Looking for a way to get your kids off the couch and outside this summer? Look no further. Pokémon GO is getting people of all ages outside looking for Pokémon. The game works by combining the physical world with digital technology, getting people to explore landmarks that they oftentimes overlook through a gamified experience.
Sounds like a good way to get your kids out and about instead of binge watching another show on Netflix? Definitely, but there are a few things you should keep in mind as you let your kids explore the neighborhood and search for Pokémon.
1) Make sure they stay hydrated
This summer is a hot one and staying hydrated is one of the last things your kids will be thinking about when they are with their friends catching Pokémon. Take matters into your own hands by sending your kids out with a water bottle and hat!
2) Remind them to pay attention to their surroundings
Since the game involves looking through the phone camera, it is important to remind your kids to be aware of their surroundings, cross streets at crosswalks, and follow all city laws.
3) Play in a group, not alone
Encourage your kids to play the game with friends! Not only will they have more fun, they will also be safer. When they play in a group, some kids can act as guides while others look at their phones. This way no one will wander into an unsafe area unknowingly.
4) Set an area that you are okay with letting them explore
Since the game has no boundaries, it is important to talk to your kids about the geographic areas they’re allowed to explore, before they head out. Take out a map and set specific streets as boundaries.
5) Get RapidSOS’ Haven App and add them to Family Connect
With Haven’s Family Connect feature, you can easily see where your kids are in real-time and check in with just one tap. This will give your kids the independence they are looking for, but will also give you peace of mind knowing that they are in the safe areas you talked about and they haven’t wandered too far looking for a Pikachu.
Download Haven today for FREE!
