Safety Tips

1. Introduction to Online Safety

Why does online safety matter?
Playing games online is exciting and fun, but it’s important to stay safe so you can enjoy without worries. Online safety helps protect your personal info, keeps you away from bad content, and makes sure everyone has a good time.

2. For Children: Your Online Safety Superhero Guide! 🦸‍♂️🦸‍♀️

Hey there, little gamer! Here’s how you can be a Safety Superhero while having fun online:

Simple Safety Rules

• Keep your secret identity! Use a fun game name instead of your real name.

• Guard your treasure! Never share your address, phone number, or school name.

• Ask a grown-up sidekick! If something feels weird or scary, tell a parent or teacher.

• Don’t open mystery boxes! Avoid clicking on strange links or pop-ups—they could be traps!

• Be kind, be cool! Treat others with respect and tell a grown-up if someone is mean.

Fun Safety Analogies

• Think of your personal info like a superhero’s secret identity—never give it away!

• Pop-ups are like sneaky villains trying to trick you—don’t let them win!

• Taking breaks is like recharging your superpowers — don’t skip them!

Colorful Examples

• If someone asks “Where do you live?” say “Sorry, that’s a secret mission!”

• If a message says, “Click here for a prize,” it might be a trap—run the other way!

Positive Reinforcement

• You’re doing awesome by keeping your info safe!

• Great job telling a grown-up when something feels wrong!

Safety Checklist (Keep it in mind or print it out):

• Use a game nickname, not your real name

• Don’t share where you live or go to school

• Tell an adult if you see mean words or scary pictures

• Take breaks every 20 minutes

• Only play games made for kids your age

3. For Parents: Helping Your Child Become a Confident, Safe Gamer

Monitoring and Tools

• Use built-in parental controls on browsers and devices (e.g., Chrome Family Link, Microsoft Family Safety).

• Set age-appropriate filters and block websites or games that are not suitable.

• Consider third-party monitoring tools that notify you of inappropriate content or excessive gaming time.

Age-Appropriate Expectations

• Children 6-9: Require more supervision and simple rules. Encourage open questions and co-play to understand games.

• Children 10-12: Can handle some independence but still need guidance and conversations about safe behavior.

Communication Strategies

• Create a “no-judgment zone” where children feel safe sharing online experiences.

• Use storytelling or examples from their favorite games to discuss safety topics.

• Praise your child when they make safe choices to build confidence.

Warning Signs to Watch For

• Sudden secretive behavior around devices.

• Changes in mood, sleep, or social habits.

• Excessive time spent gaming at the cost of homework or offline play.

• Complaints about bullying or uncomfortable interactions.

Balancing Safety and Independence

• Gradually increase your child’s responsibility as they grow.

• Allow supervised solo play with clear boundaries.

• Encourage healthy screen time routines and offline activities.

Educational Resources for Parents

• Stay updated with trusted websites like Common Sense Media and Parent Zone.

• Join online parenting communities to share tips and experiences.

• Attend webinars or workshops on digital safety when possible.

Emergency Response

• Teach your child how to block and report inappropriate behavior in games.

• Know how to contact your local child protection services or helplines.

• Have a plan to intervene calmly if your child encounters online risks.

4. Safe Gaming Habits

• Always choose games that are made for your age group.

• Don’t click on pop-ups or ads while gaming—they can be unsafe.

• Take regular breaks: stand up, stretch, and look away from the screen every 20 minutes.

• Balance gaming with outdoor play and homework.

• Use comfortable seating and good lighting to protect your eyes and posture.

5. Personal Information Protection

• Never share your full name, home address, phone number, or school name.

• Keep passwords secret—even from friends.

• Don’t share photos or videos that show where you live or go to school.

• Ask a parent before downloading anything or clicking on links.

6. Recognizing Unsafe Content

• If a game or chat has mean words, scary pictures, or makes you feel upset, stop playing.

• Don’t open messages from strangers or people you don’t know.

• Look out for games asking for money or personal info—that’s not safe.

7. Reporting Problems

• If you see something wrong or feel unsafe, tell a parent or teacher right away.

• Use the game’s “Report” or “Block” features to stop bullying or bad behavior.

• Remember: asking for help is brave and important!

8. Time Management

• Set timers to remind you when to take breaks.

• Try to play games for no more than 1 hour at a time.

• Make sure gaming doesn’t stop you from sleeping well or doing other activities.

9. Technical Safety

• Always use up-to-date browsers with security features enabled.

• Avoid clicking on pop-ups or suspicious links.

• Don’t download games or files from untrusted websites.

• Keep your device’s antivirus software updated.

10. Emergency Contacts

• If something online scares you or you feel unsafe, tell a trusted adult immediately.

• Contact local help services if necessary (parents can help).

• Bookmark websites like Kids Helpline or Childline for support.

11. Additional Resources

• Common Sense Media — Game reviews and safety tips

• NetSmartz — Online safety education for kids and parents

• StaySafeOnline — Tips and tools for internet safety

• Parent Zone — Support for parents managing kids’ online lives

12. Gaming-Specific Safety for Browser Games

Technical Safety

• Use trusted websites only — check for “https://” and the padlock icon.

• Keep browsers updated to get the latest security fixes.

• Avoid clicking on pop-ups or ads during gameplay.

• Never download games or files from unknown sources.

• Use up-to-date antivirus software on all devices.

Content Safety

• Choose games designed for kids aged 6 and up, avoiding violent or scary themes.

• Check game ratings and reviews before playing.

• Teach kids about in-game purchases and how to avoid unauthorized spending.

• Balance educational games with pure fun games.

Time and Health Safety

• Play in 30–60 minute sessions with breaks.

• Maintain good posture and screen height.

• Use the 20-20-20 rule to reduce eye strain.

• Balance gaming with physical activity and offline time.

• Avoid gaming right before bedtime.

Social Safety

• Never share personal info with other players.

• Treat online players as strangers unless you know them offline.

• Use mute/block/report features to handle inappropriate behavior.

• Adjust privacy settings to control who can contact your child.

• Encourage kind and safe communication.

13. Practical Implementation Guidance for Families

Family Safety Planning

• Set family rules for when and where gaming happens.

• Use shared, visible spaces for gaming.

• Set screen time limits and reminders.

• Check in regularly on gaming experiences.

• Adjust responsibilities by age and maturity.

Technical Setup

• Configure safe browser settings and parental controls.

• Use monitoring apps like Qustodio or Norton Family.

• Secure your Wi-Fi and change default passwords.

• Create child accounts on devices with restrictions.

• Keep software and security tools updated.

Communication

• Have open, judgment-free talks about online safety.

• Use game examples to explain safety topics.

• Praise safe choices and encourage questions.

• Teach children to report and block when necessary.

Monitoring Without Invasion

• Balance supervision with privacy depending on age.

• Use alerts instead of spying to maintain trust.

• Gradually increase independence with clear guidelines.

14. Empowerment and Positive Safety Culture

For Children

• Be proud of your safe choices—they make you a hero!

• Speak up if something feels wrong—you’re never alone.

• Safe gaming means more fun and freedom.

• Be kind and responsible online.

• Keep learning and practicing safe habits.

For Parents

• You have the tools to guide and protect your child.

• Adapt your approach as your child grows.

• Safety is a team effort—family and community together.

• Keep educating yourself on new digital trends.

• Reach out for support when needed.

Trusted Resources

• Common Sense Media

• NetSmartz

• Childline

• StaySafeOnline

• Parent Zone

Final Notes

Safety is about making gaming fun and worry-free for kids and peace of mind for parents. Keep this guide handy, review it often, and adapt as your family’s digital life grows!