Ages 7-9

Just because they’re more independent, doesn’t mean they need to depend on you less.

The pre-tween years are when children need help determining how to go about making their own healthy choices. At this age, parent involvement is important to ward off risky gambling behaviors for down the road. Take advantage of "teachable moments" now. Children at this age are faced with more and more decisions and having conversations early can help teach them
how a gambling addiction can be harmful to their hopes and dreams

Parents who are educated about the effects of problem gambling and gaming and learn the facts can give their kids correct information and clear up any misconceptions. Make talking about problem gambling a part of your general health and safety conversations. Keep the tone of these discussions calm and use terms that your child can understand.

Teach children early!

Gambling disorder and substance use can often go together. Explain the importance of health, diet, and exercise. Eating healthy foods feeds their body and allows it to grow and putting things other than food in the body like drugs can be very dangerous. 

Promote healthy hobbies and activities that rely less on screen time and more on “green time” . Explore your child’s growing interests and identify school clubs or community organizations that may offer ways to get involved. It’s also a great time to talk about your own hobbies and interests, and introduce your child to them.

Use a character in a movie or on TV to reinforce your message!

Characters in movies and on TV shows and even commercials about online betting and sports gambling can provide parents an opportunity to talk about gambling prevention and what addiction can do to someone’s life.

Everyone has different schedules and challenges, but even the busiest parents can find ways to stay connected with their children’s friends. Being involved and getting to know your children’s friends and their guardians will not only show you care, but can also help build protective factors that will help reduce risk of problem gambling/gaming as kids get older.

Here are ways to get involved:

• Volunteer at sporting events.
• Get involved with the parent-teacher organization.
• Volunteer in the classroom.
• Participate in community or church events.
  

Role-playing can help a child prepare to say “No.” Children enjoy role-playing and this will be a great way to teach young children about problem gambling/gaming and help build on their strengths.