Should I let my 13 year old play Fortnite?
The answer to this question is not a simple yes or no, as it ultimately depends on your child’s individual maturity level and your own parenting style, but generally, Fortnite is rated T for Teen by the Entertainment Software Ratings Board (ESRB), which means it’s suitable for children aged 13 and above, and Common Sense Media also recommends it for kids 13 and up. As a parent, it’s essential to consider the potential risks and benefits of allowing your 13-year-old to play Fortnite, including its action violence, open chat, and potential for addiction.
Understanding Fortnite and its Ratings
Fortnite is a popular online battle royale game that has taken the world by storm, with millions of players worldwide, and its cartoonish and whimsical nature may make it seem harmless, but it’s crucial to understand the ratings and reviews from reputable sources, such as the ESRB and Common Sense Media, to make an informed decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the minimum age requirement to play Fortnite?
The minimum age requirement to play Fortnite is 13 years old, as rated by the ESRB and recommended by Common Sense Media.
2. Is it illegal to play Fortnite under 13?
It’s not illegal for children under 13 to play Fortnite, but Epic Games, the developer, may limit the features and cabined accounts for players under 13 until parents give permission for additional features.
3. How long should a 12-year-old play Fortnite?
While there’s no specific time limit, kids playing one to two hours a day with their friends from school are unlikely to be negatively impacted by Fortnite play, but it’s essential to monitor their gaming habits and ensure it doesn’t become an obsession.
4. What are the pros and cons of letting kids play Fortnite?
The pros of playing Fortnite include improved cognitive skills, social interaction, and entertainment, while the cons include addiction, violence, and open chat, which may expose children to inappropriate content.
5. Is Fortnite suitable for under 12-year-olds?
Fortnite is rated 12+ by PEGI, which means it’s not suitable for children under 12 due to frequent scenes of mild violence and cartoonish characters that may disturb younger players.
6. What should parents know about Fortnite?
Parents should be aware of Fortnite’s T for Teen rating, action violence, open chat, and in-game purchases, as well as its potential for addiction and negative effects on children’s mental health.
7. Is Fortnite addictive?
Yes, Fortnite can be addictive, as it uses state-of-the-art behavioral psychology to keep players hooked and engaged, which can lead to negative consequences such as social isolation, decreased physical activity, and poor academic performance.
8. Is Roblox suitable for kids?
Roblox is rated OK for users aged 13+ by Common Sense Media, but it’s essential for parents to be aware of the potential risks, such as open chat, user-generated content, and in-game purchases.
9. What is the average age of Fortnite gamers?
The average age of Fortnite gamers is between 18 to 24 years old, but the game is popular among children and teenagers as well.
10. Can Fortnite cause anger issues?
Yes, Fortnite can cause anger issues in some children, particularly if they become overly invested in the game or experience frustration due to losses or toxic online interactions.
11. Why does Fortnite ask for age?
Fortnite asks for age to apply the right settings and ensure the best experience for all players, as well as to comply with regulations and laws regarding children’s online safety.
12. Does Fortnite have negative effects?
Yes, Fortnite can have negative effects on children, including aggressive feelings, sense of underachievement, and gaming addiction, as found in a 2022 study on Japanese students.
13. Is there a kid version of TikTok?
Yes, TikTok offers a curated version of their app for kids under 13, which includes additional safety and privacy features, but it’s essential for parents to be aware of the potential risks and monitor their child’s online activity.
14. Is Roblox suitable for 13-year-olds?
Roblox is rated OK for users aged 13+ by Common Sense Media, and it offers a range of experiences and opportunities for socialization, but parents should be aware of the potential risks and monitor their child’s activity.
15. How can I get my child off Fortnite?
To wean your child off Fortnite, it’s essential to understand why they like the game, build a rapport with them, and have open conversations about their gaming habits, as well as implementing a plan to gradually reduce their screen time and encourage other activities.