"Pokémon GO" has overtaken the world. In the last few days since its release, it's common to see people of different ages roaming outdoors, in parks and other commonly unvisited places, with their hands clasping on their mobile phones. The app lets users capture virtual Pokémon characters "hidden" in actual locations. It has open a world of fun possibilities for its users, but it also comes with some risks.
Though Pokémon is generally identified as a child's game, certain elements of the app, both intended and unintended, might make it dangerous to play. So, how can parents ensure that the kids do not become victims? Below is "Pokémon GO" guide for parents.
'Pokémon GO' - The Good Points
Read also: Parent Herald
It helps them get social. Catching Pokémon's in "Pokémon GO" has become the new outdoor activity for many kids. Not only is it helping them get out more, but it also helping them make friends with other pocket monster hunters. It is helping kids become more sociable.
It provides a fun bonding moment for family. "Pokémon GO" is a lot more popular with the grown-ups than with the kids, so moms and dads will enjoy playing the app. You can organize a monster hunting activity one weekend with the whole family. It's not the usual activity for families, but that's what makes it more fun --- it is a new and different thing for you and the kids to enjoy!
I took my parents Pokemon hunting with me last night pic.twitter.com/bNzgdAbuGR
— David Van Hove (@FamMemberDave) July 10, 2016
Ashley made her parents stop at a cemetery for Pokemon .. why did i get her this app pic.twitter.com/WR44xYUd4J — amethyst ♡ (@amethyysstt) July 10, 2016
'Pokémon GO' - The Bad Points
It could deplete the mobile's data. "Pokémon GO" will make use of the phone's Wi-Fi and GPS systems, which can dwindle battery power really fast. What this translates to is additional mobile charges or utility bills, which might get expensive when summed up. So, give instructions to your kids on how not to go over the phone's data plan.
It's not actually free. The app is free to download, but there are several in-app features that will require actual payment. If you have to let your kids play, make sure that you've set permissions to disallow unnecessary charges on your Family Sharing account for the iOS or Android.
It is still buggy and there are reports of data mining. When installing the app, it will ask for specific details such as emails and birthday, as well as access to social media accounts. If this concerns you, go over "Pokémon GO's" privacy agreement first and discuss this with your kids. To further appease your worries, Kotaku reports that Niantic is already addressing security problems with "Pokémon GO." Read up and be informed before agreeing to let your kids play.
It has some safety issues. There have been several police reports since "Pokémon GO" exploded, per Market Watch. The kids could be involved in accidents or might be lured by strangers and predators in finding special Pokémons in certain locations. Before letting them play, be sure to have that important conversation with your kids about:
- talking to strangers
- avoiding unfamiliar sites, especially if these are not well-lighted and uncrowded places
- avoiding areas with high traffic for risk of being run over
Better yet, accompany your kids when they try to catch a Pokémon. If they are older kids, always insist that they must play the game with a group and never by themselves. Watch to learn more in this video below.
