| Gaming has taken root and there are no signs of the | | | | information. Parents must teach their kids especially |
| popularity abating. Children as well as adults are all | | | | very young ones about the dangers lurking on the |
| hooked to computer and video gaming in a big way. | | | | internet. |
| And, the internet has added a dash of excitement into | | | | 5. Learn all about downloadable mods that alter the |
| gaming as players can now not just play online but | | | | content of games. Mods can change the |
| compete online. | | | | appropriateness of the game for young players so |
| The gaming world realizes that if they are to sustain a | | | | parents must be vigilant. |
| multi-billion dollar business they must care not just for | | | | 6. Always invest in video game consoles and |
| the gamers but their parents too. The Entertainment | | | | handhelds that have parental controls. This will enable |
| Software Rating Board or ESRB has issued video | | | | you to limit the gaming content your children can |
| gaming tips as a guide for parents. The ESRB is the | | | | access. Using parental controls will ensure that the |
| one that tests video games and rates them so that | | | | children only play games that are appropriate to them. |
| parents can select suitable games for children of | | | | 7. Know your child's nature and buy games that will |
| different age groups. | | | | nurture the child's holistic growth. Games are known to |
| 1. Parents must check the ratings and examine the | | | | have many benefits, us them to your advantage. |
| rating symbol on the front of the package as well as | | | | 8. Know the games your kids play by reading their |
| read the content descriptor at the back when buying a | | | | reviews online and joining gaming blogs and forum. |
| game. The ESRB site has in depth information about | | | | Read game reviews and watch game trailers and |
| games rated by them. | | | | demos. |
| 2. Never depend on advertisements, always talk to | | | | 9. Make time to interact with your children. Play games |
| parents and older children to get an holistic view of the | | | | with them and teach them that gaming is not harmful if |
| game you intend to buy. | | | | played right. Win their confidence so that they are |
| 3. Be a friend to your child and play the games with | | | | open with you and share their fears and joys. |
| him or her. There is nothing like a hands on experience. | | | | 10. Take the kids to game expos and exhibitions. Learn |
| 4. Beware of online gaming as very often the game | | | | all about the gaming world. Keep one step ahead at all |
| has unrated components. Online gaming also has | | | | times and your kids will be able to play games without |
| features like chats and exchange of ideas and | | | | any problems. |