Seven in 10 parents allow their children to play video games even though they are not fully informed about age ratings or what the games contain, according to new research.
A study of 2,000 mothers and fathers with children aged seven to 16 found that parents felt more out of touch with gaming than with online content, social media or sports. More than a quarter (28%) admitted gaming was the hobby they understood least, with most relying on their children to explain gaming-related terms or issues.
Parental Concerns Over Screen Time and Content
The biggest worries among parents included screen time (35%), exposure to inappropriate content (28%) and who their child is talking to while playing (25%).
The research was commissioned by Nintendo, which has created a new Parent's Guide to Gaming with Confidence. The guide covers game age ratings, online safety, screen time, parental controls and different types of gaming experience.
For 34% of parents surveyed, learning more about their child's gaming would help them feel more confident about making future decisions.
Expert Views on Building Gaming Literacy
Andy Robertson, family gaming expert and author of the guide, said: "This research matches what I find when helping parents worried about video games; the most important thing is gaining literacy about the video games their children enjoy."
He added: "Rather than giving parents and carers another set of rules to enforce or actions to take, this approach empowers parents to make informed decisions about how video games work for their family."
Robertson said creating the guide with Nintendo was "a chance to address fears and concerns, as well as build literacy, understanding and confidence."
Support Parents Say Would Help Most
The study found that guidance on managing screen time (37%), setting parental controls (32%) and understanding game content (30%) were among the forms of support parents felt would help most. Some 24% admitted parental controls were among the gaming topics they felt least informed about.
Despite their concerns, 58% believed video games can help children develop problem-solving skills, while 45% said gaming can encourage teamwork and creativity. A further 30% felt gaming can help children develop communication skills, according to OnePoll.com data. In addition, 61% play video games with their child regularly or occasionally.
Positive Views on Family Gaming
Dr Amanda Gummer, child psychologist and founder of The Good Play Guide, said: "Technology is evolving so quickly that many parents feel they're being asked to navigate a world that didn't exist when they were growing up."
She added: "I see families trying to keep pace with new games, platforms and online trends, often without the information they need to feel confident. Parents shouldn't be expected to have all the answers - access to trusted, practical guidance is key to helping families make informed decisions about gaming."
More than four in 10 (44%) of those who game with their child said it leads to more laughter and helps them better understand their son or daughter's interests (43%). Some 38% believed playing together creates more opportunities for conversation, while 40% reported a stronger family connection through shared gaming experiences.
Ellie Gibson, games journalist and co-host of Scummy Mummies, said: "A lot of the conversation around gaming focuses on the risks, but we don't always spend enough time talking about the positives. Gaming can be creative, social and a brilliant way for families to spend time together."
Gibson added: "Not all gaming experiences are the same, and understanding what children are actually doing when they play can give parents a much more balanced view of the role gaming has in their lives."
