The number of available online games is overwhelming, and there are games for every interest and age. Find out how to keep your children safe in the world of online gaming.

On the Internet, thousands, probably millions, of online games in any conceivable genre are available by a click of the mouse. These range from child friendly puzzles and driving games, to violent shooters and role playing games. The potential danger of children stumbling upon inappropriate games is large, and parents are recommended to make sure that their children are having fun, staying safe and hopefully learning a thing or two.

What kinds of online games are available?

• Flash games or casual games. Many Internet games can be played within your browser for free. You don’t need to register; you just enter the site and start playing. These are the kind of games that are offered on popular games sites for young children, such as Nick Jr. and Disney. Many large online game portals offer free Flash games. These portals offer a huge variety in games, but bear in mind that these games are far from appropriate for all users. Some can safely be played by young children, while others may contain violence and/or other potentially harmful content.

• Massively multiplayer online games (MMOs). These games require registration. Some you have to pay for before you start playing, while others let you start for free and charge for upgrades. Some also charge in-game micropayments. These games are usually designed for children from 13 years of age, and are very much like the games you play on a video game console. You play against other players all across the world, and the games can be very violent, as well as addictive. In addition, you have the possibility to chat with other users. A famous example of an MMO is “World of Warcraft”.

• Virtual worlds. These games offer a virtual playground where players create avatars to socialize, play games and create their own space. Some of the games are intended for children as young as preschool, while others are made strictly for adults. Virtual worlds for children are usually monitored by both people and technology filters. Most sites allow users to chat freely and/or choose from a list of approved statements. Many sites let you play for free but charge for premium features. Club Penguin is a popular example.

Available on several platforms
Be aware that online games are not just available on your home computer or laptop. All these games can be played on all devices with Internet access; a mobile phone, iPod Touch, Nintendo DSi and more. There are a lot of downloadable game apps for children available as well; some of them are free, others cost money.

Make sure games are age appropriate
Kids and Media recommends that parents have a dialogue with their children about which kinds of games they like to play, and help them find appropriate and fun games. Avoid games where players can chat freely, as the language can get quite coarse. In addition, sites that are monitored by moderators are usually safer than unmonitored sites.

Read safety tips for parents.

Source:

Common Sense Media
Online Games for Kids – A Common Sense Guide

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