Staying Safe in Virtual Reality: A Parent’s Guide
Virtual reality headsets can provide captivating, educational experiences—but they also come with unique safety risks. As VR becomes more popular among young users, children may encounter unregulated interactions, age-inappropriate content, or strangers in immersive environments that can be hard for parents to monitor. The NSPCC encourages parents and carers to stay actively involved in their child's VR activities and to use the available tools and conversations to create a safe digital space.
To help children navigate VR safely, parents should check age ratings to ensure content is suitable, use parental controls to manage access and interaction, and participate in gameplay when possible. Regular conversations about online experiences can encourage openness and alert parents to potential concerns early. Staying informed, setting boundaries, and maintaining open dialogue are key to guiding children’s safe and positive use of VR.
✅ 2-3 Things Parents Can Do Right Now
- Explore VR with your child—playing together builds trust and helps you understand what they’re exposed to.
- Set age-appropriate limits—check game ratings and use parental controls to manage time and interactions.
- Have honest, regular conversations—ask your child how they feel about their VR experiences and remind them they can come to you if anything feels wrong.
About NSPCC
The NSPCC (National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children) is a leading children's charity in the UK that specializes in child protection and the prevention of child abuse. Its main goals are to stop abuse, keep children safe, and give children the best possible start in life.
Visit the Safety Centre for platform-specific guides and safety tips. 📢 Feel free to share your thoughts in our quick survey. 🔔 Subscribe to our newsletter and stay tuned for our next article!