Talking about gaming
It’s vital that parents feel confident in having ongoing conversations with their children about their online gaming activities.
These discussions have been shown to reduce the potential harm if issues arise online.
Essential tips and resources to support safe and positive online gaming experiences.
Online gaming is known to bring a lot of benefits including developing problem solving and team work outside of sport, stress relief, relaxation and a sense of community and belonging.
However, as with all platforms that allow social connection online, the same concerns around content, connection and conduct exist in online gaming spaces.
There are also some added issues around in-game purchases and the gambling-like behaviour mechanisms built into some games which our young people in particular can benefit from having support to navigate.
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Essential tips for parents and young people to support safe and positive online gaming experiences.
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It’s vital that parents feel confident in having ongoing conversations with their children about their online gaming activities.
These discussions have been shown to reduce the potential harm if issues arise online.
The Online Gaming Whānau Toolkit is a practical and easy-to-follow seven-step framework designed to assist parents whose children use devices to play games and in digital parenting more generally.
Featured Resource
Microsoft have created the Xbox Gaming Safety Toolkit to empower caregivers to support kids and teens to game safely.
You can contact Netsafe seven days a week for free, confidential and non-judgmental advice about an online issue impacting you or someone you know.
Our helpline is open weekdays from 8am til 8pm, and weekends & public holidays from 9am til 5pm.