The Modern Parent

themodernparent.net twitter: @themodernparent

Martine Oglethorpe

Kids & OnlineGaming:

A Parents Guideto getting

it right

Kids love playing video games. They also love playing them online

with groups of friends.Sometimes game playing and

disagreements can spill over intothe real life playground.

Sometimes it becomes hard to tearkids away from the games.

Want to keep your kids safe,responsible and in control of

their video game playing?

Here are some things to thinkabout.....

When playing in groupsituations, have them playwhere you are in earshot.

That means No Headphones.You need to hear the banter!

Start with some simple rulesfrom the beginning.

Discuss them with your child sothey know what is to be

expected.Be sure they are aware of the

agreed upon consequences fornot following these rules

Some Rules

No inappropriate language

No excluding other players

No bullying behaviours

Set Time limits

One of the best ways to avoidfights about 'getting off' the game,

is to set up agreed upon timelimits. Always give a warning 5minutes before, to ensure no

whinging about "finishing a level,just one more round or I haven't

saved it yet!"

Talk to other Parents

If you child plays with a regulargroup of friends, talking to theother parents to come up withsimilar rules makes life much

easier.

Play the Games

It is much better to parent whenyou have perspective and

understanding. Playing a gamewith your child helps you find out

whether its appropriate, whatthey love about it and it can be a

great way to bond.

Remember....

We can't always control what otherpeople do online. Equip your childwith the critical thinking to know

what is right and wrong.As they get older & we lose some

control, we want to know they havethe skills to be safe & responsible

gamers.

The Modern Parent

themodernparent.net twitter: @themodernparent

Martine Oglethorpe

For more help facing thechallenges of parenting withtechnology and the online

world, find me at:

themodernparent.nettwitter @themodernparent

facebook.com/themodernparent oremail: info@martineoglethorpe.com.au