| Gaming has taken root and there are no signs | | | | their kids especially very young ones about |
| of the popularity abating. Children as well | | | | the dangers lurking on the internet. |
| as adults are all hooked to computer and | | | | |
| video gaming in a big way. And, the internet | | | | 5. Learn all about downloadable mods that |
| has added a dash of excitement into gaming as | | | | alter the content of games. Mods can change |
| players can now not just play online but | | | | the appropriateness of the game for young |
| compete online. | | | | players so parents must be vigilant. |
| | | | |
| The gaming world realizes that if they are to | | | | 6. Always invest in video game consoles and |
| sustain a multi-billion dollar business they | | | | handhelds that have parental controls. This |
| must care not just for the gamers but their | | | | will enable you to limit the gaming content |
| parents too. The Entertainment Software | | | | your children can access. Using parental |
| Rating Board or ESRB has issued video gaming | | | | controls will ensure that the children only |
| tips as a guide for parents. The ESRB is the | | | | play games that are appropriate to them. |
| one that tests video games and rates them so | | | | |
| that parents can select suitable games for | | | | 7. Know your child's nature and buy games |
| children of different age groups. | | | | that will nurture the child's holistic |
| | | | growth. Games are known to have many |
| 1. Parents must check the ratings and examine | | | | benefits, us them to your advantage. |
| the rating symbol on the front of the package | | | | |
| as well as read the content descriptor at the | | | | 8. Know the games your kids play by reading |
| back when buying a game. The ESRB site has | | | | their reviews online and joining gaming blogs |
| in depth information about games rated by | | | | and forum. Read game reviews and watch game |
| them. | | | | trailers and demos. |
| | | | |
| 2. Never depend on advertisements, always | | | | 9. Make time to interact with your children. |
| talk to parents and older children to get an | | | | Play games with them and teach them that |
| holistic view of the game you intend to buy. | | | | gaming is not harmful if played right. Win |
| | | | their confidence so that they are open with |
| 3. Be a friend to your child and play the | | | | you and share their fears and joys. |
| games with him or her. There is nothing like | | | | |
| a hands on experience. | | | | 10. Take the kids to game expos and |
| | | | exhibitions. Learn all about the gaming |
| 4. Beware of online gaming as very often the | | | | world. Keep one step ahead at all times and |
| game has unrated components. Online gaming | | | | your kids will be able to play games without |
| also has features like chats and exchange of | | | | any problems. |
| ideas and information. Parents must teach | | | | |