Information for Parents
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
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The EsportsAble Academy will work with school leadership to decide on a plan that is aligned to the interest and capability of each school.
We will then work with a student leadership team to action their school plan. Students partcipating in the leadership development program will be given coaching from staff at the Queensland University of Technology.
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The 2026 EsportsAble Academy program will focus on one of the most popular esports games - Rocket League. This game is rated “G” and is a fun game where cars play soccer.
Of course, schools may feature other approved esports. We encourage you to reach out to your child’s school directly for information on other supported esports titles.
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Schools will be managing the permission process.
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There is no cost to participate in the EsportsAble Academy, however, we do ask students to help us improve the program by providing feedback on Academy activities.
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While we strongly encourage parents and guardians of participating children to take an active interest in the child’s gaming, the decision on who will be able to attend school-based esports events is ultimately the decision of each school.
Featured Parent Resources
Download this guide to learn how to help your child enjoy online gaming safely. Learn practical steps to choose suitable games, manage risks, set healthy limits, and support positive gaming experiences at home.
Resource from the eSafety Commissioner.
Nine strategies to show an ongoing interest in your young person’s online world to make it easier to have open conversations and guide them when needed.
Resource provided by the Black Dog Institute (2025).
Learn about the most common misconceptions surrounding online gaming and esports with concerns and evidence-based answers.
Learn tips and strategies to implement appropriate parental controls on your child’s gaming devices for use at home.
Resource by Amaze, funded through the eSafety Commissioner’s Online Safety Grants Program.