There’s no doubt about it – kids are eager to explore new technologies. And virtual reality (VR) is no exception. Today, I’d like to take a closer look at why VR is so appealing to them.
As conscious and engaged parents, we should be aware of the features of VR that attract younger users. Below, I’ve listed the main characteristics of virtual reality that make it so enticing for children:
Everything in VR feels more intense
The brain processes virtual experiences in a way that’s surprisingly similar to how it processes real-life events. Compared to other media, VR has a much stronger impact on users – emotionally and cognitively. It can trigger feelings like fear, anxiety, confusion, but also joy, excitement, and thrill. And kids – especially teens – crave intense emotions. They’re constantly seeking ways to feel more, and VR delivers exactly that. That’s what makes it so irresistible to them.
“That was a week ago, and I still remember it like it happened yesterday.”
Emotional experiences naturally grab our attention and are easier to remember. So, when children are immersed in a VR experience, they’re more likely to retain what they’ve learned compared to, for example, reading a textbook or sitting through a lecture. Let’s be honest – rote memorization can be tedious and demotivating. VR offers a way to learn almost effortlessly, by simply experiencing things. And yes – that’s very tempting for kids. (For us adults too, let’s admit it!)
I’m in control
In VR, children can interact with content, move freely around virtual environments, and observe how virtual objects behave. But they can do more than just observe – they can modify, manipulate, or even remove objects entirely. In short: they have control over what happens. This sense of agency is deeply rewarding for the brain. It motivates kids to return to VR experiences more often. And here's the good news – this feature can also be used in therapeutic settings. More on that coming soon!
An interactive environment
When kids can touch, move, split apart, examine, pick up, or rotate objects, they gain first-hand experience. And that’s priceless – it helps them build memories that are comparable to real-life experiences. Learning through doing is fun, exciting, and makes children want to come back for more. It makes the virtual world more than just “screen time” – it becomes an adventure.
Engaging visuals
Thanks to advancements in 3D animation, VR apps are becoming increasingly realistic and visually immersive. This enhances the overall experience and feeling of “being there.” Additionally, designers of VR content aimed at children often use vivid, high-contrast color palettes to catch their attention. These bright, energetic visuals are much more engaging than the dull gray of everyday life.
Everything has its pros and cons…
As this list shows, virtual reality has many qualities that make it incredibly attractive to children. Of course – like any technology – when misused, it can lead to negative consequences. And that’s where we, as parents, come in. It’s up to us to help our children understand VR in a mindful and responsible way. Not by demonizing it or banning it entirely, but also not by treating it as the ultimate form of play or learning. Balance is key.
So how can we make sure our children use VR wisely and safely?
You’ll find out in the next post. Stay tuned!
Wojciech Kreft
Sources:
https://www.commonsensemedia.org/kids-action/articles/kids-deserve-better-privacy-in-virtual-reality
https://www.commonsensemedia.org/articles/what-parents-need-to-know-about-virtual-reality
