Game Safety Guides
Online games and maths safety checklist
A family-friendly checklist covering ratings, chat, spending, usernames, time limits and learning goals.
Quick answer
A safe and fun online gaming experience means checking ratings, managing chat, setting time limits, using secure usernames, and choosing games that help with maths skills.Learning outcome
By the end of this page, you will know how to keep yourself safe while playing online games and how to pick games that help you learn maths.Why this matters
Online games can be lots of fun and help you learn new things, including maths. But it's important to stay safe when you play. A good safety checklist helps you enjoy games without worrying about strangers, spending too much money, or sharing personal information. Knowing how to choose games that help with maths means you're learning while you play!How it works
Think of online games like a playground. Just like you check if the playground is safe before playing, you need to check if the online game is safe before playing. Here's how to do it step by step:- Check the game rating – is it right for your age?
- Look at the chat settings – can you talk to strangers?
- Set time limits – how long will you play?
- Choose a safe username – don’t use your real name
- Watch how much money you spend – only use your parent’s permission
- Find games that help with maths – like counting, adding, or solving puzzles
Examples you can see
Let’s imagine you want to play a game on the internet. Here’s what you should check: Game Rating: If a game is rated 12+, it means it’s not meant for children under 12. If you're 8, you should avoid that game. Chat Settings: If a game has a chat feature, look for a "no chat" or "parental controls" option. This stops strangers from talking to you. Time Limits: You could set a timer for 30 minutes. When the timer goes off, you must stop playing. Username: Instead of using your real name like "Emma Smith", use something fun like "EmmaTheExplorer" or "MathsMaster". Spending: If a game costs money, always ask your parent first. You can’t buy anything without permission. Maths Games: Games like "Prodigy" or "Khan Academy Kids" help you learn addition, subtraction, and multiplication while you play.Try it as a mini adventure
Imagine you are a detective trying to find the safest game to play. Your mission is to go through this checklist and see if a game is safe for you to play. 1st time: Look at the game's age rating – is it okay for your age? 2nd time: Check if there is a chat option – can you talk to strangers? 3rd time: Decide how long you will play – set a timer! 4th time: Choose a fun username – not your real name! 5th time: See if the game helps with maths – does it teach you something? 6th time: Ask a parent if it's okay to play – they know best!Common mistakes
- Mistake: Using your real name as a username.
Why it happens: It's easy to use your name.
Fix: Make up a fun name that doesn't give away who you are. - Mistake: Playing for too long without breaks.
Why it happens: Games are very exciting and you don’t want to stop.
Fix: Set a timer and take a break when it goes off. - Mistake: Spending money without asking a parent.
Why it happens: Games can look fun and you want to buy things.
Fix: Always ask a grown-up before spending money. - Mistake: Talking to strangers in the game.
Why it happens: You might think they are friendly.
Fix: If you see a stranger, tell a parent and don’t talk to them. - Mistake: Not checking if a game is good for learning maths.
Why it happens: You just want to play, not learn.
Fix: Look for games that help with numbers, shapes, or puzzles.
Parent and carer guide
Parents, you can help your child stay safe online by:- Checking the game ratings together – use websites like Common Sense Media to find safe games
- Setting up parental controls on devices or gaming platforms
- Having a chat about usernames – help your child make up a safe one
- Setting time limits – use timers or apps that stop games after a set time
- Reviewing spending – make sure your child asks before buying anything in a game
- Choosing games that teach maths – look for games that include counting, addition, or problem-solving
- Playing with your child – this helps you understand what they're doing and keeps it fun
Practice questions
- Why should you not use your real name as a username in online games?
- What is a good way to stop yourself from playing too long?
- Which of these is a safe way to spend money in a game?
- What kind of game helps you learn maths?
- Why is it important to check the age rating of a game?
- Because strangers could find out who you are.
- Set a timer or use a game timer.
- Ask a parent first.
- Games that teach counting, addition, or puzzles.
- Because the game might not be safe for your age.
FAQ
What is a good username for online games?
A good username is fun and does not show your real name or personal details. Try using your favourite animal or hobby.
Can I play any online game I want?
No, you should only play games that are safe for your age and that your parent or carer approves.
How can I tell if a game is good for learning maths?
Look for games that have puzzles, counting, or number problems. Ask a grown-up to help you find them.
What should I do if someone talks to me in a game?
Tell a parent or grown-up right away. Never talk to strangers online.
Do I need to ask permission before spending money in a game?
Yes, always ask a parent or carer before spending money in a game.