Virtual Reality for Dummies: A Parent's Guide to VR for Kids

ashaabdalla2022
1 day ago
4 min read

By Anam Adil, Contributing Author

1. What is Virtual Reality (VR)?

Virtual Reality (VR) is an immersive technology that transports users into digital environments. Using a VR headset, kids can explore virtual worlds, play interactive games, and even learn new skills. As VR becomes more popular, many parents are curious about how it works and what it means for their children. Leading companies driving VR innovation include Meta, Apple, Sony, Valve, HTC, and Pico, with Google preparing to enter the space through its Android XR partnership.

2. Understanding VR Content: Tethered vs. Standalone and Software Needs

When choosing a VR headset, it's essential to understand how your child will access games and experiences. Each type of headset interacts with content differently:

Standalone Headsets: These headsets are self-contained and allow you to purchase games and apps directly from the headset's built-in store (e.g., Meta Quest Store). Some offer free demos and family-friendly bundles to get started.
Tethered Headsets: These require external platforms like SteamVR or the PlayStation Store to download and play VR content. Before purchasing, ensure your gaming PC or console meets the headset's technical requirements.

Whether standalone or tethered, always verify game compatibility and use parental control settings to monitor content.

3. Getting Started: How to Obtain a VR Headset

To introduce your child to VR, the first step is choosing the right headset. Here are the most common types:

Standalone VR Headsets

What they are: Wireless devices with built-in processing power and storage.
Examples: Meta Quest 3, Pico 4
Best for: Convenience and portability, no need for a gaming console or computer.

Tethered VR Headsets

What they are: VR headsets connected to a powerful gaming PC or console for enhanced graphics and performance.
Examples: PlayStation VR2 (PS5), HTC Vive, Valve Index
Best for: Advanced gaming experiences with higher-quality visuals.

Mobile VR Headsets

What they are: Devices where a smartphone is inserted into a VR viewer.
Examples: Samsung Gear VR (discontinued but still functional)
Best for: Entry-level VR experiences.

Popular VR Platforms

Meta Quest (formerly Oculus): Supports standalone VR and offers popular VR games and experiences.
Sony PlayStation VR: Tethered to PlayStation consoles, ideal for console gamers.
PC VR via SteamVR: High-end graphics and extensive game libraries, requiring a powerful computer.

4. What Are Kids Doing in VR? Popular Games & Metaverse Spaces

Kids use VR for both entertainment and social experiences. Here are some of the most popular activities:

Popular VR Games for Kids:

Beat Saber (Rhythm Game): Players slice through blocks to the beat of the music.
Job Simulator (Simulation): A humorous take on real-life jobs, perfect for younger kids.
Rec Room (Social Adventure): A social platform with mini-games, virtual hangouts, and user-generated content.
Gorilla Tag (Movement Game): A fun, active game where players chase each other as gorillas.

Exploring the Metaverse:

The VR metaverse refers to shared virtual spaces where people can interact in real time. Popular metaverse platforms for kids include:

Horizon Worlds (Meta Quest): Social VR platform where users can create and explore virtual worlds (for ages 13+).
Roblox VR: A VR-enabled version of the popular online platform where kids play and build their own games.
VRChat: A highly customizable virtual world for social interaction (recommended for older teens).

For a deeper dive, check out this guide on famous metaverse platforms.

5. Parental Controls & Safety Tips for Kids in VR

As with any online technology, safety is essential. Fortunately, major VR platforms offer parental controls to help you manage your child’s virtual experiences.

Parental Controls by Platform

Meta Quest: Parental supervision tools allow monitoring of VR activity. Parent-managed accounts are available for children aged 10-12 on Meta Quest 2 and 3. Other Meta devices do not support parent-managed accounts, and children under 10 cannot use Meta Quest.
PlayStation VR & VR2: Parental controls are linked to the PlayStation console, allowing content restrictions and playtime monitoring.
PC VR (SteamVR): Steam offers family view settings to limit access to specific VR games and social features.

General Safety Guidelines

Set Age-Appropriate Limits: Most VR headsets are not recommended for children under 13 due to ongoing vision development and limited research on long-term effects.
Follow the 20-20-20 Rule: Encourage breaks every 20 minutes to look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
Supervise Social Interactions: Monitor communication in social VR spaces and use parental controls when available.
Create a Safe Play Space: Ensure kids play in a clear, open area free from furniture and obstacles. Avoid areas with staircases.
Monitor Physical Symptoms: Pay attention to signs of motion sickness or eye strain and encourage regular breaks.
Watch Gameplay: Use devices to cast VR gameplay to a TV so you can observe and supervise.
In-App Purchases: Keep track of purchases and subscriptions to avoid unexpected charges.

By staying involved and using the available parental controls, you can help ensure that VR remains a safe and enjoyable experience for your child.

By understanding how VR works and what experiences are available, you can make informed decisions about your child's virtual adventures. Whether they're slicing beats or exploring virtual worlds, VR can be a safe, exciting way for kids to play and learn.