It's in the game: Choose age-appropriate games for kids this holiday-CBS Pittsburgh

2021-11-22 10:00:04 By : Ms. Amy Lei

Pittsburgh (KDKA)-As parents, we want to help children realize their holiday wishes, but we also want them to be safe.

Speaking of games, where do you start looking for something suitable and safe?

The award-winning author and parenting guide Scott Steinberg has written 20 books to help guide parents in understanding the world of games, starting with game ratings.

"Not only will they provide you with a recommended age range for your target audience, but they will also gain insight into the types of content or experiences you might encounter in these products," he said.

Steinberg recommends that you use technology magazines and websites to conduct some online research on the game.

"I will check the ESRB website, the entertainment software rating board, and organizations like Common Sense Media, and you can also check game review sites like IGN or Game Spot," he explained. "They will let you know what kind of headline might suit what kind of audience."

He recommends actually watching some game moves.

"Of course, YouTube also has a lot of video trailers," Steinberg said. "By the way, unlike Hollywood trailers, you can only get a good part of about 90 seconds or two minutes. Many video game trailers will give you 30 minutes of play time."

Of course, the maturity speed of children varies, so you have to decide for yourself whether the game is suitable for your child.

Watch: some of the most popular games this year

When it comes to interesting and interactive things for the whole family, Steinberg said that "Just Dance 2022" will transform everyone from a young heart to a young heart.

"Up to six players can dance together and consume some holiday calories," he said.

If you have a teenager in your family, they may already know Riders Republic.

“As a result, up to 64 players and next-generation consoles can ride a bicycle cross-country, they can go skiing or snowboarding, or fly down the mountain in a wing suit,” Steinberg said.

In the mature "M" category, Steinberg said that "Far Cry 6" received rave reviews.

"It's like watching a movie," he said. "You are struggling on this lush tropical Caribbean island. You will find all kinds of cool ways to destroy your enemies in beaches, jungles, and urban environments."

Although many games allow you to play online with other people, Steinberg says this is an area that parents need to pay attention to.

"Remember, kids who are online may always encounter different situations," he explained. "As a parent, you need to be a trustworthy guide and resource to make children feel comfortable when they encounter problems or problematic content online, so you can help them move in the right direction."

Steinberg said that parents or guardians need to participate in their children's high-tech activities as they do in the real world.

As for tweening parents, don’t be surprised if your 12- or 13-year-old is interested in games rated "M".

They have heard of them at school, and may even play with them at a friend's house. Likewise, every child is different, and it is up to the parents to decide whether the game is appropriate.

As for the usability of games, many games are now available digitally, so that it is rare that you cannot find games that interest your child.