We have an amazing article for you in the run up to Christmas to help exploring VR for kids to be as safe as it can be. We have partnered with the NSPCC to bring this content to you – for free, so we aren’t being paid. It is SO important to understand the risks involved with VR, but without being so prescriptive that kids aren’t allowed to explore this amazing ne technology.
Virtual reality (VR) headsets have increased in popularity over the last few years as companies such as Meta have unlocked an at home 3D experience. Many children like to use VR headsets to play games and explore different virtual places.
However, just like smartphones and tablets, there are risks when exploring virtual reality that parents need to be aware of. That is why the NSPCC have created a Parents’ Guide to VR Headsets. Check it out, and coupled with the tips below, you will be an informed parent. Do check out the other parenting tips to have on KiddyCharts too.
Don’t forget to also ask your kids for their input too. Sometimes that is the best way to start technology dialogues as kids LOVE to know they have more info than their parents. You’d be surprised at how willing their are to share it if your relationship with them is good too.
Best VR for kids
1. VR Headset + Maths educational games
This is a magical doorway that leads your kids straight into the kingdom of mathematics. Not only is this VR headset designed to be a perfect fit for children aged between 5 and 12 years, but it also comes bundled with fun-filled maths games. These games are designed to make learning times tables and subtraction an enjoyable and interactive experience. The 3D glasses add an extra layer of coolness that both boys and girls will love. Imagine your child diving into a pool of numbers, swimming with addition fishes, and playing with subtraction seashells! It’s all about blending education and entertainment in a seamless manner.
2. Heromask VR Headsets for Children + Game to Learn Spanish
This VR headset is like a friendly tour guide whisking your kids away on an exciting journey to learn Spanish. But wait, there’s more! The Heromask isn’t just about playing the included language games; it’s also about exploring other games, watching videos or movies, and experiencing unique virtual adventures. It’s like having a personal interactive globe that offers immersive language learning experiences right in the comfort of your home. Whether it’s practicing Spanish vocabulary in a virtual marketplace or having a conversation with a virtual friend, language learning has never been this fun! The first choice in our list is the Maths pack – so it really is THAT versatile!
3. DESTEK V5 VR Headset for Kids
With this VR headset, your children can step into a world of high-definition virtual reality. The DESKTEK V5 VR headset offers a 110° Field Of View and eye protection, making it a safe and immersive option for children aged 5-15 years. This headset also comes with a Bluetooth controller, transforming your child’s playtime into a learning quest. It’s like having a personal cinema and a high-tech toy wrapped into one! The kids can explore the depths of the ocean, travel through space, or even walk with dinosaurs, all while sitting in their living room.
Once you have chosen your headset – what about the advice on using it?
Please note that these choices are not endorsed by the NSPCC or KiddyCharts. They are our view of what we consider may be suitable for kids. This is our reader’s choice of course.
Here are the NSPCC’s top 5 tips for parents looking to purchase a VR headset for their children:
1. Take some time to explore the headset before your child uses it
Put yourself into the shoes of your child and try out the headset before your child has a go. Using VR can be quite a disorientating experience and using it yourself will help you understand how your child feels and what they might see.
2. Make the headset a family activity, taking turns and playing with it together.
VR headsets can be isolating but there are ways they can be enjoyed by all the family. You could take turns or compete with one another meaning you can all enjoy it together. Some VR headsets even allow you to cast to a television which can allow everybody to see what is happening.
3. Talk to children about how they use VR.
Speak to your child about what they kind of games they enjoy playing with their headsets. Make sure they know that personal information should not be shared with people they don’t know.
4. Get to know the safety features your VR for kids device offers
Make sure the location is set to private, use parental controls and check that privacy settings are switched on.
5. Set healthy boundaries and help your child to learn to manage their screen time
Decide collaboratively with your child how long they spend using a headset. It is recommended to limit time spent in VR to 10-15 minutes at a time. VR can disrupt sleep, so it is best to avoid playing 1-2 hours before bedtime as well.
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Helen
Helen
Helen is a mum to two, social media consultant, and website editor; and this site is (we think) the only Social Enterprise parenting magazine!Since giving up being a business analyst when juggling travel, work and kids proved too complicated, she founded KiddyCharts so she could be with her kids, and use those grey cells at the same time.KiddyCharts has reach of over 1.1million across social and the site. The blog works with big family brands (including travel) to help promote their services, as well as offering free resources to parents of kids under 10.It gives 51%+ profits to Reverence for Life, who fund a number of important initiatives in Africa, including bringing running water and basic equipment to a school in Tanzania.Helen has worked as a digital marketing consultant (IDM qualified) with various organisations, including Channel Mum, Truprint, Talk to Mums, and Micro Scooters. She loves to be creative in the brand campaigns she works on.Get in touch TODAY!