Online gaming is popular for all ages; whether you’re playing on an Xbox, PlayStation, PC or a Nintendo Switch, there are many games to enjoy. As our children enter the digital world, they are likely to want to join the multiplayer gaming community at some point. To keep our children safe and responsible in the digital age of online gaming, here are some things to consider.
Check the game age rating
Firstly, check the age rating of the game your child wants to play. Games like Roblox and Fortnite are popular amongst children, but there are in-game creative modes which have different age ratings. Ensure profiles are set up correctly to age-appropriate content means your child can have access to new multiplayer experiences which are suited towards them.
Assess the general profile privacy and set restrictions
You may wish to set stricter privacy settings on the console profile. This can keep your activity private and restrict general communication on the platform.
On Xbox, open Profile & System, Settings, Account, Privacy & Online Safety and Xbox Privacy. In here, you can adjust restrictions of who can communicate on the Xbox platform and interact with content.
For PlayStation network profiles, go to Account Management, Privacy Settings, and select any desired features you wish to edit privacy restrictions on.
For the Nintendo switch, select Parental Controls, Use this Console, Restriction Level and choose the Communication which will allow you to restrict the ability to interact with other players online.
Review and adjust any online interaction settings
Games themselves will also have their own privacy settings.
For example, games such as Fortnite have settings which you can adjust so that you can only have voice chat enabled for those on your friends list. Similarly, you can adjust the interaction settings so that strangers are unable to send friend requests to your child’s account. We recommend reviewing the online settings for each game your child is playing.
Teach good gaming sportsmanship
An often-overlooked aspect of online gaming is teaching our children of good sportsmanship. The same as with a game of football in the real world, it is important that if your child loses an online game that they understand that they should still act respectful to others (equally respect should be show when winning too, we hate bad winners as much as sore losers!). Online trolling and bullying can be prevented by encouraging respect and kindness towards others.
Join the fun!
Finally, a simple but easy way to help stay safe online is to find a game you and your children can enjoy together. This means you can be aware of the online world they are interacting with as they navigate new spaces. It also means you can spend quality time and have fun.
Overview
Although the digital world may seem complex, creating a safe online gaming space for children can be achieved. Be sure to check the age rating of games, adjust interaction and privacy settings, and teach good gaming sportsmanship to help your child to game safely.
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