As online gaming continues to captivate a growing number of children, concerns are mounting over its potential health risks. A recent study has highlighted a troubling link between excessive gaming and elevated blood pressure in children, underscoring the need for vigilant parental oversight.
According to the 2023 study, 83% of UK children are engaged in online gaming. While gaming can offer educational and entertainment value, it also presents risks such as cyber-bullying, exposure to inappropriate content, and prolonged screen time. These issues can contribute to serious health concerns, including elevated blood pressure.
Emre Aksu, a game critic from1337 Games, has provided guidance on how parents can mitigate these risks. Aksu emphasises the importance of proactive measures to safeguard children while allowing them to enjoy their favourite games. He advises parents to adopt several strategies to ensure a safer gaming environment:
1. Monitor Screen Time Managing screen time is critical to avoiding the adverse effects of excessive gaming, such as addiction and increased blood pressure. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recommends limiting children’s screen time to a maximum of two hours per day. A 2015 study found that children exceeding this limit are 30% more likely to develop high blood pressure. A balanced approach that incorporates outdoor play, reading, and social activities can help mitigate these risks.
2. Beware of In-Game Microtransactions Parental controls are essential for managing in-game purchases, which can be a significant financial burden. In 2022, the global market for online microtransactions was valued at $67.94 billion. Parents are advised to restrict these transactions to avoid unexpected charges and to monitor their children’s spending on virtual items.
3. Understand Gambling-Related Risks Loot boxes and other luck-based gaming mechanics can foster addictive behaviours similar to gambling. Educating children about these risks and supervising their engagement with such features can help prevent potential addiction.
4. Check Game Content Ratings Familiarising oneself with game content ratings is crucial for ensuring age-appropriate gaming. The Pan-European Game Information (PEGI) system provides age classifications that help prevent exposure to violent or inappropriate content.
5. Review Voice Chat Settings Parents should regularly review and adjust voice chat settings in games to enhance privacy and security. Many games offer safer communication options, such as limited chat functions, which can reduce the risk of interaction with strangers.
6. Stay Alert to Cyber-Bullying Educating children about online etiquette and safety is vital. A 2022 Ofcom study revealed that 52% of parents were concerned about their children being bullied during gameplay. Parents should discuss online behaviour, the dangers of sharing personal information, and encourage children to report abuse through in-game features and to trusted adults.
7. Prevent Eye Strain To protect their children’s vision during prolonged gaming sessions, parents should encourage the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. Proper lighting and blue light filters can also help reduce eye strain.
As online gaming remains a popular activity among children, these expert tips offer practical measures for parents to ensure a safer and healthier gaming experience. By implementing these strategies, parents can help their children enjoy gaming while safeguarding their well-being.
