Video Game Literacy

Some Video Games not are for kids

Do you know what’s in that computer or video game your child wants to buy or rent? Just as with movies and TV shows, computer and video games on the market today are created for players of differing ages and maturity levels. Some games have content that may not be suitable for children. As parents, we have a responsibility to guide our children toward games that we decide are appropriate for them to play. That’s why parents should read game reviews, talk to older children and other parents, and try out demos of the games online or in stores before they make a purchase.

In addition to taking these steps, parents should check the ratings on every computer and video game box to help choose the right games for their family. Found on virtually every computer and video game package, the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) ratings provide information about age suitability and describes the content of the game.


Video Game Rating System

Like movies and TV shows, computer and video games on the market today are created for players of differing ages and maturity levels. Some games have content that may not be suitable for children, and many parents want help guiding their children towards games that are appropriate for them to play. That’s why parents should read game reviews, talk to older children and other parents, and test the games when possible in stores before they make a purchase.

In addition to taking these steps, parents now have another tool to help them select computer and video games for their children—the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) ratings, which are found on virtually every computer and video game package.

Some video games are for kids. Some aren’t. The ESRB rating system provides information about age suitability and describes the content of the game so you can make an informed decision before you buy or rent a game.


Video Game Safety

Video games do much more than entertain. They can help our children expand their imagination, develop their ability to solve problems, learn fine motor skills—even help them exercise. The diversity in game content is seemingly unlimited, which is why it is so important for you to be informed. That is why PTA has teamed up with ESRB to develop a brochure containing information to help parents understand the ESRB rating system and content descriptors, and provide tips on choosing games that are right for their family.

We encourage you to carefully read this material and share it with your family and friends. Together we can ensure that parents have the tools to choose appropriate games for their children. Return to the PTA’s video game safety page. Information is also available about media safety including video games, TV shows, movies, and the Internet.

“Overall, 17% [of surveyed children] say their parents check the ratings on the video games they buy. Perhaps not surprisingly, then, two-thirds of all 7th- to 12th-graders say they have played the controversial Grand Theft Auto game,” —The Kaiser Family Foundation, Generation M: Media in the Lives of 8–18 Year-olds, 2005