Gaming or Gambling?

New campaign aims to keep children safer in online games 

Parent Zone, the experts in digital family life, and GambleAware, a leading charity committed to minimising gambling-related harm, have partnered to help families learn about the gambling-like risks that eight to eleven-year-olds may face when playing online games – and to give simple, practical advice for parents to keep gaming fun.

A short animation help families learn about this important issue in a quick and accessible way whilst a second film gives families more detailed advice on what they can do to reduce the risks. 

Alongside the films, an online quiz and glossary give parents and carers the chance to explore the topic further so that they help their children to stay in control.

Vicki Shotbolt, Founder and CEO of Parent Zone says “Gaming is an important, and fun, part of many families’ lives. But lots of parents do not know about the gambling-like features that are in games – and the risks these can lead to. 

We want parents to ask what games their children are playing, check that they are happy with what they are doing in those games and know what their children are spending money on.”

Dr Jane Rigbye, Director of Education at GambleAware has said: “More and more children are being exposed to gambling like activity and it is increasingly important that parents are aware of the risks of gambling and talk to their children about it. 

We’re really pleased to be able to work with Parent Zone to help educate parents about the gambling-like activity that their kids might be exposed to and make sure they know about the existing help and support that is available.”  

Free learning materials for schools

A free resource pack has been developed for teachers. The pack contains a lesson plan for introducing the topic in school as well as the ‘Gaming or Gambling?’ films, FAQs, top tips and quiz.

The ‘Gaming or Gambling?’ films and supporting information are available for FREE online at www.parentzone.org.uk/gamingorgambling