The document discusses tips for parents to help keep kids safe while playing video games online. It recommends that parents establish rules about appropriate language, excluding other players, and bullying. Parents should also set time limits for gaming, discuss rules with other parents whose children play together, and play games with their kids to better understand the experience. The overall message is that open communication and setting clear expectations can help children be responsible when gaming online.

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The Modern Parent
Martine Oglethorpe
themodernparent.net twitter: @themodernparent

2. Kids love playing video games.
They also love playing them online
with groups of friends.
Sometimes game playing and
disagreements can spill over into
the real life playground.
Sometimes it becomes hard to tear
kids away from the games.

3. Want to keep your kids safe,
responsible and in control of
their video game playing?
Here are some things to think
about.....

4. When playing in group
situations, have them play
where you are in earshot.
That means No Headphones.
You need to hear the banter!

5. Start with some simple rules
from the beginning.
Discuss them with your child so
they know what is to be
expected.
Be sure they are aware of the
agreed upon consequences for
not following these rules

6. Some Rules
No inappropriate language
No excluding other players
No bullying behaviours

7. Set Time limits
One of the best ways to avoid
fights about 'getting off' the game,
is to set up agreed upon time
limits. Always give a warning 5
minutes before, to ensure no
whinging about finishing a level,
just one more round or I haven't
saved it yet!

8. Talk to other Parents
If you child plays with a regular
group of friends, talking to the
other parents to come up with
similar rules makes life much
easier.

9. Play the Games
It is much better to parent when
you have perspective and
understanding. Playing a game
with your child helps you find out
whether its appropriate, what
they love about it and it can be a
great way to bond.

10. Remember....
We can't always control what other
people do online. Equip your child
with the critical thinking to know
what is right and wrong.
As they get older we lose some
control, we want to know they have
the skills to be safe responsible
gamers.

11. For more help facing the
challenges of parenting with
technology and the online
world, find me at:
themodernparent.net
twitter @themodernparent
facebook.com/themodernparent or
email: info@martineoglethorpe.com.au
The Modern Parent
Martine Oglethorpe
themodernparent.net twitter: @themodernparent