Benefits of esports for children: A parent’s guide

Esports, or competitive video gaming, is rapidly gaining popularity among children and teenagers, particularly in regional and remote communities. While some parents may worry about screen time or negative behaviours, it’s important to recognise the potential benefits of esports when approached responsibly.

Skill development and teamwork

Esports can help children develop valuable skills, such as strategic thinking, quick decision-making, and problem-solving. Many games require team coordination and communication, which can build social interaction skills. In the context of the EsportsAble project, events are designed to be inclusive and supportive, fostering a sense of belonging and teamwork, especially for adolescents with psychosocial disabilities.

Building social connections and confidence

Participating in inclusive esports events can significantly boost self-esteem and social confidence. Children have the opportunity to interact with peers, build friendships, and develop leadership skills in a structured and supportive environment. By engaging in a safe, inclusive space, they gain a sense of community that can help reduce isolation and improve mental well-being.

Addressing challenges

Of course, there are also challenges associated with esports participation including risk of exposure to cyberbullying and the negative consequences of excessive gaming.
The EsportsAble project addresses these issues by implementing safety protocols, conducting awareness training, and fostering positive interactions through mentorship and guided community involvement. To balance gaming with other responsibilities, parents and guardians can set time limits, encourage healthy routines, and maintain open communication about online safety.

By promoting esports in a way that prioritises mental well-being and inclusion, the EsportsAble Academy will empower children to thrive while gaining valuable skills for life. Please review the resources provided on this page. They have been curated to assist you to better understand the opportunities available to your children from a balanced participation in esports.

We look forward to welcoming your child into the EsportsAble Academy, and encourage you reach out if you have any questions about any aspect of the project.

Frequently asked questions

Membership of the EsportsAble Academy is restricted to adolescents aged 13 to 17 years of age.
This age restriction is based on advice from the eSafety Commissioner, and is intended to ensure that participants are protected from the risk of abuse and exploitation from adults.
Please note: These age restrictions cannot be relaxed, even if parental consent is provided.
The EsportsAble Academy will focus on two of the most popular esports games - Rocket League and Marvel Rivals.
The games are rated by the Australian Classification Board as:
- Rocket League: This game is rated “G” .
- Marvel Rivals: This game is rated “M”.
Participation is only permitted once parental, or carer consent has been provided.
There are three membership levels available. Level 1 is a general access membership, available to anyone interested in learning a little more about the EsportsAble Academy.
However, to access the full benefits of the academy requires members to obtain parental consent and validate their identity.
Level 1 Membership: Open to everyone but does not include access to the EsportsAble community, training resources, or the ability to pre-register for tournaments.
Level 2 Membership: Requires verification and parental consent. Provides full access to Academy resources, including access to the peer-peer community, training resources, and weekly “power-up: sessions.
Level 3 Membership: Unlocks access to personalised coaching and esports career advice. This level of membership is also a requirement for team registration for the local esports tournaments. This level of membership requires members to have completed all core online modules and be of “good standing” (i.e., no outstanding “Code of Conduct” breaches).
An electronic form needs to be completed when your child applies for Level 2 membership. This form will ask for some information about you and the applicant, and will ask you to upload a photograph showing you both and photo ID.
Yes, we strongly encourage parents and guardians of participating adolescents to attend their local events. Details on how to register will be sent to parents of participating children prior to the event.
Please note: Only pre-registered and approved adults will be able to attend the event.