Have you been looking for a way to get your kids away from the TV and outside? Pokémon Go may be just the thing you are looking for.
Pokémon Go takes the original premise of the classic game, Gotta Catch ‘Em All, and puts it outside.
Here’s how it works:
- Users download the app.
- Users go out and catch Pokémon.
That’s it. The game leads players to different locations around the world to gather poke balls and search for Pokémon.
For the most part, parents are thrilled. The game gets their kids off the couch and outside. According to a New York Times blog post, one 18-year-old even biked over 25 miles over two days searching for Pokémon.
The game also helps increase social skills as it encourages players to meet, and play together.
Unfortunately, the game also has downsides. Trespassing on private property, armed robbery, distracted driving (and walking), plus discovering dead bodies (again!) just to name a few.
While the game gets kids active and increases social interaction, it is important to go over some ground rules with your kids before you let them play.
Some boundaries you may want to set:
- Follow all laws
- Don’t stay out after dark
- Don’t go to an unknown or abandoned area alone or with a stranger
We created this handy infographic to help you and your kids stay safe while hunting Pokémon:
