Do you love gaming? Here’s our handy hints for making sure you stay safe and healthy while you are gaming. They don’t stop you having fun, but they can let you game with more confidence.
Take A Break
Just one more game! The press of a button is all it takes. But make sure that you are taking a break every so often so that you can get up and move about. Maybe get a healthy snack or find a different activity to do. Taking a break will make you feel better.
Username Only
If you have to sign up to play, make sure you use a made-up username, not your real name. Don’t give out any personal details when you are playing, especially if you are against people you don’t know. Try to come up with something that you are going to remember. But don’t include your real name or other personal details.
Stick To Speaking To Friends.
Playing against random people you don’t know is one thing. Talking to them is something very different. Only speak to people you know when you are gaming, and mute anyone who isn’t on your friends list.
Top tip
“Be safe online. Don’t add people online that you don’t know.” Lucas, aged 10
Stop before you speak
Getting bullied when you are gaming is something you want to avoid. But so is accidentally bullying someone yourself. It’s easy to get excited when playing a game and shout to your friends. But are you thinking about what you are saying? Could you have upset them without realising?
Top tip
“Don’t send mean texts. Never hide the fact someone’s bullying you. Online bullying hurts. It really hurts. It doesn’t end well for anyone. Don’t do it!” Abbie, aged 10
Report if you need to
If you find yourself being bullied online, or if they are asking you to meet them or for personal details, make sure you tell an adult you trust. It’s also a good idea to report them online. Many game systems now allow you to tell them that someone is worrying you, and they’ll step in to take a look.
Top tip
“Don’t be scared to tell an adult if someone is being mean to you online.” Tyler, aged 10
