Gaming and esports are a natural part of many children’s and teenagers’ lives today. It can be a space for friendship, creativity, learning, competition and passion. At the same time, it can present challenges related to balance, well-being and online environments.
This page is designed to help you better understand, support and navigate the gaming world together with your child.
Gaming and esports can offer a wide range of benefits for children and young people, including:
Social connection – friendships, teamwork, belonging.
Creativity & imagination – exploring worlds, building, problem-solving.
Learning & cognitive development – strategy, decision-making, attention, coordination.
Collaboration & communication – especially in team-based games.
Structure & motivation – esports introduces routines, training, goals and reflection.
Personal growth – discipline, resilience, leadership and confidence with the right support.
Career and educational orientation – gaming can reveal transferable skills, spark interest in future study paths, and help young people discover areas they’d like to explore beyond the game.
For many, gaming is their main hobby — the modern equivalent of a sports club, creative outlet or social hangout.
Like any activity, gaming comes with potential risks. These are not inherent dangers, but areas where young people often need guidance and balance:
Health & lifestyle balance
- Excessive screen time can affect sleep, mood and energy.
- Irregular routines can impact schoolwork and daily responsibilities.
- Long gaming sessions can reduce physical activity if not balanced.
Social & emotional risks
- Exposure to toxic communication, harassment or bullying online.
- Pressure to perform, especially in competitive or esports environments.
- Impulsive in-game spending or pressure to buy cosmetic items.
- Feeling left out or anxious if they can’t keep up with peers.
Open communication about emotions, motivations, expectations, boundaries and habits is one of the most effective ways adults can support a young person’s well-being.
Tips for adults — How to support in a positive way
A practical checklist to help you build healthy routines and stronger communication:
Show curiosity & interest: Ask what your child plays, why they enjoy it and who they play with — just as you would with any other hobby.
Create balance together: Talk about school, sleep, exercise, social life and gaming — and plan the week as a team.
Join them sometimes: Play a game together or watch them play. This builds understanding, trust and connection.
Stay aware of online environments: Learn about in-game purchases, parental controls, online communication and potential risks. Discuss what feels safe and what doesn’t.
Talk about feelings, not only rules: Discuss motivation, stress, pressure from friends, performance and dreams. Support them in setting healthy expectations.
Keep communication open: Listen without judging. Encourage them to come to you if something online feels uncomfortable or overwhelming.
Encourage variation & rest: Healthy routines matter; physical activity, rest, outdoor time, family time and non-screen hobbies all support both well-being and gaming performance.
At AEP, our goal is to help young people thrive — both in gaming and in life — with adults who feel informed, confident and included in the journey.
If you want to learn more, get in touch and contact us!
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