Best practices for discussing in-game purchases with kids?

Understanding the Lure of In-Game Purchases

In today’s digital landscape, video games are more immersive and accessible than ever. Alongside engaging gameplay, many games now feature in-game purchases, ranging from cosmetic skins and virtual currency to power-ups and expansion packs. For parents, this can present a minefield of questions and concerns, especially when children are exposed to constant prompts to spend real money on virtual items. The key to managing this aspect of gaming isn’t necessarily to forbid it entirely, but to approach it with a strategy of open communication, education, and clear boundaries.

The goal is to equip children with the understanding and tools to make responsible choices, transforming potential pitfalls into valuable learning opportunities about money, value, and media literacy.

Establish Clear Expectations and Rules

Before any significant spending occurs, sit down with your child to discuss your family’s approach to in-game purchases. This conversation should happen early and be revisited regularly as your child grows and their gaming habits evolve. Define what is acceptable and what is not.

• No Surprise Purchases: Emphasize that all purchases, no matter how small, require explicit permission. Explain the concept of real money being spent, even if it feels like ‘virtual’ currency.
• Budgeting: Work together to set a budget. This could be a monthly allowance specifically for games, or a rule that purchases must come from their own savings or earned money.
• Understand the ‘Why’: Encourage them to think critically about why they want a particular item. Is it truly enhancing their experience, or is it a fleeting desire influenced by marketing?

Teach the Value of Money

Many children struggle to connect virtual coins or gems with real-world money. Help them bridge this gap. Explain how the money used for in-game purchases comes from your family’s budget, just like money for groceries or toys. Use tangible examples to illustrate the cost:

• “That new skin costs the same as two comic books.”
• “Those 1000 V-Bucks are equivalent to your weekly allowance.”
• Discuss the effort required to earn money versus the instant gratification of a purchase.

Utilize Parental Controls and Account Settings

Most gaming platforms, consoles, and app stores offer robust parental control features designed to manage spending. These tools are invaluable in preventing unauthorized purchases and enforcing your family’s rules.

• Require Passwords: Ensure all purchases require a password that only you know. Never save payment information to your child’s accounts.
• Set Spending Limits: Many platforms allow you to set daily, weekly, or monthly spending limits.
• Disable In-App Purchases: For younger children, consider disabling in-app purchases entirely on their devices.
• Review Purchase History: Regularly check transaction histories to monitor spending and identify any unauthorized activity.

Empower Them with Informed Choices

As children get older, the goal shifts from strict control to empowering them to make smart choices independently. Give them agency within the established boundaries.

• If they have a budget, let them decide how to spend it. This teaches decision-making and the consequences of their choices.
• Discuss the concept of buyer’s remorse and the difference between needs and wants.
• Encourage them to research items before buying, comparing value and necessity.

Regular Review and Open Dialogue

The digital world is constantly evolving, and so should your family’s approach to in-game purchases. Make these discussions an ongoing part of your parenting. Periodically review your rules, discuss new games or purchase opportunities, and adjust your strategy as your children mature.

By fostering an environment of trust and open communication, you can help your children navigate the complexities of in-game purchases, teaching them valuable lessons in financial literacy and responsible digital citizenship that will serve them well beyond the gaming screen.