Advice for Parents, Carers and Guardians
Parents, carers and guardians play an important role in helping children and young people understand gambling harms, gaming-related risks and where to find support.
It can feel difficult to know how to talk to a child or young person about gambling, or how to respond if they are affected by someone else’s gambling. This page offers practical guidance, conversation tips and clear support options.
We also offer regular free online sessions for parents, carers and guardians who want a deeper understanding and more confidence. Organisations can also contact us to discuss tailored sessions, depending on setting, funding and availability.
Might My Gambling be Affecting My Child?
Children are more likely to be affected by an adult’s gambling than by their own. Harm is not only about money. The less visible, or “hidden”, harms can have long-lasting effects.
Missed Moments
Changes in Mood
Only Seeing The Wins
Early Access
How Do I Start a Conversation About Gambling?
Talking about gambling does not need to be a “big talk”. Small, open conversations are often more effective.
Create a Safe Space
Encourage open discussions where they can ask questions without fear of judgment. A supportive environment builds trust.
Be Honest & Open
Explain the risks of gambling and how it can lead to harmful behaviours. Raising awareness is key.
Lead by Example
The way adults approach gambling influences young people. Reflect on your own habits and the messages they may be receiving.
Offer Support
If they are struggling, reassure them that they are not alone. Let them know help is available.
Listen Actively
The more they feel heard, the more likely they are to open up about their thoughts and experiences.
Examples of How You Might Bring Up Gambling
There is no single right way to start the conversation. These examples show how everyday moments can open it up.
While Watching TV or Sports
When They’re Playing Video Games
If a Celebrity or Influencer Mentions Gambling
When Talking About Peer Pressure
If They Ask for Money For Online Games
During Big Sports Events
When They’re Spending Time Online
If They Mention Winning Money or Prizes Online
Online Gaming and Links to Gambling Harms
91 percent of 3 to 15 year olds play online games. Some games now include features that look or feel like gambling, such as loot boxes, in-game spending, and reward mechanics.
Understanding these links can help you keep young people safer online and reduce confusion about gambling and money.
You can learn more through one of our training sessions.
Gaming Tips for Parents and Guardians
Support works best when young people feel listened to, not monitored.
Know Their Friends
Ask who they are playing with and what they talk about in the game. This helps you understand the people they interact with online.
Understand the Game
Get familiar with the games they enjoy and understand how they work, including any in-game purchases or features like loot boxes.
Check Age Ratings
Use PEGI ratings and App Store ratings when selecting games to ensure they are age appropriate.
Use Airplane Mode
Set up “airplane mode” for younger players to prevent accidental online purchases.
Encourage Breaks
Encourage regular breaks – don’t let them play for long stretches without resting.
Disable Payment Info
Avoid saving payment details on their gaming devices to prevent accidental spending.
Watch for Changes
Pay attention to any changes in their behaviour, like increased frustration or anger, which could be signs they’re spending too much time gaming.
Gambling Screening Tool
If you are concerned that gambling might be affecting a child or young person, our Young People Gambling Screening Tool can help.
The tool asks eight short questions and is designed to help young people reflect on their own gambling, or how gambling around them might be affecting them.
They can complete the tool on their own, or you can go through it together if that feels more supportive.
It is not a test or a diagnosis, just a starting point for understanding whether support might help.
Support in Schools and Colleges
We can also support young people in their school or college.
Ara delivers assemblies, lessons and workshops on gambling harms to secondary schools and colleges. Sessions are age-appropriate, evidence-informed and designed to be engaging rather than alarming. Free delivery is currently available for eligible settings in the Bristol City Council area.
If you think your child’s school or college would benefit, you can recommend us to them or ask them to get in touch directly.
