The cell phone is sitting on the table, a message pops up—and your eyes are already drawn to the screen. Adults and children alike are familiar with moments like these. How often do you reach for your smartphone while talking to someone or during a spare moment? And what does this teach children about using media?
Digital media are part of everyday life and are present in many situations throughout the day. Children model their behavior on how adults use media. When is media use beneficial? When does it tend to be a distraction?
Many people automatically reach for their smartphone when a message comes in or when they have nothing else to do. A weekly overview can show you when and for what purposes you use media, and whether there’s still enough time for other things besides screen time. Ask yourself: Do you use your phone consciously, or more out of habit? How do you feel afterward?
When it comes to screen time, the question often arises: How many hours a day are acceptable? But a number alone doesn’t tell the whole story. A video call with friends or planning a shopping trip on a tablet serves different purposes than scrolling through social media. For adults as well as children, it’s not just the duration that matters, but also the reason for and the impact of media use.
Some content holds users’ attention for a particularly long time: videos that play automatically and personalized content can turn a few minutes into much more. Adults are familiar with this, too—for example, when they just wanted to quickly check the news but end up spending more time on their smartphones than they planned.
Media can also create shared experiences, such as reading aloud or watching a program together. Such media rituals bring closeness and structure to everyday family life. What is appropriate for a child depends, among other things, on their age, developmental stage, and the content being used. For younger children, hourglasses or time cards provide guidance. These tools complement shared agreements but do not replace them.
On iPhones and iPads, the “Screen Time” feature shows how long individual apps are used. You can also set time limits or breaks there. On Android devices, “Digital Wellbeing” provides a similar overview. Depending on the device, you can also set app timers. With Google Family Link, parents can monitor their child’s device usage and adjust settings.
These metrics help you assess your own screen time and that of your family members. However, they alone do not indicate whether screen time is appropriate. Taking digital breaks can help reduce distractions and create space for relaxation or conversation.
Additional apps can remind you to take breaks or help you focus on your work. Before installing them, check the privacy policies and permissions. Some apps track usage behavior or require extensive access to your device.
Ask yourself:
Often, the built-in features of a smartphone or tablet are sufficient. Additional technical aids should not be used to secretly or continuously monitor children. As they get older, they need trust and safe spaces.
If how your family uses media isn’t doing anyone any good, you don’t have to turn everything upside down right away. Make a conscious effort to put your smartphone aside in certain situations, or agree on set times without screens. Adults don’t always have to stick to their resolutions perfectly. Talk openly about it when changes are difficult, and look for solutions together.
Fortnite is popular among many children and teenagers. But what’s the game really about, and what should parents be aware of? Let’s take a look together at what the game is about, what the USK age ratings mean, and what safety features Fortnite offers. This free virtual parent information session also provides practical tips on how parents can generally stay in the loop with their children about video games and how to establish appropriate rules for gaming at home.
Take the opportunity to be there live and ask your questions to our experts – we will be on hand to exchange ideas and provide valuable inspiration for everyday family life!
Date: October 28, 2026 | Time: 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Procedure: (Media educational) input (approx. 30/40 minutes) and subsequent open exchange
Speakers: Melanie Endler & Maurice Matthieu (USK)
Moderator: Nils Rudolf (FSM e.V.)
Platform: The virtual parents’ evening is realized via the “Zoom” tool.
Privacy Notice: Zoom is a service provided by Zoom Video Communications Inc., which is headquartered in the United States. We use Zoom through the German provider WTG. WTG’s servers are located in Europe. Furthermore, within the Zoom service we have chosen the configurations with the highest data and security protection.
Please also take note of our privacy policy.
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Does your child laugh at clips from “I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!” or eagerly follow who makes it to the next round on “Germany’s Next Top Model”? For many children and teens, trash TV is part of their everyday media life. They’ve long since started encountering this content not only on TV, but also on TikTok and YouTube. We explain what makes these shows so appealing and what parents should keep an eye out for.
The term “trash TV” comes from English and is often translated as “tasteless television.” It doesn’t describe a distinct genre but is considered a colloquial subcategory of reality TV. While “reality TV” is a neutral term that encompasses all formats featuring real people, “trash TV” specifically refers to shows that rely on strong feelings, extreme emotions, and staged conflicts.
These include, for example:
Trash TV emerged in Germany primarily with the rise of private television stations. Today, it can also be found on popular streaming platforms. These shows are relatively inexpensive to produce and reach a large audience. However, not all shows work the same way. Some tell fictional stories, while others follow real people. Producers decide which images the audience sees and how the participants come across through their selection of scenes and editing. This can create an impression that doesn’t quite match reality.
On trash TV, there’s rarely a dull moment. Arguments and surprising twists keep many teens on the edge of their seats, wondering whose side they’re on. Plus, the shows are easy to follow. Anyone who tunes in usually figures it out quickly. That can be nice, especially after a stressful day. The focus is on other people’s problems rather than your own.
For many teenagers, trash TV doesn’t end with the actual show. They come across clips later on their smartphones when they’re shared or reposted as memes. Recent episodes provide topics of conversation at school and on social media. Anyone who’s familiar with the shows can join in the conversation.
The 2025 JIM Study shows that certain TV formats remain relevant to young people even today: “Germany’s Next Topmodel” was among the most frequently mentioned favorite shows among girls aged 12 to 19.
Trash TV isn’t inherently problematic, but it’s still worth taking a closer look at the content. Many of these shows thrive on conflict and people being put under pressure. Children and teens repeatedly witness people being publicly humiliated or pitted against one another. Those who frequently see such scenes may get the impression that disrespectful behavior is perfectly normal.
Many programs also focus heavily on appearance. People are judged, compared to one another, or reduced to their physical appearance. This can create pressure, especially during a stage of life when appearance and a sense of belonging are important. Many shows convey a narrow view of how people should look or live. Relationships and gender roles are also often portrayed in a simplified manner. As a result, children and adolescents may get the impression that certain beauty ideals or lifestyles are normal or particularly important.
Only a portion of the footage is ever shown. As a result, conflicts sometimes seem bigger than they actually were. Particularly striking scenes are then shared on TikTok, Instagram, or YouTube. Without the context of the entire episode, it’s often hard to understand what actually happened.
Some participants go on to become influencers. They share insights into their daily lives and sometimes promote products. It’s not always easy for children and teenagers to tell when someone is sharing personal experiences and when it’s actually an advertisement.
For many children and teens, trash TV is part of their everyday media life, but not every show is suitable for every age group. Whether a show is appropriate also depends on how well your child can make sense of what they’re watching. Younger children, in particular, often still need help distinguishing between entertainment and reality.
Mitten in der Nacht hüpfen fünf Waschbären auf einem Trampolin um die Wette. Eine Person steht auf dem brennenden Eiffelturm. Eine Erdbeere singt und tanzt im Bastrock. Klingt unrealistisch? Ist es auch. Solche Bilder und Videos werden massenhaft mithilfe von Künstlicher Intelligenz erstellt und verbreiten sich rasant im Internet.
„AI Slop“ lässt sich sinngemäß mit „KI-Müll“ übersetzen. Der Begriff bezeichnet vor allem minderwertige Texte, Bilder, Musikstücke und Videos, die mit generativer KI schnell, günstig und in großen Mengen produziert werden. Nicht jeder KI-generierte Inhalt ist automatisch AI Slop. Entscheidend sind vor allem die geringe Qualität und die massenhafte Herstellung.
Dahinter stehen Menschen, automatisierte Bots oder sogenannte „Content Farms“, die gezielt massenhaft Inhalte produzieren. Ihr Hauptzweck besteht häufig darin, mit möglichst wenig Aufwand Aufmerksamkeit, Klicks und damit Werbeeinnahmen zu erzeugen. Manche Beiträge sollen aber auch Produkte verkaufen, Meinungen beeinflussen oder falsche Informationen verbreiten.
In der Flut KI-generierter Inhalte finden sich häufig Videos, die Nutzer*innen schnell in ihren Bann ziehen – etwa von besonders süßen, klugen oder lustigen Tieren. Auch kitschige oder vermeintlich gefährliche Situationen sind weit verbreitet. Daneben gibt es Deepfakes bekannter Personen sowie billig produzierte, reißerische Produktwerbung. Da die Inhalte massenhaft hergestellt werden, tauchen dieselben Themen und Figuren häufig in leicht veränderter Form wieder auf.
Kinder und Jugendliche begegnen AI Slop vor allem in Sozialen Medien wie TikTok und Instagram sowie auf Videoplattformen wie YouTube. KI-Videos sind häufig kurz, bunt und Teil aktueller Online-Trends. Damit bedienen sie die Funktionsweise der Algorithmen besonders gut und landen immer wieder in den Social-Media-Feeds junger Menschen. Auch über Angebote für Kleinkinder, beispielsweise Kinderlieder bei YouTube, können Kinder zu solchen KI-Inhalten gelangen.
Auf Kinder und Jugendliche wirkt AI Slop zunächst oft ansprechend: Die Inhalte sind kurzweilig, unterhaltsam und leicht zu konsumieren. Aus den Bildern und Videoschnipseln entstehen immer wieder virale Memes, die man die man ‚kennen muss‘, um in der Peer Group mitreden zu können.
Die kurzen, schnell aufeinanderfolgenden Videos können zum sogenannten „Binge-Scrolling“ beitragen, also dass Kinder und Jugendliche immer weiterschauen möchten. Grelle Bilder, schnelle Schnitte, Musik und ständig neue Überraschungen sorgen für viele Reize. Dadurch kann es schwerfallen, den Feed zu schließen.
Machen Sie sich bewusst, dass Ihr Kind – und auch Sie selbst – täglich auf solche Inhalte stoßen, häufig ohne es zu bemerken. KI-generierte Texte, Musik, Bilder und Videos machen einen immer größeren Teil der Inhalte im Internet aus. Bei AI Slop sollten Sie besonders auf folgende Punkte achten:
Bleiben Sie neugierig und schauen Sie sich gelegentlich gemeinsam an, was Ihrem Kind im Feed begegnet. Fragen wie „Was findest du daran lustig?“, „Könnte das mit KI gemacht sein?“ oder „Warum wird uns dieses Video wohl angezeigt?“ bringen Sie mit Ihrem Kind ins Gespräch und fördern die Medienkompetenz.
Audio pens have become a staple on the children’s media shelf. In addition to systems like Tiptoi, TING, BOOKii, and Tellimero, the Anybook is an audio pen that offers plenty of room for creative ideas. Children can make recordings, add sound to materials, and use the pen in a variety of ways for learning and in everyday life.
The audio pen is used, among other things, in augmentative and alternative communication and is designed to help people with speech or learning difficulties communicate, learn to read, or improve their German language skills. Accordingly, there are several learning materials available for the pen, such as reading primers and picture dictionaries, as well as many ways to use the pen for your own educational purposes.
The classic Anybook Reader comes with 120 pre-recorded sound stickers and 280 stickers for your own recordings. The sound stickers play various sound effects, while the recording stickers can be recorded on by the user. The stickers can be used in a variety of ways—for example, in books, on games, or on everyday objects. Any object can easily be marked with a sticker for this purpose. This allows children to create their own stories, add sound to information, or simply experiment with their voices and sounds.
Audio files for the Anybook Reader can be managed using the free Anybook Case software and assigned to the stickers. In addition, the Anybook Pro is the latest, second-generation audio pen featuring additional code technology. The Pro uses the Anybook Studio software. This allows digital codes to be linked to audio files and printed on your own materials, such as worksheets or flashcards.
The Anybook Reader can still be used with its recording stickers and compatible materials. However, the Anybook Pro’s digital codes are not compatible with the DRP-5100 Reader. Therefore, if you want to print and reuse custom-designed worksheets or flashcards multiple times, you’ll need the Anybook Pro.
With the audio pen, creativity knows no bounds: Children can record, listen to, and re-record with the pen however they like. They can add sound to their own books, record their own stories or songs, use it to communicate with friends and family members, or collect sounds from nature. The pen has just a few buttons and is intuitive to use. This allows even young children to gain their first experiences with sound recording. Many children find it exciting to hear their own recorded voices.
In addition to learning materials, the provider also offers a “friends book” that can be used with the Anybook. It is suitable, among others, for people with limited spoken language skills or who need communication support, as well as for children who speak very little German.
On its website, Millennium 2000 provides instructions, practical examples, and materials for using the Anybook at home, in daycare, at school, and for language development. The company also highlights potential uses in augmentative and alternative communication, as well as for people with speech and learning difficulties.
The audio pen is relatively expensive. A slightly more affordable alternative is, for example, the Tellimero, which can also be customized using stickers, or the Tiptoi with a recording function. If you want to use the Anybook Pro to permanently create, print, duplicate, or share your own digital codes on worksheets or flashcards, you’ll need a paid license. No license is required for audio recordings on the included stickers.
Before making a purchase, it’s worth considering how you plan to use it. For creative audio recordings and voice-recorded stickers, the pen’s basic functions are often sufficient. The additional features of the Anybook Pro are particularly useful if you plan to create and regularly use your own learning materials.
If you’re still looking for inspiration, check out our posts on Creating Your Own Media.
The younger children are, the less they feel the need to use media. In the early years of life, other things play a more important role: bonding with parents, learning to walk and talk, and so on. Your child needs a great deal of attention from you during those first months and years. That’s why you shouldn’t let devices distract you. Agree on rules with your whole family about how to handle media in your child’s presence. After all, even when your child is a baby, you serve as an important role model. If you don’t want your child to spend a lot of time with media yet, you should use your smartphone or similar devices in front of your child as little as possible—or not at all.
The older your child gets, the more he or she will be exposed to media. It wants to do the same as older siblings, mom or dad. Your child begins to understand what media is and how it works. It is becoming increasingly difficult to keep your child completely away from media. Rules can help shape how young children and preschoolers interact with media.
In order not to overtax your child, you should slowly expand the range of media used. Analog picture books, for example, can gradually be joined by audio stories and music. Short video chats with family members are also possible.
Young children can’t yet judge when it’s too much. If you schedule media use as a fixed activity during the day, such as an episode of Sandman before bedtime, your child will perceive it as a ritual to follow. Avoid using media as a babysitter .
Up to the age of three, very little time should be spent in front of a screen during the day. At this stage, children discover the world best with all their senses – with their hands, eyes, nose and mouth. On-screen content can quickly overwhelm them.
Between the ages of three and five, no more than 30 minutes at a time should be spent in front of the screen. These times are only an orientation. You know your child best and know what they can already do and understand. It is important that you accompany your child in their media use and observe how they deal with what they see and can answer questions. If your child seems very upset afterwards, the usage time should be reduced.
Young children perceive media in a much more emotional way than adults. There are some things they are not yet able to process or understand. That’s why close guidance from you as parents is important! Technical solutions cannot replace conversations with you. When selecting content, be sure to pay close attention to age ratings and, if applicable, educational evaluations. Explain to your child why they’re not yet allowed to watch certain shows that their older sister might already be watching.
It is important to actually follow the rules that have been set. If your child is still young, you should only use media together anyway, and you can be mindful of time. For preschoolers who may already be able to watch a series on their tablet alone, limiting them to one episode helps. An egg timer can also be helpful, since time indications are still very abstract.
Talk to your child about the reasons for setting screen time limits so that they understand the rules. If children learn to use media sensibly and in a controlled manner at a young age, it will be easier for them to do so later on.
You are sitting with your children having dinner together and talking, when suddenly your cell phone rings. How do you behave? Do you let family time get in the way?
Situations like this probably happen in every family. We actually agreed that smartphones aren’t allowed at the dinner table. But when Mom’s phone rings, she might think it’s important and answer it anyway. But shouldn’t the rules apply to everyone?
Be aware that parents and other adults serve as important role models for children. Children learn from you how the world works and how to behave in certain situations. Your behavior therefore has a major influence on how your child uses media. By modeling what mindful media use looks like, you help your child learn to use smartphones and other media independently, thoughtfully, and responsibly.
As teenagers get older, their media use becomes increasingly influenced by their peers—and your influence as parents diminishes.
Perhaps your family also sometimes argues about media use—for example, when your child reaches for a smartphone out of boredom. You’d prefer it if they read a book or played with friends instead. Why not take a moment to think about what you yourself do in your free time? Do you watch TV shows on streaming services or sometimes just play games on your phone? It’s not just about which media you use, but also how often, in what situations, and what kind of content.
You might want to think about how this looks for each family member. How much time does each person spend on media and other activities? Is that balance okay with you? Agree on rules with your family regarding screen time and phone-free periods. For example, you can create a media usage agreement together. Or use an app that lets you keep track of screen time. Often, phone settings also include options to track screen time or set limits.
It is advisable to consciously incorporate screen-free times and activities into everyday family life in order to be able to process the media content and to allow the body to exercise.
Always keep in touch with each other – even when it comes to media. By taking an interest in your child’s media consumption, you build trust. Then your child will also take you seriously when you express concerns about certain apps or platforms, or come to you when they encounter unpleasant things about their media use. Younger children in particular should not be left alone with media. Talk about what they saw.
Also, reflect on your own behavior on social media and follow the advice you give your child—such as not posting photos without the consent of the people in them.
Everyday life can often be stressful, and it’s sometimes difficult to stick to agreements. We’re under pressure to be available all the time. Talk to your child about this, too. Be honest with yourself and show understanding toward your child. It can also be helpful to sit down together and see which agreements are working well and which aren’t!
Have you ever seen those beautiful photos where people have painted or written with light? The images look spectacular, and you can even create them with your smartphone.
Light painting literally means “painting with light.” It involves taking photos in low-light conditions or in the dark. Flashlights, LED lights, or sparklers serve as light sources. Using them, you can “paint” images, symbols, or letters in the air and capture them in a photo. This creates beautiful light paintings. Many families have the equipment they need to try light painting at home, since light painting is possible with many smartphones.
Image source: Unsplash/Brunetto Ziosi
Light painting can be a fun media project for the whole family. Even young children (ages 3 and up) can join in by moving light sources. Older children can learn how to do light painting with a smartphone. Everyone can let their creativity run wild together.
All you need for a project like this is a smartphone, a darkened room (with a little experience, you can do it outdoors), and a few colorful light sources, such as:
You’ll need a smartphone whose camera app allows for a longer exposure time (long exposure). You can check whether your device supports this in the camera app: Look for a “Pro Mode” or “Manual Settings” option. If you can set the exposure time (usually labeled “S” or “Shutter Speed”) to about 10 to 30 seconds, your smartphone is suitable. If not, there are special camera apps available for download (e.g., Wow! Stuff Light Painting for Android and iOS).
A nighttime photo session—whether outdoors during summer vacation or indoors in the winter—is sure to delight young and old alike. Keep in mind that it takes a little practice to get great shots. With a little patience, you can create small photo projects like a New Year’s photo with sparklers and the year, a photo of cars driving by on the highway, or a picture of your child as a superhero with a cape or wings. Together with your child, you’re sure to come up with lots of creative ideas!
By the way: If you have a digital camera with a tripod, you can create even higher-quality light paintings. Check to see if you can set your camera to longer exposure times of about 30 seconds. On the website of the State Media Authority of North Rhine-Westphalia, you’ll find a step-by-step guide to light painting with a camera that’s easy for even children to understand.
You can find more information on light painting and photography with children on the Kamerakinder website and in the Knipsclub photo community. In this KiKA video, a photography artist demonstrates which light sources can be used to create beautiful effects.
“Can I play one more round?”—this question is part of everyday life in many families. About three out of four teens enjoy playing games regularly on their computers, consoles, smartphones, or online with friends. But what exactly is going on there?
It’s often hard for parents to keep track of everything: The video game market has grown enormous. There are currently more than 10,000 games available for the Nintendo Switch alone. Many games combine multiple genres or create entirely new categories. As a result, it’s nearly impossible to get a complete overview. Nevertheless, many games can be broadly categorized—which makes them easier to understand. Here, we’ll introduce five popular genres.
On game-creation platforms, children and teens find a kind of building block system that lets them develop their own games online and share them with others. A variety of worlds, objects, characters, and commands are available for this purpose. Users can get creative, invent games of varying sizes, and customize them to their liking. Within the community, they exchange ideas and games and play together. For many children, this is often their first introduction to programming and can even become a source of income. Well-known platforms include Roblox, Fortnite’s Creative Mode, and Meta Horizon Worlds. Parents should be aware that such platforms often feature strong incentives to make purchases, as well as risks associated with inappropriate content and communication with others.
Time, patience, and a sharp mind—that’s what players need for strategy games. Here, the goal is to make plans, solve problems, and keep your own objectives in mind. Sometimes players build cities and societies, tackle tricky challenges, or wage wars and battles, as in Minecraft Legends, for example. Unlike simulations, strategy games are usually designed for the long term. Players often play over many rounds, gradually expanding their knowledge and skills along the way. As a result, these games are better suited for more experienced players who are looking for less action but more challenges.
In role-playing games, players can truly step into someone else’s shoes. They take on the role of a character, experience the action through that character’s eyes, and navigate a fictional world. There, they complete tasks—known as “quests”—overcome battles, explore distant planets, or search for hidden treasures in mysterious worlds. This makes the gaming experience feel more immersive and personal than in simulations or strategy games. At the same time, the controls are usually more complex. The line between the game and reality can also be harder to distinguish, which is why role-playing games are generally more suitable for older children. For example, the most adventurous corners of the Minecraft world can be explored in Minecraft Dungeons.
In this genre, there’s one main activity: shooting. A shooter is a shooting game in which players move through a virtual world using virtual weapons, aim and shoot, eliminate opponents, and complete missions. Experiencing the gameplay from a first-person perspective is also known as a first-person shooter. However, these games can also be simulations or adventure games. The goal is usually to survive and successfully complete a mission. The graphics vary widely, ranging from cartoon-like to very realistic depictions of violence, which is why it’s important to take a close look. Many shooters are rated for older players only. Well-known realistic examples include Battlefield, Call of Duty or the cartoon-like Fortnite.
Not for the faint of heart: Horror games have one main goal—to scare, creep out, and terrify players as much as possible. To achieve this, they rely on startling effects, disgusting or eerie images and music, characters and scenes that appear suddenly, and dark stories. Horror games are, so to speak, the adaptation of horror movies into video games and can take the form of adventure games, simulations, or shooters. In most cases, players navigate a threatening environment and try to survive there. The visuals, effects, and atmosphere range from mildly creepy to extremely intense depictions. It’s especially important to pay attention to age ratings here. Also, closely observe how your child reacts to frightening content. Examples of horror games include Resident Evil, Silent Hill, Little Nightmares, and Poppy Playtime.
Open the drawer, close the drawer—and all the games are sorted? Unfortunately, it’s not that simple. The boundaries between genres are often blurred: Some games fit into multiple categories, while others are hard to categorize. Games can also be sorted by theme, technology, or difficulty level, for example.
That’s why you’ll find additional overviews of popular game and online game genres on Elternguide.online. But even the best classification is only a snapshot, because new offerings, technologies, and game concepts are constantly emerging.
Still, it’s worth getting to know the latest games and genres. Basic knowledge, joint research, and an interest in your child’s favorite games encourage family conversations. This fosters understanding and creates an opportunity to discuss risks and work together to find a healthy approach to gaming. The USK’s comprehensive and constantly updated encyclopedia of game genres is also a helpful resource in this regard.
“Can I play one more round?”—this question is part of everyday life in many families. About three out of four teens enjoy playing games regularly on their computers, consoles, smartphones, or online with friends. But what exactly is going on there?
It’s often hard for parents to keep track of everything: The video game market has grown enormous. For the Nintendo Switch alone, there are currently more than 10,000 games available. Many games combine multiple genres or create entirely new categories of games. As a result, it’s nearly impossible to get a complete overview. Nevertheless, many games can be broadly categorized—which makes them easier to understand. Here, we’ll introduce five popular genres.
Platformer games are among the all-time classics of computer gaming. As early as 1981, a character in “Donkey Kong” had to run and jump his way to the finish line. Since then, countless games have been created in which characters must run and jump through two- or three-dimensional worlds while overcoming obstacles. The best-known are certainly the Super Mario games, but Sonic the Hedgehog and Rayman are also very popular. The colorful and humorous game worlds often appeal to younger players and are easily accessible thanks to their simple controls. Anyone interested in designing their own platformer can get creative on “Draw Your Game,” for example.
Simulation games recreate real-life situations or entire worlds as faithfully as possible. In these games, players take on a specific role, exercise their creativity, or pursue predetermined goals. These include, for example, career and business simulations in which players build cities, manage restaurants, or make important decisions. Sports and activity simulations are also part of this category, such as soccer games, car races, or air shows. Simulation games often feature detailed graphics and complex worlds that provide a particularly realistic experience. They can usually be played alone or with friends. Well-known examples include EA Sports FC and Animal Crossing.
Get behind the wheel and hit the racetrack! In racing games, the tires screech as players race against each other. Unlike in simulations, the focus isn’t on creating the most realistic driving experience possible, but rather on the fun of racing. In most cases, players can choose or design their own unique vehicles and characters. The races take place through cities, deserts, amusement parks, or entire fantasy worlds, while players collect points and prizes along the way. Racing games can be played online, but they’re also particularly well-suited for competing against friends or family together in front of the screen. The most famous race tracks are probably found in *Mario Kart* and *Sonic Racing*. These games are often fun for the whole family, but can sometimes be too challenging for younger players.
Solve puzzles, go on adventures, complete tricky missions, and work your way through an exciting story with patience, skill, and ingenuity—adventure games offer all of this. It’s all about the adventure. These games can take many different forms: from two-dimensional comic-style worlds to richly detailed, three-dimensional game worlds. They are set in a wide variety of environments and appeal to both younger and older players. What they all have in common is their strong emphasis on adventure and puzzles. For example, *The Unstoppables* features an adventurous journey with a cool and very diverse group of heroes.
Let’s head to the sandbox—we’re going to build a dream castle. Sandbox games are the place for creative gamers. They typically provide a space and materials where players can express their creativity—for example, by building houses, landscapes, and creatures, crafting stories, and bringing ideas to life. There are no predetermined stories or goals here; instead, the focus is on the players’ interests and ideas. The most famous sandbox in the gaming world is probably Minecraft, where seemingly limitless worlds can be built from colorful blocks.
Open the drawer, close the drawer—and all the games are sorted? Unfortunately, it’s not that simple. The boundaries between genres are often blurred: Some games fit into multiple categories, while others are hard to categorize. Games can also be sorted by theme, technology, or difficulty level, for example.
That’s why you’ll find additional overviews of popular game and online game genres in the Parents’ Guide. But even the best classification is only a snapshot, because new offerings, technologies, and game concepts are constantly emerging.
Still, it’s worth getting to know the latest games and genres. Basic knowledge, joint research, and an interest in your child’s favorite games encourage family conversations. This fosters understanding and creates an opportunity to discuss risks and work together to find a healthy approach to gaming. The USK’s comprehensive and constantly updated encyclopedia of game genres is also a helpful resource in this regard.
Every August, Cologne is transformed for five days into the mecca of the computer and video game world: Gamescom. This world-renowned trade show attracts numerous visitors, including many children and teenagers who are passionate about gaming.
Gamescom is Europe’s largest trade show for interactive entertainment and ranks among the most important events of its kind worldwide. Thousands of gaming enthusiasts from all over the world gather here. The focus is on computer and video games, their developers, and the gaming community. Across the expansive exhibition grounds, new titles are unveiled, live scenes are performed on stage, and a diverse program of presentations, shows, workshops, and interviews with developers is offered. At some events and gaming stations, guests can not only watch but also try out the games for themselves. Another highlight is the“cosplay contest,” where selected participants showcase their elaborately designed costumes in a performance.
gamescom 2026 will take place in Cologne from August 26 to 30, 2026.
Visiting Gamescom is a special experience for adolescents in different age groups. Everything revolves around gaming. You can discover lots of things and try out new games – if you want to queue up in the long lines.
For children ages 4 and up, there’s the“Retro & Family Area,”where everything is tailored to the needs of this age group. This area combines nostalgic gaming culture with the latest technologies and, in addition to a stage program, offers many hands-on activities, such as game stations. Atthe “gamescom juniors club,” families can take advantage of childcare services for children ages 4 to 12.
One of the main reasons why teens are so eager to attend Gamescom is the chance to see their favorite YouTubers and Let’s Players in person. These stars of the gaming scene are often on-site and offer their fans exclusive meet-and-greets. In the“signing area,” visitors can meet various creators and get autographs. Admission is only possible with a free time slot, which can be booked two hours before the autograph session on the respective day of the visit.
For many children and teenagers, exploring Gamescom on their own is a special experience. Whether they are allowed to visit the event without an adult chaperone depends on their age.
Admission and Supervision: Children up to and including age three are not permitted at Gamescom. Visitors between the ages of four and eleven must be accompanied by an adult at all times during their visit. Regardless of age, as a parent, you should assess whether your child can handle the large crowds, the noise, and the many new experiences at such an event.
Youth Protection and Age Verification: The Entertainment Software Self-Regulation Body (USK) is Gamescom’s official partner for youth protection. All publicly accessible games and trailers are either unrated or approved for ages 6 or 12 and up. Content rated for ages 16 or 18 and up may only be presented in separate, out-of-sight areas. Anyone wishing to access age-restricted content must wear an age-verification wristband. These are available at various distribution points upon presentation of a valid photo ID. Important: Parental supervision or written consent forms are not sufficient for this purpose and do not replace proof of age for age-restricted activities. So be sure to pack your child’s children’s passport or student ID. The colors of the age wristbands correspond to the USK age ratings of 12, 16, and 18. Make sure your child only views and tries out games that are appropriate for their age.
Visiting on Their Own Starting at Age 12: In general, children and teens aged 12 and older are allowed to visit Gamescom without adult supervision. Carefully consider whether your child is already independent enough to find their way around the sprawling and often very crowded exhibition grounds. Explore the expo as a family, sometimes splitting up, and agree on an easy-to-find meeting spot and a specific time for each hall.
Availability and Emergency Contacts: Make sure your child’s smartphone is fully charged. It may also be helpful to have a note with your name and phone number. This is especially important if your child is attending Gamescom with friends and without adult supervision. If your child needs help or gets lost, they can approach the staff and volunteers wearing light green T-shirts, as well as the security personnel.
Pickup and Food: Arrange a specific location and a set time for pickup in advance. Also, make sure to give your child enough money or a snack, as food and drinks at Gamescom can be relatively expensive.
They show us the first ultrasound image and invite us to the gender reveal party. They delight in those first little teeth and tender moments, and they despair over tantrums and the quest for independence. They help us make back-to-school goodie bags and chuckle with us about puberty. Family influencers share publicly what would otherwise remain private: family life with all its beautiful and difficult, exciting and everyday, quiet and loud moments.
Strictly speaking, family influencers are actually parent influencers. They are mothers and fathers who share their family life on social media: They talk about their living situations or parenting styles, offer tips on outings and activities, and sometimes even go public with illnesses, school problems, or conflicts. Sometimes the whole family appears on camera; other times, it’s limited to just one parent, and the children are shown only from behind or with their faces obscured. In addition to their own experiences, personal stories, and opinions, family influencers also frequently present what appears to be parenting advice or promote food, clothing, craft supplies, and places to visit.
It’s not just parents—children and teens, too, can find it fascinating to get a glimpse into someone else’s living room. Many children are mainly familiar with their own home and have only limited insight into the daily family life of others. Seeing how other children live is, of course, exciting. Even when popular influencers become parents, they often share their family life online. The content posted by family influencers can offer many points of connection and ideas for their own lives: Here, birthday parties are organized, lunchboxes are packed, vacations are enjoyed, and outfits are put together. Children find inspiration for themselves in many places—a craft tutorial, an idea for an outing, or a game they’d like to have or try out.
Self-presentation: On family channels, you usually see cheerful, stylishly dressed, and perfectly lit people in beautiful settings. Children and teens aren’t always aware of just how heavily staged and edited these videos are. This can create the impression that perfect homes, expensive vacations, and overflowing closets are completely normal. In comparison, their own family life can quickly seem boring or uneventful.
Talk to your child about how this seemingly perfect world comes to be, and together, take a critical look at its beautiful facade.
Advertising and Marketing: Family influencers often present products with great enthusiasm. However, this is frequently the result of paid collaborations or advertising contracts. Just because influencers claim they’ll never want to be without a product doesn’t necessarily mean it’s a genuine addition to their family’s daily life. Sometimes it’s simply an advertising deal.
Help your child understand how family influencers make their money, and support them in recognizing and questioning product endorsements.
Questionable Parenting Advice: Family influencers often seem to know exactly how to raise children “properly” and what makes for a successful family life. However, they frequently lack a background in education and make statements that are exaggerated or, in some cases, questionable. Some of this advice can even put unnecessary pressure on parents and families or make them feel insecure.
Stay critical; if in doubt, talk to friends or seek information from parenting guides and counseling centers, rather than basing your parenting primarily on tips from social media.
Invasion of privacy: Family influencers provide glimpses into a very private part of their lives and often feature their children in the process (“sharenting”). What often seems cute, funny, or authentic at first glance can become problematic for the children involved—for example, if they’re pressured to appear in videos or if everyday family life turns into a business and is primarily driven by advertising contracts. Personal situations and information can also end up online that children may later find embarrassing or that could facilitate cyberbullying, fraud, or other forms of abuse. Children often have little ability to defend themselves or make their own decisions, yet they must bear the consequences.
Take a critical look at family influencers, and be mindful of your own media use—sharing private photos or information can have consequences ranging from unpleasant to even dangerous. Talk to your child regularly about privacy, personal rights, and data protection; explain the risks to your child, and handle your own data with care and thoughtfulness.
Building their own worlds with blocks, stepping into imaginative roles, and completing exciting missions—the online gaming platform Roblox is hugely popular among teenagers. Roblox combines gaming, social media, and creative design. Since it includes both chat features and potentially problematic content, and some users earn money through their games, an age rating of 16 and older has been in effect since January 2025.
Roblox is an online gaming platform where users can create their own games and play games made by others. The name is a combination of the English words “robots” and “blocks.” Virtual worlds are created in a style reminiscent of building blocks. Roblox is a mix of a gaming world and a social network and is similar to Minecraft.
Roblox is available on many different devices and as an app. Playing with a virtual reality headset is also supported. This cross-platform availability ensures that players can easily play together on different devices.
Roblox automatically filters games and experiences by age group. This is based on “content labels,” which assign each game to a specific age group. Depending on the age associated with the account, some content may not be displayed, or it may be accessible only with parental consent.
After registering on roblox.com, players receive a pre-made character (known as an avatar) that they can customize as they wish. Standard clothing and other cosmetic features, such as a default hairstyle, are free. Some extra accessories cost money in the form of Robux, the platform’s own currency. Features such as creating games and playing them are available free of charge.
Many teens love the game because it lets them easily create their own games. Registered users can use the “Roblox Studio” building tool to create their own games and share them with others. They can design everything from simple structures to complex worlds full of experiences. In the Roblox community, teens can let their creativity run wild and communicate with one another.
Roblox is particularly popular with young game developers, as they can create and publish their own games there. If a game is played frequently by other users and money is invested, there is a chance that the developers – your child, for example – will also earn a share.
Even young people who don’t want to get into game development themselves are fascinated by the countless games available.
In January 2025, the Entertainment Software Self-Regulation Body(USK) raised the age rating for Roblox from 12 to 16 years. There were several key reasons for this decision:
In addition, the platform allows users to communicate via text and voice chats. This creates risks such as cyberbullying, cybergrooming, and hate speech. Furthermore, some games contain elements similar to gambling, such as the purchase of random virtual items (loot boxes).
The recommendation algorithm may display problematic content or games with strong incentives to buy more frequently. Some games also rely on daily rewards or limited-time promotions to encourage frequent returns.
In addition, the USK criticized the lack of effective precautionary measures on the part of platform operators, such as insufficiently secured children’s accounts and the lack of age labels in accordance with German standards. Due to these aspects, the USK age rating was adjusted to ensure the protection of minors and provide parents with better guidance.
In addition, Roblox has repeatedly been accused by various expert organizations and media outlets of failing to adequately moderate both the content and the communication among users, and of not taking consistent enough action against violations of its community guidelines. For example, children and adolescents may encounter discriminatory and extremist content in the games.
Roblox Corporation emphasizes on its platform that it takes security and privacy very seriously. There is a reporting system for inappropriate chat messages and a chat filter. After registration, users under the age of 13 are automatically assigned an account in “Privacy Mode.” Younger players then do not have access to social media features, for example. Some games are also only released from a certain age. Moderators check whether uploaded image and video material meets the requirements for youth-friendly content. Inappropriate content is actively filtered and deleted.
Roblox introduced new safety features in early 2026. These include age verification via ID or a voluntary video selfie. Certain communication features are unlocked only after this verification process is complete. To ensure that children and teens interact primarily with peers, Roblox divides accounts into age groups: Roblox Kids (up to age 8), Roblox Select (ages 9–15), and Roblox (ages 16 and up). Content, chats, and features are then tailored to be age-appropriate. Many interaction options remain restricted to limit contact between adults and minors and reduce communication risks. The AI-powered age verification on Roblox is handled by the company Persona. Roblox states that user data is deleted after 30 days. Incorrect estimates can be corrected retroactively via parental supervision or ID verification. Roblox provides information about age verification on its website.
Roblox also uses content labels to automatically assign games to age groups. This is intended to ensure that younger users see only age-appropriate content. Parents can set additional restrictions or approve content through parental controls.
For older teens, there’s also the“Trusted Connections”feature. This allows 13- to 17-year-olds to mark certain contacts as trusted. They can chat with these contacts with almost no restrictions. However, interactions across age groups—especially between teens and adults—are still subject to strict rules. Children under 13 cannot create “Trusted Connections.” More information is available on the Roblox website.
Roblox offers various
Roblox can also send alerts in the event of unusually high spending. Roblox provides information on parental supervision and parental controls on its website.
Please note that Roblox is now rated USK 16. In general, theUSK age ratings are not regulations dictating what media content parents may allow their children to access at home; rather, they are intended as a guide. Nevertheless, you should make sure to provide your child only with games that are appropriate for their age and have been rated accordingly. You can find more information about the age rating upgrade in this Parents’ Check-In article.
Would you like to make Roblox accessible to your child?
You can also find all the important steps for parental controls at Roblox on medien-kindersicher.de.
The cars glow in every color, sparks fly from under the wheels, and new worlds open up again and again—all while behind the wheel: the blue hedgehog “Sonic the Hedgehog” and his friends. In the brightly colored racing video game *Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds*, the Sega characters battle it out for first place on the racetrack.
Age rating: USK —ages 6 and up
Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is a racing game from Sega that has been available for all major game consoles since September 2025. It is the fourth installment in the Sonic Racing series and a direct competitor to Nintendo’s Mario Kart games.
In the game, characters from the “Sonic the Hedgehog” universe compete against each other in a car race. Console players, for example, can race alone against AI opponents. Up to 4 people can also play together on one console, racing either with or against each other. Via the internet, up to 12 people can even compete against each other. As is typical for racing games, players can choose between time trials and Grand Prix races or tackle challenges in Race Park mode. In the game, they customize vehicles, collect points, and gather special power-ups.
Unlike in previous versions, *Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds* features so-called “travel rings”: Starting in the second lap of the race, portals open at random, allowing players to switch worlds and continue their race in other worlds.
Car racing games offer the whole package that makes kids’ hearts race: fun vehicles that you can customize, so you can zoom around the tracks in a pink bubble car one day and an aggressive beast the next. Cheerful avatars with a seemingly endless array of gear. Bright colors, rousing music, a bit of competition, and a reward around every corner. The customization options are vast, there are plenty of surprises around every corner, and because the entire world even changes from time to time, there’s never a dull moment. Even when practicing against AI opponents, the many possibilities and effects keep kids hooked lap after lap. And when friends or family members join the fray on the racetrack and compete from the couch for spots on the podium, the hours fly by like sparks on the track.
Racing games are generally considered to be among the more uncontroversial and family-friendly video games. Nevertheless, Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds also presents some challenges:
The Japanese video game developer Sega has its games reviewed by the USK and adheres to its age ratings on the German market. “Sonic Racing” has been rated by the USK as suitable for ages 6 and up. This rating indicates the minimum age at which the game is considered safe from the perspective of youth media protection. However, it should not be equated with an educational age recommendation.
Various gaming consoles offer parental control settings. Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, and Xbox all allow parents to monitor their children’s gaming habits by setting time limits, blocking in-game stores, or restricting access to online services.
Stay engaged and open to discussion, and guide your child in using Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds safely. Talk to your child about how long they should play and how much time they should spend using media. Work together to set rules about how long they’re allowed to play and what level of use is appropriate. Observe your child while they play, and don’t leave them alone if they’re feeling emotionally overwhelmed—such as by sensory overload, frustration, or anger. Use the consoles’ safety settings and, especially for younger children, disable features such as the in-game store. You can find step-by-step instructions for this at medien-kindersicher.de.
Racing games like “Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds” are a great way for families to explore digital games together, thanks to their simple controls and multiplayer mode. It’s a good idea to play the racing game together sometime. During a round on the racetrack together, you can gain insight into your child’s interests, strike up a conversation—and maybe even discover unexpected talents behind the wheel.
Many children love to move to music and start singing along at an early age. In daycare centers, singing together is a regular part of daily life. At home, that’s not always the case: Some parents feel they aren’t very musical or don’t have any instruments. With a smartphone or tablet, you can still accompany children’s songs and make music together.
Children’s song apps encourage kids to sing along and move to the music. Often, characters or animals tell little stories that go along with the song. Some apps display the lyrics or offer an instrumental version. In that case, only the melody plays, and you can sing along with your child.
The Android app “Fuxdoo: Sing Along to Children’s Songs ” includes well-known children’s songs. Additional songs can be purchased (starting at €0.99). A slider lets you adjust the volume of the sung lyrics. If you’d rather sing along yourself, you can turn off the vocal track entirely and use only the musical accompaniment.
The paid iOS app “Kleiner Fuchs Kinderlieder ” (€4.99) is designed for children ages two to six. Animated songs encourage kids to listen and sing along. In karaoke mode, children can sing on their own and make music using various sounds.
With music apps, your smartphone or tablet becomes a digital instrument. Parents can use them to play simple notes or chords and accompany their child as they sing. This way, the song comes together step by step, and you can adjust the tempo to suit your child.
GarageBand is available for free on iPhone and iPad. The app offers virtual instruments that let you play simple chords and melodies. You can record multiple audio tracks and combine them.
A free alternative for Android is Walk Band – Multitracks Music. The app includes piano, guitar, and drums, among other instruments. You can also record your own music and create multiple audio tracks. The many features can be overwhelming for younger children at first. So start by selecting one instrument and try out a few notes and rhythms together.
If you can read sheet music, the iOS app ” Kinderlieder ” offers lyrics, sheet music, and melodies for many well-known songs. Some additional content is available for a fee.
You can find more tools for making music together in our article: Experiencing Music Together.
Even without knowing how to read music, children can play their first melodies using apps. The free Android app “Piano – Music Games for Kids ” offers virtual instruments and simple music games. Children learn about different notes and can try out their own melodies.
In the Android app ” Kindermusik: Piano & Xylophone,” younger children discover familiar songs through simple mini-games. For example, they pop balloons by tapping on them. Each balloon plays the next note, gradually forming a melody.
During the first few attempts, sit down with your child and listen together to what happens when you tap the screen. Sing or clap along and move to the music. That way, the screen isn’t the center of attention—it becomes a starting point for music that everyone can join in on.
Take a look at a music app yourself before using it. Is it easy to use, and is it appropriate for your child’s age? Does it contain ads or paid add-ons? In-app purchases should be set up so that children cannot make them without permission.
Also check the access permissions. A children’s songs app generally doesn’t need access to contacts or location. For apps with a recording feature, it’s worth checking where voice and music recordings are stored and whether they can be shared or uploaded.
Digital instruments and music games can spark children’s curiosity about music. They complement singing and making music with real instruments or everyday objects. Younger children, in particular, benefit when parents explore the app with them. Clap out a rhythm together or use pots and pans as drums. This brings the music right from the screen into the kids’ room.
The Stiftung Lesen offers additional ideas for everyday family life with resources focused on music and language.
