Pokémon Safety Tips for Parents

Pokémon Go has become an increasingly popular game among adults and children. It is important to teach your children how to play safely!

1. Learn about the different Poke Stops or Gyms before your children go.
While most of these stops are in public places, you want to make sure your children are always in a safe place when playing the game. When traveling, it is a good idea to read about the neighborhood before allowing your children to play.

2. Accompany your children, when possible.
While your children may not be too enthusiastic about you tagging along, it’s best if parents accompany their younger children while they are playing the game. For older kids, you can set up a check-in time so you know where they are and that they are safe.

3. Remind your children to remain aware of their surroundings.
It is so easy to get sucked into Pokémon Go, so remind your children to always check their surroundings and stay where you are in the real world. The game has had some glitches that accidentally place Pokémon in the middle of the street.

4. Ask your children to respect someone’s yard or private property.
Children get so excited while playing the game that it is easy to forget general societal rules, like respecting people’s private property. Talk to your children and remind them to stay on public land. There have been arrests of players who stepped onto private land to try to catch a Pokémon.

5. Don’t let your children play the game at night.
Unless you are following them, or they are in a group, children should not be left to wonder around playing the game at night.

6. Download the app yourself.
This will allow you to familiarize yourself with the game and how it is played. It might also make your child enjoy having you join in on the fun!
REMEMBER: Always be safe and encourage your children to think about their surroundings while playing!

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