Video Games

How to Buy Age Appropriate Video Games

Age appropriate educational games can have a positive impact but parents must check ratings and read descriptions when buying a game. Some stores have demos of the video game so you get an idea of the content of the video game. Video games are rated by Early Childhood, Everyone, Everyone 10+, Teen, Mature, Adults Only, and Rating Pending. These ratings can help determine the age appropriateness of video games. Familiarize yourself with the games your children play by reading online reviews, watching game trailers and demos.

There are three common video game systems: Xbox 360, Playstation 3 and Nintendo. Always buy video game consoles that have parental controls. You will then be able to limit what your children can access assuring that they will be playing games that are appropriate for them.

Before buying a video game, consider renting. This is the perfect opportunity to test and review the game to determine if it is appropriate for your children. Monitoring game selection is important but parents may also want to limit playing time.