Any flashy commercial promoting the latest game will remind you how far video gaming has come since those days of single-dimension characters wandering through mazes. The number of video games available has increased to over 1,000 per year.
A recent survey found that 78 percent of parents who own a console with video games in their homes are concerned about their children’s content. A Kaiser Family Foundation study found that only 17% of children surveyed said their parents checked the ratings of the video games they bought.
To better inform parents, Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA) has teamed up with Microsoft and Best Buy to offer families across the nation tips on gaming safety, launching the “Safety is no game. Is your family set?”Campaign to show parents how they can limit their children’s exposures to inappropriate movie and video games content
These are some tips to keep your child safe online.
* Educate Yourself. The Entertainment Software Rating Boardwww.esrb.org) provides impartial ratings based on the content and age-appropriateness of games. Some retailers let parents shop online with ease using ESRB ratings.
* Play Along. You can play along or observe your child’s experience with video games. It is a great activity for both parents and children. Talk with your child about the game. Ask your child why they like it and what the objective is.
* Utilize parental controls. Microsoft’s Xbox 360 allows parents to choose which games they want by activating safety features.
* Teach Internet safety. Some games allow users to play with others on the Internet. Your child should be informed that they must not give out any personal information to strangers or meet them in person without consulting a parent or responsible adult.
You can find more resources at www. www.netsmartz.orgOder www.xbox.com/isyourfamilyset.
