Why Talk to Kids About Gambling?
Kia ora, New Zealand! Talking to kids about gambling might seem a bit odd, but it’s really important. In Aotearoa, gambling is everywhere – from the Lotto ticket at the dairy to online games and even sports betting. Kids are exposed to it, whether they realize it or not. Understanding the risks of gambling is a life skill, just like learning about road safety or healthy eating. This guide is for beginners, helping you understand why you should talk to your tamariki (children) about gambling and how to do it in a way that makes sense.
Think about it: advertising for gambling is often bright, colourful, and aimed at grabbing attention. It can be hard for kids to understand the difference between a fun game and something that could become a problem. That’s why we need to equip them with the knowledge to make smart choices. It’s also crucial to remember that online casinos are accessible, and some may seem appealing. For example, you might encounter websites like https://hellspincasino.co.nz/. While these sites are for adults, children may accidentally or purposefully come across them. This underscores the need for open conversations about online safety and responsible gambling.
Understanding the Basics of Gambling
Before you talk to your kids, it’s helpful to understand what gambling actually is. Gambling is when you risk something of value (like money) on the chance of winning something else. It’s based on luck, not skill, in most cases. Examples include:
- Lottery tickets
- Scratch cards
- Online casino games
- Sports betting
- Pokies (slot machines)
It’s important to explain that while winning can feel great, the odds are usually stacked against the player. This means that, over time, people tend to lose more money than they win. This is the fundamental concept of gambling and it’s important for children to grasp this early on.
Age-Appropriate Conversations
How you talk about gambling depends on your child’s age. Here’s a rough guide:
Young Children (5-8 years old)
Keep it simple. Focus on the idea of chance and luck. You could say something like, “Sometimes we win, sometimes we lose. It’s like a game of chance.” Avoid using money as the main focus. Instead, use examples like a game of hide-and-seek or a simple board game with dice. Emphasize that winning or losing doesn’t make someone a better or worse person.
Older Children (9-12 years old)
Introduce the concept of money and risk. Explain that gambling often involves spending money with the hope of winning more. Talk about the odds and how they are usually not in the player’s favour. Discuss the difference between games of skill (like chess) and games of chance (like the lottery). You can also start talking about advertising and how it’s designed to make gambling seem exciting and fun.
Teenagers (13+ years old)
This is when you can have more in-depth conversations. Talk about the risks of problem gambling and how it can affect people’s lives. Discuss the legal age for gambling in New Zealand (18). Explore the impact of gambling on mental health, relationships, and finances. Encourage critical thinking about gambling advertising and the messages it sends. Discuss the importance of setting limits and sticking to them.
Key Topics to Cover
Here are some important topics to discuss with your kids:
- The odds: Explain that the odds are usually against the gambler. The house (the casino or the gambling provider) always has an advantage.
- Money: Talk about the value of money and the importance of saving. Explain that gambling should never involve money that is needed for essentials like food or rent.
- Control: Discuss the importance of setting limits on how much time and money is spent on gambling.
- Advertising: Analyze gambling advertisements together. Discuss how they try to make gambling look appealing and exciting.
- Problem Gambling: Explain that gambling can become a problem for some people. Discuss the signs of problem gambling, such as chasing losses or gambling more than they can afford.
- Where to get help: Make sure your children know where to go if they or someone they know needs help. (See resources below).
Practical Tips for Talking to Your Kids
Here are some tips to make these conversations easier:
- Start early: Don’t wait until your child is a teenager. Introduce the concepts of gambling and risk gradually.
- Be open and honest: Create a safe space where your child feels comfortable asking questions.
- Listen more than you talk: Encourage your child to share their thoughts and feelings about gambling.
- Use real-life examples: Point out gambling advertisements or discuss gambling-related news stories.
- Be a role model: If you gamble, do so responsibly. Show your children that you set limits and stick to them.
- Don’t be afraid to say “I don’t know”: If you don’t have all the answers, it’s okay to say so. You can always research the topic together.
- Keep the conversation going: This isn’t a one-time talk. Continue the conversation as your child grows and their understanding of the world changes.
Resources for Help in New Zealand
If you or someone you know needs help with problem gambling, here are some resources:
- Problem Gambling Foundation of New Zealand: Provides free and confidential support, information, and education. Website: https://www.pgf.nz/
- Gambling Helpline: A free, confidential phone service available 24/7. Phone: 0800 654 655. Website: https://www.gamblinghelpline.co.nz/
- Te Hiringa Hauora: A public health agency that works to reduce gambling harm. Website: https://www.hpa.org.nz/
Conclusion: Empowering Our Kids
Teaching children about gambling risks is an essential part of parenting in New Zealand. By having open and honest conversations, we can help our tamariki understand the risks, make informed decisions, and protect themselves from the potential harms of gambling. Remember, it’s about equipping them with the knowledge and skills they need to navigate the world safely and responsibly. By starting these conversations early and keeping them ongoing, we can empower our kids to make smart choices and live healthy, fulfilling lives.