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Local GameSense advisor urges adults to gift responsibly
With the holiday season in full swing, the British Columbia Lottery Corporation (BCLC) and its team of GameSense Advisors are reminding adults that it’s okay to be a Grinch when it comes to removing lottery products from kids’ shopping lists and stockings.
“As part of BCLC’s commitment to healthy play, it’s a priority for us to share the message that lottery products should never be gifted to kids,” said Guy Laidlaw, GameSense Advisor at Casino of the Rockies.
In fact, research shows that early participation or exposure to gambling in childhood can lead to the likelihood of developing a gambling problem later in life and that the average problem gambler started gambling at age 10.
Studies also show that 10 to 14% 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.
That’s why Laidlaw, one of 44 BCLC GameSense Advisors available to players at casinos and community gaming centres across B.C., as well as through telephone and live chat, is also encouraging adults to have conversations with the kids in their lives about gambling.
“Don’t be afraid to ask about their experiences with gambling, and practice active listening during their answers. Delivery is key; kids will be more receptive to the message if it’s delivered in a way that is light and approachable yet still touches on the potential risks that can occur when gambling stops being fun,” he said.
BCLC is offering a few tips to parents to help them begin the conversation:
- 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.
As part of a partnership with the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) and McGill University’s International Centre for Youth Gambling, BCLC is also sharing its #GiftSmart message through reminders at its 3,400 lottery retailers in B.C. as well as on social media.
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