Twitch will be well known to those that have children that game. It is a live-streaming platform that has up to 30 millions active users a day.
Keeping up with all the latest video games can be expensive and time-consuming. For this reason, many gamers will tune in to a Twitch stream to see if a game is right for them. Typically, streamers will have two video captures going at once: One, of the game itself and one of the streamer.
You aren’t just watching the game, but the streamer, as well. Keep in mind that streams aren’t exclusive to gaming. Many popular musicians have turned to Twitch to make money during the COVID-19 pandemic, due to the cancellation of all tours.
However - ALERT - there are reports of explicit content being streamed on the platform which would be open for all to see. So what can you do?
- Asking your child/ren what they know about a topic or issue means you can gauge just how much detail is needed. It’s usually better to not approach the subject directly – this helps you avoid talking about or introducing topics they might not otherwise have known about.
- Take the opportunity to reassure children in your care by telling them they can always talk to you about any issues that might worry them. Make sure they know they can talk to you or any other trusted adult at any time.
- Discuss what to do if they encounter harmful content online, such as turning off the livestream, telling a Trusted Adult, reporting the livestream, and blocking the user.
- By reporting the content to the platform, your child and young person will be acting as a good digital citizen and help reduce the risk that others will also be exposed.
- Ensure they know not to screenshot sexual content, as they cannot verify the identity or age of the streamer and may inadvertently commit a crime.
- Actively listen without judgement to their responses and how they might feel if they have seen this type of content.
Check out this parental guide
If you are still concerned - give me a ring 01483 927559
Safeguarding Sue