Helping your child navigate in-game chat

Chat is a massive element of the appeal of online games – whether it’s agreeing strategies in Fortnite, trading in Adopt Me, or building together in Minecraft.

In-game chat can feel social, exciting and fun. But, like all forms of online communication, it also brings risks – especially when children are speaking to people they don’t know, or feel pressured to join in with behaviour they wouldn’t normally accept.

Having good media literacy skills matters. They help children to think critically about what they’re doing, who they’re talking to, and how to make better choices when they’re in fast-moving online spaces like games.

How does in-game chat work?

Most multiplayer games have some kind of chat function. This can include:

• Text chat – typing messages during gameplay
• Voice chat – talking through headsets or microphones
• Public or private chat – conversations can be one-to-one, in small teams or shared with everyone in the game

Some games use chat to support teamwork. Others are more social, giving children space to talk while they play. Your child might be chatting with real-life friends – or with people they’ve never met.

What are the risks of in-game chat?

Oversharing personal details – a child might give away their name, school, location or even what they look like – without meaning to. These details can put their privacy at risk.

Talking to strangers – Even child-friendly games can connect children with people they don’t know. Some may pretend to be someone else or try to move the conversation to other platforms like messaging apps or social media.

Inappropriate language or bullying – Games can include swearing, insults or pressure to behave badly. Children might feel uncomfortable – or feel they have to join in to be accepted.

Breaking rules without realising – Threats, harassment or hateful messages can be serious – and sometimes illegal. It’s easy for children to not fully understand the consequences of what they say in-game.

How can media literacy help?

Games move quickly. Conversations can feel casual or anonymous. Children may not always pause to think before they type or speak. You don’t need to be a gamer yourself – what matters is helping your child think for themselves and feel supported in the decisions they make. Here are five things you can do:

1. Ask how the chat works

Sit with your child and explore how the chat in their favourite games works. You could ask them:

• Who do you talk to when you play?
• Is it voice chat or text?
• Can anyone join the conversation?
• Has anything else made you feel uncomfortable?

Understanding these features makes it easier to decide what additional steps, if any, you need to take.

2. Check chat and privacy settings

Most games include chat controls, so it’s good to explore these in the games your child uses. Options include: 

• Turning chat off
• Setting it to specific users (eg, friends-only)
• Filtering out offensive language

These vary from game to game. You can also find other functions, such as blocking or muting specific users.

3. Talk about the consequences of things you say

Help your child understand that online chat is still real communication – and real consequences can follow. You might discuss what could happen if they did certain things, or how they would want to be treated themselves. You might also set some simple ground rules. For example, to not share personal info, not swear or insult others, or not talk to strangers. 

4. Watch for warning signs

If your child seems upset after gaming, hides their screen, or starts using unfamiliar language, they might be dealing with negative experiences in chat. Keep the conversation open and let them know they can talk to you.

5. Celebrate positive behaviour

In-game chat can be a space where your child learns valuable skills, like:

• Teamwork and cooperation
• Helping others
• Solving problems together
   

Recognising and encouraging these positives helps build confidence – and reinforces good online habits.

Want to find out more?

Want to develop your own digital skills and confidence? Everyday Digital has articles and videos to help you support your child in today’s online world.