1. TAKE AN INTEREST!
Gather information about the different types of game (genres) and what games are currently popular. You can research the content of current games and their certification (suitability for certain age groups) in games magazines (e.g. PC Games) or on the internet. lnternet guide for computer and console games: www.spieleratgeber-nrw.de

2. TALK TO YOUR CHILD!
Showing interest and exchanging information is very important. Ask about the content and aims of the games. Ask how it feels for your child to play and "shoot 'em up". Do not leave children alone to deal with their experiences.

3. PLAY THE GAMES YOURSELF!
Make the effort and play the odd computer game together with your child. You will soon find out that computer games can be fun and very fascinating. And, even if you don't have any fun, you at least have some common ground for topics of conversation with your child.

4. SET FIRM RULES TOGETHER!
Set binding guidelines together with your child about his/her media consumption as a whole. Media consumption of course not only includes use of the computer, but also television and console games.

5. USE TIME LIMITS AS A GUIDELINE!
The following time limits may be helpful as a general guideline: Three to four year olds should not spend any longer than twenty minutes playing every day. 11 to 15 year olds can increase this time to 1 to 2 hours.

6. ALWAYS PAY ATTENTION TO THE CERTIFICATE!
With the revision of child protection laws in Germany, the organisation USK (Unterhaltungssoftware Selbstkontrolle, Entertainment Software Self Regulation) has also been given added powers. Since April 2003 all computer games have had to carry an age certificate. To determine whether the game in question is suitable for your child, you should take into account both the certification and your child's own particular level of development. See www.usk.de for more information

7. MAKE YOUR STANDPOINT CLEAR!
Explain to your child why there are child protection laws and copyright laws. It does not make a particularly credible impression if you install pirate copies of software and illegal games or download music CDs and films from file sharing sites in front of your children. Copyright in the digital world: www.irights.info

8. PROVIDE ALTERNATIVES!
A lot of children spend such a long time in front of the television or computer out of sheer boredom. Provide your child with the chance to take part in joint activities in the interest of balance. Avoid using the computer as a "babysitter".

9. EXCHANGE INFORMATION!
Ask other parents how they handle the media consumption of their children. Offer each other information and support. It will provide security and promote your own competence.

10. DO NOT USE GAMES AS A DISCIPLINARY MEASURE!
Computer games should not be used as either a reward or punishment. They will otherwise be vested too much importance in the everyday life of your children. It is better to stick to binding guidelines: First homework, then a break, then an hour playing on the computer.

For more detailed information see the "Online games" visit the relavant section at www.klicksafe.de

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