It’s simple!
Age ratings help you to make informed choices on the content your child may be viewing.
They protect you and keep you safe when playing and interacting online from sometimes scary, upsetting, and harmful content.
Why do we have them?
What do they look like?
Look for a number, word, or letter.
Age ratings are designed to be clear and are shown within a box or under a bold heading.
If you can’t find an age rating for a game or app, don’t worry! This is usually because the content you’re viewing or downloading is accessible for all ages.
If you’re unsure, read reviews from other users or consider downloading the app or game yourself to see if it’s suitable for your child.
How are age ratings given?
Online games, apps and social media platforms go through a classification process.
This means every piece of content is categorised to make sure we don’t view or play anything that may be unsuitable for us.
Does it contain bad language, violence, fear, discrimination, drugs, sex, gambling, or online interactivity? If so, this content will have a higher age rating.
Age ratings also consider whether a game or app:
- Shares a user's location
- Allows data sharing i.e. name and age
- Allows users to interact with each other online i.e. chatrooms or forum
Age ratings broken down
Don’t panic!
We know age ratings can seem confusing, so we’ve put together a quick guide for online games, apps, and social media to help get you started.
Online Games
If you’re child likes playing games online, look out for PEGI ratings.
The five age categories are PEGI 3, PEGI 7, PEGI 12, PEGI 16, AND PEGI 18.
App Stores
IOS, Android and Windows devices each have their own app store.
These are the App Store, Google Play and the Windows Store.
Apple has its own age classification system and rates their apps and games using a number system.
The four age categories are 4+, 9+, 12+ and 17+.
For Android and Windows users, it’s the same as playing online. Simply look out for the PEGI rating.
Remember, not all apps have an age rating.
If you’re unsure, read reviews or consider downloading the app or game yourself to see if it’s suitable for your child.
Social Media
Does your child like making dances on TikTok or sharing pictures with friends on Instagram?
Great! Having fun and socialising is super important but remember, social media has age ratings too.
Most social media apps are rated either 13+ or 16+. This is because social media companies are not allowed to store information about anyone under the age of 13 unless they have permission from their parents or carers.
What if my child has viewed something above their age range?
It’s okay! Sometimes it’s easy to click on games and apps without realising.
When it comes to your child being safe online whether that’s playing a game or interacting with friends, it’s important you encourage an open and honest conversation.
Try and encourage your child to talk about their experiences online. Maybe share yours too?
If you’re worried about something your child has seen or experienced online, talk to an expert.
Contact the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000 for free support and advice, or visit Internet Matters, or Childline for more information.
Want to read more?
Continue reading with the Parent’s Toolkit:
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Continue reading with Own It:
Giovanna Fletcher's five top tips to help you child game safely and happily
A special thanks to OpenView Education, who provide digital resilience workshops and support online skills.
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