Virtual Reality (VR) is an exciting new way for kids to experience interactive games and explore virtual worlds. But as parents, you want to ensure that your child’s VR adventures are fun and safe. After all, VR is a whole new world—literally—and with that comes new things to think about. In this article, we’ll give you all the tools you need to ensure your child can enjoy VR safely, while you rest easy knowing they’re well-protected.

1. Set Up Parental Controls

When you first set up your child’s VR headset, take the time to set up parental controls. These features are your best friend in keeping things safe, and most VR systems, like Oculus, come with easy-to-use tools that allow you to control what your child sees and does in virtual spaces.

Here’s what you can do:

• Set Content Filters: Most VR platforms let you block age-inappropriate content. You can set filters to ensure that your child only has access to VR experiences that are suitable for their age group. No need to worry about stumbling into something they’re not ready for!
• Set Playtime Limits: Just like setting screen time on a tablet, you can limit how long your child can use the VR headset each day. It’s important to balance their fun time in VR with other activities like running around outside (remember that fresh air?).
• Activate Privacy Settings: Make sure you’re familiar with privacy settings on the platform. You can control who your child interacts with in multiplayer VR games, and you can block or mute people they don’t know.

2. Monitor Social Interactions

VR is often multiplayer, which means your child may be interacting with other players in a virtual space. While this can be a lot of fun, it’s important to keep an eye on who your child is talking to. Some platforms, like Rec Room or VRChat, allow players to communicate with one another using voice chat, and while some conversations are harmless, you’ll want to ensure your child is interacting with people they know.

A good rule of thumb? Encourage your child to play with friends and family or in private, invite-only rooms. This way, you know exactly who they’re interacting with, and it’s much easier to ensure that everything stays friendly and safe.

3. Set Physical Boundaries

If you’ve ever tried to move around in VR, you know it can be easy to forget where you are in real life. Your child may get totally immersed in the game and start flailing their arms (hopefully, not into the couch or the TV). That’s why it’s important to set up a safe play area.

Clear out any furniture or obstacles, and make sure your child has enough space to move freely. You don’t want them tripping over the family pet or accidentally knocking something off the shelf! And while the headset should have built-in safety boundaries, it’s always a good idea to add your own just in case.

4. Encourage Breaks

VR can be a lot of fun, but it can also be a little intense, especially for kids who are new to the experience. Make sure your child takes regular breaks to give their eyes—and their brain—a chance to rest. You can even set up a timer as a fun reminder for them to take a break.

Too much screen time, whether in VR or on a regular screen, can lead to eye strain, headaches, or motion sickness. Encourage your child to step out of the virtual world and do something active, like running around outside or playing a board game. It’s all about balance.

With these simple steps—setting parental controls, monitoring social interactions, ensuring a safe play area, and encouraging breaks—you’ll be able to let your child dive into their virtual adventures knowing they’re safe, secure, and having fun. So, go ahead—let them step into the future of gaming, and you can rest assured that they’ll have a great, safe time in the process!