We as parents understand that this is unavoidable and all we can do is enforce the basic rules and make sure our kids play age appropriate games. If the rules are enforced and adult guardians support game selection, we feel better about it and can control when and what our children play.
Do you play video games and online games yourself? People of all ages are playing, actually the average age of a gamer is 33 years old and apparently a 33 year old gamer is not interested in Scooby Doo games. So, looking at a game page, how would you determine which ones are intended for children?
The first thing to do is to carefully read the description on a package. The game content is described in detail on the back of each game box. Be sure to check a game’s rating on a game’s package. The Entertainment Software Ratings Board (ESRB) is an organization that assigns the ratings that appear on the front and back of each game available for purchase or rental. You should be familiar with the rating symbols and understand what they mean.
A full list of ESRB ratings, content descriptions, and their definitions are available at ESRB.org, where you can also look up a particular game’s rating before heading to the store.
Secondly, younger children often ask for games intended for teenagers. You have to stand firm and steady. By saying “no,” you’re actually enforcing the rules and buying yourself some peace of mind. Unless you know the game inside out and play a particular game intended for teens, it’s best not to risk it.
You should also take into account your child’s personality and abilities. Go beyond the ratings and read game reviews available online and game magazines, download game demo or rent for free with online game rental stores. Get involved and play together with your child to get to know her interests well. Talk to other parents and see what they have to say about a particular game or their kids’ gaming habits in general. Join the online gaming forum and post your questions about particular games. The more involved you are, the better chance there is that your child will play safe.
