[B]You hear a lot of stories these days about how games are bad for kids, ranging from "They are a training ground for killers" to "They are making our kids fat through inactivity." For parents that are confused about all the information out there, in the end you need to make your own decisions and set your own rules for your children.[/B]

To that end, Microsoft [URL=http://www.getgamesmart.com/]has a website[/URL] designed to help educate parents and families about setting limits on game time, ESRB ratings and keeping in touch with your children's gaming. The site also provides access to resources that families may find helpful in making their gaming decisions.

The site offers the Family Challenge, which is basically a competiton among families to get educated about games and communicating with their children. A few of the challenges:

[LIST]
[*][B]Download the Parent's Checklist: [/B]A useful checklist to keep track of all the digital stuff you own.
[*][B]The PACT: [/B]This is a tool to empower you to make smarter choices about what your children play, browse and watch. By signing this PACT, you and your child are making a commitment to each other to stick to the rules. Whenever your child "forgets" the rules or he or she just needs a refresher, this PACT is your personalized guide. Keep it handy in a drawer. Stick it to the fridge or near the TV. How you use it is up to you!
[*][B]Learn About Your Parental Control Options: [/B]You can keep your kids within safer territory by using parental controls on devices like PCs and video game consoles.
[*][B]Understanding GameRatings: [/B]ESRB video game ratings and content summaries are the best first step when deciding what's appropriate for your child.
[/LIST]There are several other challenges, all designed to encourage awareness and communication.

[URL=http://www.gameculture.com/2010/01/25/educating-parents-and-families-about-games]read more[/URL]

[url=http://www.gameculture.com/2010/01/25/educating-parents-and-families-about-games]More...[/url]