Roblox presents serious safety concerns for children. ParentsTogether has heard from parents who have discovered their kids were being groomed, lured to other platforms, tricked into spending real money, bullied, and worse on Roblox.
Since Roblox is so popular with kids, tweens, and teens, many families have already — completely understandably — allowed their kids to begin using the platform. But just because they’ve already gotten into the habit of playing doesn’t mean they have to continue in the same way. Family tech rules can and should be revisited whenever new information or factors come into play.
When kids know the reasons behind rules and boundaries, they’re more likely to understand and listen. Here is a set of scripts you can use to set limits on Roblox for kids, while leading with respect and empathy.
Use the first script if you want to (gently but firmly) let your child know that they won’t be allowed to play Roblox at all right now. Check out the second script if you have an older child and you’re willing to let them play Roblox, but want to make sure there are limits and boundaries in place for their safety.
Ending Roblox play (for younger kids)
This script can help you explain why you’re ending Roblox play, while maintaining trust. Offering alternatives your child will still enjoy can lessen the blow if your child is really bummed.
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Start with understanding: “Hey buddy, can we talk for a minute? I know how much fun you’ve been having playing Roblox. I love seeing you enjoy games and use your imagination.”
Explain your decision simply: “I’ve been learning more about Roblox, and I’ve decided it’s not a game that’s right for you right now. There are too many tricky people there and too many things that aren’t meant for kids your age, and my job is to keep you safe online.”
Acknowledge feelings: “I understand you might feel disappointed or upset. Those feelings are totally okay, and I get it. It’s hard when something you enjoy changes.”
Set future expectations: “When you’re older, we can talk about Roblox again. For now, let’s find games that are just right for you.”
Offer alternatives: “I found some other games I think you’ll really like that are made especially for kids your age. Would you like to try one with me?”
Have specific suggestions ready. Some kid-friendly alternatives with similar game play and activities include:
- LEGO Builders
- PBS KIDS Games
- Terraria
- ABCya!
End with reassurance: “Do you have any questions? I’m always here to talk about it if you want to. I love you, that’s why making sure you’re safe matters so much to me.”
Managing Roblox safety (for older kids)
This script can help you explain to your kid why limits and boundaries are critical for their safety on the platform, and put some ground rules in place. To be clear, our recommendation is that no child under 13 use Roblox (and a lot of the content is even 18+). But you know your child best, so if they’re allowed to play, this conversation can help mitigate the risks.
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Open with understanding: “Hey, I wanted to talk with you about Roblox. I know it’s something you really enjoy — I love hearing you laughing when you’re really into a game with your friends.”
Share specific concerns: “I’ve been learning more about Roblox, and I have real concerns about the safety risks. There are people there who try to contact kids inappropriately, and some of the content — some stuff that you can’t avoid seeing, even if you try — is really gross and even dangerous.”
Collaborate on solutions: “I’d like us to look at the safety settings together and make some changes. We need to turn off the chat feature so strangers can’t contact you. Let’s also review which games within Roblox are appropriate and which ones to avoid.”
Establish clear rules: “I need to know you’ll come to me right away if anyone says or does something uncomfortable or asks you to go somewhere else in the game or on another platform so we can figure it out together. You won’t be in trouble for telling me. Can you agree to that?”
Set time limits: “We also need to set some boundaries around how much time you spend on Roblox. Let’s agree on times when you can play, so we make sure you have time for other stuff too. And we can find similar games too — ones that are fun like Roblox, but without the ick.”
Keep communication open: “What questions do you have? I want you to know we can always revisit this conversation. My priority is keeping you safe, while still respecting that you’re growing up.”
