The BC Lottery Corporation (BCLC) says it’s okay to be a Grinch when it comes to taking lottery products from kids’ shopping lists and stockings.
“Early participation or exposure to gambling in childhood can increase the risk of developing a gambling problem later in life,” said BCLC Director of Player Health Ryan McCarthy.
“Adults may be unaware of these associated risks so, as part of our commitment to healthy play, it’s a priority for us to share the message that lottery products should never be gifted to kids.”
According to the BCLC, research shows 10 to 14 per cent of adolescents are at risk for developing a problem with gambling, while four to six per cent of youth ages 12-17 are presently impacted by problem gambling.
“It’s never too early to start the conversation,” McCarthy said.
“While kids and gambling don’t mix, many teenagers are already doing it by betting on things like a card game, or by purchasing a virtual loot box.”
McCarthy offered the following tips to parents:
- Tailor the conversation to your child. For example, if they like video games, talk to them about loot boxes and how the outcome is random, and the risks posed.
- Tell them about the hidden signs of a problem, like hiding debt or skipping classes.
- Lead by example; kids learn from their parents.