Understanding gaming
Get to grips with how gaming influences young lives. Explore both the opportunities and potential risks of modern gaming.
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A positive relationship with gaming doesn’t have to mean avoiding it altogether – it’s about finding a healthy balance. Young people need support in developing habits that let them enjoy gaming as part of a balanced lifestyle.
Understanding what motivates their gaming – whether socialising with friends, creative expression of competitive achievement – will help you to guide them toward health patterns of play.
Wondering how to talk to your children about gaming? Starting the conversation can feel daunting, especially if you have concerns. But encouraging open dialogue about their digital world will help build trust and opens up natural opportunities to have meaningful conversations about both the fun sides and the risks.
Games today frequently include options to spend real money on virtual items and enhancements through in-game purchases or microtransactions. While these can enhance gameplay, many use chance-based mechanisms similar to gambling, making it crucial to understand and manage their impact on young people.
Gaming becomes harmful when it starts affecting sleep, school or relationships, when there’s increased anger or anxiety around gaming limits, or when time spent gaming feels out of control. If you notice any changes that worry you, our guide can help you understand the signs to watch for, as well as how to access help when you need it.
Get to grips with how gaming influences young lives. Explore both the opportunities and potential risks of modern gaming.
Create safer gaming environments with practical guidance on parental safety controls, screen time, and managing in-game purchases.
Join thousands of parents and professionals we've trained to support children and young people. Our free workshops give you the knowledge and confidence to prevent the harms of gaming and gambling.