This week we are resharing an article from September, about the website ‘Ask About Games’, because its so good it is worth telling you again. Video games are a part of many children’s lives. They can be a source of incredible fun, learning, and social connection. However, as parents, it’s natural to have questions and concerns about how to ensure our children are gaming in a healthy and balanced way.
AskAboutGames.com is a fantastic online resource designed specifically to support parents in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of video games. It is a friendly guide to understanding your child’s digital playground and empowering you to foster positive gaming habits at home.
AskAboutGames.com is backed by the UK games industry body Ukie and in partnership with the Games Rating Authority, isn’t about demonising games. Instead, it’s about providing clear, practical information and tools to help families enjoy games safely and responsibly.
One of the most valuable features is the comprehensive guidance on PEGI age ratings. Just like films, games have age ratings (3, 7, 12, 16, 18) that indicate the suitability of the content. AskAboutGames.com clearly explains what these ratings mean and also details the content descriptors – such as violence, bad language, or in-game purchases – so you can make informed decisions about which games are appropriate for your child. This takes the guesswork out of choosing new games and helps you align their gaming experiences with your family values.
Beyond ratings, the website offers a wealth of expert advice on common parental concerns. Worried about screen time? AskAboutGames.com provides sensible perspectives and tips on how to agree on healthy time limits with your children.
Concerned about online safety and who your child might be interacting with? You’ll find guidance on managing online interactions and understanding the social aspects of gaming.
Practical Tools for Modern Parents
AskAboutGames.com is more than just information; it provides practical tools to help you take action. Their guides on setting up parental controls are always up to date. Most consoles and devices have built-in features that allow you to manage playtime, restrict spending on in-game purchases, and control access to online features. AskAboutGames.com offers easy-to-follow, step-by-step instructions for various platforms, empowering you to create a safer gaming environment tailored to your child’s age and maturity.
A particularly brilliant resource is the “Power Up Pact.” This is a downloadable family agreement that encourages open conversations between you and your child about gaming. It provides a framework for mutually agreeing on rules around things like which games can be played, how long they can play for, and behaviour when gaming online. By involving your children in creating these guidelines, they are more likely to understand and respect them.
The site also features the Family Gaming Database, a helpful tool that offers parent-friendly overviews of popular games, including information on content, the skills they might develop, and suitability for different ages. This allows you to feel more connected to your child’s gaming world and even find games you can enjoy together as a family.
Fostering Connection, Not Conflict
What truly sets AskAboutGames.com apart is its warm, supportive, and non-judgmental approach. It recognises that gaming can have many positive benefits, from developing problem-solving skills and creativity to fostering teamwork and communication. The website aims to equip parents with the knowledge and confidence to guide their children towards these positive experiences while mitigating potential risks. It’s about fostering open dialogue and connection around gaming, rather than it becoming a source of conflict.
We encourage all parents to explore what AskAboutGames.com has to offer. Visit the site at www.askaboutgames.com
