In the first part of this post (and if you haven’t read it yet, be sure to catch up!), I looked into why virtual reality is so appealing to children and what parents should keep in mind before introducing it at home. Now, let’s focus on the next big question: How can we use VR wisely and responsibly with our children?
Virtual reality isn’t just about fun and games. It can also be used for education, or even as a tool to support therapy for various conditions. More and more people are beginning to recognize this potential – which is why VR is becoming a common fixture in family homes. Whether you’re thinking about getting an Oculus Quest 2, Google Cardboard, or PlayStation VR, the following tips will help you ensure your child’s VR experiences are both safe and enjoyable.
Choose Games Wisely
VR experiences are typically more intense than regular video games – and that’s because of immersion, the sensation of being fully present in the game world. That’s why it’s so important to research apps and games carefully before installing them. Make sure the content and themes are age-appropriate and emotionally suitable for your child.
Think Safety First
Before your child puts on the headset, double-check that you’ve cleared enough space – at least 2m x 2m – to move around safely. Also, remove any sharp objects or toys from the area to avoid trips, bumps, or stumbles during play.
Set Time Limits
Handing your child a VR headset with a casual “go play” isn’t the best idea. VR is captivating, and without boundaries, kids can easily lose track of time. Like with anything, too much can lead to physical or emotional fatigue. So set clear limits from the start – and stick to them.
Stay Attentive
Keep an eye on how your child reacts – both physically and emotionally – to VR. If they feel nauseous, dizzy, or just plain tired, pause and try again another day. The goggles will still be there tomorrow. Even if there are no physical symptoms, signs of sadness, irritability, or agitation are also a good reason to take a break. VR is an option, not a necessity – and there’s nothing wrong with switching to a board game or a walk instead. :)
Talk About the Experience
Because virtual reality feels so realistic, it’s a great conversation starter when it comes to emotions and experiences. Ask open-ended questions like:
- How did you feel?
- What did you enjoy about the game?
- Was there anything you didn’t like – and why?
What matters most is being attentive and open to your child’s emotional responses. VR can trigger all sorts of feelings, and it’s our job to create space for them.
Protect Their Privacy
VR headsets collect more personal data than any other digital device – which puts our kids’ privacy at risk. Before downloading any app, check the privacy policy, especially how the app handles data for commercial purposes. Parental controls are also worth considering – they let you monitor what apps your child uses and block access to ones that overstep boundaries or misuse data.
Play Smart
As you can see, using VR comes with a few hidden pitfalls. That’s why responsible use – and open communication – is key. But don’t be afraid to let kids explore new technologies. These tools are part of modern life, and used wisely, they can support growth, learning, and development. Just like smartphones, VR is here to stay. The best thing we can do is approach it with an open mind and gradually introduce our children (and ourselves!) to its potential.
