Check out our essential tips for parents and young people to ensure positive and safe online gaming experiences.
Stay safe online
Online Gaming Whānau Toolkit
Our online gaming toolkit contains a straightforward seven-step framework designed for parents to assist their tamariki who use devices for gaming. It also caters to general digital parenting needs. The downloadable toolkit is filled with practical, easy-to-understand tips aimed at facilitating discussions with your child about online safety, specifically in the context of online gaming.
The steps you take will vary based on your child’s age and maturity, for example younger children need more supervision, while teenagers may require less.
Playing your child’s game with them can help you understand it and discover why they enjoy it. While online games can be entertaining and educational, providing guidance is essential to ensure gaming doesn’t interfere with their schoolwork, sleep, or physical health.
If you or someone you know needs some advice about online gaming or another online issue you can contact Netsafe for advice and guidance. Our helpline is free, confidential and available 7 days a week.
Despite some negative perceptions, online gaming offers various benefits.
Games can help develop communication, teamwork, collaboration, strategy, and hand-eye coordination skills. Understanding what your child enjoys about gaming can help them feel valued and ensure safer gaming experiences.
Why does my child enjoy gaming?
Reasons your child may enjoy gaming include:
The challenge of strategising to win.
Playing in a team environment.
Communicating with other players.
A sense of accomplishment from winning.
Creativity and imaginative play in an online world.
The autonomy and independence to achieve goals.
Improving skills and becoming better over time.
What should I do when downloading a game?
Before downloading a game:
Use parental controls: Mobile and traditional gaming platforms offer features requiring your approval before your child downloads a game. You might also want to use your email for game accounts.
Check ratings and reviews: Look at age ratings and reviews from other parents on websites like Common Sense Media. Consider playing the game yourself to understand the community and the reporting/blocking options.
Set boundaries: Discuss the game and set boundaries, such as playtime limits and online safety basics, like not sharing personal information online.
Plan for issues: Review terms of service or community guidelines with your child. Ensure they know how to block/report problematic behaviour and feel comfortable talking to you if they encounter issues.
After downloading a game:
Continue discussing your child’s online activities and experiences. Regular conversations help mitigate issues if they arise. Additionally, consider the following:
Privacy settings: Configure privacy settings and use strong passwords. Remind your child not to share personal information online.
In-game purchases: If the game requires a credit card, ensure you remove your card information after purchases.
Check-in regularly: Show interest in your child’s progress and ask about any concerns. Note changes in behaviour or sleeping patterns.
Monitor settings: Check their profile and messaging privacy settings periodically to keep their information secure.
Will my child interact with strangers?
Almost all games that connect to the internet have the option for peer-to-peer interaction, allowing gamers to interact with friends and strangers worldwide. Some games also feature private messaging, especially those allowing contact with other players.
Gaming controls overview
Here's a summary of available parental controls on popular platforms:
Gaming can be enjoyable, but it’s essential to be cautious and to be aware of the potential risks.
Tips for staying safe
Use safety tools: Learn how to block and report uncomfortable interactions.
Get support: Tell an adult if someone’s behaviour makes you uncomfortable.
Keep details private: Don’t share personal information or passwords.
Disconnect: Turn off the game if something upsets you and talk to an adult.
Find balance: Ensure gaming doesn’t interfere with other activities.
Reporting and blocking
Know how to report, block, or mute other players.
If someone’s behaviour upsets you, talk to a trusted adult.
Most of the gaming platforms will have Safety & Security Centres, where you can learn more about how to use the platform's tools to keep yourself safe, and how to report harmful behaviour.
For more advice on how to deal with upsetting content or behaviour when gaming, contact Netsafe.
Play nicely
It’s normal to feel competitive, but always respect other players. Winning isn’t everything.
If you or someone you know needs some advice about online gaming or another online issue you can contact Netsafe for advice and guidance. Our helpline is free, confidential and available 7 days a week.
