In this lesson, pupils looked at how online games can connect them with people all over the world and why this can sometimes bring risks.
Many popular games include open chatrooms or voice chat, where players can talk to strangers. Pupils discussed how to spot unsafe conversations, such as someone asking for personal information, moving chat to another app, or using abusive or threatening language.
They also explored in-app purchases and loot boxes. These can make games more exciting but often encourage players to spend real money without noticing how much they are spending.
The NSPCC reports that a growing number of grooming cases begin in online games and chat platforms, where adults pretend to be young players.
The UK Gambling Commission (2024) found that 63% of young people are aware of paying to open loot boxes or packs in games, and some develop addictive spending habits.
Psychologists have linked the “spin and reward” design of loot boxes to gambling behaviour, as they use sound, colour and random rewards to make players want to keep spending.
Practical tips:
Keep gaming social but safe. Encourage children to play with real-life friends rather than strangers.
Talk about red flags. Remind them never to share personal details, photos, or to move conversations onto other apps.
Set spending limits. Turn off in-app purchases or use a parent PIN on consoles, iPads or phones.
Ask about the games they play. Find out what chat features or in-game purchases they include.
Encourage breaks. Long gaming sessions can reduce sleep and increase stress.
If something feels wrong, tell someone. Pupils were shown how to report bullying or unsafe behaviour in-game and how to speak to a trusted adult.
Internet Matters – Gaming Advice for Parents: www.internetmatters.org/resources/online-gaming-advice/
NSPCC – Keeping Children Safe While Gaming: www.nspcc.org.uk/keeping-children-safe/online-gaming/
Ask About Games – Family Gaming Guides: www.askaboutgames.com
CEOP – Report Online Grooming: www.ceop.police.uk