As parents, it is vital to be aware of the potential dangers associated with children accessing games with higher age ratings. 18-rated games and films in particular often contain graphic violence, explicit content, and themes unsuitable for younger audiences, which can be harmful to their emotional and developmental wellbeing. While your child might assert that “everyone” is accessing these games or films, it is important to understand that this perception is frequently misleading. Utilising this as a teaching moment, you can reinforce the significance of making responsible choices regarding media consumption.
Encouraging your child to engage with only age-appropriate content not only safeguards their mental health but also allows them to enjoy experiences that are age-suitable and enriching. Remember, the age ratings are designed to protect children from content that is beyond their emotional maturity and are not a reflection of the challenge and difficulty of a game. Additionally, many modern games include open chat functions, heightening the risk of interacting with strangers online. We recommend implementing parental controls and visiting resources like askaboutgames.com and commonsensemedia.org for guidance on choosing suitable games and films.
