How Can My Kid Play Pokémon Go?
As a parent, it’s natural to have concerns about the games our kids play. Pokémon Go, a popular augmented reality game, is no exception. However, with the right guidance, your child can enjoy the game safely and responsibly. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to set up a Pokémon Go account for your child and answer some common questions about the game.
Before They Can Play
Before your child can play Pokémon Go, you need to create a Niantic Kids account. This account allows you to approve your child’s game and permission requests. Your child will not be able to access Pokémon Go until you approve the request via the Niantic Kids Parent Portal.
Setting Up a Pokémon Go Account
To set up a Pokémon Go account for your child:
- Log in to your Pokémon Trainer Club account at pokemon.com.
- Select your child’s name from the menu on the left.
- Select Pokémon GO Settings.
- Read and accept the Niantic Terms of Service.
- Check the desired options in the Permissions for Your Child Section.
- Click Submit.
Creating a Child Account
If your child is under the age of 13, you’ll need to create a child account. Here’s how:
- Open the Pokémon GO app and tap the "Create" button.
- Select "Child" as the account type.
- Enter your child’s birthdate and select "Create Account".
Setting Permissions
As a parent, you’ll need to set permissions for your child’s account. You can do this by:
- Opening the Pokémon GO app and tapping the "Settings" icon.
- Selecting "Permissions" from the menu.
- Setting the desired permissions for your child’s account.
How to Play Pokémon Go
Pokémon Go is a fun and engaging game that allows players to catch and train virtual Pokémon in the real world. Here’s how your child can play:
- Catching Pokémon: To catch Pokémon, your child will need to use the game’s "Pokeball" mechanism. This can be done by tossing a Pokeball at a wild Pokémon and hoping to catch it.
- Training Pokémon: Once your child has caught a Pokémon, they can train it to increase its strength and level.
- Battle Other Players: Your child can battle other players to test their Pokémon’s strength and earn rewards.
Safety Precautions
As with any online game, it’s essential to take precautions to ensure your child’s safety while playing Pokémon Go. Here are some tips:
- Play with a Buddy: Encourage your child to play with a friend or family member.
- Stay Safe While Playing: Remind your child to stay safe while playing the game, avoiding areas with heavy foot traffic or crime.
- Monitor Playtime: Keep an eye on your child’s playtime and set limits as needed.
Pokémon Go Plus Device
The Pokémon Go Plus device is a wristband that allows players to play the game without needing to pull out their phone every time they want to catch a Pokémon. This device is available for purchase online or in-store.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can my child play Pokémon Go if they’re under 13?
A: Yes, but only if you create a child account and set up the Niantic Kids account.
Q: What is the minimum age to play Pokémon Go?
A: 9 years old, but parents should assess their child’s maturity level before allowing them to play.
Q: Is Pokémon Go available on all devices?
A: No, the game is available on iOS and Android devices, but not on older devices that don’t meet the minimum system requirements.
Q: Can my child play Pokémon Go without a phone?
A: Yes, with the Pokémon Go Plus device, which allows players to play the game without needing to pull out their phone.
Conclusion
Pokémon Go is a fun and engaging game that can be enjoyed by kids and adults alike. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can set up a Pokémon Go account for your child and ensure their safety while playing. Remember to monitor their playtime, set limits as needed, and encourage responsible gaming behavior.