Allow me to clarify a tiny bit first: it isn’t even this one question. The topic is much more layered and nuanced than that. To further elaborate on the matter—whether you should allow your child to play online or not; if so, when should you allow it, for how long, and with which games exactly—here’s this conversation starter article. Shall we…?

What do we mean by online gaming exactly?

To make it crisp and smooth, I’d like to define online gaming. It’s when the game takes place on the Internet, allowing gamers to interact with each other. There are, of course, many games on the Internet that don’t include interactions, are one-player games, or where the interactions are only available with “the machine,” as in the code behind the game.

For now, we’ll discuss specifically those games that happen between several gamers, allowing them to play together and talk to each other online.

When is it appropriate for children to start online gaming?

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. All kids are different. While there are certain precautions behind every game, which should be taken into consideration, your parental intellect is the ultimate guidance here. You’re in control, and you should decide whether you will align with or differ from the recommendations.

Those recommendations often stem from elements of the game, such as violence, language, psychological effects, etc. It’s wise to look into these factors before purchasing a game for a birthday or a holiday surprise. Ratings like PEGI (Pan European Game Information) or ESRB (Entertainment Software Rating Board) can be helpful tools to give you a baseline understanding. But even then—context matters. What might be fine for one 10-year-old could overwhelm another. You know your child best.

Questions to ask to make the decision easier

• Is my child familiar with the contents of the game? (Do they know the creatures, the logic behind, the purpose etc.)
• Do they want to play for their own entertainment or because of some trend or push that comes from others?
• Will they be able to process the psychological and emotional aspects of the games? (Check for the goals of the game and the means the players get there.)
• Who might my child interact with through this game?
• Does my child know the cyber risks? Can they manage if they face cyberbullying through the game?
• Will they be able to keep private information private if other players would dig for it?

What are the risks?

Ah, now we’re getting to the heart of it. Online gaming is not without its risks, and as parents, being aware of these is half the battle. Let’s break them down:

1. Exposure to inappropriate content: Games often come with unmoderated chatrooms or voice chats, where kids may encounter foul language, mature topics, or bullying.
2. Stranger danger: Not everyone online has good intentions. Predators sometimes lurk in spaces where children gather, aiming to exploit their trust.
3. Addiction and overuse: Online games are designed to be engaging—sometimes *too* engaging. Excessive gaming can lead to less time for physical activity, schoolwork, and social interactions offline.
4. Psychological impacts: Fast-paced or violent games can affect emotions, stress levels, and even sleep patterns. Competitive environments might also lead to frustration, anger, or lowered self-esteem.
5. Privacy concerns: Children may inadvertently share personal information without understanding the risks, making them targets for data breaches, scams, or identity theft.

These risks sound heavy—because they are. But before you pull the plug on all gaming devices, hang tight. There’s more to this story.

What games to avoid?

When deciding which games to allow, consider avoiding the following types:

• Ultra-violent games: These often feature graphic content, unnecessary gore, and desensitizing violence.
• Games with toxic communities: Some games are notorious for harbouring hostile, unfiltered chat spaces filled with aggressive or harmful behaviour.
• Unmoderated multiplayer games: If a game lacks proper moderation tools (like reporting, muting, or blocking), it’s harder to ensure your child’s safety.
• Games with excessive in-game purchases: Watch out for games designed around microtransactions. Kids can unknowingly rack up bills or become obsessed with pay-to-win models.

Are there any benefits at all?

Surprise! It’s not all doom and gloom. Online gaming, when approached thoughtfully, can offer some real benefits:

1. Cognitive skills: Many games require problem-solving, strategic thinking, and multitasking—valuable skills that extend beyond the screen.
2. Social connection: Online games can help kids stay connected with friends or meet new ones, particularly in times when face-to-face interaction isn’t possible.
3. Teamwork and communication: Cooperative games teach players to work together, communicate effectively, and resolve conflicts—life skills we all need.
4. Stress relief: For some kids, online gaming can be a fun, lighthearted way to unwind after a tough day.
5. Technological literacy: Like it or not, tech is here to stay. Navigating online spaces safely equips kids with the digital literacy they’ll need in adulthood.
6. Language skills: If your child’s first language isn’t English, they will learn it pretty quickly and effectively through gaming.

The benefits are real—but they’re only unlocked when gaming is moderated, safe, and balanced.

Conclusion

So, should you let your kids play online games? Well, maybe. It’s not a black-and-white decision. Online gaming can be both a blessing and a curse, depending on how you approach it. Be informed. Be involved. Take the time to research games, understand their risks, and set boundaries for when, what, and how long your kids can play.

Talk to your child. Online gaming shouldn’t be a forbidden forest they’re navigating alone. Stay curious about their world, keep the communication open, and above all, teach them how to game safely—because we’re raising digital citizens, after all.

What’s your take on this? Share your thoughts below—let’s keep the conversation going.