LOVE THE GAME: KEEPING KIDS SAFE FROM GAMBLING HARM

Tips for keeping kids safe from future gambling harm

With the Spring Racing Carnival just around the corner, kids are more likely to be exposed to betting. While most adults place the odd bet on a horse or a sporting match with no issues, it’s important to remember that kids are watching and learning from our actions all the time. If we’re not careful, kids can get the impression that gambling is just a fun, normal activity that comes with zero risk – setting them up for an unhealthy relationship with betting in the future.

But the good news is, it’s easy for parents and carers to reduce kids’ risk of experiencing gambling problems as adults.

Follow these tips:

• Think before you gamble around your kids. If you gamble, avoid exposing children to it.
• Don’t facilitate gambling. Avoid giving scratchies or lottery tickets as gifts, placing bets on their behalf, getting their help to pick ‘lucky numbers’, or letting them access your online betting accounts.
• Talk to your kids about how gambling really works. Help kids understand that gambling comes with risks, and they are more likely to lose money than get rich. Find conversation starters HERE.
• Model healthy behaviours. Engage in activities that provide entertainment and excitement without the risks of gambling. Why not take the Love the Game Challenge HERE to show kids that sport can be enjoyed without betting.

If you’re worried about someone, reach out and have a chat. Let them know support is available, and that they don’t have to go through it alone.

Need help?

Gambler’s Help provides a range of support options for anyone who is concerned about their own or someone else’s gambling. Visit gamblershelp.com.au or call 1800 858 858 for free, confidential, 24/7 support.

Studies show that kids who are introduced to betting at an early age are more likely to experience problems with gambling as adults. Source: Dittman, Gossner, Hing, Rockloff, Browne, Russell & Lole. (2022). The Role of Parents in Youth Gambling, Office of Responsible Gambling, NSW.