Virtual Reality: A Potential Danger for Children this Christmas?
As Christmas approaches, many parents may be considering purchasing virtual reality (VR) headsets for their children as gifts. With the…
As Christmas approaches, many parents may be considering purchasing virtual reality (VR) headsets for their children as gifts. With the popularity of VR on the rise, it’s no wonder that children may be clamouring for their own headsets. However, according to a recent news story from Sky News, experts are warning of the potential dangers of VR for young children.
According to the report, VR can potentially cause physical discomfort and dizziness, particularly in children who are not used to the technology. Children may also be more prone to developing motion sickness while using VR, as the simulated movement can conflict with their sense of balance. This can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and headache. In some cases, these symptoms may be severe enough to disrupt a child’s daily activities or school performance.
In addition to physical discomfort, VR can also pose psychological risks for young children. Some experts have raised concerns about the impact of VR on children’s developing brains, as well as the potential for children to become isolated and disconnected from the real world while using VR technology. Children may become so immersed in the VR experience that they lose track of time and their surroundings, potentially leading to a lack of physical activity and social interaction.
Furthermore, it’s important to be aware of the potential dangers posed to children by sexual predators online. Children using VR may be at risk of encountering inappropriate or harmful content, or of being targeted by predators who seek to exploit their vulnerability. It’s essential for parents to educate their children about internet safety, and to closely monitor their children’s online activities to ensure their safety.
If the following quoted section doesn't worry you as a parent I have far more graphic examples that attack my brain daily that we should discuss.
Child’s call reveals potential dangers of VR worlds
The charity said young people had shared their experience of online VR with its Childline counselling service.
One student of secondary school age said: “Recently I met a guy on my VR game, and I’m confused about how I should feel about him.
“He’s really bad, like he always makes sexual comments towards me and asks me to ‘kiss’ him in the game.
“I know that’s messed up, but I love his voice, and he makes me feel like the person I’d rather be.
“Nobody gives me that kind of affection in the real world. I guess that’s why I use VR, so I can look and be like someone I’m not, and it makes me feel good about myself.
“I think I like this guy, but I don’t know if he just likes the character I play as online.”
Online sexual predators will use every tool at their disposal to target children and young people. As always I urge you to have regular discussions with your child about the dangers they may face online and build a level of trust with them so that they know they can approach you when something doesn't feel right to them.
It’s important for parents to be aware of these potential risks and to monitor their children’s use of VR. The National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC) recommends that children under the age of 13 should not use VR at all and that children over the age of 13 should only use VR with adult supervision. It’s also important to ensure that children take breaks from VR use and to encourage them to engage in other forms of physical activity and social interaction.
Tips to keep children safe in VR
To help parents, the NSPCC has compiled a list of tips to help keep children safe when using VR:
• Make the headset a family activity, taking turns and playing with it together
• Take some time to explore the headset yourself before allowing a child to use it
• Familiarise yourself with any safety features, such as parental and privacy controls
• Talk to children about how they use VR and ensure they know not to share personal information
• Set healthy boundaries when it comes to playtime
In conclusion, while VR can be a fun and immersive experience for children, it’s important for parents to be aware of the potential dangers and to use caution when allowing their children to use the technology. With some careful planning and supervision, parents can help to ensure that their children’s VR experience is both enjoyable and safe.
