Should I let my 12 year old have Call of Duty?

Should I Let My 12 Year Old Have Call of Duty?

As a parent, you want the best for your child, and it’s natural to have concerns about what games they play, especially as they enter their pre-teen years. If your 12-year-old is eyeing Call of Duty, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons and make an informed decision.

Ratings and Reviews

Let’s start with the ratings. According to the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB), Call of Duty is rated M for Mature, which is only suitable for players 17 years and older due to its violence, strong language, and brief suggestive content.

Is a 12-year-old Ready for Call of Duty?

While it’s easy to dismiss the game’s content, it’s crucial to consider your child’s individual maturity level and exposure to such material. Some children may be able to handle the game’s themes at a younger age, while others might require more time and maturity. Here’s what you should look for:

• Maturity: Does your child display empathy, understand consequences, and can they separate fantasy from reality?
• Game knowledge: Are they familiar with the game’s theme, and do they know what to expect?

Turning Off In-Game Violence

One approach is to explore the game’s settings to tone down its intensity. By disabling graphic violence, blood, and gore, you can significantly reduce the game’s maturity level, making it more suitable for a younger player.

Alternative Games

If you’re still unsure, there are many alternative games suitable for younger kids that offer exciting experiences without the mature themes:

• Younger Call of Duty titles: You can consider earlier installments or spin-offs like Call of Duty: Black Ops, which might be more suitable for younger players.

Teaching Life Skills

Lastly, encourage your child to focus on what they can learn from the game rather than just playing mindlessly:

• Communication skills: Many Call of Duty titles emphasize teamplay and communication. Use these opportunities to teach your child the value of teamwork and effective communication.
• Tactical thinking: Players must adapt to changing situations and use strategy. This can help your child develop critical thinking skills.

Conclusion

Should you let your 12-year-old play Call of Duty? It ultimately depends on their maturity level, your supervision, and whether you’re willing to take measures to tone down the game’s content.

Remember:

• Research the game’s content and rating.
• Use the game’s settings to modify its intensity.
• Consider alternative games.
• Encourage positive learning experiences.

By considering these factors and open communication with your child, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable gaming experience for your pre-teen.