much of a hobby for adults as it is for children, so it’s important that parents set a good example when gaming themselves.
“Healthy habits could include reduced time playing on consoles or dedicated time away from mobile phones and tablets. Consider introducing a ‘no phones’ policy for dinner times, demonstrating the implementation of boundaries and encouraging conversation.”
Having open conversations allows young people to ask questions and raise any worries they have, and helps build trust to empower children and young people to speak up if they are concerned.
3. Take advantage of aeroplane mode
Dr. Anderson says: “Some online games, once downloaded, can be played without being connected to the internet. If you’re worried about privacy breaches or accidental purchases, it may be a good idea to turn on ‘aeroplane mode’ on the device on which the game will be played.
“Aeroplane mode will prevent your child from being able to make any purchases online or connect to online chat functions – significantly reducing the risk of interaction with strangers.”
4. Set boundaries to minimise the risk of addiction
Dr. Anderson says: “If you have the space, try to avoid allowing consoles in the bedroom if you can, as this can cause the brain to associate sleeping areas with stimulation rather than rest.
“Studies have shown that video game addiction leads to changes in the brain that are similar to those that occur in substance addiction and gambling. Therefore, it’s important for parents to agree boundaries with their child around how long they’re allowed to play online for and who they’re able to play with.
“Signs of video game addiction include exhaustion, disengagement with day to day life and difficulty concentrating. Parents should consider seeking external help and support if symptoms are prolonged.”
5. Use ratings to understand age appropriate content
Dr. Anderson says: “All games come with a suggested age rating which gives parents a good idea of whether the content included in the game is suitable for the player. These ratings take into account elements like violent or disturbing imagery, sexually explicit material and inappropriate language.
“These age ratings give parents a good guide as to which games they should or shouldn’t purchase for their child, as well as providing peace of mind that the content their child is consuming is safe and suitable.”
